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Good morning, good afternoon, and good evening wherever you are in the world, welcome to EV News Daily, you trusted source of EV information. It’s Sunday 5th March it’s Martyn Lee here and I go through every EV story so you don’t have to.
LUCID MOTORS CONTINUES EUROPEAN EXPANSION WITH NORWAY LAUNCH
Lucid Motors, a leading electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, has announced its expansion into Norway, continuing its European expansion. This move comes as part of the company’s efforts to expand its global footprint, following its successful launch in North America and the United Arab Emirates.
Norway is an ideal market for Lucid Motors to expand into, as it has a high adoption rate of electric vehicles and is one of the most advanced markets for EVs globally. Lucid is expected to benefit from the government incentives offered to EV buyers in Norway, which includes exemption from purchase tax and reduced road tolls.
Lucid will launch its flagship electric sedan, the Lucid Air, in Norway in the coming months. The Air has received rave reviews for its impressive range of up to 520 miles on a single charge, advanced driver assistance systems, and luxurious interior. The company has already started taking reservations for the Lucid Air in Norway and plans to open showrooms in Oslo and Bergen later this year.
Source URL: https://www.electrive.com/2023/03/03/lucid-expands-to-norway/
FORD’S ELECTRIC CARS TO GET BURNOUT MODE
Ford is adding a unique feature to its electric cars – a “burnout mode.” This mode is essentially an electronic system that simulates a burnout by allowing the electric car to spin its wheels without moving. While this feature may seem unusual for an electric vehicle, it’s actually a clever way to demonstrate the capabilities of the car’s electric powertrain.
The burnout mode will be available on all of Ford’s electric vehicles, including the upcoming Mustang Mach-E GT. The feature will be activated by pressing both the brake and accelerator pedals at the same time. Once activated, the car will enter “engage brake and apply full power” mode, allowing the driver to spin the wheels without moving the car.
This feature is sure to appeal to car enthusiasts who enjoy showing off their vehicle’s capabilities. However, Ford also notes that the burnout mode can be used for practical purposes as well, such as clearing debris from the tires when driving on gravel roads.
Source: https://carbuzz.com/news/burnout-mode-coming-to-fords-electric-cars
LYNK & CO’S FIRST EV: A GAME-CHANGER IN THE ELECTRIC CAR MARKET
Lynk & Co, a subsidiary of the Chinese automaker Geely, has launched its first electric vehicle (EV), the Zero Concept, at the 2021 Shanghai Auto Show. The Zero Concept is a sleek and futuristic-looking SUV, which has been designed to appeal to younger drivers in urban areas who are looking for a high-tech, eco-friendly car.
The Zero Concept is built on a modular platform, which allows for various powertrain options, including hybrid and fully electric. The fully electric version is powered by a 150 kWh battery that delivers a range of up to 435 miles on a single charge, making it one of the most impressive EVs on the market in terms of range.
The Zero Concept also features a range of cutting-edge technology, including a 15.5-inch touchscreen display, facial recognition for keyless entry, and an AI-powered personal assistant. The car’s software can also be updated over-the-air, allowing for continuous improvements and new features.
Source: https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/features/lynk-&-co-first-ev
TOYOTA’S FIRST EV CO-DEVELOPED WITH BYD, THE BZ3, IS NOW IN PRODUCTION
Toyota has announced that its first electric vehicle (EV) co-developed with Chinese automaker BYD, the BZ3, has officially rolled off the production line. This marks a major milestone in Toyota’s electrification efforts, as the BZ3 is set to be the first of many EVs that the company plans to introduce over the next few years.
The BZ3 is a compact SUV that features Toyota’s e-TNGA platform and BYD’s electric powertrain technology. It is expected to have a range of around 250 miles and will be available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations. Toyota has also stated that the BZ3 will be equipped with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and other safety features.
The partnership between Toyota and BYD was announced in 2019, with the goal of jointly developing EVs and batteries. The companies are also collaborating on research and development for next-generation batteries, aiming to improve performance and reduce costs.
Toyota has previously focused on hybrid and fuel cell vehicles, but with the increasing demand for EVs, the company has shifted its strategy to include more electric models.
The BZ3 is set to be launched in China first, with other markets to follow. Toyota has not yet announced pricing or availability details.
Source: https://electrek.co/2023/03/03/first-toyota-bz3-ev-co-developed-with-byd-rolls-off-the-line/
SPY SHOTS REVEAL LAMBORGHINI URUS PLUG-IN HYBRID TO DEBUT IN 2024
Lamborghini is set to join the ranks of luxury car manufacturers producing plug-in hybrids. The 2024 Lamborghini Urus Plug-in Hybrid was recently spotted during testing, and the car is expected to debut in 2024. The hybrid Urus will be the first-ever hybrid vehicle from the Italian carmaker and will be built on the same platform as the current Urus model.
The spy shots of the new Urus show a few changes to the car’s exterior, including a charging port on the left rear fender and revised tailpipes. Under the hood, the Urus is expected to use the same 4.0-liter V-8 engine as the current model, paired with an electric motor and a battery pack. This powertrain is expected to provide a total output of around 800 horsepower, which would be a significant increase over the current Urus’ 641-hp output.
The Urus Plug-in Hybrid will likely have an all-electric driving range of around 30 miles, which should be more than enough for daily driving. And with the ability to charge the battery pack, drivers will be able to reduce their reliance on gasoline even further.
The addition of a plug-in hybrid option to Lamborghini’s lineup is a clear sign that the company is committed to reducing its carbon footprint and meeting increasingly strict emissions regulations. And with the Urus being one of the company’s best-selling models, the hybrid version is sure to be a hit with environmentally-conscious supercar enthusiasts.
Source: https://www.motorauthority.com/news/1126768_2024-lamborghini-urus-plug-in-hybrid-spy-shots
VOLVO DELIVERS 20 ELECTRIC TRUCKS TO DFDS IN GOTHENBURG
Volvo, the Swedish automotive manufacturer, has delivered 20 electric trucks to the Danish shipping and logistics company, DFDS, in Gothenburg. The Volvo FL Electric trucks will be used for distribution and delivery services in the Gothenburg city centre. DFDS aims to transition to electric trucks to reduce its carbon footprint and achieve its sustainability goals.
The Volvo FL Electric is a fully electric truck with a range of up to 300 km. The trucks are equipped with cameras and sensors to increase safety and efficiency while driving in the city. Additionally, the trucks have low noise levels, making them ideal for urban distribution and delivery services.
The electric trucks will be charged using a fast-charging system at DFDS’s logistics centre in Gothenburg, which is powered by renewable energy sources. DFDS plans to expand its electric truck fleet in the future to reduce emissions and improve air quality in urban areas.
The delivery of 20 electric trucks to DFDS is a significant step towards sustainable urban transportation. As more companies transition to electric vehicles, air quality in cities will improve, and carbon emissions will decrease, leading to a cleaner and healthier environment.
COLORADO RELEASES ELECTRIC VEHICLE PLAN TO ACCELERATE EV ADOPTION
The State of Colorado recently released its Electric Vehicle (EV) Plan with the aim of accelerating the adoption of EVs and achieving the state’s goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality. The plan outlines a comprehensive approach to expanding EV infrastructure, increasing EV availability, and promoting consumer awareness and education.
One of the key strategies in the plan is to expand the state’s charging infrastructure, with a goal of installing 500,000 charging ports by 2030. This will require partnerships with utilities, local governments, and the private sector. The state also plans to increase EV availability through incentives for manufacturers to build and sell EVs in Colorado and incentives for consumers to purchase them.
The plan also addresses equity concerns by prioritizing the deployment of EVs and charging infrastructure in underserved communities, where residents may not have access to personal vehicles or charging stations. The state also plans to establish a workforce development program to train and educate workers on the installation and maintenance of EV infrastructure.
Colorado’s EV Plan is a bold and comprehensive strategy to accelerate the transition to EVs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. By addressing infrastructure, availability, education, and equity concerns, the state is taking a holistic approach to support the growth of the EV market.
Source: https://coloradonewsline.com/briefs/colorado-releases-electric-vehicle-plan/
TESLA REVIEWS EUROPEAN INVESTMENT PLANS FOLLOWING BIDEN’S IRA
European companies are reconsidering their investment plans in Europe following President Joe Biden’s landmark climate policy announcement, which includes a record $369 billion in spending on climate and energy policies. The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) has raised competition issues for European companies and upset politicians in the region. Many multinational companies, including Swedish battery maker Northvolt, German chemical giant Linde, carmaker Volkswagen, and Italian energy giant Enel, are expressing an interest in profiting from US subsidies.
The simplicity of the IRA is very attractive to companies and is considered a simple pro-business investment tool. While the European Union machinery is more complex, according to Maria Demertzis, a senior fellow at the think tank Bruegel. However, European officials are worried about firms postponing investments in the European Union and instead taking advantage of the direct, simple, and immediate benefit that the IRA promises.
European companies are calling on European officials to do more to support them, with EDP CEO Miguel Stillwell D’Andrade stating that Europe needs to “step up its game.” With the potential loss of key investments, the EU is particularly aware that it needs to do more to compete internationally.
TURKEY IMPOSES A 40% ADDITIONAL TARIFF ON ELECTRIC VEHICLE IMPORTS FROM CHINA
Turkey has announced a 40% additional tariff on electric vehicle imports from China starting from March 2023. This move aims to boost local production and encourage foreign investors to set up factories in the country. The Turkish Ministry of Commerce stated that the decision was taken to balance the trade deficit and increase local production and employment.
The new tariff will apply to electric vehicles, including buses and commercial vehicles, and comes amid growing demand for electric vehicles in the Turkish market. According to a report by Frost & Sullivan, Turkey’s electric vehicle market is expected to grow by over 30% annually until 2025.
This decision is in line with Turkey’s goal to reduce its reliance on foreign imports and increase domestic production. The country has also implemented policies to support the production of electric vehicles and the development of charging infrastructure.
While this move may initially impact Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers, it presents an opportunity for other countries to expand their electric vehicle exports to Turkey. Additionally, this tariff may motivate Chinese manufacturers to invest in local production facilities in Turkey to avoid the added cost.
Overall, Turkey’s decision to impose an additional tariff on electric vehicle imports from China shows its commitment to developing a sustainable and self-sufficient electric vehicle industry.
CAN CALIFORNIA’S POWER GRID KEEP UP WITH THE SURGE IN ELECTRIC CARS?
As electric vehicles (EVs) become more popular, concerns are arising about whether the state’s power grid can handle the increased demand for electricity. According to a recent report from the California Independent System Operator (CAISO), a 15-fold increase in EVs could result in a 25% increase in electricity demand in California by 2045.
This increased demand is expected to pose challenges to the power grid, including potential grid instability, increased electricity prices, and potential power outages. However, the report notes that with proper planning and investment in the power grid, these challenges can be mitigated.
One of the key recommendations in the report is to increase the use of renewable energy sources to power EVs. This can be achieved through the deployment of more solar panels, wind turbines, and other renewable sources. Additionally, the report suggests that utilities and regulators should work together to implement programs that incentivize EV owners to charge their vehicles during off-peak hours, which will help to balance the load on the power grid.
Overall, while there are challenges associated with the surge in EVs, the report suggests that with proper planning and investment, California’s power grid can handle the increased demand for electricity.
LITHIUM CARBONATE PRICES PREDICTED TO DROP SIGNIFICANTLY, ACCORDING TO LI AUTO CEO
The CEO of Li Auto, a Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, predicts that the price of lithium carbonate will see a significant decline. In a recent interview, CEO Li Xiang stated that the price of lithium carbonate could drop by as much as 40% over the next year.
Lithium carbonate is a key component in the production of lithium-ion batteries, which are used in electric vehicles. Over the past year, the price of lithium carbonate has skyrocketed due to increased demand for electric vehicles and a shortage of supply. However, the CEO of Li Auto believes that the market will soon stabilize, and prices will begin to decrease.
Li Xiang attributes the potential drop in prices to an increase in lithium carbonate production capacity and improvements in the supply chain. He also notes that the current high prices of lithium carbonate have led to the development of alternative battery technologies, which could further impact the market for lithium-ion batteries.
If Li Xiang’s predictions are accurate, the decrease in lithium carbonate prices could have a significant impact on the electric vehicle industry. Lower prices could lead to lower costs for electric vehicle manufacturers, making them more accessible to consumers.
Overall, the prediction of lower lithium carbonate prices is a positive sign for the electric vehicle industry, and it will be interesting to see how the market evolves over the next year.
Source: https://cnevpost.com/2023/03/03/lithium-carbonate-prices-to-fall-sharply-li-auto-ceo-says/
AUTOMAKERS FACE SUPPLY CHAIN CHALLENGES IN THEIR QUEST FOR SUSTAINABLE EVS
As the demand for electric vehicles (EVs) continues to grow, automakers are racing to secure a steady supply of the minerals needed for the production of EV batteries. However, mining companies are wary of investing in new projects due to the risks and uncertainties involved in the market.
According to a recent report by Reuters, automakers such as Volkswagen and General Motors are bypassing the traditional mining industry and are taking matters into their own hands. They are investing in and partnering with mining startups and junior mining companies that specialize in the extraction of lithium, cobalt, and nickel. These partnerships allow automakers to secure a consistent supply of minerals and gain greater control over their supply chains.
However, this strategy comes with its own set of challenges. Mining startups often lack the experience and infrastructure needed for large-scale mining operations. Additionally, automakers must navigate the complexities of the mining industry, including environmental regulations, labor laws, and geopolitical risks.
As automakers compete to produce sustainable and affordable EVs, it is essential that they work collaboratively with mining companies to ensure a secure and responsible supply chain. Only by doing so can the industry meet the growing demand for EVs while minimizing the impact on the environment and society.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/markets/commodities/automakers-rush-where-miners-fear-tread-2023-03-03/
PREMIUM PARTNERS
PHIL ROBERTS / ELECTRIC FUTURE
PORSCHE OF THE VILLAGE CINCINNATI
AUDI CINCINNATI EAST
VOLVO CARS CINCINNATI EAST
NATIONAL CAR CHARGING ON THE US MAINLAND AND ALOHA CHARGE IN HAWAII
DEREK REILLY FROM THE EV REVIEW IRELAND YOUTUBE CHANNEL
OCTOPUS ELECTRIC UNIVERSE – GLOBAL PUBLIC CHARGING MADE SIMPLE WITH ONE APP AND ONE MAP.
LEASEPLAN ELECTRIC MOMENTS – PROVIDING ALL THE TOOLS AND GUIDANCE EV DRIVERS NEED
PARTNERS
DAVID AND LISA ALLEN
JUKKA KUKKONEN FROM WWW.SHIFT2ELECTRIC.COM
RAJEEV NARAYAN
MICHAEL LUMBLEY
BATTERY REPORTS FOR EVS AT RECURRENTAUTO.COM
EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS
ADRIAN BOND
ALAN SHEDD
ALEX BANAHENE
ALEXANDER FRANK @ https://www.youtube.com/c/alexsuniverse42
ANDERS HOVE
ANDREA JEFFERSON
ANDREW LUOMA
ANDY NANCARROW AND LILIAN KASS
ASEER KHALID
BÅRD FJUKSTAD
BILL CALHOUN
BLAINE MCKINNEY
BLUNDERBUSS JONES
BRIAN OLEARY
BRIAN THOMPSON
BRUCE BOHANNAN
CHAD LANE
CHARLES HALL
CHRISTOPHER BARTH
COLIN HENNESSY AND CAMBSEV
CRAIG ROGERS
DAVID DYSART
DAVID FINCH
DAVID PARTINGTON
DAVID PRESCOTT
DC EV
ED CORTEEN
EDDIE RAGASA
ERIC HANSEN
ERU KYEYUNE-NYOMBI
FREDRIK ROVIK
GENE RUBIN
GEORGE TORTAROLO
HEINRICH LIESNER
HELMUT SELKER
IAN (WATTIE) WATKINS
IAN GRIFFITHS
IAN SEAR
JACK OAKLEY
JACOB KUEHNE
JAMES PENFOLD
JAMES STORR
JAN FROM EMOBILITYNORWAY
JIM MORRIS
JOHN SCHROEDER
JOHN VAN DEVOORT
JON AKA BEARDY MCBEARDFACE FROM KENT EVS
JON MANCHAK
JUAN GONZALEZ
KESTER SANDBACH
KEVIN MEYERSON
LAURENCE D ALLEN
LEE BROWN
LUKE CULLEY
MARCEL WARD
NATHAN GORE-BROWN
NATHAN KING
NATHANIEL FREEDMAN
NEIL E ROBERTS FROM SUSSEX EVS
OHAD ASTON
PAUL STEPHENSON
PETE GLASS
PETE GORTON
PETER & DEE ROBERTS
PETER RYNER
PHIL MOUCHET
PHILIP FORRESTER
PHILIP TRAUTMAN
RAYMOND ROWLEDGE
REALTORS CHOICE PHOTOGRAPHY
ROB FROM THE RSTHINKS EV CHANNEL ON YOUTUBE
ROBERT GRACE
SEIKI PAYNE
STEPHEN PENN
STEVE JOHN
THE PLUGSEEKER’S EV YOUTUBE CHANNEL
THOMAS J. THIAS
TIMOTHY PHILLIPS
TYLER VOSS