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Tesla & Electric Vehicles

Tesla, autonomy, charging and the wider EV market.

Electrek

bp pulse makes 850+ EV fast chargers easier to use in the US

bp pulse has joined ChargeHub's Passport Hub, allowing EV drivers to access over 850 charging points at 95 US locations through ChargeHub or participating services without needing the bp pulse app. Drivers can find and pay for charging through ChargeHub, which handles connections and payments. bp pulse has also been expanding its physical charging sites, including recent openings in Alabama and Texas.

Why it matters: This integration makes it easier for EV drivers to find and use bp pulse charging points without having to download another app.

Electrek

The BMW iX is sold out, but you might like what takes its place even more

BMW has discontinued the iX electric SUV in the US after the 2026 model year, with the last remaining inventory being sold out. The company is introducing the new BMW X5 as a replacement, but the more direct replacement is the upcoming iX5. The iX5 will offer improved charging speeds and driving range compared to the iX.

Why it matters: The iX5's improved charging speeds and driving range make it a more attractive option for electric vehicle buyers.

Electrek

Hardee’s gets EV fast charging – with Carl’s Jr. locations to follow

Energized EV has installed four fast-charging ports at a Hardee's restaurant in Temple, Georgia, with NACS and CCS1 connectors. The chargers are provided by XCharge and have a total power output of 960 kW. The installation is part of a planned rollout at Hardee's and Carl's Jr. locations across the US.

Why it matters: This expansion provides EV drivers with more convenient charging options at existing locations where they can also stop for a meal.

Teslarati

Grok Bot users hit with weekly limits early, Elon Musk explains what happened

SpaceX has scaled back the weekly limits for users of its Grok Bot AI platform due to high costs, according to Elon Musk. The platform, launched in August, allows users to schedule tasks and execute workflows. Musk stated that the cost of serving Grok Bot was 'unsustainably high relative to revenue'.

Why it matters: The episode highlights the challenge of scaling AI-powered services with high compute costs and limited revenue.

Electrek

Cadillac’s most affordable EV just got a bit cheaper

The 2027 Cadillac Optiq's prices have been updated, with the base Luxury RWD trim now starting at $51,790, a $905 decrease from the initial price. The Luxury AWD trim also starts at $55,290, $905 less than before. The Sport trim now starts at $52,395 for RWD and $55,895 for AWD, both $900 less than before.

Why it matters: The price drop makes the 2027 Cadillac Optiq more competitive in the electric SUV market.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla’s Next Earnings Call Will Have Video, Musk Says

Tesla's next earnings call will be a video call, according to Elon Musk, following criticism that its previous call was less engaging than SpaceX's. The call will be more entertaining, but details on what that means are unclear. The call is expected to take place in late January.

Why it matters: The change may provide investors and analysts with a more engaging and interactive experience.

InsideEVs

Gas Vs. Electric: Which BMW Goes Further Without Stopping For Fuel?

A BMW iX3 electric vehicle and a gas-powered BMW X3 were tested to see which one can travel the farthest on a single fill-up. The electric vehicle had a range of 273 miles, while the gas-powered vehicle's range was 470 miles. The test was conducted to compare the two vehicles' fuel efficiency.

Why it matters: This comparison highlights the differences in fuel efficiency between electric and gas-powered vehicles.

InsideEVs

Ford's Privacy Promise Includes A 'Quasi-80s Mode' To Dumb-Down Connected Cars

Ford has introduced a feature called 'Quasi-80s Mode' that allows owners to disable certain connected car features, effectively making their vehicle less connected. This feature is part of Ford's 'Privacy Promise' initiative. The feature is designed to give owners more control over their data and online connectivity.

Why it matters: This feature allows owners to opt-out of data collection and online connectivity, which may be a concern for those who value their privacy.

Electrek

Tesla Powerwall 3 now boosts heat pumps to store cheap solar as heat

Tesla has launched Heat Pump Optimization, a feature for the Powerwall 3 and Powerwall 3P that allows them to control compatible heat pumps to store surplus solar energy as hot water. The feature is currently available in Europe, where it can help homes use cheap solar energy to heat water during expensive hours. The Powerwall watches electricity prices and solar production to send a signal to the heat pump to either run normally or boost its heating.

Why it matters: This feature can help homeowners in Europe save energy and reduce their bills by using cheap solar energy to heat water during expensive hours.

InsideEVs

BMW's Tesla FSD Rival Hits City Streets In 2027

BMW is developing a Level 3 autonomous driving system, codenamed 'DriveNow', which will be available in 2027. The system will be able to handle various driving scenarios, including turns, lane changes, city traffic, and roundabouts. It will enable vehicles to reach their destination without driver intervention.

Why it matters: This development could provide more options for consumers seeking advanced autonomous driving capabilities in their vehicles.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla Drops New Cybercab Backpack, Tees, and Gold Cup

Tesla has added four new items to the Cybercab Collection on the Tesla Shop, including two T-shirts, a backpack, and a gold version of its On the Road Cup. The items are designed to match the Cybercab, a vehicle that is currently being tested in Austin and set to launch in Dallas. The new items join existing Cybercab-themed merchandise, such as a pickleball paddle and a gold portable charger.

Why it matters: These new items are available for purchase for those who want to show their support for the Cybercab or simply want to own a piece of Tesla merchandise.

InsideEVs

Volvo Is Getting Crushed In The U.S.

Volvo is facing a profitability crisis in the US due to tariffs and low demand. The company's sales have been impacted by the trade tensions between the US and China. Volvo's financial performance is expected to suffer as a result.

Why it matters: This development may impact Volvo's ability to invest in electric vehicle technology and other initiatives.

Electrek

Toyota’s Corolla Cross EV spotted for the first time [Images]

Toyota's Corolla Cross EV has been spotted in public for the first time, ahead of its expected 2027 debut. The all-electric version of the best-selling Corolla will be part of a major makeover for the model, which has undergone 12 model changes since 1966. The new Corolla will come in multiple powertrains, including battery EV, plug-in hybrid, and internal combustion engine options.

Why it matters: The Corolla's transformation to an electric option may appeal to environmentally conscious buyers and those seeking more efficient transportation options.

Electrek

Rare Black Friday savings on MOD e-bikes: Easy 3 cruiser $2,199, EcoFlow DELTA 3 Ultra 440W solar bundle + FREE TRAIL 200, more

MOD Bikes is offering a rare sale on its e-bikes, with the Easy 3 Cruiser e-bike available for $2,199. EcoFlow is also having a 72-hour flash sale with discounts on its DELTA 3 Ultra Power Station and other products. Additionally, there are deals on the Worx 13A Electric Leaf Mulcher and Anker's eufy SoloCam E42 Solar Security Multi-Cam kits. The sales are available for a limited time or while supplies last.

Why it matters: These deals offer significant discounts on popular products, allowing consumers to purchase them at lower prices than usual.

InsideEVs

Tesla Warned Owners Not To Test Emergency Drive Away. Some Did Anyway.

Tesla warned owners not to test the emergency drive away feature, but some owners did anyway, incurring a $539 fine. The feature is designed to allow drivers to exit the vehicle in emergency situations. The warning was issued to prevent misuse of the feature.

Why it matters: This incident highlights the importance of following manufacturer guidelines to avoid unexpected charges.

Electrek

BYD sold more EVs last month than the US did all quarter, topping 300,000

BYD sold over 300,000 electric vehicles in October, a new record for the company. This is the sixth straight month of higher sales growth for BYD. The company's electric vehicle sales have surpassed 1.9 million units through October, a 6% increase from the same period last year.

Why it matters: This milestone highlights BYD's significant lead in the global electric vehicle market, particularly in China, where the company is driving growth overseas.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla Cybercab Goes on Tour in Europe: Cities & Dates

Tesla is bringing the Cybercab to Europe for a tour, starting in Zurich on November 5 and visiting 12 stops in nine countries through mid-January. The tour allows visitors to see the Cybercab up close and take photos. The Cybercab is a key part of Tesla's autonomous transportation plans, with rides currently available in the US and expected to launch in more markets soon.

Why it matters: The tour provides a preview of Tesla's autonomous transportation plans and may give insight into the company's timeline for launching Cybercab services in Europe.

Electrek

Lexus is taking a page from China for its next electric SUV launching in 2027

Lexus is launching a new electric SUV in 2027, its first vehicle built in China in over two decades, at a new manufacturing plant in Shanghai. The plant, which will produce 1,000 units per month in 2027, will be a cornerstone of Toyota's comeback plans in China. The new SUV will be made using advanced manufacturing methods such as gigacasting to reduce costs and speed up output.

Why it matters: This move highlights Toyota's shift towards adapting to the Chinese market, where it has struggled to compete with local brands.

Electrek

Electric trucks hit 50% of China’s heavy truck sales, diesel demand falls

Electric trucks made up 50.3% of China's heavy truck sales in September, with 33,100 units sold, a 37% increase from the previous year. The overall heavy-truck market shrank by 21% in the same period. China's diesel demand is expected to fall by 230,000 barrels per day this year.

Why it matters: This shift to electric trucks has significant implications for the global oil market, with diesel demand expected to decline and alternative energy sources gaining traction.

Electrek

Bestselling US e-bike Lectric XP4 relaunched in limited-edition with new colors and gear

Lectric has released three limited-edition versions of its bestselling e-bike, the XP4, with new colors and accessories. The new models, District, Jubilee, and Ridge, are priced at $1,399 and include a 750W motor, upgraded accessories, and a distinctive matte paint job. Each edition is designed for a specific type of rider, with accessories tailored to their needs.

Why it matters: The new limited-edition XP4 models offer a more fully equipped e-bike option for riders, with accessories designed to meet specific needs such as commuting, casual riding, or off-road adventures.

Not a Tesla App

Tesla Expands Robotaxi Service, Launches Unsupervised Rides in Fort Worth

Tesla has expanded its Robotaxi service to Fort Worth, Texas, with unsupervised rides starting on November 2. The service area covers 143 square miles, centered on Downtown Fort Worth. The city joins six other locations with unsupervised rides, including Austin and Houston.

Why it matters: This expansion provides residents and visitors in Fort Worth with a new transportation option.

InsideEVs

Smart’s New City EV Is Already Off To A Great Start

Smart's City EV, the #2, has a sold-out initial Couture Edition in all available countries. The edition was limited in quantity. The initial sales of the #2 have been successful.

Why it matters: This indicates strong demand for the new electric vehicle.

Electrek

After 471,625 miles, this Chevy Bolt is doing better than you think [video]

A 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV with over 470,000 miles has been repaired with a new battery pack and is still operational. The car's original electric motor has nearly half a million miles on it. The owner is aiming to reach 500,000 miles.

Why it matters: This example demonstrates the potential durability of electric vehicle batteries and their ability to withstand high mileage.

InsideEVs

Hyundai Says Hydrogen Cars Aren’t Dead. Finding Customers Is Another Story

Hyundai executive stated that hydrogen fuel cell cars are not dead, despite their slow adoption. The company has been investing in hydrogen fuel cell technology. Hyundai has been working to improve the efficiency and cost of hydrogen fuel cell systems.

Why it matters: This statement may provide reassurance to investors and stakeholders in the hydrogen fuel cell industry.

InsideEVs

The Rivian R1T Is An Awkward Fit For Britain. This Reviewer Loved It Anyway

Rory Reid reviewed the Rivian R1T electric pickup truck, praising its 835 horsepower and features, but noted difficulties with accessing amenities like food. The review was conducted in Britain, where the truck's size and design may be less suitable. Reid enjoyed the vehicle despite its limitations.

Why it matters: This review highlights the challenges of using a large electric pickup truck in urban areas with limited infrastructure.

InsideEVs

Rivian Has Invested Millions In 3D Printing. Its Biggest Plans Are Still Ahead

Rivian has invested in 3D printing technology for its factory in Normal, installing a row of 3D printers to enable on-demand part production. The company aims to use this technology to improve efficiency and reduce lead times. The move is part of Rivian's ongoing efforts to scale up production.

Why it matters: This investment in 3D printing technology could help Rivian streamline its manufacturing process and meet growing demand for its electric vehicles.

Electrek

How Europe’s battery passport could have a big impact on US e-bikes

The European Union will introduce a digital battery passport for e-bike batteries in 2027, providing a digital identity and accessible information about the battery's origins and characteristics. The passport will be accessible through QR codes and will include details such as manufacturer, chemistry, capacity, and carbon footprint. The system aims to increase transparency and sustainability in the battery industry.

Why it matters: The battery passport system could help American e-bike riders by making it easier to understand the condition and origins of their batteries, potentially reducing the risk of buying a used e-bike with a degraded battery.

InsideEVs

Polestar 2 Production Is Officially Over. A Successor Is Coming In 2027

Polestar has ended production of the Polestar 2 after six years, marking the end of the car that helped establish the brand. The Polestar 2 was first introduced in 2019. A successor to the car is expected to be released in 2027.

Why it matters: This change may impact Polestar's lineup and offerings for customers.

Teslarati

Tesla owners who tap Emergency Drive Away for fun are in for a surprise

A Tesla owner who tapped the Emergency Drive Away feature while still plugged into a Supercharger received a $539 service bill to clear the alert, even though the car didn't move. The feature is triggered by pressing the Activate button, which requires a service visit to clear the alert. Tesla has not published a set price for the inspection or commented on the issue.

Why it matters: Tesla owners should be aware that pressing the Emergency Drive Away feature while still plugged into a Supercharger can result in a service bill, even if the car doesn't move.

Electrek

Eli teases the launch of a much faster electric microcar

Eli Electric Vehicles is teasing the launch of a new electric microcar, the Eli ZERO MX, which is expected to be faster than the current L6e version. The new vehicle is described as an L7e vehicle, which can travel at speeds of up to 80-90 km/h. A special Race Edition is also teased, with a sporty design and unclear performance capabilities.

Why it matters: The new Eli ZERO MX could make electric microcars more practical for daily commutes and longer trips.