Tesla & Electric Vehicles

ElectrekSep 28

NIO sells 30% of battery swap unit to Geely at more than $2 billion

NIO has sold a 30% stake in its battery swap unit, NIO Power, to Geely Holding at a valuation of over $2.4 billion. The deal includes a contribution of Geely's commercial battery swap business and $94 million in cash. NIO will also take a 10% stake in Geely's charging arm, Zhejiang Haohan Energy Technology, in a parallel deal.

Why it matters: This deal could make NIO's battery swap network the default for a large portion of the Chinese market, as a Geely brand shipping NIO-compatible packs at volume would integrate with NIO's network.

ElectrekSep 27

Survey Sunday: When self driving cars crash, who gets the blame?

A survey of Electrek readers found that nearly 90% of respondents believe the developers of AI driving systems should be held responsible when an autonomous vehicle crashes, while only 3.5% blame the person behind the steering wheel. The survey coincided with the unveiling of Tesla's Cybercab and the start of production of the Tesla Semi. The results suggest that many readers believe the manufacturer and AI developer should share liability for accidents.

Why it matters: The survey results have implications for the development and regulation of autonomous vehicles, as they suggest that consumers may hold manufacturers and AI developers accountable for accidents involving self-driving cars.

ElectrekSep 27

Mazda adds LiDAR to CX-6e, rolls out “self driving” tech in China

Mazda's CX-6e electric SUV has been updated with a LiDAR suite, enabling advanced L2 autonomy, navigation on autopilot, and automated parking. The update, called the EZ-60 Laser Edition, combines LiDAR with 11 cameras, 12 ultrasonic radar sensors, and 3 millimeter-wave radar sensors. The system provides full-domain perception for highway and urban navigation, responding to cars, bikes, and pedestrians.

Why it matters: This update enables the CX-6e to navigate complex road conditions and scenarios, such as highway lane changes and urban construction detours, with improved safety and reduced driver workload.

TeslaratiSep 27

SpaceX just got the green light Starship has waited years for

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has cleared SpaceX's Starship Flight 14 for launch, allowing the company to attempt its first orbital flight on September 28. The mission will carry 26 Starlink V3 satellites and test the spacecraft's orbital insertion burn. The launch will also mark a milestone for SpaceX, 10 years after Elon Musk first presented the Interplanetary Transport System design.

Why it matters: This launch is a crucial step for SpaceX's Starship program, which aims to establish a reusable spacecraft capable of carrying both people and cargo to the moon, Mars, and other destinations in the solar system.

ElectrekSep 27

Charge up your Christmas tree with this Hallmark Keepsake Daytona Scat Pack

Hallmark has added the 2025 Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack to its Keepsake Ornament lineup for 2026. The ornament is the only electric vehicle option among other gearhead-themed ornaments. The 2025 Charger Daytona Scat Pack is an all-wheel-drive electric car with up to 670 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque.

Why it matters: This move highlights the Charger's potential as a collector's item and may appeal to car enthusiasts looking for a unique holiday decoration.

Not a Tesla AppSep 27

Tesla Launches Grok in New Countries With Update 2026.32.7

Tesla has released software update 2026.32.7, which brings the Grok conversational assistant to multiple countries in the Middle East, including Israel, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Jordan. The update requires an AMD Ryzen infotainment computer and a Premium Connectivity subscription or Wi-Fi connection. Grok can perform various tasks, such as navigation, phone management, and media control, without requiring a separate account or subscription.

Why it matters: This update expands the availability of Tesla's Grok assistant, which can enhance the driving experience with hands-free functionality and convenience features.

InsideEVsSep 27

‘Cannot Give Up Right Now’: Hyundai’s R&D Boss On The Solid-State Battery Bet

Hyundai's head of R&D stated that small-volume cars with solid-state batteries are expected to be available on the market within five years. This timeline is part of Hyundai's plans to develop solid-state batteries. The company aims to improve battery technology.

Why it matters: This development could lead to improved battery performance and efficiency in electric vehicles.

InsideEVsSep 27

The Genesis GV90 Has A Huge Screen. Park And It Gets Even Bigger

The Genesis GV90's motorized display can extend to provide a larger screen for rear-seat passengers when the vehicle is parked. The display is designed to provide an entertainment experience for passengers. The display's functionality is a result of the vehicle's engineering.

Why it matters: This feature may enhance the comfort and entertainment options for passengers in the Genesis GV90.

ElectrekSep 26

Think gas prices are too low? Don’t fret, Trump plans to raise them Monday

The US Department of Transportation is set to announce new fuel economy standards that will raise average fuel costs by 45% by lowering the target average fuel economy from 50.4mpg to 34.5mpg. The change is expected to be announced on Monday. The new standards are expected to increase fuel costs by $185 billion and carbon emissions by 5%.

Why it matters: The new fuel economy standards will likely increase the cost of owning and operating a vehicle for many Americans.

Not a Tesla AppSep 26

Tesla in Talks for FSD Approval in Ireland as EU Delays Vote

Tesla is working with Irish authorities to secure local approval for Full Self-Driving (Supervised) in Ireland, despite the EU's delayed vote on the technology. The company has already received regulatory approval in the Czech Republic and is in talks with several other EU member nations. Tesla is using individual country approvals to push for EU-wide approval.

Why it matters: This development could bring supervised autonomy to Irish roads sooner than EU-wide approval, benefiting local Tesla owners.

ElectrekSep 26

Survey rewind: how much pain at the pump will it take to switch to EV? [update]

A survey of 2,800 Electrek readers found that nearly half think there's no price high enough to convince some drivers to switch from internal combustion engines to electric vehicles. The survey was conducted in April, when gas prices were lower, and was revisited after a recent price spike. The current price of gas in Chicago is $7.19 per gallon.

Why it matters: This suggests that some drivers may be resistant to switching to electric vehicles regardless of fuel prices, and may require other factors to make the switch.

ElectrekSep 26

E-quipment highlight: EGO POWER+ Leaf Vacuum and Mulcher

The EGO POWER+ LV5005 Leaf Vacuum and Mulcher with 500 CFM Blower is a three-in-one tool that combines a leaf blower, vacuum, and mulcher. It is powered by a 6.0 Ah EGO 56V ARC Lithium battery and has a runtime of up to 90 minutes on low setting. The tool can mulch 16 bags of leaves into one bag.

Why it matters: This tool can help homeowners save time and money on yard cleanup by reducing the amount of yard waste and potentially lowering waste disposal costs.

Not a Tesla AppSep 26

Tesla Patent Hints at Active Aero Wing for Roadster

A newly published patent reveals Tesla's plans for an active, deployable rear wing on the next-generation Roadster, which can adjust its position to optimize aerodynamics for different driving conditions. The wing can generate downforce, reduce drag, and retract in case of an impending collision. The patent filing comes as Tesla prepares to unveil the Roadster 2.0 on October 1.

Why it matters: This technology could enhance the Roadster's performance and safety, particularly at high speeds.

ElectrekSep 26

New Kempower charging deal powers up Canadian port operations

Kempower has signed a framework agreement with DP World to supply high-speed charging infrastructure to all of its Canadian terminal operations. The first two sites are already online. The agreement follows a successful installation at Global Container Terminals' Vancouver operation.

Why it matters: This deal could accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles in Canadian ports, reducing emissions and operating costs.

Not a Tesla AppSep 26

Tesla Unveils Next-Gen Heat Pump and Drivetrain for Semi

Tesla unveiled a new heat pump and drivetrain for its Semi truck, featuring a unified thermal valve hub called the Megamanifold, and a revised powertrain with steel-caged rotors and a bar-wound stator design. The new drivetrain is more efficient, reliable, and cheaper to build than the original prototypes. The Semi also features electric power steering, eliminating hydraulic compressors and fluid lines.

Why it matters: The new design improvements could increase the Semi's operational range and reduce maintenance costs for fleet operators.

TeslaratiSep 26

SpaceX completes another secret Pentagon launch, adding to suspected Starshield buildout

SpaceX launched a classified USSF-385 mission from Vandenberg Space Force Base, with the Falcon 9 booster landing on a drone ship for the tenth time. The mission was the fourth from the same pad in six weeks, following similar launches with suspected Starshield payloads. The launch was part of a $1.6 billion contract with the US Space Force for 18 Falcon 9 missions.

Why it matters: This launch is part of a larger contract that will see SpaceX build and launch multiple Starshield satellites for the US Space Force.

Not a Tesla AppSep 26

Watch Tesla FSD's New Automatic Collision Evasion Feature in Action [VIDEO]

A video shows Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) system automatically taking over steering to avoid a collision after the driver disengaged it. The incident occurred on a highway when the driver was slowing down to make a U-turn. The FSD system re-engaged and steered the vehicle to safety.

Why it matters: This feature demonstrates the capabilities of Tesla's FSD system and its potential to prevent accidents in certain situations.

InsideEVsSep 26

These Battery Cells Were Tested After 14 Years Of Hard Work. They're Good For Another Decade

CATL supplied battery cells for a large-scale energy storage project 14 years ago. The cells have not been replaced after 14 years of use. The cells are still functional and expected to last for another decade.

Why it matters: This demonstrates the durability and long lifespan of CATL's battery cells, which could impact the adoption of energy storage solutions.

ElectrekSep 26

Renault 8 Gordini reborn as 270 hp electric rally retromobile

Renault has unveiled a new electric version of the 1964 Renault 8 Gordini, a rally car with a 270 hp electric motor and modern suspension, wheels, and wings. The new car retains the iconic look of the original, with a more dynamic design and a nod to the rear layout of the original. The car's design team created over 300 sketches before settling on the final design.

Why it matters: The new Renault Gordini 8 concept showcases the potential for electric powertrains in classic car designs.

ElectrekSep 26

JUNA puts more than 100 Scania electric semi trucks to work

JUNA, a joint venture between sennder and Scania, has deployed 110 electric semi trucks across four markets, with a total of over 3.9 million emissions-free kilometers traveled. The trucks are used for international transport in Germany, Italy, Poland, and the Netherlands. JUNA plans to add up to 40 more electric semi trucks before the end of the year.

Why it matters: This deployment demonstrates the commercial viability of electric semi trucks for carriers and shippers, helping to decarbonize the transport network.

InsideEVsSep 26

Forget Politics. EVs Have An Age Problem

A survey found that Republicans and Democrats have similar intentions to buy electric vehicles (EVs), but baby boomers are less likely to consider EVs compared to younger generations.

Why it matters: This trend highlights the need for EV manufacturers to target marketing efforts towards older demographics.

InsideEVsSep 26

Bentley Goes Electric As China's EV Charging War Gets Ridiculous

Bentley announced its transition to electric vehicles, joining other luxury brands in the shift towards electric. Geely unveiled a 2.2-megawatt fast charger, a significant upgrade from typical charging speeds. The charger is part of China's growing electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

Why it matters: This development highlights the increasing investment in electric vehicle charging technology, which is crucial for widespread adoption of EVs.

InsideEVsSep 26

Volkswagen Delays Ontario Battery Plant

The auto giant's North American EV plan faced another setback this week.

TeslaratiSep 26

Tesla’s surprise Roadster video hints the 2017 design is gone

Tesla released a teaser video for the new Roadster, showing a new front light bar design that differs from the 2017 prototype. The video was shown at the end of the Semi event in Nevada. The new design appears to be a connected front light strip, similar to the Cybertruck and Cybercab.

Why it matters: The new design detail provides a glimpse into the updated design of the production Roadster, which has been delayed multiple times since its initial reveal in 2017.

InsideEVsSep 25

Inside The Texas Factory Racing To Break China’s Grip On EV Magnets

MP Materials is building a rare earth magnet factory in Texas, USA, to reduce dependence on Chinese imports. The factory aims to produce neodymium iron boron magnets, a key component in electric vehicle motors. The facility is expected to be operational by 2024.

Why it matters: This development could improve the US's supply chain security and reduce the country's reliance on Chinese rare earth magnet imports.

Not a Tesla AppSep 25

Tesla Semi Event Recap: Everything That Was Announced

Tesla inaugurated its new Semi factory in Sparks, Nevada, marking the transition to high-volume mass production of its electric class-8 hauler. The factory has a 1.8 million-square-foot production area and is designed to produce 50,000 trucks annually. The production Semi features a new design with improved efficiency, reliability, and lower operational costs.

Why it matters: This marks a significant milestone for Tesla's commercial freight business and could potentially disrupt the diesel-powered trucking industry.

ElectrekSep 25

BYD sets launch date for the new flagship Han EV with over 1,000 km of range

BYD announced its new flagship electric sedan, the Great Han, will launch on October 13 with a range of over 1,000 km on a single charge. The sedan is available in three variants with single- and all-wheel-drive powertrains. Pre-orders started at around $37,000.

Why it matters: The launch of the Great Han highlights BYD's expansion into higher-end electric vehicle segments.

ElectrekSep 25

Want to get off gas? Learn how at Drive Electric Month events across the US

Drive Electric Month events are taking place across the US and Canada, offering in-person and online opportunities for people to learn about electric vehicles and speak with owners. The events are organized by local EV advocates and range from small meetups to large festivals. The events will continue through most of September and the start of October.

Why it matters: This event provides a chance for prospective EV buyers to gain unfiltered information about electric car ownership from experienced owners.

TeslaratiSep 25

Tesla Full Self-Driving release in the EU gets delayed

Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) release in the European Union has been delayed, with the next possible vote scheduled for December. The delay is due to the European Union's Technical Committee on Motor Vehicles not voting on FSD on October 6 as previously expected. Seven EU countries have already cleared FSD for use on their roads, but a bloc-wide authorization requires a qualified majority of 15 member states representing 65% of the EU population.

Why it matters: The delay may impact the availability of FSD in other EU countries, where it is currently not approved.

InsideEVsSep 25

Tesla Finally Kicks Off Semi Deliveries As Diesel Prices Skyrocket

Tesla has begun delivering the Tesla Semi, a battery-electric semi-truck, after a decade-long development period. The production volume is not specified. Diesel prices have increased significantly in the US.

Why it matters: This development may impact the trucking industry as a potential alternative to diesel-powered vehicles.