United States

Hyundai and Kia were recently spotted supercharging using native NACS ports, hinting at upcoming support for this technology. This move could potentially put them ahead in the race for efficient NACS rollout. While many automakers opt for adapters first, Hyundai and Kia plan to launch native ports by the end of 2024. This development comes amidst delays caused by Tesla's Supercharger chaos. Stay tuned for updates on this promising advancement in electric vehicle charging technology.

Tesla reintroduces its Model 3 Long Range RWD in the U.S., boasting an impressive EPA-estimated range of 363 miles, the highest ever for a Model 3. Priced attractively at $42,490, after factoring in the $7,500 tax credit, it offers great value. The 0-60 mph acceleration is 4.9 seconds, making it a compelling choice. This move comes at a crucial time for Tesla and the EV market, offering customers significant savings and a long-awaited range boost.

Stellantis is eyeing the US market with Fiat's affordable electric Grande Panda, aiming to be one of Europe's cheapest EVs. Rumored to hit US shores, it could offer a 198-mile range with a 44 kWh battery and 110 horsepower motor. Priced around $28,500, it features a unique interior and potential seating for five. Fiat's move aligns with Stellantis' plan to introduce a $25,000 budget EV to the US market. Stay tuned for Fiat's next electrifying move.

Mercedes-Benz U.S. EV sales took a hit in Q2 2024, with a 36% drop in BEV sales compared to last year. The EQB saw an 88% increase, but the EQE and EQS families experienced significant declines. Overall, the brand sold almost 18,000 electric cars in the U.S. in the first half of the year, marking a 25% decrease from last year. This decline impacted the EV share, which now stands at 11.9%.

Blue Bird's (BLDB) stock flies high as EV sales slump. Blue Bird's electric buses surge, outperforming competitors Polestar and Fisker. President Smith debunks EV myths, touting profit and positive union relationships. Blue Bird focuses on zero-emission buses, expecting to deliver 2,000th electric bus soon. Incentives abound for electrifying school buses, improving safety and air quality. Investors eyeing BLBD should read Newsweek's insightful interview. Blue Bird electrifies market, proving EV success.

Fisker aims to clear out its Ocean SUV inventory through a bulk deal with American Lease, potentially raking in $46.25 million to settle debts. The deal could see up to 3,231 Oceans sold for $2,500-$16,500 each. Despite uncertainties about long-term support for current owners, the agreement hints at how the vehicles might stay on the road. With Fisker filing for bankruptcy, the fate of individual Ocean owners remains murky.

This week on Electrek’s Wheel-E podcast: Huffy revamps Green Machine drift trike, Tern's new electric cargo bike, Rattan's edgy e-bike, Key Biscayne bans e-bikes, California's e-bike speed limits, and Mahle's lightweight e-bike system. Catch the podcast every two weeks and find more details on their YouTube channel or favorite podcast app. Stay tuned for exciting discussions and updates on electric vehicles and more.

Jeep plans to launch an electric Renegade SUV in the US under $25,000, but hitting that price point might be a challenge. While the brand aims to revamp its lineup with 13 new vehicles by 2027, experts are skeptical about the feasibility of a sub-$25,000 Renegade EV. Potential challenges include production location and meeting federal incentives. Can Jeep deliver an affordable electric option without sacrificing quality? Industry opinions are divided.

Over 130 Wendy's restaurants in NY, IL, and MA are now using community solar to source 30-100% of their energy, with help from Ampion Renewable Energy. Enrolled in Ampion+, these locations have signed up for 27.5 million kWh of solar energy, equivalent to CO2 emissions from 2,200 households annually. Ampion+ tracks and assigns ownership of each kilowatt hour to specific restaurant locations via RECs. This move aligns with a predicted rise in community solar installations and offers cost-effective, eco-friendly energy solutions.

The US announces a big offshore wind sale in the Central Atlantic, offering 275,000+ acres for auction, with 17 companies ready to bid. This sale could generate 6.3 gigawatts of clean energy to power over 2.2 million homes. The auction, set for August 14, aims to meet offshore wind targets for Maryland and other mid-Atlantic states, promoting job growth and investment. Environmental concerns are addressed to ensure responsible development.