Sustainability and Environment

Geely-owned LEVC L380 minivan, priced at 379,900 yuan (52,400 USD), has begun deliveries in China. This sleek electric model, boasting impressive specs and up to 8 seats, is set to hit the UK market by 2026. Designed by a Bentley alum, this minivan offers various powertrain options, advanced tech features, and safety elements. Stay tuned for this luxury ride's upcoming debut in the UK.

Toyota is fighting off Chinese EV competition by building a new battery plant on Japan’s “Silicon Island,” aimed at bolstering its EV supply chain and producing batteries for Lexus. The move comes as BYD challenges Toyota in its home market with attractive EV offerings. With a $32 billion investment in EVs by 2030, Toyota aims to sell 3.5 million EVs annually. Stay tuned for more updates on this strategic development!

Paris has revolutionized transportation for the Olympics by prioritizing bikes over cars. The city banned cars, incentivized bike use, and added 60 km of bike lanes painted pink to guide visitors. Investments in cycling infrastructure reduced pollution and improved traffic flow. Lime invested millions in shared electric bikes for the event. Paris seized the global spotlight to showcase itself as a bike-friendly city, setting a new standard for urban mobility.

This week's Wheel-E podcast highlights MOD Berlin's electric bike, Mooncool's fat tire trike, the comeback of the lovable ELF bike-car, and more electrifying e-bike news. Learn about micromobility at the Paris Olympics, review the Tenways CGO600 Pro, and discover how electric go-karts are helping Olympic sprinters. Don't miss the latest in electric vehicles on Electrek's podcast, sponsored by CYCROWN with exclusive discounts. Tune in and ride on!

Discover Kia's electrifying EV3 GT-Line, a compact electric SUV making waves with its sporty design and impressive performance. With a range of up to 311 miles and quick charging capabilities, the EV3 is set to shake up the EV market. Priced starting at just $30,700 in Korea, it's attracting attention with over 10,000 reservations in just 23 days. Keep an eye out for the EV3's global launch and potential US debut, offering affordability and style in one electrifying package.

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.

Jaguar is bidding adieu to Magna Steyr to focus on luxury EVs by 2025, parting ways with the production facility after years of collaboration. The move aligns with Jaguar's strategy to ditch "zero profit" models and revamp as an upscale, all-electric brand. Magna Steyr, left in the lurch by previous clients, faces a shakeup as it aims to attract new partnerships post-Jaguar. Amidst shifts in production, Jaguar gears up to introduce three opulent EV models, promising a new era of modern luxury.

Mercedes-Benz partners with Starbucks to roll out high-power EV chargers at 100 West Coast stores, installating 400 kW DC fast chargers along Interstate 5. The initiative supports Mercedes-Benz Group AG's move towards electric vehicles and aims to create a seamless charging experience for all EV owners. This expansion is part of Mercedes-Benz HPC's $1 billion investment in a nationwide public charging network, with plans to cover half of U.S. states in the next 12-18 months.

Gogoro shakes up Singapore with electric scooter sales, unveiling battery-swapping tech with Cycle & Carriage partner. The move follows earlier successful pilot programs, including one with foodpanda. Gogoro's fast battery swapping stations at Shell service points facilitate clean, efficient rides. With nods to safety and sustainability, the company plans a Q4 2024 launch, aiming to revolutionize green mobility in Singapore. Stay tuned for more electrifying updates from Gogoro on Electrek!

Texas-sized power meets European design in the new MOD Berlin electric bike. With a 750W motor, speeds up to 28 mph, and the option to double its range with a second battery, this commuter e-bike packs a punch. Featuring a torque sensor, five pedal assist levels, and 29" wheels, it blends high performance with comfort. Priced at $2,199 during pre-order, this stylish ride offers a unique blend of Texas and Berlin flair.