Articles tagged with "electric-cars"
China’s Hesai will double production as lidar sensor industry shakes out
Chinese lidar manufacturer Hesai plans to double its production capacity from 2 million to 4 million units in 2026, aiming to dominate the global lidar sensor market. This expansion follows Hesai surpassing 1 million units in 2025 and is driven by growing demand in automotive and robotics sectors. Hesai highlighted that lidar sensors are now installed in 25% of new electric vehicles in China, with many cars integrating three to six sensors each, significantly broadening the company’s market potential. Hesai currently serves 24 automotive customers, including a leading European automaker, and has secured 4 million orders for its latest ATX lidar sensor. Hesai’s growth contrasts with the recent bankruptcy of U.S. lidar maker Luminar, which struggled due to failed automotive partnerships and intense price competition from Chinese manufacturers like Hesai. Luminar’s bankruptcy filings cited cost pressures from lower-priced Chinese competitors as a key factor in its downfall. Hesai has also contributed to a 99.5%
lidarroboticsautonomous-vehiclessensorselectric-carsautomotive-technologyrobotics-industryThe Appeal Of Vintage-Style Electric Cars Is About To Be Tested
The article discusses the revival of the vintage-style Mini Moke electric car by UK automaker MOKE International, aiming to test the appeal of retro electric vehicles in today’s market. Originally designed in the 1960s by Sir Alec Issigonis, the Mini Moke gained cult status among celebrities and beach communities but was initially intended for military use, which never materialized. MOKE International has reengineered the vehicle to maintain its classic styling while incorporating modern technology, targeting niche buyers who value both nostalgia and sustainability. The company has partnered with Canadian firm EV Technology Group Ltd. (EVTG) to reintroduce a highway-legal electric version of the Moke Californian in the US, particularly focusing on California’s large auto market. The new electric Moke Californian features a 44hp motor, weighs under 800kg, and can accelerate from 0 to 34 mph in 4.3 seconds, with a top speed of 50 mph. This speed meets the
electric-vehiclesenergyclean-energyelectric-carsautomotive-technologysustainable-transportationbattery-technologyThe Next Big Thing In Kenya’s Electric Mobility Sector - Electric Cars (Part 1: Charging Infrastructure) - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica highlights the emerging growth of Kenya’s electric mobility sector, particularly focusing on electric cars and the development of charging infrastructure. Kenya has seen a significant increase in electric vehicle (EV) electricity consumption, with a 300% rise from 1.26 GWh in the 2023/24 financial year to 5.04 GWh in 2024/25, signaling growing adoption. Despite this, electric cars currently hold a very small market share—only 0.18% of new car registrations in 2024—largely due to the dominance of used vehicle imports from countries like Japan and the UK. However, as used EV availability increases in these markets, Kenya is expected to see a rise in electric car imports. Additionally, the ride-hailing sector is beginning to adopt EVs to reduce operational costs, further stimulating demand. On the infrastructure front, Kenya has made early strides with a modest but promising public charging network operated by startups. Charging stations,
energyelectric-vehicleselectric-mobilitycharging-infrastructureKenyarenewable-energyelectric-carsFrom Petrol Performance to Tesla Model Y Performance - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica shares the personal story of Roy Perkins, an 81-year-old former performance engine mechanic who has transitioned from working on high-performance internal combustion engines (ICE) to embracing the dual-motor Tesla Model Y Performance. Roy reflects on his lifelong passion for performance cars, recalling his early career in 1966 at Standard Engineering in Brisbane, where he specialized in reconditioning worn or damaged ICE components such as crankshafts, cylinder blocks, and cylinder heads. His detailed explanation highlights the complexity and maintenance challenges of traditional engines, including issues like overheating, engine seizure, and the need for precision machining to restore damaged parts. Roy’s experience contrasts sharply with his current enjoyment of the Tesla Model Y, which he appreciates for its performance and advanced electric technology. Despite his enthusiasm, his only concern with the Tesla is the lack of a spare tire, especially given his habit of aggressive launches that wear tires quickly. The article also notes a demographic shift in electric vehicle adoption, observing that older drivers
energyelectric-vehiclesTesla-Model-Yelectric-carsautomotive-technologyperformance-vehiclesengine-reconditioningFunders & Investors Really Need To Start Supporting Kenya’s Promising Electric Car Market - CleanTechnica
The article highlights the rapid growth and promising potential of Kenya’s electric vehicle (EV) market, particularly focusing on electric motorcycles and the emerging electric car sector. Over the past seven years, Kenya’s electric motorcycle industry has expanded significantly, with market share rising from 0.5% in 2021 to 7.1% in 2024, supported by over 50 industry players and substantial funding. Electric buses are also gaining traction, led by companies like BasiGo, which plans to introduce over 1,000 electric buses soon. However, despite progress in motorcycles, tuk-tuks, and buses, electric car adoption in Kenya remains very low at just 0.18% of new vehicle registrations in 2024, with only about 300 electric cars on the road compared to tens of thousands in neighboring African countries like Ethiopia, Ghana, and Egypt. This lag in electric car adoption presents a significant investment opportunity for funders and investors. While the electric motorcycle market attracted early investment
energyelectric-vehicleselectric-motorcycleselectric-carselectric-busesclean-energysustainable-transportationAmsterdam's Tiny Electric Cars Are Not Just Golf Carts That Went To Design School - CleanTechnica
The article explores Amsterdam’s growing adoption of tiny electric vehicles (EVs) known as quadricycles, which occupy a unique regulatory niche between bicycles and cars in Europe. These micro EVs, often resembling small, enclosed golf carts or retro designs, are legally classified to operate under less stringent rules than full-sized cars. In the Netherlands, these vehicles—called brommobiels—are limited to 45 km/h, can be driven with a moped license, and are designed specifically for urban streets rather than bike paths. This classification enables lower costs, simpler licensing, and designs optimized for city mobility, including protection from weather, making them practical for errands in Amsterdam’s narrow streets. Historically, the quadricycle market was dominated by small internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, primarily French diesel-powered models from brands like Ligier, Microcar, and Aixam, which helped establish the viability of ultra-compact cars for urban use. A notable Dutch innovation is the Canta, a very
electric-vehiclesmicro-mobilityclean-energyurban-transportationquadricycle-classificationsustainable-transportelectric-carsElectric Volkswagens To Feature In Zootopia 2 ... Sort Of - CleanTechnica
Volkswagen is collaborating with Walt Disney Animation Studios to promote the upcoming film Zootopia 2 through a global 360-degree campaign featuring three custom-animated vehicles inspired by Volkswagen’s all-electric models: the ID.3, ID.4, and ID.7 Tourer. These “Zootopified” electric vehicles will appear in the movie, branded humorously as “Wolfswagen,” a play on Volkswagen’s name and its headquarters city, Wolfsburg. The campaign includes a co-branded commercial set to run in theaters, on TV, and across social media, aiming to build anticipation for the film’s November release while promoting Volkswagen’s electric vehicle lineup. While the partnership highlights Volkswagen’s push for electric mobility and aligns with the film’s themes of challenging prejudices and breaking new ground, the campaign also features some non-electric Volkswagen vehicles, which the article notes as a slight disappointment given the focus on electrification. This collaboration continues Volkswagen’s trend of partnering with Disney on major franchises,
electric-vehiclesVolkswagenenergyclean-energyelectric-carsautomotive-technologysustainable-transportationElectric fury: 9 fastest EVs redefining limits of modern engineering
The article highlights nine of the fastest electric vehicles (EVs) that exemplify cutting-edge engineering and performance, showcasing how electric cars are rapidly closing the gap with traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. Leading the list is the Mercedes-Benz EQS 580, boasting the longest range of 532.2 miles (857 km) with a powerful 751 HP dual-motor setup and exceptional aerodynamics (0.20 drag coefficient). It also set a Guinness World Record by covering 949 km in a single drive in India. Other notable models include the Porsche Taycan 4S, which offers a sporty 438-mile (705 km) range with 590 horsepower and advanced regenerative braking, and the Tesla Model S Dual Motor, delivering 410 miles (660 km) of range, 670 horsepower, and rapid acceleration with access to Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network. The list also features luxury and practical SUVs such as the BMW iX xDrive50, with a 357-mile (575 km) range
energyelectric-vehiclesbattery-technologyelectric-carsautomotive-engineeringsustainable-transportationelectric-mobilityLow Battery Prices & Affordable Electric Cars Sweeping into Europe - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica highlights the significant and ongoing decline in electric vehicle (EV) battery prices in Europe, which is driving a surge in affordable, long-range electric cars. Over the past decade, battery costs have consistently dropped, enabling models like the Renault Zoe, Chevy Bolt EV, and Tesla Model 3 to offer both range and affordability. Notably, since 2022, EV battery prices in the EU have fallen by 27%, with projections indicating a further 28% reduction in the next two years and a total 46% decrease over five years. These price declines are expanding the market for affordable EVs, making them accessible to a broader range of consumers. This trend is reflected in the increasing number of low-cost electric models entering the European market. Between 2020 and 2024, only two affordable EV models were introduced, but six new models debuted in 2024 alone, with over a dozen more expected by 2027. The article emphasizes the substantial growth
energyelectric-vehiclesbattery-pricesrenewable-energyelectric-carsEV-marketenergy-storageVehicle Sales Growth Since 2020 Is Entirely From Electric Cars - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica challenges the common narrative that demand for electric vehicles (EVs) is weak while fossil-fueled car sales remain strong. Using data from the International Energy Agency (IEA), it highlights that fossil-fueled vehicle sales have been declining steadily since before the COVID-19 pandemic, with significant drops in 2020 and continued decreases through 2024. Despite a slight rebound in 2023, fossil-fueled car sales have not returned to pre-pandemic levels, suggesting that the era of peak gasoline-powered cars may have passed. Conversely, electric vehicle sales have shown consistent and strong growth over the past five years. Even during 2020, a challenging year for the auto industry, EV sales increased slightly and then more than doubled in 2021. This upward trend continued through 2022, 2023, and into 2024, reaching nearly 20 million EV sales out of about 80 million total vehicle sales in 2024
electric-vehiclesEV-sales-growthelectric-carsrenewable-energyautomotive-industryclean-technologyenergy-transitionTesla Sales Look Strong For 3rd Quarter, & Speculation On 4th Quarter - CleanTechnica
The article provides an update on Tesla's sales performance and outlook for the third and fourth quarters. For Q3, Tesla's sales in the U.S. are reported as very strong, with Chevrolet and Hyundai also performing well, while Ford lags due to lack of tax credit incentives. In Europe, sales face challenges from brand perception issues linked to Elon Musk's comments and increased competition from Chinese automakers, although availability of the new Model Y and Model Y Performance is improving. China shows surprisingly strong sales of refreshed Model Y and Model 3 models, aided by Tesla’s advanced technology and Full Self Driving (FSD) features, with the new Model YL particularly popular. Globally, Tesla is expanding into new markets but faces competition from more affordable Chinese brands. Overall, Q3 sales are predicted to reach a record 508,000 vehicles, surpassing the previous high of 495,507 in Q4 2024, representing a 10% increase year-over-year. Looking ahead to
energyTeslaelectric-vehiclesself-driving-technologyautomotive-salesclean-energyelectric-carsCadillac Releases Newest All-Electric Concept Vehicle
The article announces Cadillac's introduction of its latest all-electric concept vehicle, named the Elevated Velocity. This new model is a high-riding crossover designed to offer an enhanced driving experience with a wide range of customizable options for drivers. While specific technical details and features are not fully disclosed in the provided content, the Elevated Velocity represents Cadillac's continued commitment to electric vehicle innovation and expanding its electric lineup. Overall, the key takeaway is that Cadillac is advancing its electric vehicle portfolio with the Elevated Velocity concept, aiming to combine the versatility of a crossover with cutting-edge electric technology and driver-focused customization. Further details about performance, range, and availability were not included in the excerpt.
electric-vehiclesenergyautomotive-technologyelectric-mobilitysustainable-transportationbattery-technologyelectric-carsWhy Xiaomi Succeeded At Making Electric Cars But Apple Failed - CleanTechnica
The article compares the contrasting outcomes of Apple’s and Xiaomi’s efforts in the electric vehicle (EV) market, highlighting why Xiaomi succeeded where Apple failed. Apple invested 10 years and $10 billion in its electric car project, Project Titan, but ultimately shut it down with minimal results. In contrast, Xiaomi, a Chinese smartphone maker, successfully developed a compelling electric car, exemplified by the SU7 model, which impressed industry leaders like Ford CEO Jim Farley and set performance records at the Nürburgring. The key to Xiaomi’s success lies in China’s dominance of the EV supply chain, enabling rapid and cost-effective access to components and manufacturing expertise. The article also discusses the role of government support in China’s EV industry, noting that Chinese manufacturers have benefited from substantial subsidies and control over critical resources like battery minerals. While critics often attribute China’s success to exploitative labor practices and authoritarian governance, the article argues that the U.S. has also historically subsidized industries and pioneered key technologies such
electric-vehicleselectric-carsbattery-technologyenergy-storagesupply-chainChinese-manufacturinggovernment-subsidiesUber, Lucid, & Nuro Join Forces To Create Robotaxis - CleanTechnica
Uber has announced a new partnership with electric vehicle maker Lucid and autonomous driving technology company Nuro to develop and deploy robotaxis in major U.S. cities starting in 2026. The collaboration aims to introduce up to 20,000 Lucid Gravity electric vehicles equipped with Nuro’s Level 4 self-driving system into Uber’s ride-hailing fleet over the next six years. These vehicles will be owned and operated by Uber or third-party fleet partners and exclusively accessible through the Uber platform. This initiative marks Uber’s renewed commitment to robotaxis after a fatal accident involving one of its prototypes in 2018, with the company planning to invest hundreds of millions of dollars into the partnership. The Lucid Gravity is particularly suited for robotaxi service due to its 450-mile range, which reduces downtime for charging and increases operational efficiency. Nuro’s AI-first autonomous system, proven through years of driverless deployments, will be integrated with Lucid’s advanced vehicle architecture, which features fully redundant zonal
robotautonomous-vehiclesrobotaxiselectric-carsself-driving-technologyUberLucid-Motors3 Very Good Critiques of Tesla's Affordable Model Expectations - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica discusses critical perspectives on Tesla’s delayed rollout of more affordable electric vehicle models, which were initially promised for production in the first half of 2025 but have yet to appear. A key critique, offered by reader “dashpol,” questions the strategic logic behind Tesla pursuing significantly cheaper models. Dashpol argues that the Model 3 is already compact by U.S. standards, and further cost-cutting—such as converting it into a hatchback—would not yield substantial savings and might reduce range. Moreover, competing against low-cost hatchbacks in Europe, the U.S., or China seems unlikely to succeed given Tesla’s brand identity, which is built around sleek, high-tech, performance-oriented vehicles rather than pragmatic, budget-friendly small cars. Dashpol also suggests Tesla could instead focus on larger vehicles like station wagons, vans, or affordable three-row SUVs, which align better with the brand and market demand. Another important point raised by Geoff Willingham highlights the risk of cann
energyelectric-vehiclesTeslaautomotive-industrysustainable-transportationclean-energyelectric-cars7th Annual EV Raffle Launches: One Ticket, Three Prizes! Win a Rivian, Lucid, or Porsche. Tickets Support Fight For Clean Energy. - CleanTechnica
The Chesapeake Climate Action Network Action Fund (CCAN Action Fund) has launched its 7th annual electric vehicle (EV) raffle to raise funds for its environmental advocacy work. This year’s raffle offers participants the chance to win one of six first-prize EV options—including a Rivian SUV or truck, a Lucid Gravity or Lucid Air, or a Porsche Macan EV or Taycan—each valued up to $110,900. The second prize winner can choose between a Volkswagen ID. Buzz or a Hyundai Ioniq 5, while a new third-place prize offers a Chevrolet Equinox EV LT. Only 10,000 tickets will be sold at $200 each, with each ticket providing three chances to win. Proceeds support CCAN’s efforts to promote clean energy solutions such as electric vehicles, wind farms, and solar power. CCAN Action Fund covers all federal and state taxes and fees associated with the prizes, making this raffle an attractive opportunity with favorable odds given the limited
energyelectric-vehiclesEV-raffleclean-energysustainable-transportationrenewable-energyelectric-carsEthiopia Could Open EV Floodgates Across Africa, Asia, And Beyond - CleanTechnica
Ethiopia made a groundbreaking move last year by banning the import of fossil fuel vehicles, a policy unprecedented not only in Africa but globally. This ban has been maintained and even expanded to include prohibitions on semi knocked down (SKD) and completely knocked down (CKD) kits for fossil-fueled vehicles. The country’s leadership remains committed to this policy despite initial skepticism and potential backlash, signaling strong governmental support for transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs). Ethiopia’s approach is seen as a potential catalyst for other nations, especially those without significant oil and gas industries, to adopt similar measures. The article highlights the growing availability of affordable electric cars, notably from manufacturers like BYD, which are entering more markets and increasing competition. If neighboring countries or others in Africa and Asia emulate Ethiopia’s import ban on fossil fuel vehicles, it could create key markets for EVs and accelerate the global shift toward clean transportation. The author expresses hope that Ethiopia’s example will inspire a broader wave of pro-EV
energyelectric-vehiclesrenewable-energyelectric-carsfossil-fuel-bansustainable-transportationclean-technologyCan You Ever Trust Automakers Saying There's Not Enough EV Demand? - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica critically examines the recurring claim by automakers that there is insufficient consumer demand for electric vehicles (EVs). Historically, this argument has been used to resist stricter fuel economy and emissions regulations or to justify canceling specific EV projects. However, these claims have frequently been disproven, as consumers often purchase the number of EVs that manufacturers are required to sell once regulations take effect. This pattern has led to skepticism about the credibility of automakers’ statements regarding EV demand. The discussion is prompted by recent headlines about Ferrari delaying its second EV model until 2028, citing weak consumer demand. Notably, Ferrari’s first EV, the Elettrica, has yet to launch and is expected to be a high-priced luxury vehicle. While Ferrari operates in a niche market and its customer preferences may differ from the broader market, the author questions the reliability of the “lack of demand” excuse given the history of similar claims by automakers that have often proven false. The article
electric-vehiclesEV-demandautomakerselectric-carsrenewable-energyenergy-storageclean-transportation