10 stories tagged efficiency on EV Digest.
Independent testing reveals that the Rivian R2 Performance model uses 18% to 26% more energy than the Tesla Model Y Performance, despite both SUVs carrying identical EPA efficiency ratings. This finding contradicts claims by Rivian's CEO regarding the R2's energy consumption.
The EPA's official efficiency ratings for the Rivian R2 and Tesla Model Y are identical, but real-world testing suggests a discrepancy. Initial observations indicate the R2 consumes more energy than the Model Y, raising questions about how these official figures were reached despite similar battery sizes and vehicle classes.
The Porsche supervisory board has officially endorsed a more aggressive efficiency program aimed at bolstering the luxury automaker's financial performance. This strategic move seeks to optimize operations and ensure sustained profitability amidst an evolving automotive landscape, which includes increasing investments in electric vehicle technology.
Mercedes-Benz is engineering its 2026 CLA electric vehicle with a two-speed transmission, a design choice aimed at significantly boosting driving range, particularly at highway speeds. This innovative gearbox helps optimize the electric motor's operation, allowing it to run more efficiently and extend the distance the vehicle can travel on a single charge.
Aptera, a California-based startup, has successfully showcased the solar charging capabilities of its three-wheeled electric vehicle prototype. After proving its embedded solar cells can generate power, the company is now concentrating on demonstrating the vehicle's overall efficiency and operational range, crucial steps before commercial production.
Amidst persistent skepticism regarding electric heavy-duty vehicles, Mercedes-Benz is publishing real-world performance data from 80 of its eActros electric semi-trucks operating in Germany. The data demonstrates remarkable efficiency, even when transporting 36 tons through challenging winter conditions, rivaling the efficiency often seen in passenger EVs from brands like Tesla.
IBM has announced a new chip manufacturing technique that could lead to significantly smaller and more efficient semiconductor components. This innovation has strong implications for electric vehicles, as it could enable more compact and powerful inverters and other crucial power electronics.
Vishay Intertechnology has expanded its Gen 7 family of 1200 V FRED Pt Hyperfast rectifiers, introducing six new diodes designed for electric vehicle applications. These components are engineered to reduce switching losses in high-voltage power converters, thereby improving efficiency in onboard chargers and other EV systems. The new rectifiers boast a low reverse recovery charge and a low forward voltage drop, catering to the demanding requirements of modern EV powertrains.
The future of EV charging could see artificial intelligence play a pivotal role, with new technology designed to dynamically adjust charging speeds. This innovation aims to balance infrastructure load, reduce costs for operators, and enhance efficiency for users by optimizing energy flow in real-time.
Toyota's iconic Prius has evolved significantly, yet its core mission remains efficiency. This comparison pits the sleek new model against a third-generation Prius that has accumulated nearly 300,000 miles as a taxi, offering insights into generational advancements in design, performance, and practicality.
