27 stories tagged evs on EV Digest.
Green SM, a ride-hailing service, has launched in Los Angeles with a fleet of 500 VinFast VF8 battery-electric vehicles. This initiative marks a significant expansion for the Vietnamese automaker into the U.S. ride-sharing market, offering an all-electric transport option for Angelenos.
China has disclosed the outcomes of its recent trade talks with the European Union, which focused on hybrid and electric vehicles. These discussions come as the EU considers imposing tariffs on Chinese-made EVs, potentially escalating trade disputes. Beijing reiterated its firm stance against such tariffs, calling for dialogue over protectionist measures.
Owners of certain 2026 and 2027 Cadillac battery-electric vehicles, including the Lyriq, Optiq, and Vistiq, can now use their Samsung Wallet to control key functions. This new feature allows users in the U.S. and Canada to lock, unlock, and even start their EV directly from their Samsung device.
While many automakers reported robust sales in September, Cadillac experienced a notable downturn, primarily attributed to its increasing reliance on electric vehicles. This performance highlights the ongoing challenges some legacy brands face in transitioning to an EV-centric lineup, even as the broader market sees growth.
Toyota is expanding its electric vehicle offerings with new models like the bZ, C-HR, and bZ Woodland. An initial drive and comparison highlights key differences and helps identify which of these new EVs might offer the best combination of features and value for consumers.
Brembo is addressing the growing challenge of braking heavy electric vehicles and large pickup trucks with its new 'Boldika' braking system. Engineered for maximum stopping power and durability, these advanced stoppers are specifically designed to handle the increased weight and demands of modern EVs and heavy-duty utility vehicles.
Lotus Technology has fully acquired Lotus UK, integrating the brand's iconic Hethel factory and engineering consultancy. This strategic move aims to centralize expertise and streamline development, particularly for Lotus's expanding portfolio of luxury electric vehicles and its upcoming EREV models.
Facing intense competition from Chinese automotive brands, Ford's European division is reportedly considering strategic collaborations to bolster its market position. These potential partnerships could be crucial for Ford's revival in the competitive European electric vehicle landscape, leveraging the strengths of Chinese manufacturers.
General Motors recently completed a coast-to-coast drive across Canada using its Super Cruise hands-free driving technology in several EV models, covering approximately 8,000 miles. This extensive road trip showcased the system's capabilities and reliability over diverse terrains and weather conditions, with drivers reporting minimal intervention needed. The journey highlights the increasing maturity of advanced driver-assistance systems in electric vehicles.
A recent podcast delved into the anticipated Ferrari Luce EV, a vehicle poised to challenge perceptions of electric performance. The episode also covered range estimations for the upcoming Rivian R2 and examined new research on the safety performance of Waymo's autonomous vehicles.
Tesla recently hit a significant manufacturing milestone, producing its 10 millionth electric vehicle globally. This achievement underscores the company's rapid growth and increasing scale in the EV market since its inception. The vast majority of these vehicles have been assembled at the Fremont Factory and newer Gigafactories worldwide.
BMW outlined its strategy to offer a diverse range of powertrains across its vehicle lineup, including battery-electric options, to cater to varying global market demands. This approach is coupled with a renewed focus on a distinctive design language, moving away from a singular EV-only platform strategy.
Kia has ambitious plans to expand its electric vehicle lineup, with eight new models slated for release by 2026. This aggressive strategy aims to solidify the Korean automaker's position in the rapidly growing EV market, building on its current strong performance.
Ford plans to integrate Apple Maps into its upcoming electric vehicle self-driving technology, marking the first time Apple's mapping software will directly influence an automaker's autonomous driving system. This collaboration aims to leverage Apple's detailed mapping data to enhance the navigation and operational capabilities of Ford's next-generation EVs. Other car manufacturers are reportedly considering similar partnerships as the automotive industry moves towards more integrated software solutions.
Toyota leadership is reaffirming its multi-pathway strategy, committing to a diverse portfolio of battery electric vehicles, plug-in hybrids, and conventional hybrids. This means a slower pace of development and fewer refresh cycles for its internal combustion engine-only models. The automaker believes customer choice and varied powertrain options are key to meeting evolving market demands.
Volvo will launch two new electric vehicles this year, expanding its EV lineup beyond its current SUV-focused offerings. While details on the upcoming models are scarce, the automaker has indicated a potential return to its wagon roots with future electric estate cars, suggesting a broader strategy for electric body styles.
Volvo is reportedly looking to re-enter the U.S. sedan and wagon segments with two new electric vehicle models expected to launch around 2028. This move signifies a strategic shift for the automaker, which has largely focused on SUVs in the American market in recent years.
Volvo is reportedly preparing to introduce two new electric vehicles to the U.S. market, aiming for a more accessible price point around $50,000. These upcoming models are expected to diversify Volvo's EV lineup beyond its SUV offerings, signaling a strategic shift for the brand in North America.
Despite the current market's strong preference for SUVs, a new report indicates that Volvo is exploring the reintroduction of sedans and and wagons for its next generation of electric vehicles. This strategic shift could cater to a segment of consumers looking for alternatives to the dominant crossover trend. The move would mark a return to some of Volvo's iconic body styles, reimagined for its all-electric lineup.
Despite a challenging sales period to date in 2024, Audi is betting on a strong pipeline of new electric vehicles and substantial R&D expenditure to turn the tide. The German automaker plans to introduce several new EV models, including the Q6 e-tron, and is committing significant resources to electrification, software, and advanced technologies through 2028. Many of these models are expected to hit the market in 2026.
The Goodwood Festival of Speed consistently showcases the automotive industry's ability to innovate and excite, despite facing significant challenges. Its 2024 edition underscored a bright future, emphasizing both technological advancements and the enduring appeal of driving. This year's event featured a strong presence of new electric vehicles and sustainable technologies, signaling a clear direction for the industry.
Volkswagen Group plans to significantly reduce its extensive portfolio of global vehicle models, potentially cutting up to half of its current offerings. This strategic overhaul aims to streamline production and resources, focusing on higher-margin vehicles and accelerating the transition to electric powertrains to enhance competitiveness in the evolving automotive market.
In a survey of the best-looking models from various automakers, the Audi TT and BMW iX earned recognition for their distinctive designs. While the TT was celebrated for its enduring appeal and clean aesthetic, the iX stood out as a leader in BMW's modern EV design language, showcasing how electric vehicles are pushing aesthetic boundaries.
General Motors reported a strong second quarter, leading U.S. sales with significant contributions from its electric vehicle lineup. The company's EV portfolio, including the popular Chevrolet Bolt and Silverado EV, played a crucial role in its market performance. This success underscores GM's increasing momentum in the competitive American EV market.
Jeep has revised its electric vehicle launch plans for Europe and the UK, deciding not to introduce the Recon and Wagoneer S models as initially intended. Instead, the automaker will debut three new utility vehicles in the region, including a forthcoming flagship SUV that will incorporate Chinese technology.
A recent headline inaccurately suggested Polestar is exiting the U.S. market. The company has clarified that this is not true; Polestar remains committed to its operations and growing presence in the United States, planning new vehicle launches and continued expansion.
Ford is considering bringing its new line of budget-friendly electric vehicles, developed on an innovative 'Universal EV' platform, to the European market. These new EVs, conceptualized by a California-based 'skunkworks' team, leverage Formula 1 engineering principles for efficiency and performance. While the first vehicle on this platform will be a $30,000 US-market pickup, Ford CEO Jim Farley hints at a global rollout, potentially boosting the automaker's European EV offerings.
