CAKE and Treesistance Join Forces to Protect the Amazon Rainforest and Empower the People Who Call It Home
Every day, the Amazon rainforest loses an average of five football fields of trees per minute to deforestation. A new collaboration between Swedish e-Bike manufacturer CAKE and forest defenders Treeesistance is poised to change that. Leveraging CAKE’s lightweight, whisper-quiet, off-road, 100% solar-powered Kalk AP electric motorcycles, the partnership aims to protect the Amazon rainforest and its people by safeguarding endangered species and combatting illegal deforestation. Treesistance is a new platform focused on the protection of the Amazon, created by Sinchi, a Dutch non-profit founded in early 2016 to support and assist Indigenous-led actions against the violation of their rights and the destruction of the environment.
Building upon the success of its Electric Bush Bike Anti-Poaching Initiative in South Africa, CAKE’s e-motorcycles will allow indigenous Forest Guardians to safely and silently patrol remote areas of the rainforest where combustion-engined vehicles are a hazard, as they alert heavily-armed poaching teams of their presence. And with many logging camps undetectable by drones because of heavy forest cover, these on-the-ground Guardians are essential.
Tom Wheeler is the Executive Director of Sinchi and Treesistance. Sinchi has partnered with communities across 6 continents and formed Treesistance in 2023, to focus their efforts on the Amazon. [Sinchi Foundation]“We felt there was a huge need in the Amazon to work with CAKE. Not only are their vehicles cost-effective because of the high fuel costs in the region, but they are silent and allow the Forest Guardians to travel stealthily - they are literally putting their lives on the line every day to protect their territories. The bikes are being operated in extremely dangerous areas, often where there are many heavily-armed people. One of our project partners - Niek Oldenburg of Wefuture Global - jumped in his car and drove all the way from Amsterdam to Stockholm, which is about an 18-hour drive, and literally knocked on CAKE’s door and met with Stefan Ytterborn, CAKE’s CEO, to explain why they needed to help us and why. It only took about 20 minutes before Stefan told us he’s in,” Tom Wheeler, Executive Director at Treesistance, explained.
Stefan Ytterborn, CEO of CAKE motorcycles of Sweden, with two of his Kalk off-road vehicles. [CAKE]Forest Guardians use several devices while patrolling, including GPS cameras to navigate the dense rainforest and mobile phones to document any encounters with poachers. While Guardians patrol in groups of up to 50, they still face numerous risks. “CAKE’s e-bikes provide a front line of defense before any encounters. Forest Guardians can evaluate the risks before every interaction by patrolling the area in complete silence. This provides a huge safety blanket for those patrolling and doing surveillance to find out where the illegal operations are taking place,” Tom said.
The CAKE Kalk AP (anti-poaching) model, initially sent to South African game preserves, and now to combat a different kind of poaching, of forests in the Amazon. [CAKE]The pilot program will include two CAKE bikes, as well as portable charging systems from Goal Zero. The bikes and chargers will be sent to the Maró indigenous territory, led by celebrated Chief Dadá Borarí who formed the first group of Forest Guardians. “Within just one year of launching their program in 2017, they removed eight illegal logging concessions. It’s incredible to witness because everyone in the community, from the leaders to students to teachers and nurses, are taking part in this effort,” Tom said. “The e-motorcycles will support our access to justice strategy which is projected to help Forest Guardians help protect over 579 square miles (1,500 square kilometers) of precious rainforest by the end of the year, by empowering the indigenous communities of the Amazon.”
The Treesistance team with Maró indigenous Forest Guardians, deep in the Brazilian rain forest. [Treesistance]"This is really the last line of defense of indigenous resistance against deforestation and one of the biggest challenges faced is logistics, as the communities are so spread out. Electric motorcycles can assist indigenous people with patrolling their territories and general transport requirements. Fuel is incredibly expensive in the Amazon interior, often more than it is in Europe or the US. This leads to different forms of labor and exploitation, so we hope electric bikes and other forms of transport can make a positive difference to the lives of the indigenous people across the whole region. It is essential we help local communities out of poverty and EVs are an integral part of this. When they can use their resources for other things than transport, they can thrive,” he concluded.
We at The Vintagent salute CAKE for its bold moves to support defense-of-nature initiatives around the world. They're putting their bikes where their values are! They appear to be the only motorcycle company in the world supporting such important efforts as animal conservation and rainforest preservation. Hopefully their example will inspire other companies to think outside the box, and find similarly clever ways to use their technology. Kudos to CAKE! For more information, check the Treesistance presentation here.
Stephanie Weaver is the EV Editor at The Vintagent, and a Philadelphia-based freelance writer. When she's not locked to her laptop, she can be found riding horses and motorcycles.
Maximilian Funk is as cool as his name sounds. A designer, writer, and editor [Max was my editor at Gestalten! - Pd'O], Max is also the co-founder of Craftwerk Berlin, a cultural hub for two-wheel enthusiasts and Cake’s first test ride center in Berlin. Among his moto-centric creative endeavors, Max launched Reload Land, Europe’s first all-electric motorcycle festival, last summer. The two-day event created a space for “like-minded futurists” to come together and celebrate a more sustainable future on two wheels.
Reload Land electric motorcycle festival in Berlin, June 3-4 2023. [Patrice Marker]Reload Land returned to Berlin earlier this month, drawing over 1,200 attendees and numerous big-name exhibitors, including BMW Motorrad, LiveWire, Zero Motorcycles, RGNT, Black Tea, Hookie, and STILRIDE. The festival featured test rides, panel talks, live music, and 14 exhibition pieces. “One of the highlights from this year’s event was that Hookie’s Tardigrade was shown to the public in Europe for the first time. Another standout was the sprint racer from Bizarro Corp. from Spain. The bike has a bespoke steel chassis housing Zero’s technology and fairings painted by mural artist Felipe Pantone,” Funk said.
Tented display areas featured cutting edge custom e-Bikes. [Tim Adler]The second edition of Reload Land showcased custom LiveWire bikes and RGNT’s Aurora, which beat the world speed record for electric motorcycles on ice in March. Additionally, STILRIDE revealed its stunning bike to the public for the first time at the festival. “We had a wide variety of bikes, including scramblers, race bikes, sprint racers, and mini bikes. I think we surprised people with just how many electric custom bikes there actually are,” said Funk. Reload Land also hosted a “silent ride,” which included more than 70 e-Motorcycles traveling through the streets of Berlin. “It’s one of the best experiences for visitors. When you ride through the city on motorcycles together, it's extraordinary when it's all silent, and you hear the laughs,” Funk stated.
"It's extraordinary when it's all silent, and you hear the laughs” - Max Funk. Riding through East Berlin with the old Fernsehen tower a landmark. [Tim Adler]Reload Land goes far beyond riding and entertainment. The festival is also a valuable networking opportunity for B2C and B2C brands and a platform for EV education. Max and his team have big plans for upcoming Reload Land events and eventually want to add electric cars to the mix. “We’ll stay in the same location next year for sure. The space is an old baking factory from 1904. I think people really enjoy the positive and laid-back vibe here. It's not about pushing the commercial success, but staying true to the authenticity of our mission,” Funk said.
Presentations about the latest tech and future promise were well attended. Note the Untitled Motorcycles XP Zero mural, and the STILRIDE prototype being revealed for the first time in public. [Tim Adler]“The Reload Land crew’s goal is to present electric bikes in a very different way and create a new lifestyle around them, which was not really well maintained since we’re mixing both worlds. We’re all petrol-heads. I drive an old ‘60s Dodge wagon and still race flat track. It’s not about taking something away from traditional riders but offering something new and creating a futuristic lifestyle around it, which, I think, is very much needed,” Funk explained. “It’s still tough to sell electric bikes to diehard petrol enthusiasts. But when you create a new community in that niche, it allows people to connect and ride together."
The Tardigrade by Hookie Co was on view for the first time in Europe: we showed it first at our ADV:Overland exhibit at the Petersen Museum! [Tim Adler]Kids dig 'em! There was truly something on two wheels for everyone at Reload Land. [Patrice Marker]A space to enjoy your peers, the pioneers of an electric motorcycle future. [Tim Adler]Reload Land, The First European Motorcycle Festival – 100% electrified. From 3-4 June 2023, Reload Land - the first dedicated festival for the electric motorcycle community - will open its doors to the public for the second time in Berlin, Germany. 100 percent electric and curated, Reload Land showcased the best of the world of electric motorcycles, e-scooters, e-bikes and custom rides for a sustainable transport sector. Around 30 exhibitors (BMW Motorrad, Energica, Zero Motorcycles, Hookie, E-Legend, Black Tea, Metorbike, RGNT, Naon, Stilride and more) and up to 3,000 guests are expected. Over two days the festival offered the perfect mix of exhibitors, panel talks and world premieres as well as test rides in a vibrant location - featuring live music, food and drinks. Once again, the festival took place at Craftwerk.Berlin (Josef Orlopp Strasse 56, 10365 Berlin) - Europe's largest motorcycle community garage with over 3,000 square metres of indoor and outdoor space right in the centre of Berlin. [Patricia Sevilla Ciordia]
Stephanie Weaver is the EV Editor at The Vintagent, and a Philadelphia-based freelance writer. When she's not locked to her laptop, she can be found riding horses and motorcycles.
Automakers have recently announced detailed plans to electrify large portions of their fleet, but electric vehicles are nothing new. And neither are the innovators driving clean-power technology. Marcus Hays is among these EV veterans. He first became interested in alternative energy while pursuing his degree in Transportation Design at the ArtCenter College of Design in Pasadena, California. Marcus cut his teeth on EV technology while working on a design project dubbed the “21st Century Taxicab,” an alternative-energy public transit vehicle. Marcus’ work caught the attention of a group launching an advanced transportation hatchery called CALSTART. “I was the sixth company to join the hatchery in 1994. By 1998, there were 200 companies in the incubator. The technologies developed inside the hatchery contributed to pieces of different projects, like the Tesla Roadster. I met Lee Iacocca there, and he and I collaborated phenomenally. I also worked with Paul McCready, whose brainchild was the first mass-produced electric car.” Marcus is currently the Co-CEO of ORBIS, a California-based company hell-bent on reinventing wheels — car wheels.
Marcus Hays, co-CEO of ORBIS, from his LinkedIn profile. [Marcus Hays]“The problems that I saw in working on these various EV projects stemmed from the fact that the powertrain was rooted in internal combustion. What car companies were doing—and are still doing—is removing the gas tank and replacing it with a battery pack. They essentially use the same legacy architecture for electric that they did for internal combustion. That means that the only improvement possible in any of these systems becomes completely dependent on battery chemistries that are currently insufficient. Right? We're working in this backward environment, spending trillions of dollars on manifesting this change, yet we're still locked into internal combustion architecture. And it's very frustrating. So that frustration led me to ORBIS,” he continued.
The ORBIS ring-wheel, an ultralight hub motor and regenerative braking system that's a bolt-on game changer for vehicles: super light, super powerful. [ORBIS]ORBIS is best known for its patented Ring-Wheel, a lightweight in-wheel motor system that weighs the same as a passive wheel, eliminating the need for additional components like transmissions, axles, and differentials. This increases the range of electric vehicles by 20%. “The notion of an in-wheel motor has existed since Porsche facilitated a hybrid electric in-wheel motor carriage in 1886. The idea of the in-wheel has been around ever since but was largely discarded. The resistance to in-wheel motors was because of the unsprung weight. The in-wheel motor dating back to Porsche was substantially heavier than conventional wheels. ORBIS has invented the first in-wheel motor system that does not have a weight penalty. We can take what we like to call a ‘passive wheel’ off and replace it with a motorized wheel, and there's no difference in suspension response, braking response, or driving response,” Marcus explained.
A look inside the epicyclic gearing of the ORBIS hub motor. The lightweight aluminum forgings are on par with carbon fiber, but less expensive and presumably a better lifespan. [ORBIS]Through developing their in-wheel products, Marcus and his team realized that the electric motor should be placed as close as possible to where the work is being done. “In our case, an electric motor needs to be at the wheel, not upstream behind a bunch of efficiency-robbing parts. So that's what we do and we have a proven, lightweight, high-power, high-performance wheel,” he said. "Besides our in-wheel motor, ORBIS develops small, interchangeable, and hot-swappable batteries. What we find, even in a commercial fleet, is that our customers have these range expectations and we show them what their needs actually are. It's usually 70% less than what they initially thought."
Kate Ingber at Bonneville riding the PiCycle, a unique electric bicycle design that set an AMA record at 104kph. [Marcus Hays]Marcus also has extensive experience designing and building e-Motorcycles. He built the first electric motorcycle to set two land speed records at the Bonneville Salt Flats in 2006 and 2007. The technology Marcus and his team developed at Bonneville is what they’re using variations of now in automobile wheels to boost EV range. “The speed wasn’t what we’d hoped, but Bonneville is nothing if not hard on equipment and our prototype lithium chemistry repeatedly failed in the harsh conditions. After four days of misery, we set the record using lead acid batteries strung together in a massive overweight package purchased from a local auto parts store. We had a lot of different experimental batteries, but more importantly, we had an experimental drivetrain. As we do now, we used a small, lightweight motor to drive a wheel instead of a heavy, large motor with high inertia. That efficient, lightweight technology is what we brought with us out of Bonneville."
Other projects: a McLaren chassis with nitrous-EV power and ORBIS wheels. From Marcus Hayes' Instagram. [Marcus Hays]Marcus is also the designer of the Picycle e-Bike. The bike is part of the Museum of Science and Industry’s permanent collection. “As a kid growing up in Chicago, I basically lived at the Museum of Science and Industry. I certainly spent as much time there as my parents would let me. And so, to have a bike in the permanent collection is phenomenal." Marcus and ORBIS’ vision stems from car and motorcycle culture—authentic culture. “Going electric shouldn’t be at the cost of the internal combustion experience. As a kid at racetracks, Castrol motor oil was one of my favorite smells. ORBIS doesn’t have Castrol, but we do have extraordinary torque, speed, power, and reliability. As much as I love internal combustion, I love electric more for what it can do in terms of the experience. So, if we take a classic Mini Cooper or a Fiat or a Lancia or whatever it is, whether it's a hybrid, or whether we do a full conversion, it is a thrilling, rewarding experience. And nobody has to worry about losing internal combustion. We’re gaining a sublime form of power and mobility by going electric."
The PiCycle at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago. [Marcus Hays]
Stephanie Weaver is the EV Editor at The Vintagent, and a Philadelphia-based freelance writer. When she's not locked to her laptop, she can be found riding horses and motorcycles.
Editor's note: everyone at The Vintagent was thrilled at the first sight of the STILRIDE scooter, as its creative monocoque chassis seemed a worthy inheritor to the iconic Vespa design of aeronautical engineerCorradino D'Ascanio from 1946. Then we learned the STILRIDE's chassis was made of robotically folded steel, and that the scooter was essentially a demonstration project for a new manufacturing technology called STILFOLD, which is deeply impressive. How many vehicle manufacturers have as their core intention a revolutionary option for more efficient production combined with radical design possibilities? It's as if Luigi Colani (see the notes from our Silver Shotgun exhibit) had a new production technology to back up his futuristic design sensibility. Read Stephanie Weaver's interview below:
From any angle, the STILRIDE scooter is unique and fascinating. Could this be the future of vehicle manufacturing? [STILRIDE]Industrial engineer Tue Beijer has twin obsessions: sustainability and vintage scooters. Before building his impressive resume, which includes working with iconic Ferrari 250 GTO designer Giotto Bizzarrini, Husqvarna, and BMW, Beijer designed his first electric scooter in 1993. Unfortunately, there was hardly a demand for eco-friendly vehicles back then. It took another 27 years, until 2020, that Beijer’s dreams finally came to fruition, when he launched STILRIDE with his childhood friend, Jonas Lindberg Nyvang. STILRIDE was founded with Beijer’s and Nyvang’s shared vision of creating a sustainable heir to the Italian scooter heritage they both love. During dinner one night, Beijer started folding a napkin as the pair brainstormed how to develop such a bike. After considerable development, the end result is the STILRIDE SUS1, a retro-futuristic e-scooter created via “industrial origami.”
Sheet steel origami: the STILRIDE chassis is not cast aluminum, as it might appear, but several pieces of folded steel, welded together robotically. [STILRIDE]Like the Japanese art of folding paper, STILRIDE’s patented curve folding STILFOLD technology uses robotics, CNC machining, and lasers to fold flat sheets of steel into three-dimensional shapes. By combining intelligent software modeling with robotic manufacture, the STILRIDE monocoque chassis uses 70% fewer components and has 25% lower labor costs compared to other manufacturing processes. This means the company can develop low-cost, high-quality scooters with less environmental impact. “Unlike the tubular frames on traditional scooters, the SUS1’s chassis is made with seven folded sheets of flat steel. It creates this form-follows-function design language that adds to the bike's unique aesthetics. The chassis is also incredibly light, ultra-strong, and easy to make,” Cameron Crisman, Director of International Business Development and Growth at STILRIDE, explained. “The SUS1 is a Trojan Horse to showcase STILRIDE’s technology. It demonstrates what we can do.” Their 'computational robotic technology' can be applied to any metal designs, from cars and trucks to furniture and even architecture (check the 'what if' video on the STILFOLD site).
A conceptual re-imagining of Stockholm's Golden Bridge as an example of the potential for STILFOLD technology. [STILRIDE]After inventing their chassis, the startup worked with Stockholm-based bespoke brake-system company ISR to create a proprietary braking system for the SUS1. STILRIDE is also currently developing an intelligent integrations system in-house. This will allow a user to start the scooter and monitor the battery capacity from their smartphone. The SUS1 is outfitted with a hub motor on the rear wheel, and the low center of gravity provides a stable and easy ride. It can reach top speeds of 100km/h (62mph), has a range of 120km (75 miles), and churns out 8kW (11hp). The SUS1 is also very comfortable: “The battery, swingarm, and motor are all in a monocoque casing. This slides directly into the chassis, making the SUS1 incredibly rigid. It doesn’t have a lot of vibrations. The swingarm sits low and back, better absorbing bumps for a smoother ride,” Crisman said.
A radical evolution in production technology implies radical changes in design possibilities. [STILRIDE]While STILRIDE currently manufactures its scooters on-site in Stockholm, the company plans to use its software—which can be shared digitally—to open remote manufacturing cells in targeted locations worldwide. Think IKEA meets robotics: flat-pack steel sheets can be shipped anywhere on the planet for local shaping using downloadable software, which supports local economies and significantly reduces the carbon emissions from shipping finished vehicles. STILRIDE is already expanding its reach into other areas of the mobility industry, and is currently collaborating with Polestar to develop a carbon-neutral automotive chassis to the market by 2030. “Our ambition is to help other manufacturers make their vehicles using STILFOLD,” Crisman said. For now, the company is focused on the SUS1’s upcoming release. The STILRIDE SUS1 will go on sale this spring, with an estimated delivery slated for spring 2024.
The monocoque STILRIDE chassis is mated to a unitary swingarm/motor unit, much like a Vespa. [STILRIDE]
Stephanie Weaver is the EV Editor at The Vintagent, and a Philadelphia-based freelance writer. When she's not locked to her laptop, she can be found riding horses and motorcycles.
Hello, dear readers and riders! Welcome to the last installment of our EV news roundups for February. This week, we’ll cover the world’s fastest eVTOL, a stunning new concept from Zero, and the EV industry’s darker side. As always, please send any leads to stephanie@thevintagent.com. Let’s roll.
Zero’s New Concept is Straight from the Future
The Zero SR-X concept built with HUGE Design from San Francicso. [HUGE]
Zero Motorcycle unveiled its newest e-Motorcycle concept, giving us Sci-Fi vibes. Called the Zero SR-X, the bike was built in partnership with Bill Webb of HUGE Design. “The SR-X concept bike strives to hit a design sweet spot for the near future of electric motorcycles by combining clean lines and disciplined design-detailing with the aggressive stance and raw performance found in modern liter bikes,” Webb explained.
Meet the New eVTOL Racecar
Entertainments for the future: a flying F1 car? [Alauda]
Alauda Aeronautics recently released a new design concept for a track-racing-inspired eVTOL. The company claims that its new hydrogen-powered aircraft, the Airspeeder Mk4, is the fastest in the world. What sets the Mk4 apart from other eVTOL is its in-house designed gimballed thrust system controlled by an AI-powered flight controller that adjusts the craft’s four-rotor pairs mounted on 3D-printed gimbals. “It handles less like a multi-copter and more like a jet fighter or Formula 1 racing car.” Alauda Aeronautics states.
Colibri M22 is a Folding e-Moped that Travels 125 Miles on a Single Charge
A foldie that will take you places, after you've gone places. [Colibri]
Designer Petre Georgescu recently revealed his latest innovation, the Colibri M22. The foldable e-Moped can travel 125 miles (200km) on a single charge and is highly customizable. Without the battery, the bike weighs only about 66 pounds and can reach speeds of up to 31mph. The Colibri M22’s off-road setting allows riders to explore trails less traveled and has a top speed of almost 60mph.
Volvo Preps for Electric 20-Ton Wheel Loaders
Volvo is retrofitting its commercial equipment with EV motors. [Volvo]
Volvo Construction Equipment is launching an electric retrofit program in Europe for its 20-ton L120H wheel loader. The company will swap out diesel engines with 240kWh batteries in partnership with Parker Hannifin. As a result, the large vehicles will have near-silent operations and five-hour runtimes. They can be fully charged in less than two hours.
EV Industry Workers Are Dying
WIRED recently published an article covering the dark side of the EV industry. Journalist Peter Yeung spoke to dozens of workers at the Indonesia Morowali Industrial Park (IMIP) and found that they worked up to 15 hours daily, earning less than $25. The article reveals that working conditions at IMIP are “dangerous and deadly” and that companies are “putting profits over people’s lives.” Indonesia’s nickel sector also has devastating environmental impacts, with hundreds of thousands of trees being cleared for smelters, mines, and supporting infrastructures.
Meet Tesla Semi’s Little Sister
Looks like a Tesla semi, but isn't. There's competition in them thar hills.
Watt Electric Vehicle Company’s new eCV1 lineup of panel vans and electric trucks looks a lot like the Tesla Semi, only smaller. The vehicles are based on the company’s Passenger and Commercial EV Skateboard (PACES), are powered by 110kWh batteries, and have 290 miles worth of range.
MIT Media Lab is Developing a Self-Driving e-Trike
MIT's City Science research group is working on a self-driving tricycle that can be summoned on demand.
Are EV Pickups Harming the Planet?
The New York Times published an article exploring electric pickups' environmental impact. While the electric versions produce up to 50% fewer emissions per mile than combustion engines, they are still much dirtier than you think, especially when the full life cycle from production to destruction is considered: just like oil production and internal combustion vehicles. Since Americans like everything bigger, the 6000+lb behemoth EV pickups use a lot of electricity, putting them on par with small cars in carbon production per mile.
Stephanie Weaver is the EV Editor at The Vintagent, and a Philadelphia-based freelance writer. When she's not locked to her laptop, she can be found riding horses and motorcycles.
Hello, dear readers and riders! Welcome to the latest installment of our EV news roundup. This week, we’ll be covering India’s rising demand for two-wheelers, one woman’s epic journey down the West Coast of Africa on a CAKE Kalk AP, and why e-Scooters are dirtier than toilet seats. As always, please send your tips to stephanie@thevintagent.com. Let’s roll.
Woman Travels 8,077 Miles Across Africa on a CAKE e-Motorbike
Sinje Gottwald in the actual middle of nowhere, all alone, with her CAKE Kalk, riding down the West Coast of Africa. [CAKE]
Sinje Gottwald, a B2B account manager for CAKE (who'm we've featured previously in The Motorcycle Portraits series) recently completed an 8,077-mile journey down the West Coast of Africa on a CAKE Kalk AP in just 124 days. Her e-Motorcycle tops out at 56mph and offers a range of up to three hours thanks to its 2.6kWh battery. Gottwald’s ride was intended to support anti-poaching patrols in Africa. For her epic trip, Gottwald brought two chargers, two batteries, and a myriad of other spare parts...and no company or other support. She documented her journey on her Instagram page: check out her amazing adventure!
India’s Electric Two-Wheeler Market Grew By 300% in 2022
A recent article published by the Economic Times reported that India’s electric two-wheeler segment grew by more than 300% last year. Ola Electric was the leader of the pack, with an 18% share.
We’re Loving the MIUNIK Salt Minimalistic e-Bike
Looks like a CAKE, but it isn't. It's the new Miunik Salt ebike, that clearly owns a design debt to its forbears! [ID Design]
ID DESIGN recently unveiled a minimalistic modular e-Bike dubbed the MIUNIK Salt. The bike features a universal adapter on the rear seat that is compatible with various other modules that boost the MIUNIK’s versatility. The e-Bike has a range of about 44 miles on a single charge. The range can be doubled by adding a modular second battery to the bike.
Amazon’s Driverless Robotaxi Hits the Open Road
OK, digging deep here, I remember watching 'Duel' in 1971 with my father: it's about a driverless truck that menaces commuter Dennis Weaver: it was Steven Spielberg's second feature film, and it creeped the hell out of me as an 8-year old. Maybe that's why driverless vehicles freak me out! [Wikipedia]
Amazon-owned mobility company Zoox recently drove passengers around for the first time in its cubed-shaped autonomous robot taxi. The driverless shuttle vehicle can detect road hurdles and easily change lanes by itself. The startup plans to test its EV in San Francisco, Las Vegas, and Seattle. Driving beside a driverless car is a creepy experience, but Zoox has not had the kind of accidents of Teslas in 'self driving' mode...
New Startup Creates Briefcase-Sized Flow Cells
The nanoFLOWcell battery system is a new concept in energy storage: instead of static batteries, the positively and negatively charged liquids are stored separately, and can refill the 'battery' instantly, instead of waiting for lengthy charge times. [nanoFLOWcell]
Startup nanoFLOWcell is out to revolutionize flow cells technology. Currently, flow cells are garage-sized constructions that are used for stationary energy storage. The company’s new technology has enabled it to create flow cells that are the size of briefcases while boosting the energy density of the electrolytes by 10-fold. This makes flow cell technology mobile and more efficient.
Consumers Crave EVs
A recent study found that consumer preference has globally shifted to electric vehicles. The study, developed by Zebra Technologies Corporation, states that 53% of consumers worldwide want to buy a hybrid electric vehicle. The study also found that 75% of automotive industry decision-makers are feeling pressure to meet the growing demands for eco-friendly, sustainable products.
Sitapur Siblings Make e-Bike that Reduces Electronic Waste
The Verma eScooter uses old-fashioned lead-acid batteries for power. [Verma]
Brothers Anshul and Abhishek Verma recently developed an electric bike that reduces electronic waste. The siblings created an e-Bike that uses lead acid batteries that are reusable by replacing the electrodes. The bike has a 52-mile range and tops out at 27mph.
Public Electric Scooters Are Disgusting
A recent study found that public electric scooters have 58,000x the bacteria of a toilet seat. Bring hand sanitizer! Also this week, Bird Scooters announced it was leaving San Francisco, as they found the regulations were simply too onerous to make a profitable business there: out of all the cities Bird share scooters are present, San Francisco proved the most difficult to deal with in the entire world, according to their recent press release.
Stephanie Weaver is the EV Editor at The Vintagent, and a Philadelphia-based freelance writer. When she's not locked to her laptop, she can be found riding horses and motorcycles.
Hello, dear readers and riders! Welcome to the latest installment of our EV news roundup. This week, we’ll look at Rivian’s big plans for e-Bikes, an e-Motorcycle fleet that just reached a 50-million-kilometer milestone, and H-D’s disappointing news. As always, please send any EV stories you’d like us to cover to stephanie@thevintagent.com. Let’s roll.
Rivian Will Start Developing e-Bikes
It's a natural combo, no? EBikes and a Rivian truck, so why not make their own? [Rivian]
Electric automaker Rivian just announced that e-Bikes are in the pipeline. Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe announced solid plans during a company meeting on February 3rd. The company also has hired numerous designers from marquee cycling brands, including Specialized. Given that Rivian specializes in off-road-ready vehicles, it would be no surprise that the new e-Bikes will be mountain or all-terrain bicycles.
Rwanda Electric Motors Will Celebrate 50-Million-Kilometer Mark
African e-Motorcycle company Rwanda Electric Motors will soon celebrate a significant milestone. The startup’s e-Motorbike fleet is closing in on being driven 50 million kilometers. To give you a better understanding of just how astonishing this is, that distance is equivalent to traveling to the moon and back 200+ times.
Harley-Davidson Delays LiveWire S2 Del Mar
Where is my Del Mar? Delays and delays...not that it's easy to bring any new vehicle to market, but the pressure is on for results in the new LiveWire spin-off. [LiveWire]
Earlier this week, H-D announced it would delay the LiveWire S2 Del Mar until the second half of this year. More concerning, the most recent investor package states that the Del Mar has a 100-mile “targeted city range” and a 430lb “target” weight. If H-D was coming close to shipping the new bikes, these crucial parameters should be final instead of targets. In their latest report, it was noted that in 2021, LiveWire expected to sell 957 motorcycles for 2022, but only sold 597. Sales revenue was short of the 2021 forecasts: $47Million actual sales versus $56Million projected. It should be noted that the projected sales figures included Del Mar models, which have not yet come to market. 2022 sales of the LiveWire ONE were better than expected, with 597 sales, versus 500 that were projected. CEO Jochen Weitz expressed disappointment that the Livewire spin-off is underperforming, but noted the LiveWire ONE sales increase, and was still confident that when finally released, the S2 Del Mar will also perform well in the market.
Solar-Powered Superyacht
A statement yacht for green oligarchs. While their daily life burns the equivalent carbon of a small town, spending $Millions on a 'green' yacht will surely counterbalance the massive energy footprint of their lives, no? Maybe they'll even pay some taxes too. [Jozeph Forakis]
International designer Jozeph Forakis recently unveiled his futuristic solar-powered superyacht. Called the Pegasus, the 88M vessel is designed to be “virtually invisible” from both a sustainable and visual perspective. Outfitted with reflective solar wings, the Pegasus will be the world’s first 3D-printed superyacht. The hydrogen and solar-electric yacht will produce zero emissions and offer an infinite range. The Pegasus is assembled using robotic 3D printing to build the mesh wireframe, resulting in a lightweight seacraft that can be constructed using less material, waste, space, and energy than conventional methods.
Ola Will Deliver Its First Electric Car in 2024
The new Ola car is a vague design, but the factory has the capability of amazingly rapid development. Don't be surprised if a real car debuts this year. [Ola]
Electric scooter manufacturer Ola recently announced that it will deliver its first car in the second half of 2024. Last year, the company said it would aim to price its first car under $50,000. Manufacturing components in-house would lower costs.
Meet Nissan’s Wild New EV Concept
From the front, the new Nissan concept looks remarkably like a DeTomaso Mangusta. [Nissan]
Automaker Nissan’s new Max-Out concept is an electric convertible showstopper. The futuristic two-seater EV is slathered in LED lights and sports an electric powertrain. The company stated that the Max-Out is “designed to provide a liberating sense of openness while offering an enhanced, dynamic driving experience.”
California is Giving EV Batteries a Second Life on the Grid
The more miles, the more batteries available: one smart plan for re-using old car batteries for the grid. It also works for individual homes! [B2U Storage Solutions]
Los Angeles-based startup B2U Storage Solutions is giving hundreds of used EV batteries a second life on California’s power grid. The company states that this will significantly reduce the cost of storing carbon-free energy. B2U has 25MW hours of storage capacity thanks to 1,300 used electric batteries tied to a solar energy facility.
e-Bike Subsidies More Cost-Effective than Electric Cars
A new report found that e-Bike subsidies are more cost-effective than electric car subsidies at lowering carbon dioxide emissions. A $100 subsidy raises e-Bike demand by 2.6%, compared to a $1,000 subsidy for electric cars.
Stephanie Weaver is the EV Editor at The Vintagent, and a Philadelphia-based freelance writer. When she's not locked to her laptop, she can be found riding horses and motorcycles.
Hello, dear readers and riders! Welcome to the first installment of our EV news roundups for February 2023. This week, we’ll look at a sustainable bamboo bike you can build yourself, homegrown EV initiatives in Africa, and the recent spike in two-wheel EV sales. If you see any stories that catch your eye, please share them with us at stephanie@thevintagent.com. Let’s roll.
Build-It-Yourself Bamboo Bicycles
Got bike? How about a bamboo-framed eBike? Learn how from James Marr. [Bamboo Bicycle Club]
Designer James Marr’s DIY bike kit allows users to build their vehicles in their living rooms. The result is a sturdy bicycle constructed from bamboo poles and a lugged frame made from recycled aluminum. Marr took it one step further by creating a community for his bikes. The Bamboo Bicycle Club teaches riders to build their bikes from the ground up.
Africa Places Emphasis on e-Mobility
Made in Africa is the emphasis on supporting e-mobility by Rwanda Electric Mobility. [REM]
In an effort to combat climate change, local communities have come together to promote the “Made in Africa” brand. This has resulted in several recently launched African EV startups, including Rwanda Electric Mobility which has already retrofitted over 120 motorbikes with electrical components. Another company called Kirra Motors is outfitting buses with solar panels for emission-free mass transport.
Volta to Release EV Delivery Trucks
Volta delivers! With a fleet of new eTrucks. [Volta]
EV truck startup Volta plans to develop purpose-built electric delivery trucks in Q2 of 2023. The 16-tonne trucks will have a range of 95 to 125 miles. Volta also plans to offer Truck as a Service (TaaS). The plan includes insurance, training, maintenance, service, and charging infrastructure.
Meet the Solar-Powered Spaceship Car
Back in the news, Aptera plans to release their solar powered vehicle soon. [Aptera]
Aptera Motors is taking reservations for its three-wheeled, solar-powered spaceship cars. The lightweight EV is equipped with 700W of proprietary solar technology, allowing it to cover 40 miles directly from sunlight. Aptera’s car can go from zero to 60 in four seconds and has a 400-mile range.
EV Two-Wheel Sales Predicted to Skyrocket
A recent report found that electric two-wheeler sales will reach 22 million by 2030. Increasing demand for affordable transportation is driving the E2W sales spike.
The Ultimate e-Bike for Camping
SpaceCamperBike...need we say more? [Spacecamper]
Want to take a convenient camping trip? The SpaceCamperBike makes every outdoor adventure effortless. The new vehicle is an all-in-one cargo e-Bike, workstation, and tent. The e-Bike is made by Spacecamper, a German company that makes flexible, ultra-lightweight VW camper vans. The e-Bike camper is the brainchild of Spacecamper CEO and co-founder Ben Wawra. An RV enthusiast, Wawra wanted to bring the van-life experience to two-wheel lovers. Designed with digital nomads in mind, the SpaceCamperBike features a multi-adjustable sleeping platform, mobile workstation, and deployable over-the-bike tent.
Electrify America Bringing Fast-Charging to Gas Station Chain
While America is technically already electrified, it does not yet have parity on fast-charge stations. [EA]
Electrify America is partnering with TravelCenters of America with plans to build 1,000 DC fast chargers at 100 TA/Petro locations. The charging stations will be built over the next five years and feature 350kW DC fast chargers.
NYC Non-Profit Supplying Immigrants and Asylum Seekers with e-Bikes
Bike New York is providing immigrants and asylum seekers in New York City with refurbished e-Bikes and riding lessons. This will give NYC’s new arrivals an efficient and affordable way to get around.
Stephanie Weaver is the EV Editor at The Vintagent, and a Philadelphia-based freelance writer. When she's not locked to her laptop, she can be found riding horses and motorcycles.
Hello, dear readers and riders! Welcome back to The Vintagent’s EV news roundup. We have some really neat stuff for y’all this week, including an electric self-balancing wheelchair, Honda’s hot new releases, and the world’s first fully forged carbon fiber e-Motorcycle. If you see any EV stories that excite you, please share them with us at stephanie@thevintagent.com. Let’s roll.
Scewo Reveals Self-Balancing Electric Wheelchair
Improvements to mobility vehicles are long overdue: let's hope the Scewo will become affordable and widely adopted. [Scewo]Lauded as a pioneering design by the medical tech industry, Switzerland-based company Scewo recently unveiled its self-balancing, stair-climbing electric wheelchair at CES 2023. Designed for optimal comfort and safety, the BRO e-Wheelchair is outfitted with sensors, a camera, and modifiable configurations. Users can operate the wheelchair from an app or joystick and steering console.
Meet the World’s First Fully-Forged Carbon-Fiber e-Motorbike
Small but very light and extraordinarily strong: the Magron Novus eBike in forged carbon fiber. [Rush Lane]
Rush Lane published a story earlier this week that immediately caught our attention. Bengaluru-based startup Magron Novus recently introduced the world’s first fully-forged carbon-fiber e-Motorcycle. Currently being test ridden, the bike features a fully-forged carbon-fiber body and a 7.5kWh battery pack.
Honda Releases e-Cubs in China
Hey, when Honda last released a Cub, it sold 100Million+ ...so how will this new version be received? [Honda]
We’d like to thank Eric for sending us some big news from Big Red. Honda finally released an electric version of its iconic Cub line in China. Hailed as the world’s top-selling motor vehicle, the Honda Cub has gained a huge fanbase since it first hit the market in 1958. Honda’s new e-Cub lineup includes three variants: the Cub e; the Dax e, and the ZOOMER e. To meet China’s e-Bike regulations, all three versions have top speeds of just 15.5mph. Hopefully, we’ll soon get some e-Cubs stateside.
BMW is Trying Out Solid-State Batteries
Solid state batteries are one promising possibility to relieve the need for massive Lithium and other rare earth mineral mining operations. As well, they promise better energy density. [BMW]Through a collaboration with Solid Power, luxury automaker BMW will start testing solid-state battery technology. The company is preparing to develop a new line in Germany to test the solid-state cells and plans to present a working prototype before 2025.
Michael Blast’s New e-Scrambler is a Stylish Ride
A new entry into the highly competitive, highly popular eBike market for small street bikes. [Michael Blast]Vancouver-based e-Bike manufacturer Michael Blast recently released a new retro-inspired e-Bike dubbed the Outsider. The punchy e-Bike comes in two trims, including 500W and 750W, both of which can reach speeds of 20mph or more.
eOligarchs, anyone? Can you be green and still consume 10,000 times more resources than an average human? [Lazzarini]Italian design studio Lazzarini Design unveiled renderings for a jaw-dropping 74m “flying” superyacht. Dubbed the Plectrum, the vessel is powered by a unique foiling system and runs on three hydrogen-powered motors that are capable of producing 5,000hp each. The Plectrum can lift itself above the water before reaching speeds of up to 75 knots. The superyacht is modeled after America’s Cup Prada sailing yachts. The Plectrum’s interior layout is subdivided into four decks, with enough space to fit six guest staterooms, a helicopter hanger, and a bow-lifting garage.
Stephanie Weaver is the EV Editor at The Vintagent, and a Philadelphia-based freelance writer. When she's not locked to her laptop, she can be found riding horses and motorcycles.
Hello, dear readers and riders! Welcome to the latest installment of our EV news roundups. This week, we’ll be taking a look at Devot Motors’ first electric motorcycle, a new moped-style e-Bike, big news from HD, and more. See anything you’d like us to cover? Please send it to stephanie@thevintagent.com. Let’s roll.
Devot Motors Unveils Its First e-Motorcycle Prototype
The Indian market is coming our way, and the Devot is one of the many possible offerings on its way. [Devot]
India’s 2023 Auto Expo ended with a bang this week with Jodhpur-based EV startup Devot Motors unveiling its first e-Motorcycle prototype. The new production-ready e-Roadster concept features neo-retro bodywork, keyless start, TFT dash, and a 12.7-horsepower motor that juices the electric runabout. The bike can reach up to 75pmh and is promised to run for 124 miles on a single charge. The new model is slated to hit the market later this year.
Bugatti’s New e-Scooter
Not the first Bugatti two-wheeler: the factory built a couple of interesting machines just after WW2. But that's another story. [Bugatti]
Through a partnership with tech company Bytech, Bugatti recently released a luxurious, high-performance e-Scooter priced at $1,200. The new scoot features “self-repairing” tires, a 36V/15.6Ah battery, and can cover 35 miles on a single charge.
The Perfect e-Scooter for Tech Lovers
The Felo is the aggressive sports e-scooter we didn't know we were waiting for! [Kymco]
Kymco’s partner brand Felo recently released an awesome electric scooter that’s a tech lover’s dream come true. Called the FW06, the new scoot offers superior acceleration and advanced technology. Modeled after the Kymco F9, the FW06 is available in two variants, including an 80Ah lithium-ion battery-powered model that offers 68 miles worth of range. The premium version sports an 88Ah battery with an 87-mile range.
Affordable New e-Bike Hits the Market
Made in San Diego, the Ride1Up joins the market for lightweight ebikes. [Ride1Up]
San Diego startup Ride1Up recently released a moped-style e-Bicycle that won’t break the bank. Called the Revv1, the retro-themed e-Bike features 1970s mini-bike and moped styling. The Revv1 is available in two versions that both feature 750W motors and top speeds of 28mph. The starting price for the Revv1 is $1,899 for the front-suspension model and $2,399 for the full-suspension version.
H-D Confirms It’s Going All Electric
Earlier this week, Harley-Davidson CEO Jochen Zeitz confirmed that the company has plans to make e-Motorcycles its new norm. This shouldn’t be a huge surprise given the massive success of HD’s spinoff brand, LiveWire. According to Zeitz, the transition won’t happen overnight, so internal combustion engine enthusiasts shouldn’t start panicking just yet.
EV Chargers of the Future
Earlier this week, automaker Audi revealed new EV charging cubes made from the battery modules of dismantled test vehicles. The cubes provide 72 charging points, with each cube housing 198 battery modules with additional space for 132 more. Cumulatively, the cubes store 1.58MWh of energy, with each cube providing 24 charging points and 500kWh of energy.
Vanwall to Release Electric Hatchback
The next 'hot hatch'? Vanwall joins the frenzy for fast soccer moms. [Vanwall]
British race car maker Vanwall is planning to release an electric hatchback next year. Dubbed the Vanwall Vandervell, the new EV features throwback styling that is reminiscent of 1980s Lancia Delta Integrale rally cars. The hatch will be outfitted with 22-inch wheels, a carbon-fiber front splitter, and a rear spoiler. The Vandervell comes in two variants, churns out 580hp, and can travel up to 280 miles on a full charge.
Kawasaki Drops Tot-Sized e-Bikes for Little Riders
How cute is that? No doubt Kawasaki has its eyes on future markets: start 'em young. [Kawasaki]
Want to get your kids in on all the EV action? If so, Kawasaki’s new Elektrode electric balance bike is the perfect option. Suitable for children as young as three, the Elektrode features a 250W in-wheel brushless electric motor and three selectable speed modes with a passcode parental lock.
Meet the New Hybrid Corvette
Looks great, but will you be able to insure it? Corvettes are notorious for single-vehicle accidents...meaning owners with lead feet and little experience. Perhaps the EVette will have enough tech to prevent issues... Chevrolet]
The long-awaited hybrid ‘Vette is finally here! The 2024 Chevy Corvette E-Ray combines an electric motor with an LT2 V8. The electric motor is mounted at the front axle, allowing for 125 lb-ft of torque that feeds the front wheels. The new E-Ray pumps out 160 ponies and can go from 0 to 60 in under three seconds.
Stephanie Weaver is the EV Editor at The Vintagent, and a Philadelphia-based freelance writer. When she's not locked to her laptop, she can be found riding horses and motorcycles.
Hello, dear readers and riders! Welcome to the second installment of our EV news roundups for 2023. This week, we’ll be covering CAKE’s new report on zero emissions, a design student who conceptualized an e-Scooter way back in 1995, tons of new charging networks, and more. See any stories you think we should cover? Shoot them our way at stephanie@thevintagent.com. Let’s roll.
Slick New e-Bike Makes Its Debut
The Nocturne is a smart and safe cycle from Edgenity. [Edgenity]
Japanese design firm Edgenity recently unveiled its newest e-Bicycle, the Nocturne. The sleek new bike features linear-styled LED lights at the front and bright red rear ones below the seat. Both sets of lights display bright bursts to help nighttime riders be more visible. Thanks to the high-output motor, the Nocturne has a maximum torque of 40Nm, making it great for adrenaline junkies. More safety-conscious riders will appreciate the e-Bike’s advanced sensors, which alert them to road surface inclinations and weather changes.
A Battery that Doesn’t Die?
Coat your gold nanowires with manganese dioxide and stick em' in plastic to make a forever battery! [UCI News]
Researchers at the University of California at Irvine recently developed a groundbreaking technology that could significantly extend the lifespan of EVs, computers, smartphones, and even spaceships. The researchers found that by coating the gold nanowires in batteries with manganese dioxide shells and then wrapping them in an electrolyte made from Plexiglas-like gel, batteries become much more reliable and failure-resistant. Their first prototype endured almost 200,000 recharge cycles during a three-month period.
Big Plans for New Charging Networks
New charging networks will soon be coming to North America. Luxury automaker Mercedes-Benz is planning to build 400 hubs featuring 2,500 chargers across North America by 2027. Meanwhile, urban mobility company Revel is slated to open the largest charging hub in the western hemisphere in New York City.
Designer Conceptualized e-Scooters Almost 30 Years Ago
Tue Behir has been developing his concept for the STILRIDE chassis for 30 years! [STILRIDE]
While EVs are fairly new concepts, STILRIDE co-founder Tue Beijer has been conceptualizing them for decades. In fact, he created his very first ideation and iteration of the Sport Utility Scooter way back in 1995 and displayed his concept at the Turin Auto Show Italia in 2000. Beijer’s latest innovation is a project for his Master’s degree at the Royal College of Art in London. The sleek design is inspired by BMW with just a touch of Lamborghini’s aerodynamic aesthetics.
A Not-So-Pristine Start Toward Zero Emissions
This box represents the total volume of CO2 required to produce a CAKE Kalk. [CAKE]
e-Bike manufacturer CAKE released a new report this week about the world’s journey toward zero emissions. The report found that though driving an EV is considered zero emissions, the overall carbon footprint is not zero. The term “zero emissions” refers only to the use phase of the vehicle. While EVs don’t produce any tailpipe emissions, they do create emissions from a life-cycle perspective. Even the electricity used to power the battery has a carbon footprint. Report the full report here.
New Solar-Powered Car Is Priced to Please
The Lightyear 2 is a more affordable EV at about 30% less than average cost. [LIghtyear]
According to Kelley Blue Book, the average price of an electric vehicle is $66,000. Want a more affordable option? Then check out the solar-powered Lightyear 2. Priced under $43,000, the new four-door fastback features both solar panels and a plug. This allows the car to charge in about a third of the time as conventional battery-electric vehicles and provides an additional 500 miles of range between charges from the grid. Production is slated to start in 2025.
Stephanie Weaver is the EV Editor at The Vintagent, and a Philadelphia-based freelance writer. When she's not locked to her laptop, she can be found riding horses and motorcycles.
Happy New Year, dear readers and riders! Welcome to the final installment of our EV news roundups for 2022. This week, we’ll take a look at electric batteries made from hemp, Fuell’s e-Motorcycles gearing up to hit the market, and a reimagined Volcon e-Motorcycle. Also, how’re we doing? Are there any EV topics you’d like to see more of? Feel free to send us your thoughts, tips, and feedback to stephanie@thevintagent.com. Let’s roll.
Sustainable Batteries Made from Cannabis
Bemp is working on new battery coatings made from hemp to supplant Lithium and other nasty chemicals, and dramatically reduce the environmental impact of batteries. [Bemp]
Bemp Research is out to revolutionize the EV sector. The Texas-based company is currently developing new EV batteries coated with hemp to make them more durable and sustainable. The company promises that its hemp batteries will charge in just 20 minutes and have twice the range of traditional lithium-ion batteries. Bemp Research is hoping to make its cannabis batteries available to the market by 2026.
Revival Cycles Reimagines Volcon e-Motorcycle
Revival reboots the Volcon into a cool e-ADV funster. [Revival Cycles]
EV-maker Volcon recently approached Austin-based Revival Cycles to recreate its Grunt e-Motorcycle. . The company closely collaborated with designer Ed Boyd to draft several CAD designs of the Grunt before choosing to experiment with new fiberglass bodywork. While the new bodywork was being reworked by hand to seamlessly fit the frame, Revival removed the stock subframe and built a new cantilevered design using smaller 7/8-inch tubing. This made the bike shorter and narrower. Revival also relocated all of the electrical components, including the motor controller and 12V regulator, closer to the motor using custom brackets for a tidier wiring harness. Additionally, Revival stripped down and powder-coated the bike, sanded and polished the wheels and swing arm, and freshened up the aesthetics with fun, bright paint.
Bertone Releases Hypercar Powered by Plastic Waste
The rich go faster on garbage! Bertone explores new power sources for its supercars. [Bertone]
To celebrate its 110th birthday, Italian design firm Bertone recently unveiled a sleek new supercar that is powered by plastic waste. Called the GB110, the slick coupe cranks out 1,100hp and 1,100Nm of torque. The company claims its car can go from 0 to 60mph in just 2.79 seconds. The vehicle’s most stand-out feature is its ability to burn fuel made from plastic waste. Bertone partnered with Select Fuel to use its patented technology that converts polycarbonate materials into renewable fuel. Bertone will only release 33 units to the market.
Huck Cycles Starts Production of Stinger e-Motorcycles
The new Huck Stinger is made in the USA, and ready for production. [Huck]
North Carolina-based e-Bike manufacturer Huck Cycles is beginning production of its latest model, the Stinger e-Motorcycle. The company, hailed for its retro-inspired e-Mopeds that are hand-built by Americans, will release two versions of the Stinger, including Standard and Performance Upgrade models. Both versions weigh about 200 pounds and feature adjustable seat heights, hydraulic disc brakes, and 17-inch wheels.
Fuell Relaunches Pre-Order Campaign for Fllow e-Motorcycle
Ffinally Ffuell Fflow! We've been waiting for Erik Buell's new baby for some time: does the shape look familiar? [Fuell]
Electric mobility company Fuell will soon be relaunching a pre-order campaign for its Fllow e- Motorbike. While the bike was originally slated to hit the market in 2021, the global pandemic derailed Fuell’s plans. The Fllow features a 47-horsepower electric motor, can produce a staggering 553 lb-ft of torque, and has top speeds of 85mph.
Ola to Launch Premium Line of e-Motorcycles
Ready to take over the world: Ola started out with eScooters, and is moving into eBike and even SUVs. The Indian motorcycle industry is enormous, and switching to EVs [Ola]
Indian e-Scooter company Ola Electric recently announced its big plans to release e-Motorcycles over the coming two years, as well as an electric SUV in 2025. Given the enormity of both the Indian vehicle market and the Indian motorcycle industry, we'll certainly see a few juggernaut eBike companies coming soon the streets near you.
Audi Turning Old Laptops into New EV Batteries
Is the age of battery recycling upon us? [Redwood Materials]
Audi dealerships across the US are collecting old electronics—from laptops to toothbrushes—to recycle them into new lithium-ion batteries. Partnering with Redwood Materials, a pioneering lithium battery recycler, Audi hopes to push the industry forward in this age of critical future materials shortage.
Stephanie Weaver is the EV Editor at The Vintagent, and a Philadelphia-based freelance writer. When she's not locked to her laptop, she can be found riding horses and motorcycles.
Happy holidays, dear readers and riders! Welcome to the second-to-last installment of our EV news roundups for 2022. This week, we’ll take a look at a limited-edition CAKE moped made in collaboration with Polestar, a solar-powered race car made by students, an EV that can alter its track width, and much more. Feel free to send your tips, questions, and holiday cards to stephanie@thevintagent.com. Let’s roll.
CAKE X Polestar Moped
The CAKE collab with Polestar based on the Mäkka platform [CAKE]
Swedish EV maker CAKE recently partnered with Polestar to develop a new limited-edition electric moped. The customized version of Cake’s Makka moped will be available in select Polestar markets and costs $5,300. This is the second collaboration between the two companies.
Man Builds Six-Seater e-Bike for $150
How many friends you bringing along to work? To party? [Ashhad Abdullah]
Ashhad Abdullah from Lohra in eastern India hand-built an e-Bike that seats six. Most impressive, he built it for just $150! Ashhad decided to build his bike because of the recent spike in gas prices. His custom creation has about 93 miles worth of range and costs $0.12 to recharge.
New e-Motorcycle Caters to an Underserved Indian Segment
The Pure EV ecoDryft will be part of an enormous boom in EV sales in India. If they can sort their electricity production, it spells good news for India's air quality. [Pure EV]
PURE EV recently unveiled the first e-Motorbike that will cater to India’s commuter segment. While Indian commuters make up 80% of the country’s motorcycle sales, there are currently no e-Motorcycles that are designed specifically for this market. Called the ecoDryft, the bike will be available in four different colors and is completely developed and manufactured in India.
Flying Cars Will Soon Become a Reality
Terror from the sky! Although helicopter crashes are fairly rare in urban areas, the question remains, who will be allowed to fly these airborne automobiles? [Lilium]
eVTOL startup Lilium recently secured an additional $119 million in funding in preparation to manufacture a small batch of flying electric cars next year. The startup’s crafts will use a proprietary technology called Ducted Electric Vectored Thrust (DEVT) to achieve vertical lift before flying horizontally. The interior promises several configurations, including six-seat and four-seat layouts, as well as a cargo version.
Compact CT-1 Can Alter Track Width
Squeezing in! The only car that gets narrower on demand, although why you'd want to block other cars in is beyond me. [City Transformer]
Urban mobility company City Transformer just released a petite EV that can change its track width, making it easier for urbanites to park. Called the CT-1, the vehicle can whittle down its track width from 4.5 feet to 3.2 feet. The CT-1 offers the power and performance of a traditional electric car, with top speeds of 55mph and a 111-mile range.
Students Build World’s Fastest Solar Car
The Sunswift 7 kicks solar car booty! The fastest solar-powered vehicle thus far... [UNSW]
A team of Australian engineering students at UNSW recently secured the Guinness World Record for the swiftest solar-powered car over 1,000 km. Appropriately dubbed the Sunswift 7, the car reached top speeds of over 85kph, or 53mph. The race car is powered by solar panels fastened to the hood and roof, as well as a battery. During a test drive at the Australian Automotive Research Center (AARC), the Sunswift 7 drove for 1,000 km in under 12 hours on a single charge - that's 83km/h (50mph). The students stripped the car of its airbags, AC, and other features to reach a weight of just 1,102lbs.
Global Light EV Market Is Predicted to Skyrocket
The global light electric vehicle market, which consists of two- and three-wheeled EVs, is forecast to reach $130.4 billion by 2028, , representing a market growth of 8.9% CAGR.
EVs Might Be Added to US Biofuels Law
The Biden administration is looking to transform US biofuel blending laws next year. Enacted in the mid-2000s, the Renewable Fuel Standard mandates the number of biofuels that oil refineries must blend into the national fuel mix, or purchase tradable credits from refineries that do. This law is part of the reason large swaths of the Midwest produce millions of acres of corn - for fuel not food, and under the government fuel subsidy. The new proposal would allow EVs that use biofuel-generated power to receive credits, which depends on where you live and where your fuel is generated, of course. The Environmental Protection Agency must finalize the rule by early next summer.
Stephanie Weaver is the EV Editor at The Vintagent, and a Philadelphia-based freelance writer. When she's not locked to her laptop, she can be found riding horses and motorcycles.
Hello, dear readers and riders! Can y’all believe how fast the time is flying by? The New Year will be here before we know it. For this week’s EV news roundup, we’ll be taking a look at CAKE’s new ATV for regenerative farming, a DIY eVTOL kit, underwater mining robots, and much more. As always, please send us your tips and feedback to stephanie@thevintagent.com. Let’s roll.
Meet the Sleek STILRIDE Sport Utility Scooter
A new category? STILRIDE's sport-utility scooter with an amazingly futuristic steel chassis. [STILRIDE]
Our friends over at STILRIDE recently unveiled a stunning new e-Scooter called the STILRIDE Sport Utility Scooter 1. The scooter is made using the company’s innovative STILFOLD technology, which uses the principles of origami to promote sustainable metal manufacturing and fabrication methods. The STILRIDE scooter will be featured at the Petersen Museum in Los Angeles next summer. The company hopes to create STILFOLD manufacturing cells to build e-Bikes both on-site in Stockholm and in targeted cities worldwide, including LA.
CAKE’s New Semi-Autonomous Electric ATV
Yo Wall-E! CAKE's new autonomous agriculture drone: far more useful than a delivery drone on the sidewalk. [CAKE]
CAKE recently announced that it will be developing a new semi-autonomous ATV for regenerative farming. Called Kibb, which means “ox” in the local ancient language of “Gutniska,” the electric four-wheeler is designed to handle light agricultural tasks with minimal environmental impact. The Kibb can operate with or without a driver and will alleviate some of the daily duties associated with regenerative farming. While the Kibb is still in the early stages of development, CAKE hopes to release it to the public in 2025.
Build Your OWN eVTOL
Up Up and Away! Home-built helicopters have always been a (dangerous) thing, and now we can do it EV style. [Rotor X]
Air mobility manufacturer Rotor X just released an “easy to build” DIY eVTOL kit. All parts of the aircraft will be shipped to users, along with a video guide and instructions. Rotor X is also allowing users to enroll in its builder assist program, where they’ll learn how to assemble and fly their new personal helicopters.
Deep-Sea Metal Mining Robots
Less menacing and hopefully less destructive to the seabed: metal mining on the seafloor using drones. [Impossible Metals]
Impossible Metals’ deep-sea mining robots now make it possible to harvest battery metals from the seabed without destroying the habitat. The underwater vehicles activate their camera and arms to identify and collect crucial minerals along the seafloor as they hover just above it. This keeps them from disrupting nearby marine animals.
No License is Required to Drive This 500kg-Payload EV
Pedelec with a payload! So many ways to use EVs in urban areas, and 'last mile' delivery needs to move away totally from gas-powered vehicles in urban areas. [Fiil Cargo]
The Fiil Cargo Pedelec may be small, but it sure is mighty. This compact EV has a 500kg payload and doesn’t require a license to operate. You can use it to easily move gear and goods all around town. The only caveat is that this cargo bike is limited to 15.5mph, and you still have to do some pedaling.
Metorbike’s Dapper New Electric Moped
Cafe racer moped style from Meteorbike, looking very cool. [Meteorbike]
We love mopeds! And Hamburg-based EV startup Metorbike just released a handcrafted café-style e-Moped. The bike, which can be customized to your exact specifications, is outfitted with a removable 1.6kWh lithium battery that offers 60km worth of range. The e-Moped has top speeds of 50 km/h, making it perfect for the city.
New e-Motorcycle Can Be Converted into a Snowmobile
For cold-climate folks, here you go...anywhere in the snow. Year-round EV fun. [Daymak]
Canadian manufacturer Daymak recently unveiled a new multi-role EV that can function as an e-Motorcycle or snowmobile. As soon as the harsh winter weather hits, simply swap out the two wheels for a set of track and ski attachments.
Stephanie Weaver is the EV Editor at The Vintagent, and a Philadelphia-based freelance writer. When she's not locked to her laptop, she can be found riding horses and motorcycles.
Hello, dear readers and riders! Welcome to the first installment of our EV news roundups for December. This week, we’ll look at a 3D-printed electric car, Tesla’s first semi, an e-Bike and car hybrid, and many more. If you see any stories you think we should cover, please send them to stephanie@thevintagent.com. Our inbox is always open. Let’s roll.
Eysing by Pininfarina
Need slick, modern urban transport? Check out the Eysing e-moped designed by Pinfarina! [Eysing]
Eysing was founded by four Dutch friends as an updated homage to Eysink, a Dutch motorcycle brand whose most famous product was the Alpenjager single-cylinder of 1938. Eysing was founded in 2017, and builds charming retro e-mopeds. This year they've collaborated with legendary Italian design firm Pininfarina on a slick modern version of their e-moped platform, called the PF40, and introduced just last weekend at the Masters Expo in Amsterdam. First deliveries are expected in a little over a year, at the beginning of 2024.
Scottish Startup Rolls Out Bollinger-Esque EV
Wait, is it a Bollinger? Nope, it's a Munro, rugged as the Scottish mountains it's named after. But there's a connection... [Munro]
Scottish startup Munro - the Scottish term for 'mountain' - has recently released images of its new EV, the boxy MK1, that looks a hell of a lot like a Bollinger. There's a reason for that, beyond the brand's stated aim of producing a strictly utilitarian EV truck: British designer Ross Compton formerly worked at Bollinger on the design of the B1. There are of course other design cues present, mostly early Land Rover, but the monochromatic, geometric, no-frills no-grills design of the Munro Mk1 is clearly a kin of the Bollinger...but since that company has given up on private vehicle production to focus on the commercial vehicle market, we suppose the market space for a geo-ute is wide open. Munro claims that its five-seater electric SUV can crank out 375 ponies and has a range of about 186 miles thanks to the 82.4kWh battery.
Meet the Animal, a 3D-Printed Electric Car
The Animal doesn't look particularly savage. Perhaps it's a domesticated animal, like a dog or cat or hamster. Anyway, it looks like a Tesla. We do applaud its innovation in materials, though. [LIUX]
A Spanish startup has recently claimed that it has made the most sustainable electric car the world has ever seen. LIUX’s 3D-printed car, dubbed the Animal, is made from recyclable materials, including bio-resin and plastic. These materials make up 90% of the plant-based car, including the interiors, outer skin, and chassis components. The company has also removed any unnecessary design elements, only using parts that are simple to assemble, repair, and recycle. The 3D molds of the bodywork and chassis allow LIUX to cut CO2 emissions, energy, and manufacturing times by as much as 70%.
Tesla Unveils Its First Electric Semi
Coming soon to a rearview mirror near you, the terrifying Tesla truck. [Tesla]
EV automaker Tesla recently shipped its first electric semi-truck to PepsiCo. Aptly called the Semi, the battery-electric Class 9 rig is outfitted with a tri-motor layout similar to those found in the Model X Plaid. Tesla’s Semi has a range of about 500 miles. Will it include a 'self driving' mode? We certainly hope not.
Electric Canoo Being Considered by the US Army
The Canoo LTV has a future-war vibe that suits a fully-funded military industrial complex just fine. And hey, we can maintain the dream of American Empire and be green! [Canoo]
EV startup Canoo recently released its Light Tactical Vehicle (LTV) to be evaluated by the US Army. The EV can be converted from a flatbed truck to a pickup truck, enabling it to haul tactical equipment. Since the vehicle is not armored, it will not be driven too close to the front lines. The LTV features a proprietary all-wheel-drive system and cranks out up to 600hp. To help it navigate rugged terrain, it incorporates a raised suspension, air springs, and 32-inch all-terrain tires. "The LTV is another milestone proving the power of our technology and how it can be used, even in tactical situations," said Canoo CEI and chairman, Tony Aquila.
Berlin-based Startup is Ready to Revolutionize Urban Mobility
ONO, it's going to revolutionize urban delivery! [Onomotion]
Berlin-based startup Onomotion recently unveiled its first e-Bike and car hybrid product. Called the ONO, the e-Cargo bike merges the flexibility of a bike with the durability and capacity capabilities of a truck. This provides folks with an effective and sustainable way to move goods. Currently, the company has a few hundred vehicles on the road in Germany. Onomotion has plans to expand its footprint across North America and Europe. The startup’s vehicle-as-a-service model allows customers to pay monthly fees for vehicles, chargers, containers, servicing, and maintenance.
YouTuber Builds Cordless Tesla Hybrid
How f*cked up is this? A noisy little Honda gas-powered generator transforms a Tesla into a nasty kinda hybrid. [Warped Perception]
YouTuber Warped Perception recently posted a video of his build of the world’s first cordless Tesla. The influencer embarked on a 1,800-mile journey without needing to stop and charge his vehicle. Instead of its traditional plug-in charger, Warped Perception used an adaptation of a power plant generator that burns gas to keep the Model S fully juiced.
Stephanie Weaver is the EV Editor at The Vintagent, and a Philadelphia-based freelance writer. When she's not locked to her laptop, she can be found riding horses and motorcycles.
Hello, dear readers and riders! Welcome back to our weekly EV news coverage. This week, we’ll be covering an electric convertible sportscar, GM’s road to EV profitability, technology that can charge a car in 72 seconds, and more. What EV stories resonate with you? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Feel free to reach out to us at stephanie@thevintagent.com with your tips, feedback, and questions. Let’s roll.
University of Michigan Students Build e-Superbike
The Atlas e-Bike from the UM crew. [Leo Lavigne]
University of Michigan engineering students recently built an e-Superbike that can reach speeds of 160mph. Dubbed the ATLAS, the e-Motorcycle is set to compete in international races and is constructed from a 2001 Yamaha R1 frame.
Meet the New Electric Convertible Sports Car
Meet the new Project Thunderball, with a bit of William Lyons in the inspo mix. Take your cues from the best, no? [Weismann]
German automaker Wiesmann recently revealed its new electrified sports car, the Project Thunderball. The two-seater convertible is the first of its kind on the market and is outfitted with twin electric rear-mid-mounted motors. Churning out 680 ponies to the rear wheels, the Project Thunderball can go from 0 to 62mph in just 2.9 seconds. The carbon-fiber frame makes the vehicle light as a feather, clocking in at just 3,747 pounds. The EV has a target range of about 310 miles due to its high-voltage battery capacity.
GM is On the Road to EV Profitability
Recently, General Motors stated that the company’s EV profit margins could equal those of its internal-combustion models by 2025. The automaker is relying on tax credits of up to $7,500 to drive more EV sales. “We expect our EV portfolio will be profitable in 2025, including projected greenhouse gas benefits and revenues from software after-sales. And this is before the benefits of the new clean- energy tax credits,” CEO Mary Barra explained at GM’s Investors Day on November 17 in New York.
Fiat’s New EV Hot Rod
Fiat Abarth EV. An electric scorpion? [FIAT]
Fiat recently unveiled its new 2023 Fiat 500 Abarth, an electric-battery hot rod that makes 173 lb-ft of torque and 155hp. Featuring a 42kWh battery pack, the compact car has about 200 miles worth of range and can go from 0 to 62mph in seven seconds.
New Technology Makes 72-Second Charging Times Possible
Swiss startup Morand recently introduced its Morand e-Technology, which promises to recharge a car in as little as 72 seconds. The hybrid system mates chemical battery and ultracapacitor capabilities and is ideal for EVs that require semi-frequent charges of five minutes or less, including e-Bikes and city cars.
Lancia Rebrands Itself as an EV Maker
Et tu, Lancia? A conceptual sketch of Lancia's EV, with a nod towards their 1970 Stratos HF Zero. [Lancia]
Lancia recently unveiled a new design language and logo in preparation to enter the EV sector. Inspired by the iconic Delta and Ypsilon models, the new branding initiatives will position the Italian automaker as a luxury EV brand. Its first concept, the Pu+Ra Zero, is slated to hit the market in 2024. "Born from the crasis of the words 'Pure' and 'Radical,' Lancia Pu+Ra Design is the name of (Lancia's) new and sustainable design language, which inspired the future style of Lancia cars, and that will be unique and destined to last,” Lancia explained.
Archer Releases New Production eVTOL
Large-scale electric planes are very much cutting edge, and we'll see how they fly... [Archer]
Archer Aviation recently unveiled its new four-seater electric aircraft, Midnight. The eVTOL can reach speeds of up to 150mph and fly as far as 60 miles. The company wants to certify the eVTOL with the Federal Aviation Administration in 2024.
Stephanie Weaver is the EV Editor at The Vintagent, and a Philadelphia-based freelance writer. When she's not locked to her laptop, she can be found riding horses and motorcycles.
Happy Thanksgiving, dear readers and riders! After you feast on turkey and mashed potatoes, be sure to catch up on the latest EV stories. This week, we’ll take a look at the limited-edition Montage Electric Coupe, future plans for hybrid motorcycles, a windshield-less electric sports car concept, and more. As always, please send your tips and quips to stephanie@thevintagent.com. Let’s roll.
Alpha Motor’s Limited-Edition, Custom-Built Electric Coupe
Looking like a childhood memory of a William Lyons design, the Alpha Motors coupe is retrolectric. [Alpha Motors]Want to live in the lap of electric luxury? If so, Alpha Motor’s new exclusive custom-build EV, the Montage Electric Coupe, is right up your alley. Scheduled for limited production in the US, the Montage will be constructed on a custom-built EV platform that is developed from the ground up using the company’s proprietary development process. The Montage will be outfitted with a custom-built Electric Drive Unit (EDU), predicted to churn out 150kW of power and 3,335Nm of torque. The coupe will also feature a custom-built lithium-ion battery pack with 250 miles worth of range.
Vitesco’s Hybrid Motorcycle Concept
Going places? The Vitesco hopes so, on its hybrid Husqvarna. [Vitesco]German powertrain supplier Vitesco recently unveiled a running example of a hybridized Husky at EICMA to demonstrate how a bike’s weight and performance will be impacted by a hybrid-electric powertrain. While the prototype’s appearance may look wonky, try and see past it to the promises of double available torque and a 75% decrease in emissions. Vitesco outfitted the Husqvarna with a 48-volt, 16hp electric motor, which is a starter/generator from the company’s auto supply business. The kit also includes a “powertrain domain control unit” that sends power to either the electric motor, the combustion motor, or both. The battery pack has a mere 1.5kWh of energy storage, but it has enough range to get you around town if you’re traveling under 37mph. Vitesco says the entire system adds about 44 pounds to the bike’s existing weight.
GAC Design’s New Avant-Garde Electric Sports Car Concept
An ecstasy dream? The GAC certainly looks intriguing, and carved out. [GAC[GAC Design recently released its new EV sports car concept, the GAC Barchetta. The avant-garde concept lacks both a windshield and roof. Instead, it sports triangular steel bars which are anchored on the inside of a hollowed cabin. The flattened chassis contains compact batteries and the mono-material aluminum body is elegant and lightweight. The GAC Barchetta’s seats and steering wheel are made from recycled plastic.
Lucid Drops Details About the 2024 Gravity Electric SUV
Deep on the luxury end of the EV spectrum, the new Lucid SUV will vie with Range Rover and Rolls Royce. [Lucid]Earlier this week, California-based luxury EV maker Lucid revealed new details about its 2024 Gravity electric SUV. The new model promises more range than any other electric vehicle currently available on the market, with the exception of the 520-mile Lucid Air sedan, of course. The SUV will offer a glass roof option and be available in two- or three-row forms.
Porsche Debuts New 800-Volt Platform
If its Porsche, it will be powerful. We see a lot of EV Porsches on the streets already. [Porsche]Porsche has plans to expand its EV offerings with its upcoming Premium Platform Electric battery-electric platform. The new platform is promised to support 707 lb.-ft. of torque, 603 ponies, and an 800-volt architecture. The Premium Platform Electric will be modular and will be able to support both all-wheel and rear-wheel-drive systems. The platform’s rear motor is “positioned particularly far back, resulting in a slightly rear-focused weight balance with the ratio of 48% to 52%.”
US Aims to Electrify All Buses and Trucks by 2040
The US has joined a global effort to achieve 100% zero-emission truck and bus sales by 2040. The new move was announced last week at the COP27 climate summit. Sixteen other countries have signed the non-binding Global Memorandum of Understanding on Zero-Emission Medium-and Heavy-Duty Vehicle, including Canada, Norway, New Zealand, and Turkey. "This global partnership will leverage the billions of dollars in clean transportation investments provided by President Biden's agenda to drive technological innovation, lower vehicle costs, and reduce transportation emissions,” US Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm said at the summit in Egypt.
Stephanie Weaver is the EV Editor at The Vintagent, and a Philadelphia-based freelance writer. When she's not locked to her laptop, she can be found riding horses and motorcycles.
Hello, dear readers and riders! Welcome to the third edition of our EV news roundups for the month of November. This week, we’ll be taking a look at an e-Bike made of plywood, the new EV Fiat, a 3D printed hybrid e-Bike, and more. Send your tips, questions, and feedback to stephanie@thevintagent.com. Let’s roll.
Plywood e-Bike
The ElectraPly is a novel construction, using plywood and off-the-shelf hub motor. [Electraply]
There’s a new e-Bike on the market, and it’s made of plywood. Fittingly called the ElectraPly, the eco-friendly bike is made from sustainable plywood. Its design was inspired by the iconic Yamaha SR250 scrambler. It's a possible DIY construciton, should you be so inspired.
Take This 3D Print Hybrid e-Bike for a Spin
Looking like an '80s art project, the UILA is a 3D-printed four-wheeled bicycle, with an electric boost. [UILA]
Berlin-based design studio nFrontier recently unveiled an innovative e-Bike concept that looks like a cross between a small EV and cargo bike. The four-wheeled, two-seater UILA is a sustainable way to transport passengers and payloads of up to 250K. The pedal-operated drive train means that the rider doesn’t need a driver’s license to operate the EV and can ride it in bike lanes. The UILA was developed in partnership with 3D print company Stratasys.
Electrify Any Bike in Seconds
Cool or what? The PikaBoost turns any bike into an eBike, for when you want a boost. Try it on the Tour de France! [PikaBoost]
Do you have an old, rusty pedal bike sitting in your garage? Breathe new life into your bike with LIVALL’s PikaBoost, a portable converter that transforms any bike into an EV. The e-Bike conversion kit includes a motorized hub, controller, and battery pack that can easily be assembled onto your bike in under 30 seconds. The PikaBoost is also equipped with an intelligent control algorithm and rotary gyroscope, allowing riders to navigate all types of road situations. Some kits aren’t as helpful. Amazon and other large retail companies are now facing criticism for selling kits and devices that enable e-Bikes to be upgraded to illegal speeds for as little as $100.
Future EVs Could Be Powered by Lithium Sulfur Battery Cells
The race to develop more affordable EV battery cell materials is on. A recent article published by The Economic Times stated that future electric vehicles arriving after 2025 might shift to using lithium sulfur or sodium ion battery cells, which are up to two-thirds cheaper than the lithium-ion cells being used today. The materials used - sulfur and sodium - are far less environmentally destructive to mine, and if they can be made stable, could prove a far greener alternative to Lithium.
Two-Way Charging is the New Favorite Hack of EV Owners
As electric vehicles with plugs become more ubiquitous, many owners have begun using two-way charging methods to power other electric devices in their home or business, including camping stoves, power drills, and even tea kettles. CAKE has been promoting this with its :work series - using the bike's batteries to power tools, instruments, even cooking utensils and food delivery warm boxes. It's also proposed as a way to stabilize a power grid with multiple generation sources, with everyone's EV being used as a buffer for excess electricity demand or production. And 'old' L-ion car batteries can be used with great economy for home power storage (solar or wind), since they don't need 100% efficiency to run your lights, washing machine, or a/c at home.
New Electric Fiat 500 to Hit the Market in 2024
The new Fiat 500e, just like the old Fiat 500, but e. [Fiat]
It began life as the Topolino in the 1940s, then became the Fiat 500, the microcar for the masses. Fiat is hoping to capture the same market share as before with their new 500e, the latest EV, available to the market in 2024, intended as the ideal EV for urban dwellers.
Stephanie Weaver is the EV Editor at The Vintagent, and a Philadelphia-based freelance writer. When she's not locked to her laptop, she can be found riding horses and motorcycles.
