Hello, dear readers and riders! Welcome to the latest installment of our EV news roundup series. This week, we’ll be taking a look at tree-based batteries, a foldable carbon-fiber bike made from vegetable resins, Honda’s new EM1e, and why Arrival will move production to US soil. Read an EV story that you think we should cover? Drop us a line at stephanie@thevintagent.com. Let’s roll.
CAKE’s Beefy Bukk
CAKE's new Bukk is a 250-class off-road eBike, and we understand they'll offer a road version in the future, just as they did with the Kalk. [CAKE]CAKE recently dropped its latest off-roading e-Bike, the Bukk. It will be the biggest and fastest model the company has ever made.
Tree-Based Batteries
Batteries made from trees? As more investment pours into EVs, battery tech will become more sustainable. [StoraEnso]Stora Enso, a leading provider of renewable packaging products, is now developing batteries for EVs that are made from trees. Most trees are composed of 20% to 30% lignin, which is a complex organic polymer that gives woods its rigorousness and rot-resistance. Stora Enso is transforming lignin by-product into a fine carbon powder, which will be used to make electrode sheets and rolls which are fused with different components, including separators and positive electrodes, to turn them into lithium-ion batteries.
Folding e-Bike Made from Veggie Resin
A folding bicycle made from plants? Manufacturers concerned with their carbon footprint are exploring options, always. [Ossby]Mobility company Ossby recently dropped a lightweight folding e-Bike that is made from a composite of plant-based resins and recycled fibers. Called the Ossby Geo, the bike’s frame is promised to be stronger and more eco-friendly than the aluminum foldable bikes on the market, while still weighing less than 25 pounds. The Geo has a range of about 31 miles thanks to its 250W DC motor.
Honda’s New Little Electric Commuter
In the battery-swap camp like Gogoro, Honda's new eScooter the EM1e. [Honda]Honda recently unveiled its new commuter e-Scooter, the EM1e, at the EICMA show in Milan. The neat thing about this little scoot is its quick-swap batteries, allowing it to swiftly replenish its energy supply. The EM1e will be available in the EU next summer.
A New Gorgeous Hydrogen Fuel Cell Car Is Here
Promising 500hp and a 3-minute charge - big promises from new player Hopium Māchina Vision.
First unveiled during 2022 Paris Automotive Week, the Hopium Māchina Vision is the first high-end hydrogen-powered sedan the world has ever seen. Set to hit the market in 2025, the Māchina features an electric motor that is juiced by hydrogen fuel cells and offers 620 miles in range, 500 ponies, and top speeds of 143mph while being able to be refueled in just three minutes flat.
Arrival is Arriving in the US
Arriv(al) in style: a new concept in EVs coming to the USA for the tax credits. [Arrival]
EV startup Arrival recently announced its plans to shift production stateside, with North Carolina predicted to be its main manufacturing base. The company cites the Inflation Reduction Act as the reason for the move, which offers between $7,500 and $40,000 in tax credits for commercial vehicles.
Another Six Figure EV Is Hitting the Market
The Aerha is an Italian luxury EV with 800hp and a 500-mile range. [Aehra]Italian electric vehicle startup Aehra recently revealed its ultra-lux electric SUV. Slated to enter production in 2025, the new EV promises to deliver 500 miles worth of range and features a dual-motor layout with 804hp. Priced at $140,000, the SUV was designed by Filippo Perini, formerly of Lamborghini.
California Voters Say “No” to Taxing the Rich for New EVs
This week, California voters rejected a measurement that would have increased tax rates on incomes over $2 million to help produce more electric vehicles. Most of the funds would have gone to programs that help people buy EVs or to install more chargers.
Shared e-Scooters Reduce Carbon Emissions
A new study from German research institute Fraunhofer ISI found that shared e-Scooters can reduce carbon emissions within major city transportation networks. The researchers surveyed Lime scooter riders from Paris, Stockholm, Melbourne, Berlin, Dusseldorf, and Seattle and found that these riders would have taken a taxi or car if the scooter sharing service wasn’t available.
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 our final EV news roundup for the month of October. This week, we’ll be taking a look at an e-Motorcycle with 1,000+ computer chips, off-roading EVs, the first megawatt-level battery energy storage system, and more. As always, send your tips, questions, or feedback to stephanie@thevintagent.com. Let’s roll.
An EV Off-Roader that Performs Like a Mini Jeep
Le Bagnole is a 1000lb ADV EV, and an alternative take on what one needs to spend money on for advantures. [Kilow]
Leave it up to the French to design something totally unique and practical. EV startup Kilow recently revealed its compact electric off-roader, La Bagnole. Part petite pickup and UTV, the tiny 1,000-lb EV can conquer rugged terrain thanks to its modest yet powerful 16kW powertrain. The lil’ La Bagnole can fit two passengers and 650L of cargo or gear.
A Moto-Robot you can ride
Do you need it, or does it need you? Maybe neither! DaVinci of the AI variety. [DaVinci]
The Davinci DC100 is a smart self-balancing e-Motorcycle equipped with more than 1,000 computer chips and 200 advanced sensors. This helps the bike keep track of the surrounding environment, road conditions, motor and battery temperature, and movement status. America’s First Megawatt-Level Storage System Earlier this week, Electrify America opened the first ever megawatt-level battery energy storage system for EV charging stations in California. The new system allows for increased independence from the grid by collecting energy during off-peak hours or from its solar canopy.
Zero Partners with BDR
Zeros exploring remote places? That's looking more possible every year. [Zero]
Zero Motorcycles just announced its new partnership with Backcountry Discovery Routes (BDR) to make electric ATV riding more accessible. While all of the details of the new partnership haven’t been revealed, the BDR crew will display EV charging stations on its digital maps and use electric bikes to scout out two new BDR-X routes.
BMW Thinks It's Hydrogen
BMW's CEO is gambling on hydrogen as the next fuel, while still building EVs. Why? If it can be made cheaper, it's much simpler and potentially less environmentally destructive. [BMW]
Luxury automaker BMW thinks that hydrogen is the next big thing. During a recent interview, Oliver Zipse, chairman of BMW AG, stated, “After the electric car, which has been going on for about 10 years and scaling up rapidly, the next trend will be hydrogen. When it's more scalable, hydrogen will be the hippest thing to drive.” The company, which has been experimenting with the use of hydrogen for years, is currently developing fuel-cell systems for a production version of its hydrogen-powered iX5 SUV. According to Zipse, the car will be available in the US within the next five years.
Biden Doles Out $2.8B to Boost Electric Battery Production in US
Made in America? Maybe, but the USA is 15 years behind China in committing to battery production... [Reuters/ Kevin Lamarque]
Earlier this week, President Joe Biden announced $2.8B in grants to increase EV battery production in the US. Twenty companies received grants that ranged from $50M to $480M, including Mercedes and Tesla. The grants aim to expand America’s supply of EV battery components and reduce reliance on China. According to a recent article published in The Economic Times, American automakers need more time from legislators to meet the country’s mineral requirements for electric vehicles. The Inflation Reduction Act currently requires car manufacturers to have 50% of critical minerals used in electric batteries come from US allies or North America by 2024. This number rises to 80% by the close of 2026. Auto makers, including Volkswagen, believe the industry cannot keep up. VW is also entering into direct purchase agreements in preparation for the worst natural and supply chain shortages it has ever seen.
Studies Show EV’s Carbon Footprint Will Decrease Over Time
Simply driving EVs will decrease our carbon footprint significantly, argues this report. [Autoweek]
Recent reports indicate that electric vehicles have a lower lifetime carbon footprint than traditional combustion-engine cars at just 19,000 miles. At the 200,000-mile marker, ICE vehicles will emit 66 tons of greenhouse gas emissions, while battery EVs account for 39 tons, according to the report. Not a miraculously lower figure, but significant. The problem of consumption and lifecycle carbon are not addressed in the report, which assumes a simple swap of EVs for ICEs, with no changes in behavior.
Lucid’s First At-Home EV Charger
Lucid is entering the fray on home EV power stations: even if EVs are overtaken by hydrogen, we still need battery storage for homes... [Lucid]
Lucid Motors recently debuted its first at-home charger. The wall-mounted unit, priced at $1,200, can be used both indoors and outside, produces 80 miles of range per hour of charging, and charges at 19.2kW.
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 installment of our EV news roundup for the month of October. This week, we’ll be taking a look at NASA’s solid-state battery research, Rolls-Royce’s electric debut, the advanced intelligence of the Polestar 3, and more. As always, please send any tantalizing leads to stephanie@thevintagent.com. Let’s roll.
The Ultimate Overland Toy Hauler
The ultimate toy hauler/camping rig? Maybe you don't need that monstrous 4x4 Sprinter after all...[Ryder]Want to get off the grid? If so, meet the Ryder from Australian manufacturer Offline Campers. Designed for overland vehicles, the Ryder allows you to fit up to three motorcycles in its deck while giving you a place to sleep at night thanks to the rooftop tent. The Ryder holds about 28 gallons of water, has an outdoor shower, and includes 210 amp-hours of AGM batteries, with both AC and DC charging stations, including a MPPT solar controller. This makes this hauler great for digital nomads.
Meet the Boxy New Brainchild of Solid EV
The Solid EV concept is exactly that - bulky. But tough looking. [Solid]Voyager, a Dutch company, was recently commissioned by Netherlands-based Solid EV to build an e-Moped, called the Solid CRS-01. The bike features a boxy body, bulky wheels, and has top speeds of 45km/h. “We took a highly modular, product-like approach, using cost-effective materials such as sheet metal to build a self-supporting monocoque frame also doubling as the exterior panels of the motorcycle,” Voyager’s team explained.
Meet the Upgraded Hydrofoil Bike
Bicycling on water is the next wave of watersports and fitness. [Manta5]Manta5, a company based in New Zealand, recently unveiled its second-generation model of the Hydrofolier SL3 hydrofoil bike. The electric watercraft uses a throttle-only launch and a patent-pending mechanical design that allows novice riders to boost their competence within minutes. When a rider stops moving, the EV will lower into the water until the chassis is floating on the water’s surface.
NASA is Going Above and Beyond with Solid-State Battery Research
Finally, the best brains in the business focus on terrestial issues: batteries. [NASA]Shout out to Raúl for sending us this story! As part of their commitment to sustainable aviation, NASA researchers are making headway in developing a safer, more efficient battery pack that is commonly found in EVs. NASA’s Solid-state Architecture Batteries for Enhanced Rechargeability and Safety (SABERS) research team has successfully raised their battery’s discharge rate by a factor of 15, moving them closer to their ultimate goal of powering a massive vehicle. Researchers also discovered that solid-state architecture enabled them to change the battery’s packaging and construction, saving weight and boosting the amount of energy it can store.
Rolls-Royce Makes Its Electric Debut
It's Spectre, not S.P.E.C.T.R.E. - that would be an Aston Martin EV. [Rolls Royce]Earlier this week, Rolls-Royce debuted its first fully electric production car. Hitting the market in 2023, the Spectre is an electric luxury coupe that offers supreme performance, thoughtful design touches, and a whopping 260-mile range. The EV also promises to deliver 577 ponies and 664 lb-ft of torque, which is the equivalent of the Ghost Black Badge’s twin-turbo V12 torque output.
Meet the Most Intelligent EV On the Road
Polestar from Volvo is packed with tech, as one has come to expect in the EV space. [Polestar]Polestar’s first SUV, the 2024 Polestar 3, might be the smartest EV on the roadways. Among the SUV’s many highlights include an estimated 300-mile range, 489hp, 620 lb-ft of torque, and an array of AI and driver-assistance tech, which comes standard. The Polestar 3 will be available in North American markets late next year.
See Renault Like Never Before
Are we ready for an ADV EV? Renault thinks so. [Renault]Renault recently unveiled its 4EVER Trophy at the Paris Motor Show. The handsomely rugged EV gives us dune buggy vibes. The 4EVER Trophy boasts major ground-clearance capabilities thanks to the shortened front overhangs, LED lights, and a 42kWh battery pack, which promises 250 miles worth of range.
Poseidon Amphibworks Corporation to Develop Amphibious Three-Wheeled EV
As sea levels rise, perhaps this is the most practical EV of all? [Poseidon Amphiworks]California-based Poseidon Amphibworks Corporation recently launched a crowdfunding campaign to build a street-legal, three-wheeled amphibious EV. Called the Trident LS-1, the patent-pending vehicle is aimed to solve the mobility challenges caused by ever-increasing wetlands and rising sea levels. “We are so excited to finally launch this opportunity for the public to join us in developing this vision of practical, affordable amphibious electric vehicles that not only perform but are efficient both on land and in bodies of water. With like-minded investors to help us, we are confident we will get our vision into production as soon as possible… After prototypes are tested within the next five years and services are established in main coastal markets around the world, we hope to have over 1000 vehicles sold globally, with many more exciting developments in the horizon beyond,” said Steve Tice, CEO and Founder of the company.
Telsa's Autopilot is Killing Motorcyclists
Tesla's 'autopilot' mode is anything but, and regularly fails to recognize motorcycles before it's too late.
Tesla’s Autopilot was involved in a third fatal motorcycle crash this summer, raising questions about the driver-assist system’s ability to operate safely. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has already launched investigations into the first two crashes and gathered information on the third crash. More details of the latest crash surfaced Monday. The three fatal crashes occurred in a 51-day span this summer and follow a similar line of events: A person driving a Tesla in the early morning hours with Autopilot active strikes a motorcycle.
The crashes renew questions about whether users of the systems are kept sufficiently engaged and prepared to fully control the vehicle when needed. Research has shown that drivers glance away from the road more frequently while using Autopilot, and that many Autopilot users believe their cars drive themselves.
Tesla’s Autopilot system keeps the vehicle in its lane while traveling at a set speed, and drivers are instructed to keep their hands on the steering wheel at all times. The automaker says it detects torque on the wheel and uses a camera near the rear-view mirror to determine driver inattentiveness, and uses alerts to remind drivers to keep their eyes on the road.
Ingrid Eva Noon was riding her motorcycle in Palm Beach County, Florida at 2:11 a.m. on Aug. 26 when an impaired driver using Tesla’s Autopilot impacted the rear of Noon’s motorcycle, throwing her onto the Tesla’s windshield and killing her, according to the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s office. Driver-assist crash data that automakers like Tesla must report to NHTSA was published Monday and revealed that Autopilot was engaged.
A Tesla driver using Autopilot struck a motorcycle lying on a road on July 7 at 4:47 a.m in Riverside, California. The motorcyclist, who had already fallen off the bike after hitting a dividing wall, was killed, according to California Highway Patrol. The Tesla did not strike the rider, who had already been ejected, California Highway Patrol said.
The recent crashes suggest the Tesla system is insufficient, according to motorcycle advocates.
Motorcycle safety advocates say they’re concerned that the software fails to see motorcycles and lulls Tesla drivers into a sense of complacency and inattentiveness. The advocates say that the government’s vehicle safety regulations do not adequately protect motorcycle riders and that steps should be taken to better protect them, including testing driver-assist systems like Autopilot for motorcycle detection.
The American Motorcyclist Association has cautioned for years about the risks of emerging driving technologies not adequately detecting motorcyclists.
“If this issue is not addressed early in developing automated vehicles,” it wrote to NHTSA last year, “The consequences will prove disastrous for motorcyclists.”
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! Fall is in full swing and the second installment of our October EV news coverage packs some heavy hitters. This week, we’ll take a look at an EV made from a Factory Five Racing Cobra, Tesla’s new electric ‘Semi’ trucks, and a sustainable sailboat concept made from algae-based biopolymer. As always, send us your tips, quips, and tricks to stephanie@thevintagent.com. Let’s roll.
The New E-Kawi
Finally, an electric Kawasaki powersports machine? [Kawasaki]
Kawasaki recently wowed us with the unveiling of its electric motorcycle prototype at INTERMOT in Cologne, Germany. The new e-Motorcycle is clearly inspired by the company’s stripped down Z400 naked bike. However, further details are still under wraps.
Meet the Electrified Factory Five Racing Cobra
Among the coolest American cars of history goes electric. Even faster than the fastest American roadster? [Factory]
What would you get if you combined a Factory Five Racing Cobra and a Tesla powertrain? The result would be the new Scorpion EV, a limited-production electric roadster that will be on display at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas next month. Born in Temecula, CA, this exquisite EV is made from a Factory Five Racing Cobra, a Tesla powertrain, and some proprietary software and controllers. Packed with unrivaled power, the Scorpion EV is available in 600-hp or 1,000-hp, all-wheel-drive versions.
Tesla to Deliver ‘Semi’ Trucks to Pepsi in December
Be afraid. Be very afraid. The Tesla truck is coming. [Tesla]
Earlier this week, Elon Musk announced on Twitter that his company would be starting production for its all-electric ‘Semi’ delivery trucks. The first 100 EVs will be delivered to Pepsi on December 1. Thanks to their advanced autopilot technology, the electric trucks will be able to avoid collisions and position the driver at the center of the vehicle for optimal control and visibility. Tesla’s ‘Semi’ trucks promise ranges between 300 and 500 miles and will consume less than 2kWK/mile energy, saving over $200,000 in fuel.
Sustainable Sailboat Concept Made from Algae
It's a beautiful thing, a sailboat made of algae and recycled refuse. [Furf Design Studio]
More companies than ever before are prioritizing sustainable, eco-conscious practices. A prime example of this is the recent collaboration between designer Cesar Pieri and Furf Design Studio to create a unique sailboat concept called the Second Sun. The sustainable sailboat will be made from ocean plastic and algae-based biopolymer. The result is a minimalist design with an even smaller carbon footprint.
All-Electric Flying Car Flies the Dubai Skies
Flying cars over Dubai. Or at least, a takeoff. [X2 eVTOL]
A new electric flying car made its first global appearance this week when it successfully took flight over Dubaii. After being granted a special flying permit from the Dubai Civil Aviation. Authority, the X2 eVTOL completed a demonstration flight during the opening day of the GITEX global technology show. Built by Xpeng Aeroht, the eVTOL seats two people, can reach up to 3,200 feet above the ground, and has top speeds of 130km/h for 35 minutes.
Honda to Produce Battery Modules in Ohio
Honda digs in on battery production with LG in the USA. [Reuters]
Big Red just announced that it would be joining forces with LG Energy Solution to develop battery modules in Ohio. The joint venture will involve retooling several of Honda’s Ohio plants so that they will be able to produce EVs based on the e:Architecture platform, which is slated for arrival after 2025.
Let GM Power Your Home Electrically
Look out Tesla, GM is coming for you... [GM]
GM has plans to become the Tesla Power Wall's biggest rival with its new Ultium Home energy system. The automaker will soon be offering systems for home energy storage for bi-directional charging, vehicle-to-grid charging, and vehicle-to-home charging. The systems are scheduled to start rolling out 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.
Hello, dear readers and riders! Welcome to the first installment of our EV news roundup series for the month of October. This week, we’ll cover Tesla’s strange humanoid robot, a new sci-fi e-Scooter, and New York’s push to ban gas vehicles. If you see anything interesting you’d like us to cover, shoot us an email at stephanie@thevintagent.com. Let’s roll.
Bandit9 Unveils a Sci-Fi e-Scooter
The Nano is the latest kickass design from Bandit9, this time in the form of an eScooter. [Bandit9]Designer Darryl Villanueva and his Vietnam-based vehicle company Bandit9 have been featured on The Vintagent and included in our Petersen Museum exhibits in the past, as Villanueva's skills are world class. From futuristic lightweight Honda clones to EV cars looking like F1 refugees, Bandit9 consistently moves the needle forward on anything they touch. The latest project on two wheels is a sci-fi-inspired e-Scooter. Called the Nano, the futuristic scoot features a robust frame crafted from Rolex steel and a sleek, metallic sheen. Created for city dwellers, the scooter is available in two different models and has a 60-mile range.
Meet a Four-Wheeled e-Scooter
The Dragonfly is stable without gyros...with four wheels, is it a standup car? [Dragonfly]A new four-wheeled e-Scooter recently hit the market. Called the Dragonfly, the scoot is touted as the “world’s first hyperscooter.” Made of carbon fiber and aluminum, with 10" tires and 4-wheel independent suspension, the Dragonfly weighs 40lbs and folds up flat. With 3 ride modes from a handlebar display, top speed is reckoned to be 30mph in Mode 3...but we reckon hackers will pump up the volume on that in short order. After all, we've seen 70mph standup eScooters before...can this be even quicker?
One EV Is on Its Way to Pre-Production While Another Drags Its Feet
The Faraday is on its way, with over 1000hp on tap - quite the fam wagon! [Faraday]The long-anticipated electric crossover from Faraday Future is finally on its way to pre-production. Called the FF91, the EV promises to churn out 1050 ponies and has a range of just under 400 miles, thanks to its impressive 130kWh battery.
Lordstown's groovy ePickup is on hold while they raise funds. Go for the commercial market, folks, to secure a financial pipeline. Just sayin'. [Lordstown]Another company isn’t so lucky. Ohio-based EV truck maker Lordstown still needs to raise the funds to build the remainder of its Endurance electric pickups. While the company plans to release 50 trucks by the end of the year, the remaining 500 vehicles are on hold until further notice.
Charge Cars to Debut the Charge ’67 at the Petersen Museum
The Charge '67 is surely an electric Bullitt, shooting silently across our urban streets. Will the remake be silent? [Charge]London-based EV-maker Charge Cars recently announced that it will be debuting its electric AWD carbon fiber modernized 1967 Mustang, the Charge ’67, at the Petersen Museum in LA later this month as part of its US launch. Production is limited to just 499 vehicles. The Charge ’67 can go from 0-62mph in under four seconds, cranks out 536hp and 1120 lb.-ft. of torque, and features a Ford-licensed bodyshell, custom suspension, and AC Racing brakes. “We are delighted to be in Los Angeles with our partners to celebrate the launch of the Charge '67 in the United States. It’s the ideal destination for our technology, design and performance, which has come to life in such an exciting way,” said Vadim Shagaleev, CEO of Charge Cars.
Yamaha Bicycles Releases All-Mount e-Bike Models
No trail is impossible with super-sophisticated technical assistance. Yamaha's new eMTB is all that. [Yamaha]Yamaha Bicycles recently announced the addition of two YDX-MORO models to its e-Bike lineup. Called the YDX-MORO 07 and YDX-MORO 05 models, the bikes are outfitted with a PW-X3 drive system that boasts a max torque of 85Nm, while ensuring 250W nominal assist, 500W maximum assist, and power assist up to 20mph. The bike’s Automatic Support Mode gives the right amount of assist based on riding conditions, allowing riders to conquer any obstacle on the trail. “The PW-X3 drive unit is 10% lighter and 20% smaller, while producing more torque and the most ‘Pure Ride’ feeling of any e-MTB on the market,” stated Drew Engelmann, Sales and Marketing Manager at Yamaha Power Assist Bicycles.
New York Aims to Ban New Gas Vehicles by 2035
It's happening on the streets of NYC already: it's hard to find a gas station in Manhattan, but EV chargers will be everywhere...
Not wishing to be outdone by California, the Empire State recently adopted a plan to phase out the sale of new gas trucks and cars by 2035. The plan will require 35% of light vehicle sales in the state to be zero-emissions by 2026. This percentage will increase to 68% by 2030, and then to 100% by the target year.
A Human Tesla
In the 'fuck that!' category of true Halloween stories, Tesla's ethically challenged CEO builds an AI version of himself, for his own clone army and eventual takeover of Mars. Amirite? [Tesla]Leave it to Elon to turn the terrors of The Terminator into reality. Earlier this week, the Tesla CEO unveiled a humanoid robot prototype during the company’s AI Day. Called Optimus—really, Tesla?!—the robot uses software derived from Tesla’s cars to move itself and is powered by a 2.3kWh battery. According to various sources, the robot can be used to tackle tasks you don’t want to do yourself, including office work and gardening. If you want your own creepy robot servant, it’ll cost you around $20,000. No guarantees it will not kill errant children or motorcyclists.
Fresh Funds
The global battery materials market is forecast to cross $120B by 2027
Euler Motors raised $60M in series-C funding led by GIC Singapore to beef up its manufacturing and supply chain infrastructure
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 roundup for September. This week, we’ll cover the world’s first flying motorcycle, a truly ugly autonomous concept from VW, a Dutch e-Bike literally designed to last a lifetime, and the latest from Livewire. If you see anything cool you’d like us to cover, hit us up at stephanie@thevintagent.com. Let’s roll.
Livewire is Taking Reservations for the S2 Del Mar
The hotly anticipated S2 Del Mar is the second model from Livewire, and available next Spring. [Livewire]
Earlier this week, Livewire announced that it is taking reservations for the production version of its S2 Del Mar e-Motorcycle. This will be the brand’s first model to feature the new ARROW architecture. The S2 Del Mar, priced at $16,999, will churn out 80 ponies, 184 lb-ft of torque, and is expected to have a city range of 110 miles.
CAKE’s New Line of e-Bikes Supports Global Bee and Pollinator Population
On the 60th anniversary of Rachel Carlson's groundbreaking book 'Silent Spring', CAKE is supporting the Global Bee Initiative with a series of floral Kalks. [CAKE]
Swedish e-bike maker CAKE dropped its new line of Flower Power Limited Edition mono- colored motorbikes earlier this week. The new bikes, available in a wide range of stunning colors, were made in an effort to raise awareness and support the World Bee Project, a global initiative to protect pollinators. “The reality of bees diminishing has been disturbing, but it was not until I and the rest of us here at CAKE watched the French documentary, Insecticides, A Licence to Kill, that the complete crisis fully materialized. The Flower Power initiative is a small contribution sharing the painful reality of our fragile ecosystem, where everyone is obligated to change and take action,” Stefan Ytterborn, founder and CEO of CAKE, said in a press release. Read our most recent interview with Stefan here.
Meet the World’s First Flying Motorcycle
Wannabe Iron Man? Sounds amazing, sounds terrifying, and if I see you in the sky making as much noise as on your chopper I will consider you a target. [Poetry by HS Thompson, image by JetPack Aviation]
Flying cars are cool and all, but JetPack Aviation’s flying motorcycles are even better. The California company, which has already made a name for itself in the vertical people propeller department, recently announced a successful test flight of the world’s first flying motorcycle. The 300-pound flying machine, called the Speeder, can take off and land vertically, as well as fly autonomously. The ultralight version can be flown sans pilot’s license, has top speeds of 60mph, and a flight time of about 15 minutes. The company’s experimental version does require a basic pilot’s license, tops out at 250mph, and has a flight time of 35 minutes. The final design will be outfitted with eight turbines and a size-to-payload ratio of 600 pounds. The Speeder is expected to be commercially available by next year.
An e-Bike That Lasts for a Lifetime
A modest assault an planned obsolescence: the new business ethic? [Roetz]
Amsterdam-based Roetz-Bikes recently released the Roetz Life, an e-bike that’s intended to last forever. The modular e-Bike’s development was three years in the making but well worth it. The result is a futureproof design that relies on a modular concept that enables separate modules to be repaired and replaced as needed. This allows the Roetz Life to evolve with its owner.
The Ugliest Concept We’ve Ever Seen
Well, they called the Beetle 'ugly bugly', and if this is ever produced it will surely deserve a nickname. [VW]
Volkswagen is no stranger to boundary-pushing designs. However, the automaker’s latest concept, the VW Gen.Travel, is truly a sight to behold—and not in a good way. The battery- electric autonomous vehicle is set to replace short-haul flights thanks to its modular interior. Depending on the interior’s configuration, you can host a conference, sleep inside overnight, or entertain the kiddos with augmented reality. This all makes the Gen.Travel a testament to function over form.
Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling Plant Will Alleviate Critical Material Supply Chain Woes
A gritty glimmer of hope: if LiON batteries can be recycled, the pressure on the environment will be reduced. [Cerba]
Heritage Battery Recycling, an affiliate of Cirba Solutions, recently announced plans to build a lithium-ion recycling plant in Eloy, Arizona. This will help alleviate the critical material supply chain that is currently challenging the U.S. The 75,000 sq.ft. facility is expected to produce enough battery material to support 50,000 electric vehicles each year and will be up and running by mid-2023.
Volvo’s New EV is Spying on You
If you drive this car forever, you will never ever sleep. [Volvo]
Swedish automaker Volvo’s newest EV, the EX90, keeps a watchful eye on its driver. The car’s Level 3 driver-assist system carefully analyzes your attention and will notify you if you take your eyes off the road or your hands off the wheel for too long.
20+ Countries Agree to Increase Low-Emission Hydrogen Output by 2030
As part of a global effort to protect the planet, more than 20 countries have agreed to increase low-emission hydrogen output in the next seven years by 90+ million tons. The agreement, led by Japan, will include the U.S., Germany, and Australia. Japan aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
For China, EVs are not the Future, they are the Present
"New electric cars parked under photovoltaic systems in Jinzhong. China has one of the fastest-growing E.V. markets, with sales expected to double this year to about six million vehicles." [China Group via Getty Images]
The New York Times featured an article today explaining how "more electric cars will be sold in the country this year than in the rest of the world combined." 25% of all new cars purchased in China are electric, and more than 300 companies are making EVs in China. The US, by comparison, EVs just passed 5% of new car sales, whereas China passed that marker in 2018. China's leader Xi Jinping declared in 2014 that EVs were the only path forward to make China a global power in the automobile market. With an expected 6 million electric cars selling this year in China, more than the rest of the world combined, that's already true domestically. The number of EV charging stations in China stands at 4 million today, which is double the number from one year ago - an extraordinary infrastructure commitment. The reason for their popularity in China? Price. Reasonable EV sedans sell for $5-10,000, and have 1/10th the running cost of a gas or diesel motor. Electric cars in the West are typically luxury models, but in China they're economy cars (plus some swank rivals to Tesla et al). It will take a few years, but keep your eyes out for Chinese EVs in Western markets soon.
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, your hub for the latest updates about the electric revolution. This week, we’ll take a look at BMW’s plans for Tesla-inspired battery cells, a pioneering e- Motorcycle that’s pushing technological boundaries, a cute and compact city-friendly EV, and an all-electric camper. Your thoughts, tips, and feedback are always appreciated. Please send your inquiries to stephanie@thevintagent.com. iLet’s roll.
BMW’s Big Battery Plans
BMW will share battery dimensions with Tesla by 2025, meaning some modularity of production and use? [BMW]
Earlier this week, German luxury automaker BMW revealed its plans for a new kind of battery cell. The company plans to outfit their cars with the new round-cell batteries starting in 2025. BMW’s new batteries promise quicker recharging times, longer ranges on a full charge, and to reduce costs by as much as 50% compared to its current cells. BMW’s new batteries will share a format with Tesla.
Meet the New Boundary-Pushing e-Motorcycle
The Arc Vector is a hypersports eBike is in a class of its own. [Arc]
A new electric motorcycle dubbed the Arc Vector promises to be the most technologically advanced e-Bike in the world. Hand crafted in the UK, the e-Motorbike has a 40-minute charging time and a range of 436km. But that’s only the start. The Arc Vector lineup also includes a first- of-its-kind human-machine interface (HMI), including a helmet with head-up display and the Arc Origin haptic jacket, which keeps the rider alert with real-time vibrations and taps.
A Cute EV That is Reshaping the Future of Personal Mobility
The CUV is a micromobility vehicle intended for urban use, probably the #1 category for EVs today. [Biomega]
Meet the Biomega CUV, a compact EV that is positioned to redefine the future of city transportation. The petite production-ready electric vehicle features a range of 160km, top speeds of 130 km/h, a 20kWh battery capacity, and four in-hub motors, which keep the cabin clear. The vehicle’s minimalistic design allows for easy maneuvering in tight urban areas.
A Sustainable Bike Made of Concrete
Anytime you're slogging uphill and think your bike is made of concrete, think again. This one is! [Play to DIY]
While our main focus is electric vehicles, we also love to feature eco-friendly mobility concepts as well. This new concrete bicycle built by the team at the Play to DIY YouTube channel immediately caught our attention. Tipping the scales at almost 300 pounds, the concrete bike can roll and pedal. The bike is made from recycled bicycle parts, plywood, pipeline, and, of course, concrete.
This Electric Flying Car Comfortably Fits in Your Garage
The dream of a flying car is evergreen: will Doroni finally crack it? [Doroni]
Skip the hassle of rush-hour traffic when you fly the skies in the Doroni H1 flying car. Developed by Doroni Aerospace, , the two-seater electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicle (eVTOL) can be parked in a two-car garage. The Doroni H1 has a 60-mile range, payload capacity of 200 kilos, and can reach 80% battery capacity in as little as 15 minutes.
Experience Fully Electric Camping with the NS-1
Campworks is ready for you eSUV for a fully off-grid experience. [Campworks]
Want an eco-friendly camping experience? If so, meet the NS-1 electric camper from Campworks. This “off-road micro-grid” is powered by the sun and can store up to 1,840 watts of solar energy, allowing it to work as a generator for any EV that tows it. The NS-1 has 19 inches of ground clearance, enabling it to navigate all types of terrain. The double-pane windows and acoustic insulation wall panels will keep you comfy all year long. The caravan also has spacious sleeping areas and a small kitchen, complete with utensil storage, LED lighting, and a sliding counter.
Fresh Funds
President Joe Biden recently announced the approval of the first $900 million in funding of a $1 trillion infrastructure bill to develop EV charging stations across 35 states.
EnviroSpark, a commercial EV charging startup, raised over $5.7 million in Series A funding.
Monta, another EV charging company, raised $30 million from Energize Ventures.
Electric fleet charging infrastructure company, TeraWatt Infrastructure, secured over $1 billion in Series A funding.
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! Are you finally feeling the chill of the autumn air where you are? We sure hope so. It’s a nice reprieve from the sweltering summer heat we’ve been dealing with. This week’s EV news roundup is pretty cool too. We’re covering a hydrogen fuel cell cyberpunk motorcycle, a Tesla-inspired motorbike, a retro-themed e-Bike complete with a sidecar, and much more. If you’ve come across any compelling EV news you’d like us to cover, shoot us a message at stephanie@thevintagent.com. Let’s roll.
Hydra: The Hydrogen-Powered Cyberpunk Motorbike
A hydrogen motorcycle? There's no reason why not. [Hydra]
We always love a distinctly designed motorcycle. And the Hydra is dressed to impress. The brainchild of designers Anton Guzhov, Anton Brousseau, and André Taylforth, the Hydra is powered by hydrogen fuel cells that have zero harmful emissions. The bike also makes toxic battery acid from EV batteries a thing of the past. In fact, the only by-products of this bike are heat and water—hence its name. And thanks to its fascinating aesthetics, this bike definitely grabbed our attention.
Meet the Tesla-Inspired e-Motorcycle
It's well known that Elon Musk doesn't give a fig about motorcycles, but folks have been designing bikes around the Tesla name for years. Here's the latest concept suggesting what a Tesla bike might look like, although Tesla doesn't build particularly exotic cars... [Zhang Yanqi]
Electric motors have led to an onslaught of peculiar designs. Zhang Yanqi’s new e-Motorcycle concept is just that. Dubbed the “Tesla Model-Z,” this abstract bike boasts thick front spokes, a hubless rear wheel, and a futuristic design. The tilted case with ventilation flares sleekly disguises the typical bulky look of the batteries. The Model-Z promises to go from 0 to 100km/h in 3.5 seconds, with top speeds of 200km/h and a 75km range. These specs, of course, are theoretical.
High-End Electric Boat Features Smart Tech and a Roomy Deck
Xshore is a pioneer on the e-boat scene, and has had success in Sweden's amazing waterways. [Xshore]
Want a luxury, electrified at-sea experience? If so, meet the electric X Shore 1 by Swedish electric boat manufacturer X Shore. Promising to be the “future of boating,” this high-end boat features a generous deck, cantilevered roof, a range of 50 nautical miles, and top speeds of 55km/h thanks to its 125kW electric motor. The X Shore 1 is also outfitted with smart tech for anti-theft and can reach 80% charging capacity in just 50 minutes.
E-Bike with Sidecar
Take a friend on an e-bike adventure! [Modeasy]
Want to take your partner or pooch for a spin? The Mod Easy Sidecar allows you to do just that. Developed by Austin-based electric bike company Mod Bikes, this striking sidecar model is outfitted with 24-inch rims and thick tires, ensuring stability and supreme comfort. The throwback design gives us total vintage vibes. However, this EV has all of the modern creature comforts your heart desires, including LCD display and password-protected unlocking.
This e-Motorcycle Charges All Your Devices
We are reaching the point where our vehicles will be fully integrated into our devices. [Mokwheel]
Want to keep everything juiced, including your EV? Mokwheel’s latest e-Motorbike can do that! Called the Basalt, this bike harnesses the power of the sun to charge all of your gadgets. It’s equipped with a robust 960Wh battery pack and uses a specially developed inverter to charge your devices. Thanks to the solar panels, you can charge this bike virtually anywhere, making it perfect for your next camping adventure.
Electrify America to Build Fast Chargers for EV Truck Fleets
After the call last week for EV owners not to charge their vehicles during peak hours in California, Electrify America is building one possible solution. [Electrify America]
Electrify America will be installing 30 fast chargers in the Port of Long Beach, CA for electric drayage truck fleets. The chargers will feature battery energy storage systems (BESS), enabling them to store energy for use at any time, alleviating issues currently arising with excess demand on the grid at peak hours, and the ironic request by the state of California to take electric vehicles off the grid on hot weather days.
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! We hope you had a great Labor Day weekend! Welcome to the first EV roundup of September. This week’s roundup promises to be a doozy, including an all-electric watercraft that can be turned into a campervan, a wooden balance bike, and Jeep’s plans to become the top zero-emissions SUV brand on the globe Please send your tips, questions, and feedback to stephanie@thevintagent.com. Let’s roll.
All-Electric Watercraft/Camper That Can Tackle Both Land and Sea
It's an RV on the water, or a boat on the highway, and it's all electric: looks like the future of caravaning to us. [Schneider Caravaning]
Have you ever dreamed of a campervan that can be turned into a catamaran? If so, the all-electric land-and-sea watercraft from German company Schneider Caravaning is right up your alley. Dubbed the Caracat 860, this innovative concept is an electric boat and trailer rolled into one. Available in three sizes that span from 21.7 feet to 28.2 feet, the Caracat needs to be towed by a truck but can propel on its own once it hits the water thanks to its 15hp outboard electric engine.
Eco-Friendly Kids’ Balance Bike with a Wooden Frame
If Moebius designed a kid's bike, there you go. The cool monocoque Sweep Bike. [Bored Eye Design]
Start teaching your kids about sustainability early on with an eco-friendly balance bike concept that features a wooden, fluid frame. The brainchild of designer Liam de la Bedoyere from Bored Eye Design, the “Sweep Bike” entices kids to learn how to ride. Seamlessly blending imagination with function, the Sweep Bike requires no pedaling, allowing children to learn how to balance their bodies the right way.
Hyundai’s New Luxury EV Brand Has Finally Arrived
Will it be cheaper / faster / better than a Tesla? Well, it's built a lot closer to China... [Hyundai]
South Korean automaker Hyundai will now take on Tesla and Mercedes while undercutting their prices with the arrival of its new luxury EV brand, Genesis. Their 2023 Genesis Electrified G80 sedan, soon to be available in several US states, cranks out 365 ponies and 516 lb-ft of torque. Thanks to its 87.2kWh battery, the Electrified G80 has a range of 282 miles. Best of all, the starting price is $80,920, making it a bargain in the luxury EV segment.
Jeep Aims to Be the World’s Top Zero-Emission SUV Brand
Jeep plans to be a big player in the lookin-offroad EV market. [Jeep]
Jeep is taking the electric realm by storm with four new EVs rolling out in the next three years. The automaker’s ultimate goal is to become the world’s leading electric SUV manufacturer. “We are designing and developing the most capable and sustainable Jeep SUVs to date, on our path to becoming the leading zero-emission SUV brand in the world,” Christian Meunier, Jeep brand CEO, said earlier this week.
Hydrogen Might Save the Electric Grid
"NREL's hydrogen and fuel cell research is lowering the cost and increasing the scale of technologies to make, store, move, and use hydrogen across multiple energy sectors." [NREL]
As the demand for EVs continues to rise, the need for a smarter electric grid has never been greater. Hydrogen might be the solution. A recent paper from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory takes a deep dive into such a plan, stating that off-peak electric grid capacity allows for the cheap production of hydrogen for better energy storage. Do you think a plan like this could work?
Fresh Funds
Ascend Elements, an engineered materials and lithium-ion battery recycling company based in the US, just received $50 million from SK ecoplant, the environmental leg of SK, Inc.
Mobile EV charging network provider SparkCharge raised an additional $7 million to its Series A round. That brings the company’s total to $30 million.
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 you believe it’s already September? This year seems to be whizzing by. While the summer was packed with exciting EV news, a little bird told us that this autumn will be even better. Just look at this week’s EV news round up. From stunningly designed e-Motorcycles from Italy to a cyberpunk bobber that looks like it came straight out of Blade Runner, this week’s stories are coming in hot. As always, send us your tips, questions, and feedback to stephanie@thevintagent.com. Let’s roll.
Form Meets Function in These Exquisite Italian e-Motorcycles
The new Arlix ebike mixes vintage motorcycle cues with modern MTB looks. [Arlix]
Arlix, a bespoke e-Motorcycle manufacturer based in Italy, is transforming machines into works of art with their line of luxury sustainable vehicles. What started out as a vision quickly became a reality when long-time friends, Giancarlo and Agostino, took their passion for assembling off-road motorcycle one step further. Today, the two innovators are creating provocative EVs that straddle the line between bicycles and motorcycles. Their limited-edition line of handcrafted bikes attracts both art lovers and motorcyclists alike. The parallelogram fork and other thoughtful components give the Arlix a futuristic look, while the 250W motor allows the bike to have a range of 125 miles. The Arlix is truly the perfect merge of form and function.
Meet the Cyberpunk Electric Bobber
Vaporware, but an indication of designers' response to contemporary EV issues: a big battery in the middle, and a need for wheels to move it. The Hermes falls into the Lotus X1 camp, with a long and low chassis. Would you ride it? [Ravichandra Madhavarapu]Many EVs have been inspired by Greek gods. Take Curtiss’ Zeus and Hera e-Motorcycles for instance. Another recent example of an EV paying tribute to the gods is the Hermes-X30. The brain child of Ravichandra Madhavarapu, the Hermes-X30 is a futuristic electric bobber concept that boasts a geometric body, square tank, and a flat saddle. With a mostly concealed suspension, thick wheels, and panel covers, the Hermes-X30 was inspired by the Netflix series Cyberpunk 2077. While the Hermes-X30 is a just a digital rendering for now, we’re excited to see what the future holds.
Polestar to Supply Batteries for Candela Boats
Polestar meets Candela eBoats, making us wonder why more boat companies aren't teaming up with car tech. [Candela]Polestar is teaming up with Candela Boats to supply batteries and electric charging stations for the electric hydrofoil maker. Candela currently offers small hydrofoils that are powered by 40kWh batteries and offer a range of 50 nautical miles. Polestar is reported to soon be using a new gigafactory in Gothenburg, Sweden to build future EV batteries.
Canoo Testing Walmart EV Vans
The business of EVs is business. Like contracting with municipalities and the military worked for Harley-Davidson (for a century), EV companies are targeting delivery businesses for fleet sales. Canoo X Walmart is the latest. [Canoo]Canoo is partnering with Walmart to begin real-world testing of its electric LDV vans. Walmart has ordered 4,500 electric vans from the EV manufacturer for home deliveries. The vans are designed for last-mile, high-frequency deliveries and offer a range of up to 250 miles.
TransPod FluxJet Reaches Tops Speeds of 1,000 KM/H
Having ridden a Chinese mag-flux 350mph train, I can say ditch the jet for medium-range travel. [Transpod]Canadian startup TransPod is in the process of building an ultra-high-speed ground transportation system called the TransPod Line. This week, the company unveiled its FluxJet, which will reshape how people and packages are moved. The fully-electric vehicle, which is a mash-up of a train and plane, features contactless power transmission technology and a new field of physics dubbed veillance flux, which enables the FluxJet to travel 1,000 km/h. To put it into context, that’s three-times faster than a high-speed train. TransPod just announced the next phase of its $18B infrastructure project, which is slated to create 140,000 jobs in Canada. Once the lines are in operation, TransPod is estimated to reduce CO2 emissions by 636,000 tons every year.
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 your news hub for all things EV. This week we’ll be taking a look at an e-Bike made out of plants, an electric backpack helicopter, Kawasaki’s plans for an electrified future, and fully electric restorations of some iconic classics. Be sure to send your tantalizing EV tips to stephanie@thevintagent.com. Let’s roll.
A Folding e-Bike Made from Plants
The Hummingbird Flax is light in the hand and attempting to be light on the planet, using only sustainably-grown plant fibers for its frame. [Hummingbird]What’s more eco-friendly than an electric bicycle? One made from plants! Meet the Hummingbird Flax, a new folding e-Bike outfitted with a frame made from sustainable flax plant fibers. Weighing just 22 pounds, the Flax e-Bike features a 250W rear hub motor and is powered by a 158Wh battery, giving it an electric assist range of about 31 miles.
Electric Backpack Helicopter Concept is the Future of Personal Transportation
Dreams dreams and more dreams. We love that people build stuff like this: it's no surprise that making helipacks commercially available is pretty much impossible, despite startups and promises, but we can dream, no? [Copterpack]Forget personal aircrafts. Australian startup CopterPack created an electric prototype that allows you to fly through the sky using a bookbag. The company’s electric-helicopter backpack features a self-leveling autopilot and lightweight carbon fiber honeycomb airframe that becomes a natural extension of the pilot’s body, enabling them to take flight. How cool is that?
Kawasaki Looks to an Electric Future
Looks like and e-Kawi on test to us. Will they style it conservatively like most other OEM bids to join the future, or will they try something ultra stylish? Methinks it will have a 'gas tank' etc... [Kawasaki]Kawasaki is readying itself for an electric future with two new e-Motorcycles, codenamed
Following the brand’s traditional pattern, the ‘X’ is used to designate a sport bike while the ‘R’ represents a naked roaster. Both models are expected to be unveiled next year.
DeLorean Unveils Omega 2040 Concept at Pebble Beach
Not your daddy's cocaine-fueled stainless roadster! We've moved to stronger stuff here - look out world. [DeLorean]DeLorean recently revealed its wild Omega 2040 Baja-themed electric off-roader at Pebble Beach. The new EV features huge wheels, a lifted stance, and futuristic styling. But is it a pickup or SUV? The automaker also showcased its new Alpha5 Plasmatail that boasts a streamlined fastback design and gullwing doors.
Lightning Tachyon Hopes for an Electric Speed Record
The Lightning Tachyon, designed to hit 250mph, which will snatch the 'world's fastest production motorcycle' securely back in the hands of this small California company. [Lightning]Lightning Motorcycles recently announced that it is going after the e-Motorcycle speed record with its Tachyon Nb. The brand claims that the Tachyon can reach speeds in excess of 250mph. The bike’s namesake is a nod to the hypothetical particle that can travel faster than the speed of light, which is scientifically impossible. The “Nb” is the chemical symbol for niobium, which is the main product of Lightning’s project partner, CBMM. The Tachyon’s fairings were made in collaboration with motorcycle saddle maker Corbin, whose founder, Mike Corbin, set an e-Motorcycle speed record in the 1970s.
Bandit9’s Electric Sports Car Concept is Easy on the Eyes
Tired of those Instagram clips of some ultrawealthy dude driving his unregistered F1 car on the freeway recently? Bandit9 caters to the dream, bringing you an F1 inspired street car to your door. [Bandit9]Bandit9 recently dropped its new all-electric sports car concept, the attention-grabbing Monaco. Encased in stunning black carbon fiber monocoque, the sexy EV is powered by the same electric engine and LPF batteries that are under the hood of the Tesla Model S. The Monaco churns out 526 horses and 445 lb-ft of torque thanks to having its batteries and engine positioned in the rear. Sprinting from 0 to 60 in just 2.7 seconds, this car can cover 250 miles on just one charge. “That’s faster and stronger than most modern muscle cars,” Bandit9 stated. The Monaco, also featuring an ultrawide tactical camera and jet-like cockpit, starts at $150,000 and ships worldwide.
Kindred Motorworks Electrifies Iconic Classics
We all love the looks of vintage cars, but in truth they're filthy! No emission controls, leaky engines, poor carburation. Keep the style, swap the motive power, make 'em 'lectric. [Kindred Motorworks]California-based Kindred Motorworks is transforming beloved classics into eco-friendly EVs. The company has turned a Volkswagen Bus, Chevy Camaro, and Ford Bronco into fully electric restorations. Prices for the updated classic vehicles range from $149,000 to $199,000 and include a guaranteed 200-mile range.
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! It looks like this heatwave that has had the world in a chokehold isn’t going to let up anytime soon. We hope you all are staying cool and hydrated. The EV industry is also still holding plenty of heat. In this week’s roundup, we’ll take a look at a weird boomerang-shaped off-roading EV concept, the first all-electric aluminum camper, the new Polestar 6 electric roadster, and more. If you have any tips, questions, or feedback you’d like to share, send your inquiries to stephanie@thevintagent.com. Let’s roll.
Boomerang-Shaped EV Concept with Off-Roading Capabilities
What shape are your dreams? OK, it isn't really a boomerang, more a doorstop, but it looks very interesting all the same. [Artem Smirnov]Belarus-based designer Artem Smirnov recently released a new two-seater EV concept that blew our minds. The boomerang-shaped urban mobility concept, called the PIX L7, boasts a forward-thinking V-shaped body and off-road capabilities. The buggy-inspired design is outfitted with guard rails that span the entire length of the vehicle’s top half, panning front fog lights, and can be turned into a load carrier for shorter trips.
Bowlus’ New Luxury EV Camper is a Reimagined Airstream
Lookin' like an electric bullet, the Bowlus aluminum camper is solar-powered and retro-modern. Llamas not included. [Bowlus]Luxury RV brand Bowlus recently revealed its all-electric aluminum camper, the Volterra. Claiming to be the first of its kind, the Volterra will have satellite internet, 480W solar panels, a 50-gallon fresh water tank, and 17kWh battery system. Measuring just over 27 feet long, the Volterra can sleep four passengers comfortably. The starting price for this baby is a whopping $310,000, which makes it better suited for glamping instead of camping.
Meet the New 884hp Polestar Electric Roadster
Faster than your Miata, or Jaguar, the new Polestar convertible looks to kick IC booty. [Polestar]Polestar recently announced that it will be adding an 884hp electric roadster to its lineup in 2026. Called the Polestar 6, the hardtop convertible will share the same drivetrain as the Polestar 5 super-sedan and deliver 663 lb-ft of torque thanks to its 800V dual-electric motor setup. Polestar says the roadster will be able to sprint from 0 to 60 in 3.2 seconds and achieve top speeds of 155mph.
Ford Reopens Order Books for Its Lightning Electric Pickup
After a year of delays, hesitations, and layoffs, Ford is back in the electric pickup biz. [Ford]Ford fans will be thrilled to hear that the automaker is taking more orders for its first electric pickup, the F-150 Lightning. Unfortunately, the trucks are now much more expensive than their originally promised starting price of around $40,000. New buyers will now have to shell out $48,769 or more for a new Lightning.
Elaqua Marine Debuts Fully-Electric Personal Watercraft
Elaqua Marine, Inc. recently revealed its fully-electric personal watercraft that boasts 81 miles worth of range and top speeds of 55mph. Riders can enhance their time on the water with the PWC’s onboard Human Interface screen and 5G connectivity. The fully-electric powertrain means less maintenance and downtime, so you can spend more time riding the waves.
CAKE to Host a Weekend of Clean Racing
CAKE has its own-make race series worldwide: the start of something new? [CAKE]Electric bike maker CAKE is hosting the CAKE World One Design Race on Gotland in Sweden this Saturday. The electric off-road racing series will include elite riders from every corner of the globe who will compete against each other using identical bikes, making the series an inclusive, industry-first. “CAKE One Design Worlds is an initiative to promote inclusive, silent, and clean racing in the aftermath of racing tracks shutting down in the past 15 years, due to disturbance and pollution. Thanks to light, torquey, and snappy bikes, the format is available, exciting, and compact for riders as well as for audience and media,” said Stefan Ytterborn, founder and CEO of CAKE.
VW’s Unveils Working Electric Air Taxi Concept
Taxi! Fly me to the moon, so I can sing among the stars! [VW]Volkswagen recently revealed a working concept of an electrical Vertical Take Off and Landing (eVTOL) craft that is being developed in China. The new concept has a planned range of up to 124 miles, measures 36.7 feet in length, and is equipped with eight exposed rotors along its top and two additional ones in a pusher configuration for horizontal flying. VW says the eVTOL will be able to carry four passengers.
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! We hope y’all are keeping cool. This heatwave feels like it’s never going to end. This week’s EV news roundup is just as hot. We’re covering an electric Meyers Manx dune buggy, the world’s lightest folding e-Bike, new e-Motorcycles from Can-Am, a fat-tired e-Bike that can tackle the toughest terrain, and more. Send us your EV tips, questions, or feedback to stephanie@thevintagent.com. Let’s roll.
Say What? Meet the Meyers Manx 2.0 Electric Dune Buggy
The Myers Manx EV prototype captures the wonderful spirit of the original Dune Buggy. [Myers Manx]
The very first Meyers Manx was painstakingly built by hand in a rented Newport Beach garage in 1964. Boy, how times have changed! Earlier this week, the brand announced that its fun- loving dune buggy is back. But now, it’s electrified. The new Meyers Manx 2.0 Electric features a 40kWh battery and has an estimated range of about 300 miles. The first 50 buggies will go to Beta testers next year, while regular customers can get behind the wheel in 2024.
Sweet booty! Looks like a very fun ride, and the ultra light weight will make for Cobra-like performance. [Myers Manx]
The revival of the beloved Myers Manx brand has been imminent, since the purchase of all assets by a group led by billionaire Philip Sarophim a few years ago. The Vintagent team has been proud to include two of Sarophim's collection in our Petersen Museum exhibits ('Big Oly' and the Lancia Stratos Zero), and we've known of the plan to develop an EV version of the Myers Manx since the acquisition of the brand. The revived Myers Manx sponsored a significant entry of vintage dune buggies in the Mexican 1000 race earlier this year, raising the profile and visibility of the iconic design, and the buzz about the new model began. A launch party in LA earlier this week confirmed that development is well underway, with a fully function prototype present. Question remain: how is this thing street legal? We promise to dig in on that soon.
Ryvid Releases Rad New e-Bike
The new Ryvid eBike looks to be a worthy competitor to Zero and Livewire. [Ryvid]
eBike maker Ryvid recently dropped its first launch-edition e-Bike, The Anthem. Developed using aerospace technology, this versatile e-Bike clocks in at 240lbs and features a bespoke stainless-steel chassis, Ergo-Easy ride height-adjustable seat, and removable battery pack. The pre-sale launch is slated for this Sunday, August 14 at 10am PST. With only 1,000 bikes available and priced to please at $7,800, you better act fast.
The World’s Lightest Folding e-Bike
Super light, super foldy. The new Vello (we Velocette owners object to the name, let it be known), from Austria. [Velo]
Austrian e-Bike manufacturer Vello just announced that it will be developing a folding electric bicycle that weighs under 22lbs. To achieve its feather-light weight, Vello’s Ultralight will be made from a titanium frame that is combined with carbon fiber components. Riders can fold the bike completely in just eight seconds. The discreet rear-wheel hub motor uses an integrated slope sensor that acts like a gear change, automatically adjusting the motor assist as needed. The discreet battery will be seamlessly integrated into the engine to conserve space and weight thanks to Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS) technology.
Can-Am Unveils Its New Electric Street Bikes
The new Can-Am lineup: street and ADV inspired Pulse and Origin, targeting existing motorcyclists with light and modestly priced machines. [Can Am]
Earlier this week, Can-Am gave the world a virtual tour of its two new e-Motorcycles, the Pulse and the Origin. The latter is a rally bike/scrambler mashup and, according to the company, is “designed to bring new exhilaration to the street and the trail.” The Pulse lacks a gearbox but is equipped with a twist-and-go throttle. Want more details? Unfortunately, you’ll have to wait until next year.
The Can-Am Pulse takes design cues from the Husqvarna Viltpilen, making it modern but not too edgy. [Can Am]
Can-Am, part of the Canadian powersports giant Bombardier (BRP), has a history of motorcycle production back in the 1970s, building winning MX bikes with Rotax powerplants. They even won the 1974 MX World Championships (rider Gary Jones), but ceased production in 1987 with recession and big market changes (read, unbeatable Japanese MX investment). BRP revives the Rotax connection with the new models, teaming up to use Rotax E-Power for its new models. That collaboration has likely been ongoing since 2018, when BRP acquired important intellectual property assets from the bankruptcy sale of Alta motorcycles - by far the industry leader in off-road eMoto technology even today. Harley-Davidson absorbed significant Alta tech (and a few important personnel) during a short-lived investment deal with the brand in 2017/18, so Alta tech now forms the heart of two giants now in competition with each other: Can-Am and LiveWire. Very interesting indeed. LiveWire recently teased their new, lighter lineup, which puts it in the same market category as the proposed Can-Am models. The original LiveWire, of course, remains in a category by itself, as no other major OEM has dared to invest in production of a large motorcycle, yet.
The e-Bike You Can Ride Off Road
Rokon? Nope, it's the 2X2 Ultra Bike from Robo Systems, capable of going just about anywhere. [Robo Systems]
Want an e-Bike that can go further? If so, check out Robo.System’s new ultra-fat-tired e-Bike. Called the 2x2 Ultra Bike, this thing looks like it came straight out of Mad Max. Featuring a 1,000W brushless DC motor and a 49-volt LifeP04 battery pack encased in a waterproof compartment, this bike can travel through mud, water, and everywhere in between for up to 40 miles. Is that far enough?
Coswheel’s New GT20 Sports e-Motorcycle
A new entry into the go-anywhere, lightweight eBike, the Coswheel GT20. [Coswheel]
The GT20, Coswheel’s new electric sports ebike, will definitely push the boundaries of 'bicycle' and 'motorcycle.' It has bicycle pedals, all-terrain tires, and an aluminum alloy chassis, plus a 750W high-speed motor with 30 to 60 miles of range. Looks like room for an extra battery in that basket, which presumably doubles the possible range, and the pedals make it rideable without a motorcycle license, with a one-time, permanent licensing fee in most states. Whether machines like this remain under the 'bicycle' category is unclear.
Want to Rent an EV? Here’s Your Chance
Try before you buy? The UFODrive car rental system lets you try an EV for as long as you like, or at least gives you the option for short-term use. [UFO Drive]
The world’s first EV rental company, UFODRIVE, just landed in San Francisco. Thanks to its wild popularity over in Europe, the company decided to open up shop in California and has plans to open in additional cities this fall. Drivers can rent Teslas, electric VWs, and more. UFODRIVE is part of Inspiration Mobility, a sustainable infrastructure investment platform exclusively focused on the real assets that enable the EV transition.
New EV Tax Credit Proposals Has Its Limitations
According to FOX Business, 70% of the United States’ current EVs wouldn’t qualify for a $7,500 tax credit under a recent proposal to the Senate. That’s because the proposal requires that the vehicles’ batteries and mineral components are sourced from the US. Currently, that's an impossible situation, as China controls the majority of battery production, from rare mineral mining internationally to actual manufacturing of batteries, and while US-controlled companies have (belatedly) ramped up both mining and manufacturing, currently it is impossible to supply Made In USA vehicle batteries in significant numbers. So, if FOX is correct, the much-vaunted support for EVs in the current legislation is an empty claim.
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 you believe it’s already August? Time flies when you’re behind the handlebars. This week’s EV news roundup spotlights some pretty intriguing stories, including a new e-Bike that tracks air pollution in real-time, a sleek e-Motorcycle concept from an innovative Spanish designer, fully-customizable electric Mokes, and an e-Bike trailer that’s sure to enhance your next camping trip. If you want to voice your opinions or send us a story you’d like us to cover, hit us up at stephanie@thevintagent.com. Let’s roll.
The New Noordung e-Bike Fuses Music and Eco-Consciousness
The Noordung eBike rocks tunes. [Noordung]
Passionate about music? More importantly, do you want to combat climate control? If so, the sleek new e-bike from Noordung is definitely your cup of sustainable tea. Outfitted with a boombox that features four built-in speakers, Noordung’s new e-Bike allows riders to enjoy their favorite tunes while on the go. Better yet, the e-Bike’s PM 2.5 and PM 10 particle sensors allow riders to record air quality changes in real-time via an intuitive app.
This Sexy New e-Motorcycle is an All-In-One Cruiser, Café, and Dragster
The Wayra EV-03 is way long, like a bevel-drive Ducati twin of the 1970s, and packs interesting technology. [Wayra]
Spanish designer Pablo Baranoff Dorn is bringing sexy back in a sleekly sophisticated way. His new e-Moto concept, called the WAYRA EV-03, is a ruggedly elegant motorcycle inspired by the perfect balance of nostalgia, distinctive design, and cult classics. Packed with personality, the WAYRA EV-03’s design tips its hat to the heritage of cruiser-length and fat bikes, while also having the subtle nuisances of café aesthetics. Featuring a curved body that hugs the tank, low-slung rider positioning, and an onboard display with retro-inspired digital typeface, the WAYRA EV-03 is ahead of the EV curve when it comes to form and function.
Meet the New All-Electric Moke
Mokes! An iconic beach vehicle, now with 100% less noise. [Moke]
Moke America recently put a new spin on the 1960s classic cruiser by making it entirely electric. Exclusively available in the US, the new e-Moke features a bigger, wider, and sturdier 2,300- pound design than its predecessors. Furthermore, these electric Mokes are fully customizable and outfitted with 13 to 14-inch wheels. Riders can choose their own seats, colors, steering wheel, and additional features. The EVs can reach a full charge within eight hours via a 110 outlet, reach max speeds of 25mph, and are priced at $21,975.
Former HD Assembly Plant Will Now Manufacturer e-Rickshaws
Mayuri electric rickshaws will be built in this former H-D assembly plant in India. [Economic Times]
An India-based assembly plant that was formerly used to assemble Harley-Davidson motorcycles will now be rolling out Mayuri e-Rickshaws. Saera Electric, the plant’s new owner, will use the space to assemble all-electric rickshaws. The company plans to start producing electric two- wheelers at the site next year. Sono Motor’s New Sion Charges Itself Sono Motor’s new electric car, the Sion, harnesses the power of the sun to charge itself. Outfitted with nearly 500 half cells that are seamlessly integrated into the vehicle’s body, the Sion is fully self-sufficient on short-distance trips. With a range of up to 189 miles, the Sion can also be used as a sustainable power plant for your home for up to five days.
This e-Bike Camper Makes Any Solo Outdoor Adventure Comfortable
"Martha, Martha, I love you can't you see?" (Tom Waits). Got an eBike? Wanna go camping in comfort? Here you go. [Maxmess Design]
Don’t have the budget or space for a massive RV? You might want to scoop up the new Martha e-Bike trailer from Maxmess Design. Thanks to its multi-functionality, the Martha trailer offers downsized camping comfort. Crafted completely from aluminum, the single-person trailer features a solar-connected battery, skylight, electrical command center, and more.
Fresh Funds
• GM sold $2.25 billion worth of green bonds.
• EV conversion startup Everrati received an investment from former Nest CEO Matt Rogers.
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 EV news roundup of July 2022. This week, we’ll cover a new hybrid car from Bentley, KTM’s new electric dirt bikes for the kiddos, new high-end e-Motorcycles from Bajaj, and more. Don’t forget to send your questions, feedback, and tips to stephanie@thevintagent.com. Let’s roll.
Guido On The Market
Can't touch this! Well actually, you can, as Guido is available. [Henne Co]
In 2020 we wrote about Henne Co's amazing EV custom 'Guido', which gets massive likes on social media for its outrageous stance and slick shape. Henne is putting Guido on the market: if you want something totally unique and an all-eyes vehicle, here's your huckleberry. Give 'em a shout if you need some Guido.
Layer’s Sleek New e-Bike Adds Style to Any Commute
R U RD? The Layer chassis resembles a Puch moped in its universal U shape, but this one's a ute - an urban utility vehicle and ideal commuter bike. [Layer]London-based design company Layer recently released a sleek, minimalistic, and compact e-Bike that adds beauty to your everyday commute. Called the Pendler, derived from the Danish word for ‘commuting,’ the new electric bike features a toned-down aesthetic that will still get you noticed. The bike comes with several different detachable accessories that allows riders to carry shopping bags and luggage. It also features a phone deck, 20-inch wheels, and folding pedals. The Pendler has a range of about 15.5 miles thanks to its compact 45Nm motor and 250Wh battery.
The Stromer ST7 Will Feature New Electric Shifting Technology
Bye chain! Stromer uses a belt drive, and an electric shifting system...which has been avail on hi-end bicycles for decades. [Stromer]The Stromer ST7 will be the first Speed Pedelec that boasts instant electric shifting technology. The bike uses the Pinion Smart.Shift C1.12i electric shifting system and a Gates Carbon Belt Drive for instant and intuitive shifting. The Stromer ST7 also features a 1440Wh battery, 27.5-inch tires, and 161 miles worth of range.
Bajaj to Releases High-End e-Motorcycles
Bajaj is the 4th largest motorcycle producer in the world, after Honda, Yamaha, and arch-rival Hero. Bajaj built 6.3 Million two-wheelers in 2019. By contrast, Harley-Davidson sold less than 200k bikes that year. [Bajaj]Leading motorcycle manufacturer Bajaj Auto recently announced that it would be exploring platforms for high-end e-Motorcycles with its e-Bike partner, KTM. The company is also taking a strategic approach to the expansion of its Chetak e-Scooter. Bookings for the high-end scooter currently stand at over 16,000.
KTM’s e-Bikes for the Kiddos
KTM's balance bikes are cool for kids! [KTM]Speaking of KTM, the company recently unveiled three new mini off-roading e-Bikes for kids. The new lineup includes the SX-E 3, the MC-E 3, and EE 3. The company hopes to bridge the gap between its electric balance bikes and beefier mini e-Bikes with the new kid-friendly lineup.
“Our relationships with our dealers, their feedback and input have always been invaluable to us. That’s why we are proud to present our range of electric motorcycles for the youngest riders for the first time here in the world’s biggest offroad motorcycle market,” said KTM Chief Sales Officer Florian Kecht.
Jeep’s New Fat Tire e-Bike
Goes anywhere, does everything? While we applaud the Jeep eBike, we think it should be two wheel drive, no? [Jeep]
The team over at QuietKat recently dropped the Jeep Fat Tire e-Bike. Developed in collaboration with Jeep, the new off-road e-Bike features front and rear suspension, fat all-terrain tires, front and rear disc brakes, an 1500W electric motor, a SRAM nine-speed drivetrain, and a lithium-ion battery that powers the bike for up to 58+ miles over all types of terrain.
Bentley’s New Hybrid Luxury Vehicle
OK, I'd drive this over a Prius any day. Bentley goes badass on the hybrid tip: pass the organic grey poupon. Note location: hi LA! [Bentley]Luxury automaker Bentley is now expanding its portfolio to include electrified powertrains. Part of this push is the new Flying Spur, a hybrid powertrain-equipped luxury sedan. The new model features a 2.9-liter V6 engine mated to a hybrid system. The Flying Spur can crank out 536 ponies and 553 lb-ft of torque.
GM’s Grandiose Plans for EV Domination
Planning to dominate: GM's EV lineup will be massive, from commercial vehicles and people movers to Hummers, pickups, and passenger cars. [GM]American automaker GM recently announced that its on its way to producing one million EVs by 2025. The company already has 150,000+ reservations for the Silverado EV and 80,000+ reservations for its electric Hummer.
Fresh Funds
Ola Electric will invest $500 million to establish a new battery innovation center in India.
Sodium-ion battery maker, Natron Energy, raised $7 million from Nabors Industries.
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! We hope everyone is staying cool during this oppressive heat wave. Thankfully, you can kick back and relax in the AC while checking out this week’s top EV stories, including a futuristic electrified beast of burden, a limited-edition electric mountain bike from a Polestar collab, and Lightning’s new electric adventure bike. Send your tips, questions, and feedback to stephanie@thevintagent.com. Let’s roll.
Ouca Unveils a Futuristic Electric Cargo Trike
The Ouca is an interesting variant on the trike theme, which will undoubtedly become the last-mile delivery vehicle of choice in urban areas. [Ouca]
Finland-based startup Ouca Bikes just dropped an electric cargo trike that, as the adjectives on the side of the vehicle suggest, is smooth, strong, and stable. The trike is built with utility and durability in mind, ensuring a smooth ride regardless of road conditions and can tow up to 562 pounds. While Ouca has yet to release specs, we do know that the trike comes in three models, including the Ouca Kiddiebus, Transport, and Space. All three models are equipped with a powerful Revonte motor, automatic gearbox, and a reverse gear.
Polestar Partners with Allebike to Release Limited-Edition, Full-Suspension EMTB
Polestar is having strong sales in the EV market, and is branching out to the highly profitable electric mountain bike market. [Polestar]
Swedish EV maker Polestar has teamed up with Swiss high-end bike manufacturer Allebike to develop a full-suspension electric mountain bike. Called the Allebike Alpha Polestar, the limited-edition product aims for a minimalistic and lightweight design. Öhlins, another Swiss company, will handle the suspension. The e-Bike will feature a carbon-fiber frame, full suspension, and a slack head tube angle of 65 degrees. Only 100 of these hand-built bikes are available online.
Lightning to Design Electric Adventure e-Motorcycle
Lightning still builds the fastest road bike the world with their LS218: no doubt their adventure bike will have serious performance too. [Lightning]
Lightning Motorcycles could be entering the EV arena with plans for an electric adventure bike. The folks over at Motorcycle.com managed to get their hands on regulatory paperwork from China which details a bike with ADV characteristics.
Hyundai Releases Two Performance EV Concepts
Hyundai taking aim at the current crop of high-performance EVs. [Hyundai]
Automaker Hyundai unveiled two N brand performance EV concepts earlier this week. The “rolling lab” N concepts will allow the company to test and verify future technologies. The two models include the RN22e and Vision 74. The former will be built on Hyundai’s E-GMP platform and feature four-piston mono-block calipers, a 400mm hybrid disc, and reach speeds of 155mph. The Vision 74, a nod to Hyundai’s 1975 Pony Coupe, will be built on an advanced hydrogen fuel cell system and have a 373-mile range.
Northern Light’s Single-Seater Electric Trike
Northern Lights builds a badass electric cyclecar - the past revisited. [Northern Lights]
Want to replace your car with a head-turning trike that looks like a Morgan? If so, meet the new three-wheeled single-seater EV from British startup Northern Light Motors. Touted as the “future of personal transport,” the trike is available in three different models, with the pedal-powered base model featuring a 10-speed gear derailleur and hydraulic disc brakes. The premium model is outfitted with a 48V, 20Ah battery and a 1.5kW hub motor and offers 40 miles of range and top speeds of 28mph.
Job Cuts
Ford is eliminating up to 8,000 jobs in the next few weeks in an effort to fund its transition into the EV industry. The job cuts will affect the automaker’s white-collar workforce and will most likely come in phases. Arrival, a UK-based commercial EV company, is also planning to let go of 30% of its workforce in an effort to weather challenging economic times. Rivian is also expected to cut 4,000 jobs in the near future, as supply chain issues have slowed production.
Fresh Funds
Nyobolt raised $59 million in Series B funding to develop an EV battery that can charge in five minutes.
The e-Scooter market is forecasted to grow from $21.02 billion to $36.10 billion by 2029.
Lightship, an electric RV startup founded by Tesla alumni, raised $23 million in Series A funding.
Husband Builds e-Bike-Wheelchair So His Wife Can See the Sea
Electric has always provided mobility options: the original Invacar concept has been built with electric power since the 1930s. [Kevin Harvey]
This is a sweet note to end on. Kevin Harvey of New Zealand was struggling to push his wife Bev’s wheelchair up the steep hills of New Plymouth’s Coastal Walkway. To help make his job easier, Kevin decided to weld her wheelchair to the front of his homemade e-Bike. The e-Bike-wheelchair mashup is outfitted with a seatbelt, disc brakes, and curved front forks. Now, Bev and Kev can get around town and enjoy gorgeous oceanic views together.
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! While we’re stoked that gas prices are finally dropping, the electric vehicle space is continuing to ramp up. In this week’s EV news roundup, we’ll take a look at a sleek Honda e-Bike collab, an all-electric bespoke hypercar, the latest on Rivian, and how America’s greenhouse gas emissions are causing damage to other countries. Be sure to send your tips, feedback, and opinions to stephanie@thevintagent.com. Let’s roll.
US Emissions Have Inflicted $2 Trillion Worth of Damage to Other Countries
America definitely loves big trucks. But according to a new analysis, the emissions that the US is continuously pumping out is having a devastating impact on other countries. In fact, America has inflicted almost $2 trillion in damages to other countries from its greenhouse gas emissions. Under-developed countries have been hit the hardest, experiencing crop failures and heatwaves. The US, along with China, Russia, India, and Brazil, are the five biggest culprits behind worldwide losses, totaling a staggering $6 trillion in damages, or about 11% of the annual global gross domestic profit (GDP).
Honda x MUJI New e-Bike Has an Impressive 40-Mile Range
The high-design/low-cost store MUJI is an international legend. Their collaboration with Honda looks fun and harkens back to Honda's most iconic designs. [MUJI]
Japanese retail company MUJI recently teamed up with Big Red to create a sleekly minimalistic e-Bike. Called the MS01, the bike is powered by a 400W electric motor that delivers top speeds of 15.5mph and a 40-mile range. Additional features include 17-inch wheels, keyless start/stop, and an LCD instrument panel. Only 5,000 bikes are available, so if you want one, you better act fast.
Ducati Drops Fat Tire Folding e-Bikes
Using their popular Scrambler brand, Ducati returns to its bicyclish roots with their first eBike, an electric folder. [Ducati]Ducati, typically known for its muscly sportbikes, has found another calling: pint-sized e-Bikes. The company just unveiled two new folding fat tire e-Bikes, expanding its EV portfolio. Both of the new bikes were released under the company’s Scrambler brand and use a 60Nm Bafang rear-mounted hub motor. The SCR-E GT model is outfitted with 20-inch street tires and a 500Wh battery that promises 50 miles worth of range. Ducati’s other folding e-Bike, the SCR-X, is more suitable for trails.
After Five Years of Development, the Rimac Nevera is Finally Headed to Production
Rimac's new hypercar has absurd horsepower and gem tone paints. Will the hypercar buyer dig it? [Rimac]
Mate Rimac’s sexy electric hypercar, the Rimac Nevera, is finally in production. The 150-unit limited run will be produced over the next three years by this Croatian startup, who have been showing their prototypes around for years. The four-motored, 120kHh vehicle is promised to crank out 1,914 ponies and 1,740 lb-ft of torque. Nearly every major component of the bespoke model was custom build exclusively for the Nevera, including a new-gen battery system, electric motor, and control system. "The Nevera was developed with the intention to become the cutting-edge electric hypercar it is today, ready to thrill drivers and passengers in a way they have never experienced before,” Rimac stated.
Triumph Releases TE-1 e-Motorcycle Prototype Test Results
One step closer to becoming only the second major OEM to build a full-size eBike, as rivals like BMW and Ducati stick to scooters and ebicycles. Triumph is building buzz with the development of their TE1, and no doubt, it will hit the mark: affordable, great performance, stylish. Although, what's with the 'gas tank'? A design cue we see as retrograde, but we know...it feels familiar to the traditionalists. But is appealing to the usual buyer a good strategy with eBikes? Time will tell... [Triumph]Triumph recently announced the official completion of its TE-1 e-Motorcycle development project and has released the test results of the new prototype. Daytona 200 Champion Brandon Paasch participated in engine performance evaluation and track testing. According to the results, the TE-1 delivers 100 miles of range, 175hp at peak power, and a 20-minute charging time.
Fresh Funds
Antin Infrastructure Partners recently invested in RAW Charging to support the UK startup’s $300 million EV charging installation plan.
Swedish battery maker Northvolt secured new funds at last year’s valuation of $12 billion, making them the 800lb gorilla of European battery makers.
Preparing for potential money troubles, Rivian plans to announce layoffs and cost-reduction measures later this week, and is planning to lay off 5000 workers. It's been a rough couple of years with supply chain issues, making deliveries impossible at the level Rivian planned. After a big hiring spree earlier this year, they're laying off the same folks.
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! We hope you all had a wonderful Independence Day weekend! Speaking of independence, electric vehicles are giving folks the freedom to travel in ways they never could before. Take the growing electric micro-bike market, for instance. Never heard of micro-bikes? Don’t worry, we’ll cover them and more in this week’s EV news roundup. As always, contact us at stephanie@thevintagent.com to share your tips, thoughts, or criticisms. Let’s roll.
The Dawn of the Micro-Bike
The Voro microbike, one step up from a standup scooter, and almost a moped, but faster. [Voro]
Still wondering what the heck a micro-bike is? While they’re technically not really bikes, electric micro-bikes are gaining traction in the EV world thanks to their conveniently compact size. Great for urban commuter, some micro-bikes can reach speeds of up to 20mph. They’re also more affordable than traditional e-Bikes, with some costing less than $1000. One micro-bike we love is the FIIDO seated electric scooter from Voro. Priced to please at just $899, this petite scoot has everything you need to get around town.
How EV Batteries of the Past Are Poised to Reshape the Future
LFP battery technology patents expire soon, which could transform the battery industries of the US and Europe. [Alibaba]
Numerous patents for lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) chemistries that are due to expire this year could transform battery production in both the US and Europe. Thanks to an agreement with patent holders, China has been using this battery technology for nearly a decade. Now, other manufacturers outside of China are developing lithium-ion chemistries for EVs. LFP is affordable, safer, and doesn’t need scarce raw battery materials such as nickel and cobalt. This means that LFP batteries could play a significant role in the future of US battery production.
R.I.P. European Internal Combustion Engines
Bye bye tailpipes...but does this mean the end of interesting alternative fuels, like hydrogen? [AutoWeek]
Just last week, the European Council of Environmental Ministers agreed to increase the target for reducing C02 emissions for new cars by 2030 from 50% to 55%, as well as reducing fleet limits for cars to ZERO by 2035. This essentially means that all new passenger cars and light commercial vehicles won’t have any tailpipe emissions.
Tesla May Team Up with Kayne to Produce a Foam Car
Vantablack+Foam+Ye = Donda. Donda Industrial Design has a new chief, footwear designer Steven Smith, a longtime Kanye collaborator. But will Elon Musk build it? [Donda]
Rapper Kayne West’s vision for a car made of foam could soon come to fruition. Named after his late mother, Kayne tweeted an image of his Donda car concept, along with a caption that it would be “conceptualized, designed, and manufactured in the United States.” This has prompted many to believe that Tesla might produce Kayne’s Donda car. As shown, it has airless 'tweels' that rely on their own structure for suspension. What do you think?
Triumph Acquires Electric Moto-Manufacturer OSET
Triumph buys OSET, looking to acquire useful assets for their push to be only the second major motorcycle manufacture to offer a full-size eBike. [Triumph]
Earlier this week, Triumph announced that it had purchased electric motorcycle manufacturer OSET. While it’s no surprise that Triumph wants—and is—going electric, the new acquisition will allow the brand to offer an EV product with proven production capacity and consumer interest. “We are excited about the opportunity of joining forces with OSET Bikes: a dynamic brand that has been encouraging children into motorcycling for many years and have been at the forefront of developing electric trials bikes for fun and competition,” Triumph CEO Nick Bloor said.
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.
