Here’s How Much Cold Temperatures Actually Affect EV Range

Written by Andrew Gutman, CarScoops
Published Dec. 29, 2022

By now, it’s a fairly well-known fact that electric vehicles lose range at lower temperatures. What’s not often discussed, though, is how much that deficit exactly is, and a new study aims to quantify it to provide the general public with more knowledge.

The study, conducted by electric vehicle sales website Recurrent, compared the cold-weather range of 13 electric vehicles to their range at normal temperatures. Specifically, it compared the vehicles’ operation in 20°F to 30°F weather against that of 70°F weather.

The cars they included in the study were the Audie-tron, BMW i3, ChevroletBolt, FordMustang Mach-E, HyundaiKona, JaguarI-Pace, NissanLeaf, Tesla Model S, 3, X and Y, Volkswagen e-Golf and Volkswagen ID.4. 

Of the bunch, the Bolt fared the worst, its range dropping a massive 32% in cold weather conditions. Close behind it were the Mustang Mach-E and ID.4, whose ranges both dropped a significant 30% when operating at lower temperatures.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, the vehicle that suffered the least was the I-Pace, with only a 3% difference between its normal range and its cold-weather range. That being said, the cold-weather range was predicted by the car’s onboard telematics rather than actually being tested, so there is a chance it could be slightly incorrect. 

That is also the case for the e-tron, i3, Bolt, Kona and e-Golf, though the other seven vehicles were in fact verified by Recurrent through “a combination of onboard devices and real-time usage data."

Many of the vehicles that performed the best in the study, such as the e-tron and I-Pace, were equipped with heat pumps, which can recapture heat created by the powertrain and pump it back into the cabin to keep occupants warm rather. Bad performers like the Mach-E and ID.4 use resistance heating instead of a heat pump, which is notorious for being a large drain on the battery. 

Others, like the Model 3 and Model S, did not have a heat pump on the test vehicle, but now come standard with one, which could see them perform better in future versions of the test.

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Here’s What Happened in 8-Car Pileup in SF Blamed on Tesla’s FSD

Written by Iulian Dnistran, InsideEVs
Published Jan. 11, 2023

A Thanksgiving Day accident involved eight cars and injured nine people in San Francisco’s Yerba Buena Tunnel. The driver of the car that caused the pileup---a TeslaModel S---blamed everything on the company’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) feature.

Now, surveillance footage of the accident, obtained by The Intercept, shows how it all happened. 

The Tesla Model S, which reportedly had Full Self-Driving active, signaled a lane change, moved to the fast lane and then suddenly stopped, without having any car or obstacle in front of it.

Almost immediately, traffic backed up and collisions began, and in the end, nine people---including a 2-year-old child---needed medical attention. On top of that, traffic was blocked for more than an hour, according to the report published on The Intercept, messing up people’s travel plans for Thanksgiving.

To make matters worse, just hours before the accident happened, Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, announced on Twitterthe EV maker's Full Self-Driving Beta feature is available to anyone in North America who paid the $15,000 fee for the option.

The American car manufacturer states on its website FSD’s “currently enabled features require active driver supervision and do not make the vehicle autonomous.” At the same time, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) said it’s launching an investigation into the incident that puts another question mark next to Tesla’s ability to deliver reliable driving assistants.

According to the NHTSA, Tesla vehicles were involved in almost 70% of the 392 crashes involving advanced driver-assistance systems reported from July 2021 to June 2022.

In another investigation, the federal agency asked Musk for more details after he tweeted an update is coming in January that will allow users to turn off hands-on-wheel alerts for its FSD software, after users of the feature told him they were annoyed with the high number of disengagements.

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Here’s Where You Can Watch the Tesla Cybertruck Delivery Event

Tesla will livestream the event, where it is expected to hand off between 10 and 30 units of the all-new electric pickup.

Written by Joey Klender, Teslarati
Published Nov. 29, 2023

Tesla’s Cybertruck Delivery Event is set for 1 p.m. ET/2 p.m. CT/11 a.m. PT Nov. 30 at Tesla's Gigafactory Texas in Austin, and here’s how you can watch the all-electric pickup make its way to customers for the first time.

Tesla first unveiled the Cybertruck four years ago, and during the delivery event, the automaker will show the first units making their way to customers on X and on YouTube.

Tesla just posted the link to the YouTube stream of the event.

Tesla is expected to hand over somewhere between 10 and 30 units Nov. 30. The exact number is still up in the air, but that is not the only uncertainty regarding the Cybertruck.

On Nov. 30, Tesla will also reveal crucial details, like pricing, available configurations and range.

Wall Street is anticipating the details, along with a potential boost to the automaker’s outlook for 2024.

Dan Ives of Wedbushsaid Nov. 28 in a note to investors updated pricing is one of the key details that will need to be announced during the event.

“We believe updated pricing will come out at Thursday’s event on each of the trim levels as the company scales the Cybertruck production story to give more clarity to the Street," Ives wrote. "Whisper numbers for the single motor are in the ~$50k range, with prices for the dual and tri-motor variants likely to be in the $60K–$80K range.”

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Hertz Added EV Rentals and Went from Bankruptcy to Huge Profits

Written by Steven Loveday, InsideEVs
Published Jan. 17, 2023

It wasn't that long ago rental car company Hertzwent bankrupt. It also wasn't that long ago Hertz hired NFL superstar quarterback Tom Brady to promote the fact it had placed an order for 100,000 Teslasto rent to customers across the globe. Now, it's back to making a profit.

Hertz's Tesla order was big news---not only because it had to do with Tesla, but also because Brady was involved, and it seemed Hertz was doomed not long before it happened.

According to Tesla CEO Elon Musk, Hertz had to order its Teslas just like any other customer, it didn't get a fleet discount and it had to wait in line. The rental car company is still gradually taking delivery of that long list of Teslas. Meanwhile, it's renting the Teslas it has received in locations all over the map, and they're seemingly popular. Even people who may have no interest in buying an EV might rent a Tesla to try it.

Since ramping up its EV offerings, Hertz has enjoyed a 12% increase in annual profits. While you may be thinking this spike in revenue is due to the fact EVs are growing in popularity and causing Hertz's rentals to skyrocket, that's not the whole story.

Hertz is having much more rental success than it was not long ago, and business is way up compared to pandemic levels, but the real kicker comes from the cost savings.

Following the third quarter of 2022, Hertz CEO Stephen Scherr announced yet another EV deal, this time with GM for 175,000 electric cars. The company also noted it made a whopping $2.5 billion in revenue during the third quarter, ahead of those new EVs coming in.

Scherr shared during the earnings call: “We focused on operational excellence and fleet optimization to produce financial results that facilitated investment in our strategic priorities, like electrification, while enhancing returns to our shareholders and being in the service of our customers."

Hertz calculated its EVs are between 50% and 60% cheaper to maintain than gasoline-powered cars. In addition, the cars don't need to be maintained or repaired as often, which means more time in service.

Hertz also recently announced a third EV partnership. It's purchasing 65,000 EVs from Polestar. Between Tesla, GM and Polestar, Hertz aims to have nearly 350,000 electric cars in its fleet. It should see even more monumental results as the new EVs start to trickle in.

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Hertz Doubles Down on Electrification Following Record Earnings

Written by William Johnson, Teslarati
Published Feb. 7, 2023

Hertzannounced it will continue rapidly electrifying its fleet of rental vehicles following its record earnings report for 2022.

Hertz is a clear leader in electrification in the car rental market, and buyers have responded accordingly, as Hertz reported record earnings for 2022, despite numerous setbacks in the economy. Hertz said it will continue to build on what made it so successful last year: electrification, expanded distribution and excellence in execution.

According to Hertz’s earnings report Feb. 7, the company earned $8.7 billion in revenue during 2022, $2 billion of which was earned in Q4. On top of that, Hertz had a record GAAP net income of $2.1 billion in 2022, reaching $3.36 per diluted share. Key financial contributors include a heightened EBITDA margin of 27% and increased fleet utilization globally compared to 2021.

Hertz did not have EV-specific sales or rental data in its earnings deck.

Following this revenue boom, Hertz stock jumped by more than 7%, encouraged by the continued growth of the travel industry post-COVID.

But what differentiator had made the company so profitable? Hertz CEO Stephen Scherr pointed to electrification.

“Our team delivered on renewed demand for travel, which is continuing," Scherr said. "In 2023, we will build on our progress to grow our business across the Hertz, Dollarand Thriftybrands. We look to our investments in electrification and technology to yield increasing operating leverage and improved returns and an even better product to our customers around the world.”

Hertz made shockwaves in the rental industry in late 2021, when it announced it was purchasing 100,000 TeslaModel 3s, and since then, the company has only increased its investment. Following the massive Tesla deal, Hertz ordered 175,000 EVs from General Motors and 65,000 from Polestar. The company has also partnered with BP Pulse to begin installing charging infrastructure at each rental location.

While Hertz’s earnings presentation stated it would grow its “EV fleet across multiple OEMs,” the rental agency did not specify what other automakers it may work with to purchase more EVs.

On top of these investments, Hertz has also been unique in its efforts to make its new massive fleet of EVs as profitable as possible. Perhaps the best example is the rental agency’s partnership with Uber, allowing Uber drivers to rent an EV for a discounted weekly fee.

This is to say nothing of the inherent benefits Hertz’s EV fleet has brought the brand. Last year, Hertz executives excitedly announced interest in EV rentals had shot through the roof, while reducing operating costs for the company.

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The rental car giant upped the total number of EVs it plans to sell from 20,000 to 30,000.

After signing a deal to purchase 65,000 EVs from Polestar over several years, Hertz will not buy any in 2024.

Stephen Scherr did not make the initial investment in EVs for the company's rental fleet, but he made the call to increase it.

The costs and logistics of maintaining EVs in a rental fleet have proven more complex than anticipated.

Hertz to Add Cadillac LYRIQ, Chevrolet Silverado EV to Fleet

Written by Dan Mihalascu, InsideEVs
Published Aug. 22, 2023

Rental car giant Hertzis committed to electrifying its fleet, having signed sizable purchase agreements with Tesla, General Motors and Polestar, among other companies.

Earlier this year, Hertz said it had 50,000 electric vehicles in its rental fleet---about 10%  of the total number of vehicles it operates. And that's just the beginning, the company said. Hertz has the ambition of building one of the largest electric car rental fleets in the world, and GM EVs will play a major role in Hertz's electrification.

In September 2022, Hertz said it would order up to 175,000 electric vehicles from General Motors over the next five years, including from the Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Cadillacand BrightDropbrands.

Hertz said it would purchase a wide range of vehicles, from compact and mid-size SUVs to pickups, luxury vehicles and delivery vans. GM has had problems ramping up UltiumEV production over the past year, which is why Hertz hasn't received any Ultium-based electric vehicles from the automaker yet.

That is about to change. Hertz said it will offer customers the Cadillac LYRIQ luxury SUV and the Chevrolet Silverado EV pickup as a part of its all-electric rental fleet in the near future. The announcement was made in a video featuring Hertz CEO Stephen Scherr and GM CEO Mary Barra in the Cadillac LYRIQ.

While Hertz did not provide an exact date as to when the LYRIQ and Silverado EV will be available to Hertz customers, the video does include some fine print which indicates the Silverado EV 4WT will enter Hertz's fleet in 2023-2024, followed by the Silverado EV RST later on.

There's no timeframe for the Cadillac LYRIQ either, but considering that the electric SUV is already in production, it is likely join Hertz's fleet starting this year.

The video has the two executives discuss the auto industry's transition to all-electric powertrains, with General Motors' head honcho noting "we're in the first turn of the first lap" when it comes to electric vehicles.

"There is so much more to come with EVs. I'm super excited about the opportunity for people to have their first EV experience with Hertz, especially in a GM vehicle," Barra said.

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Hertz, NYC Mayor Launch ‘Hertz Electrifies New York City’

Written by Autobody News Staff
Published Sept. 20, 2023

During New York City Climate Week, HertzCEO Stephen Scherr and New York City Mayor Eric Adams launched "Hertz Electrifies New York City," a public-private partnership aimed at increasing electric vehicle (EV) adoption and extending the environmental and economic benefits of electrification across neighborhoods, Hertz said in a news release.

Through the initiative, Hertz intends to add up to 1,700 rental EVs to its local fleet, create 100 new jobs to serve its growing New York presence, and partner with four public high schools to create EV education and training opportunities for students. The partnership also includes the donation of five EVs from Hertz's fleet to help New York City schools provide hands-on training to the next generation of auto technicians.

"Hertz Electrifies New York City" builds on Adams' efforts to make vehicles in the city more sustainable. The administration is rapidly transitioning the city fleet to electric vehicles and building the necessary infrastructure to support that transition, while setting a new national standard by requiring rideshare vehicle companies to be completely zero-emission or wheelchair-accessible by 2030 and pursuing a broader agenda to promote driving electric across the city.

As part of Hertz Electrifies New York City, Hertz is partnering with and donating EVs to A-Tech High School in Brooklyn, Thomas Edison Career and Technical Education High School in Queens, Alfred E. Smith Career and Technical Education High School in the Bronx and Ralph R. McKee Career and Technical Education High School on Staten Island.

Additionally, Hertz is sharing telematic insights from its fleet of connected cars to assist the city in planning for additional public charging infrastructure across all neighborhoods through its Hertz Charging Opportunity Index.

As the mayor's EV initiatives are implemented, Hertz will continue making its EV fleet available to rideshare drivers in New York City. To date, more than 50,000 rideshare drivers across the country have rented EVs from Hertz, logging more than 260 million electric miles.

New York is the fifth and largest city to partner with Hertz through Hertz Electrifies.

High Demand Halts New Jersey EV Rebate Program

PublishedApril 19, 2023

New Jersey’s state EV rebate program is already running out of funding due to high demand, the Associated Press reported.

The state’s Board of Public Utilities said the Charge Up New Jersey program has handed out $35 million for the fiscal year that ends in July, and enough applications have already been received for the rest of this year’s funds, the program is being paused until the next year begins July 1.

The Charge Up New Jersey program gives state residents $4,000 when they buy or lease a new EV, which can be stacked with federal incentives.

The utilities board said the program has helped state residents purchase or lease more than 10,000 EVs this fiscal year, and a total of 25,000 EVs since it was implemented in May 2020.
 

High Electrification Costs are ‘Elephant in the Room’: Stellantis

By Dan Mihalascu, InsideEVs
Published April 10, 2023

Stellantisis getting ready to electrify its lineup but warns that doing so will cost a lot of money, with one possible effect being that EVs will become too expensive for the middle class.

While the automaker sees the electric Ram1500 REV pickup as its future, it says bringing it to market in late 2024 will be costly.

Company executives at the New York International Auto Show underlined the need to boost profitability and cut costs in order to fund the shift to EVs. Speaking with Automotive News, Ram CEO Mike Koval Jr. said the 1500 REV is "what we're here to celebrate and talk about, but it's expensive."

"That's the elephant in the room for everybody. The cost of electrification is expensive, so for sure we need to make sure that we protect the profitability of our current in-market [internal combustion engine] business to help fund the transition to electrification," Koval said.

He added that protecting those profits has been a challenge amid recent developments like the pandemic, microchip shortage, inflation and regulatory changes. For example, Stellantis cited costs related to developing and building EVs among the reasons the company idled its JeepCherokee plant in Illinois at the end of February.

Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares said at a media roundtable the question is how the company tackles those additional costs.

"If we don't do it, we are just going to have a significant reduction of the size of the market because [the] middle class will not be able to buy EVs, very simply put," Tavares said. "So it is not in the interest of the corporations. It's not in the interest of the citizens. It's not in the interest of the unions that we shrink the market because we become too pricey for the middle classes."

Stellantis plans to launch more than 25 EVs in the U.S. by 2030 from its Ram, Jeep, Dodgeand Chryslerbrands. Ram plans to debut an electric version of its ProMaster van this year, followed by the 1500 REV in 2024. The truck brand is also considering an electric midsize pickup shown in concept form to dealers in March.

Jeep plans to debut the production versions of the Recon and Wagoneer S electric SUV concepts in 2024; the brand already has an all-electric model on sale in Europe, the Avenger, which has not been confirmed for the U.S. market. 

Dodge will launch its first all-electric muscle car in 2024, expected to be heavily influenced by the Charger SRT Daytona Concept unveiled last year. As for Chrysler, it will step into the EV era in 2025 with a model inspired by the Airflow Concept.

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Honda EV Production Getting Closer with Battery Recycling Deal

Written by William Johnson, Teslarati
Published Feb. 28, 2023

Hondahas partnered with Massachusetts-based Ascend Elements to recycle lithium-ion batteries and recuperate the elements into new cells.

As Honda works towards selling its first electric vehicle, the Honda Prologue, in 2024, its production and manufacturing chops for EVs are finally taking form. This includes everything from battery and drivetrain production facilities to battery cell manufacturing plants to, now, a deal to establish a battery recycling and recuperation deal with a recycler.

Honda has been working with Ascend Elements to recycle lithium-ion batteries since 2021, but now, Honda is hoping to start to use the materials the recycler takes from used batteries. Specifically, Honda is focused on using recycled lithium, nickel and cobalt in new battery cells. The deal, announced Feb. 27, will help Honda build a circular supply chain and achieve “zero environmental impact” by 2050.

Honda did not specify the amount of material it will receive from the recycler, nor did it specify when it would be able to start to use it. But this deal is just one of the many projects the company is taking on as its EV production takes form in the U.S.

The Japanese automaker has established a series of battery production deals, the first with LG Energy Solutions, in which the two companies are launching a new production facility in Ohio, and the second with GS Yuasa. However, the second supply deal will likely focus on meeting demand in Asia.

Outside of batteries, Honda continues to develop its electric drivetrain capabilities at its production facilities scattered throughout the U.S., currently producing them for use in hybrid applications.

On top of these deals and new production locations, Honda is also working with various manufacturers to develop new electric vehicles. The Prologue comes from Honda’s partnership with GM, and the two auto giants have said they will likely continue to cooperate “to produce affordable EVs.” Honda is also working with Sonyin its Afeelajoint venture, set to bring its first EV to market in 2026.

But perhaps most significantly, Honda’s dominant motorcycle division plans to introduce three new electric motorcycles in the U.S. and Europe, with a larger number of smaller models and scooters coming to Asia as well.

If Honda can enter the EV market quickly enough, with a novel and affordable EV for everyday Americans, it could quickly become a dominant force within the market. But as other legacy brands, notably Ford, have shown, that is easier said than done. Hopefully, the automaker can deliver these products quickly, allowing more and more Americans to electrify in the coming years.

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Honda Formalizes Ohio-Based Joint Venture with LG Energy Solution

Written by William Johnson, Teslarati
Published Jan. 13, 2023

Hondaand LG Energy Solutionhave announced a $3.5 billion battery production joint venture, to be built in Ohio over the coming two years.

As Honda’s automotive sales have shrunk dramatically over the past year, the company has begun to look at EVs with renewed interest. And to produce its upcoming lineup of EVs, Honda has partnered with LG to produce battery cells at a new facility in Jeffersonville, OH.

According to the press release from the two companies, they have pledged a combined total of $3.5 billion for the construction of the battery plant. The overall cost before production can begin is expected to reach $4.4 billion.

The plant will have a production capacity of 40GWh, and Honda plans to finish construction in mid-2024, with full production slated for 2025.

The plant was first announced last year, but the company’s joint venture has now been finalized, along with the construction location.

While Honda has yet to sell an EV in North America, that is expected to change in the coming years, as the Japanese auto giant has partnered with GMto introduce an electric SUV. Simultaneously, Honda’s motorcycle division has pledged to bring two to three electric vehicles to North America over the next few years.

“The formal establishment of this joint venture between LG Energy Solution and Honda to produce EV batteries in Ohio is another major step toward our electrified future,” said Rick Riggle, COO of the new joint venture company, L-H Battery Company. “We are excited to move forward with such a strong partner in LG Energy Solution, and together, we look forward to establishing a strong relationship with the community in Fayette County, Ohio.”

As for LG, this new Ohio-based plant is one of many the battery manufacturer has begun constructing in the U.S. Much like many other South Korean battery suppliers, LG rushed to the U.S. following the introduction of the Inflation Reduction Act and has created joint ventures and production partnerships with several automakers. It is building four massive battery plants with General Motors and one sizable plant with Stellantis.

Many consider Honda behind the ball in terms of the electrification of its lineup. Still, with this sizable deal with LG, the Japanese automaker is lined up for continued electrification in the future.

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Honda Prepares U.S. Manufacturing Plants for EV Production

Written by Mark Kane, InsideEVs
Published March 16, 2023

Hondaannounced several crucial steps to establish an EV Hub in Ohio, where the company intends to produce its next-generation all-electric cars.

The Japanese manufacturer intends to invest some $700 million to re-tool several of its existing auto and powertrain plants in the state, to support the introduction of EVs based on the new Honda e:Architecture, scheduled for 2026.

The main focus of the plan is the Marysville Auto Plant, where Honda began auto production in America in 1982, which will be Honda’s first auto plant in the U.S. to transition to making EVs.

The transformation will concern also the East Liberty Auto Plant and Anna Engine Plant, as well as plants outside Ohio.

Marysville Auto Plant (MAP)

MAP will consolidate assembly lines for internal combustion engine (ICE) and hybrid electric (HEV) vehicles into one line, and retool them for the production of EVs and EV components.

Preparations will start in 2024 so the factory will be ready for all-electric car production in 2026.

Production of the Honda Accord, currently at MAP, will be transferred to the Indiana Auto Plant (IAP) in 2025, so the production volume of this model will be maintained.

East Liberty Auto Plant (ELP)

ELP in Ohio will also produce all-electric cars, but there are no details yet.

Anna Engine Plant (AEP)

AEP in Ohio will shift production of some engine components to the Honda engine plant in Alabama. In effect, the plant will be able to prepare for the production of battery cases for all-electric cars.

"AEP will transfer component production for two different generations of engines to the engine plant at the Alabama Auto Plant (AAP)," Honda siad. "Machining of the engine head, which ended at AEP in February, for the existing V6 engine that powers many Honda light trucks will be added to existing AAP operations beginning in March 2023. Engine block casting for the all-new V6 engine just introduced in the all-new 2023 Honda Pilot, will begin at AAP in August 2023. These two moves will allow AEP to re-allocate space for future IPU Case production."

Let's recall that lithium-ion battery modules for the next-generation Honda and Acura models will be produced near Jeffersonville, OH, by a joint venture between Honda and LG Energy Solution. The plant will have an annual output of 40 gigawatt-hours (kWh) annually, while the production is expected to begin in 2025.

Transmission Plant-Georgia (TMP-G)

The TMP-G plant, as part of a partnership between Honda and a supplier, will install a new line to build e-axles (electric motor, gearing components and power electronics) for all-electric cars.

According to the press release, the undisclosed supplier will install, own and operate the new e-axle line in the space currently occupied by a transmission production line not in operation.

Overall, Honda intends to maintain production of the ICE and HEV vehicles in the U.S. "to meet anticipated strong customer demand through 2030 and beyond" and maintain stable employment during the transformation to EVs.

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Honda to Begin U.S. Production of Fuel Cell EVs in 2024

Published Dec. 7, 2022

Hondaon Nov. 30 announced it will produce an all-new hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) based on the recently launched, all-new Honda CR-V starting in 2024 at its Performance Manufacturing Center (PMC) in Marysville, OH.

This new zero-emissions vehicle will contribute to Honda’s previously announced goal to make battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and FCEVs represent 100% of its global auto sales by 2040.

The new CR-V-based FCEV also will mark North America’s first production vehicle to combine a plug-in feature with FCEV technology in one model, which enables the driver to charge the onboard battery to deliver EV driving around town with the flexibility of fast hydrogen refueling for longer trips.

“Honda established our goal to realize carbon neutrality by 2050 and the complete electrification of our vehicle lineup by 2040 is critical to achieving it,” said Gary Robinson, vice president of Auto Planning & Strategy for American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “As we accelerate our plan to produce Honda battery EVs in the United States, we also will begin low volume production of fuel cell electric vehicles there to further explore their great potential as part of a sustainable transportation future.”

The PMC was conceived as a small volume, specialty manufacturing facility, focused on craftsmanship and hand-assembled vehicles. Since opening in 2016, the PMC has been responsible for production of the AcuraNSX supercar, multiple Acura PMC Edition vehicles---including TLX, RDX and MDX---along with Honda Performance Development race cars.

This makes the PMC uniquely suited to production of high-quality FCEVs, which require special assembly procedures. This approach echoes the broad role that Honda’s Tochigi, Japan, plant played in manufacturing both the original NSX supercar starting in 1989 and, later, the Honda FCX Clarity FCEV in 2008.

“Our associates at the Performance Manufacturing Center have really enjoyed the opportunity to successfully introduce several specialty vehicles into the market,” said PMC plant leader Gail May. “This facility is perfect for production of a new Honda fuel cell electric vehicle, as our small-volume capability enables us to really leverage the skill and expertise of our team to produce quality zero-emission vehicles here in North America.”

As America’s best-selling CUV of the past quarter century, the Honda CR-V will provide an excellent foundation for a FCEV, adding zero emissions and EV performance characteristics to its fun-to-drive personality, sporty styling and outstanding utility, while retaining generous passenger and cargo spaces.

The all-new 2023 CR-V sets a new benchmark with a rugged and sophisticated exterior design, sporty and modern interior, increased space, comfort and performance. This sixth generation CR-V is already playing a key role in the Honda electrification strategy with CR-V hybrid-electric models positioned at the top of the lineup and expected to represent about 50% of annual CR-V sales.

More details about the all-new FCEV version of the CR-V will be announced closer to its introduction in 2024.

Source: Honda

The fuel cell for the 2025 Honda CR-V e:FCEV was co-developed with GM.

The new series' flagship model, the Saloon, is expected to be on sale in North America in 2026.

Honda, Mitsubishi to Explore New EV-Related Business Ventures

The two Japanese automakers signed an agreement to look into battery lifetime management and smart charging businesses.

Written by Autobody News Staff
Published Oct. 16, 2023

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. and Mitsubishi Corporation announced in a news release the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to begin discussions to start two new businesses to support the growing EV segment. 

The two companies will explore the possibility of new businesses with a goal to increase the value offered to customers through their EV and EV battery business.

Battery Lifetime Management Business

This new business would aim to maximize the value of batteries to be installed in Honda mini-EV models, scheduled to begin sales in Japan in 2024. By employing a sophisticated battery-monitoring system, the new business would manage and maximize the value of each battery throughout its lifetime shifting from powering EVs to use as stationary energy storage.

Smart-charging and V2G Energy Management Business

This new business would help EV users optimize their electricity costs by offering access to smart-charging, V2G services and green (renewable) power which leverages advanced control technologies for the energy management system.

“Preparing for the era of full-fledged popularization of EVs, Honda will not only sell EVs, but take a proactive approach to energy management, where EV batteries will be utilized as an energy source, and we are also focusing on resource circulation, including the reuse and repurposing of EV batteries, which contain various rare resources," said Toshihiro Mibe, global CEO of Honda. "Starting with this initiative with Mitsubishi in the area of mini-EVs in Japan, Honda will strive to maximize the value we offer to our customers and build a foundation for sustainable business from a long-term perspective, while working with a variety of partners and accommodating the unique market characteristics of each region.”

“We understand that the convergence of different sectors such as mobility, energy, services and data is an irreversible trend," said Katsuya Nakanishi, president and CEO of Mitsubishi Corporation. "Examples can be seen all over the world, as companies seek to go carbon neutral, and new business models like MaaS and CASE (in the automobile industry) pick up stream. Mitsubishi is aiming to develop its own new business models that balance electrification and decarbonization, to create new cross-industry services, and otherwise reinventing ourselves in keeping with the times.”

Honda’s First All-Electric SUV Set to Debut Early 2024

Written by Autobody News Staff
Published Sept. 28, 2023

The 2024 Honda Prologue, the brand’s first all-electric SUV, will open pre-sale activities later this year and make its first deliveries in early 2024, Honda said in a news release.

The Prologue will be available nationwide with prices expected to start in the upper $40,000s, before government incentives or tax credits. 

The Prologue is a “spacious, adventure-ready midsize SUV,” according to Honda, with an anticipated EPA range rating of 300 miles and DC fast charging capability.

“The arrival of the all-new Honda Prologue is a pivotal moment for the brand as Honda begins the transition to our zero-emissions future,” said Lance Woelfer, assistant vice president of Honda National Auto Sales, American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “Prologue is aptly named as our first volume Honda EV, a stylish, sporty and spacious SUV that will take us toward our vision of 100% zero emissions vehicle sales by 2040.”

Honda said the Prologue will be built on a state-of-the-art EV platform and multi-link front and rear suspensions, and will be available in both single-motor (front-wheel-drive) and dual-motor (all-wheel-drive) configurations with three trim levels---EX, Touring and Elite.

Standard features will include the latest digital services technology and features with Google built-in, and wireless AppleCarPlay and AndroidAuto™ compatibility.

Targeting IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and NHTSA 5-star ratings, the Prologue will come standard with the Honda Sensing suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies, including Honda’s first applications of Rear Cross Traffic Braking, Blind Zone Steering Assist and Rear Pedestrian Alert.

Customers interested in the new Prologue can find more information and sign up for updates here.

Honda also announced it reached agreements with EVgoand Electrify America, plus roaming network partners, to give its EV drivers access to more of the largest charging networks in North America. 

These agreements are in addition to the recent announcement that Honda will adopt the NACS charging standard to gain access to Tesla's Supercharger network, and that Honda established a joint venture with six other automakers to create a high powered charging network. Honda and AcuraEV customers will be able to use the majority of public DC fast chargers starting in 2024 and can anticipate having around 100,000 DC charge points available to them by 2030.

The new $7.6 billion plant will be Hyundai's first fully dedicated electric vehicle and battery manufacturing facility. 

Hyundai IONIQ 5-Based Robotaxis to Deploy in U.S. in 2024

The cars are among the first to be certified as SAE Level 4 autonomous vehicles under the U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.

Written by Autobody News Staff
Published Nov. 21, 2023

Hyundai Motor Group and Motionalannounced Nov. 21 the opening of the Hyundai Motor Group Innovation Center Singapore (HMGICS), where their jointly developed all-electric IONIQ 5 robotaxi will be manufactured. The first production-ready IONIQ 5 robotaxis will be deployed as part of Motional’s commercial services in the U.S., starting in 2024.

Additionally, Motional and the Group revealed the IONIQ 5 robotaxi is one of the first SAE Level 4 autonomous vehicles (AVs) to be certified under the U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS), a testament to the vehicle’s thorough development and testing program, its safety and reliability, and the sophistication of the autonomous technology, according to Motional President and CEO Karl Iagnemma.

“HMGICS is a vision for transportation innovation,” Iagnemma said. “We’re enormously proud to have the IONIQ 5 robotaxi manufactured at this facility and look forward to introducing the world to some of the first-ever FMVSS-certified autonomous vehicles. It’s through the strength of our collaboration with Hyundai that we were able to develop an industry-leading robotaxi that meets rigorous federal standards and is ready for mass commercialization.”

“HMGICS stands as Hyundai Motor Group’s first global innovation hub and global test bed for future mobility," said Hong Bum Jung, CEO of HMGICS. "Our mission at HMGICS is to revolutionize the mobility value chain by developing and producing advanced and diverse forms of future mobility solutions. Commencing production of the IONIQ 5 robotaxi in collaboration with Motional, we are committed to a continuous journey of innovation, aiming to spearhead the paradigm shift in the future of mobility.”

HMGICS combines advanced automation and real-time monitoring and data evaluation to push the boundaries of what’s possible in production. It’s also equipped with advanced features to support AV production, including testing facilities and a calibration center.

Motional has deployed a team on site to assist with production. These employees are located at the Autonomous Vehicle Integration Center and will perform critical diagnostics, software development, calibration and validation tasks to ensure the IONIQ 5 robotaxi meets exacting specifications and is ready for deployment.

Motional and the Group have been preparing for the production of the breakthrough IONIQ 5 robotaxi for several years, including the development of a limited series of prototype vehicles tested in the U.S. and Singapore for more than a year. The initial fleet of IONIQ 5 robotaxis recently completed a series of evaluations designed to demonstrate the quality, performance and maturity of the robotaxi and its autonomous driving technology.

Commercial production of the IONIQ 5 robotaxi is underway, and the first models have already arrived at Motional's facility in the U.S. The vehicles are undergoing Motional’s rigorous testing and safety validation processes before beginning commercial service in 2024.

Hyundai Motor Group and SK On to Build EV Battery Facility in Georgia

PublishedDec. 8, 2022

Hyundai Motor Group (HMG) and SK On have selected a site in Bartow County in Georgia for a new electric vehicle (EV) battery manufacturing facility that will supply Hyundai Motor Group's plants in the U.S. 

Georgia Gov. Brian P. Kemp on Dec. 8 announced the deal, one of the largest economic development projects in state history. Stakeholders estimate it will create more than 3,500 new jobs through approximately $4 billion to $5 billion of investment in Bartow County.

Hyundai Motor Group and SK On recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) regarding the partnership for a new EV battery facility in the U.S., with the details of the partnership still in development.

"Hyundai Motor Group and SK On are valued partners and key players in our state's ever-growing automotive industry," said Kemp. "Since day one, my administration has been focused on bringing jobs and opportunity to communities across the state that may have been overlooked in the past. SK and HMG share this goal, and we're proud they are choosing to invest even further in this No. 1 state for business."

Established in 2021, SK On is the lithium-ion battery subsidiary branch of SK Innovation and currently employs more than 2,000 Georgians at its SK Battery America facility in Commerce. In July, SK Battery America announced it would partner with the Work for Warriors Georgia program to hire veterans, servicemembers and their families at their Georgia operations.

Subject to execution of relevant agreements and HMG and SK On's final board decisions, the new facility will be located at Bartow Centre, a zoned manufacturing and industrial site located on Highway 411, and is aiming to begin operations in 2025.

Director of Korean Investment Yoonie Kim represented the Georgia Department of Economic Development's (GDEcD) Global Commerce team on this competitive project in partnership with Georgia EMC, Development Authority of Bartow County, the Cartersville-Bartow County Department of Economic Development and Georgia Quick Start.

Georgia's prime location, major ports system and extensive infrastructure, skilled workforce and pro-business climate have made it an attractive location for a diverse array of rapidly developing industries focused on creating a sustainable future. Building on the assets that make the automotive industry successful, Georgia is positioned as a hub for the electric transportation industry.

Excluding this announcement, EV-related projects announced in the state since 2020 total approximately $17 billion in investment and more than 22,800 new jobs in Georgia.

In addition to the two companies' EV battery partnership, Hyundai Motor Group separately announced in May its plans to invest $5.54 billion in Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America, an EV manufacturing facility in Bryan County. Hyundai Motor Group broke ground on the facility in October with Kemp, other state leaders and local and federal officials.

Source: Hyundai Motor Group

Hyundai Sets Massive 2023 Sales Growth Target Propelled by New EV Offerings

Written by William Johnson, Teslarati
Published Jan. 3, 2023

Hyundaiannounced it aims to grow auto sales by 10% this year alone.

Over the past two decades, Hyundai Motor Group has become a sizable competitor in the automotive industry. It is now a leader in affordable offerings and electric vehicles, along with the likes of Ford. Following this success, the Korean automotive group has set the ambitious goal of growing its vehicle sales by 10% in 2023.

According to Reuters, Hyundai Motor Group is already a massive seller of vehicles globally, selling 6.85 million in 2022. And while this achievement was off from its 2022 sales goal of 7.16 million vehicle sales, it was still a significant growth year despite numerous poor macroeconomic conditions.

A growth of 10% in sales would equate to roughly 7.54 million vehicles sold in 2023, an increase of 685,000 vehicles compared to 2022.

Hyundai has good reason to be optimistic. While Teslacontinues to dominate the EV market in the U.S. and numerous other markets globally, Hyundai Motor Group---which includes Hyundai, Kiaand Genesis---has rapidly expanded EV offerings over the past three years and is now a leader in more affordable models. And with new models planned to be coming in the new year, it is poised to continue to find success.

In a statement to Reuters, a corporate spokesperson said, “Hyundai plans to expand market share and operate profitability-oriented businesses by flexibly responding to market changes, accelerating its transition to electrification, responding to global environmental regulations and optimizing production, logistics and sales by region."

Hyundai’s ambitious goal faces a couple of hurdles. Foremost, without EV manufacturing operations in the U.S., none of the company’s EVs are currently eligible for federal EV tax incentives, a significant discount for many buyers.

Secondly, while Hyundai has performed admirably in the past year, tackling supply chain issues, due to the current COVID spike in China, many expect disruptions to continue.

Finally, while the EV market in the U.S. remains fairly sparse, European and Asian markets have become far more competitive over the past year, which could hinder the ambitious company’s growth.

With EVs coming into the mainstream in most major markets, Hyundai Motor Group is in a fantastic position to seize the opportunity, and its ambitious goal is an excellent sign of optimism in a highly uncertain time.

We thank Teslarati for reprint permission.

Hyundai Shares How it Plans to Hit 2 Million EV Sales Per Year by 2030

PublishedJune 20, 2023

Hyundai Motor Company hosted its 2023 CEO Investor Day on June 20 in Seoul, South Korea, unveiling its visionary mid- to long-term business strategies and financial plans. 

With the aim of actively leveraging its knowledge and heritage of innovation from internal combustion engine vehicles, the company is committed to a successful transition to the electrification era through its newly introduced strategy, "Hyundai Motor Way."

The company will implement this strategy and accelerate its transition toward becoming a smart mobility solution provider by securing a large-scale investment of $84.9 billion over the next 10 years, including $27.8 billion for electrification over the next decade. The company aims for 2 million units in annual EV sales by 2030.

The key parts of the strategy include introducing a next-generation modular architecture for EVs, strengthening EV production capacity, battery development capabilities and future businesses, including autonomous driving, hydrogen, robotics and advanced air mobility.

Hyundai Motor is leveraging its heritage of innovation and knowledge accumulated over a long period of time as a traditional vehicle manufacturer amidst seismic change in the industry with competition intensifying in a bid for leadership in the electric vehicle market. The company announced that it will achieve a successful transition to electrification by efficiently and effectively leveraging its long experience in vehicle production and sales.

"The value of cultivating human-centered innovation by further developing technology inherited from the past is the distinct heritage that a company with a rich legacy can provide," said President and CEO Jaehoon Chang. "As it originated from Pony, the IONIQ 5 N---a high-performance EV scheduled for unveiling in July---will embrace and carry forward the enduring heritage of Hyundai Motor Company."

Source: Hyundai Motor Company

The facility will train employees to work at Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America, which will eventually produce 300,000 EVs every year.

Hyundai to Invest $8.5 Billion in EV Development, U.S. Factory

Written by Iulian Dnistran, InsideEVs
Published Jan. 31, 2023

Hyundai Motor Company, which owns the Hyundai, Kiaand Genesisbrands, announced it will invest $8.5 billion this year in further expanding its electrified range, as well as on its first-ever EV factory in the U.S.

The Korean company previously said it will spend around $5.5 billion on its new EV factory in Georgia, which should begin construction in the first quarter of this year, so that leaves $3 billion available for research and development of its current and upcoming EVs, spread across its brands.

“Favorable foreign-exchange rates and higher sales of value-added cars led the growth for 2022,” Hyundai Executive Vice President Seo Gang-Hyun said on an earnings call, quoted in an Automotive News article.

Currently, Hyundai Motor Co. makes several EVs marketed under all of its marques, such as the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6 and Genesis GV60, but it also makes a lot more internal combustion-engined models, some of them assembled at its factory in Alabama.

With a new U.S. factory dedicated exclusively to manufacturing EVs, along with strategic partnerships with local battery suppliers, Hyundai’s EVs will be eligible for the federal tax credits instated by the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), which should boost the adoption rate of its zero-emission vehicles even further. At the moment, none of Hyundai’s EVs are eligible for the $7,500 tax credit; however, the company will implement a leasing program, which is allowed under the latest iteration of the IRA.

For 2023, the Korean automaker wants to sell 73,000 EVs in the U.S., an increase of 150% compared to last year, and eyes a worldwide sales volume of 330,000 electric cars, which represents a jump of 54% compared to 2022.

Hyundai currently has 12 manufacturing facilities all over the world and is the third largest automaker by volume, after Toyotaand Volkswagen. In 2022, the Korean group sold almost 7 million cars worldwide and saw its operating profit double in the last quarter.

We thank InsideEVs for reprint permission.

Hyundai, Kia EVs Charge Fastest, Tesla Barely Makes It into Top 10: Edmunds

Edmunds tested 43 battery-powered cars to find out which recharged the fastest in terms of miles per hour.

Written by Iulian Dnistran, InsideEVs
Published Nov. 24, 2023

The speed at which an electric car charges can make or break a road trip, and in some cases, it can even make the difference between keeping an EV long-term and going back to combustion power.

That’s why some car manufacturers tout their EV’s ability to charge at higher and higher speeds, with some models on the market capable of drawing close to 300 kilowatts from a compatible charger.

But the kilowatts figure---as impressive as it might be in some cases---doesn’t tell the whole story, as an EV’s range is affected by other factors, like its weight and efficiency. This is why Edmunds went on a different route with its new EV Charging Test, where 43 different battery-powered cars were tasked with doing their best at recharging their batteries in terms of miles per hour.

By this metric, the 2024 HyundaiIONIQ 6 Limited RWD is the fastest-charging EV on the American market today, topping the list with an impressive charging rate of 868 miles per hour. More miles gained per each hour of charge means less time spent at the charger and more time on the road.

The 2022 KiaEV6 Wind RWD is in second place with 769 miles per hour, followed by the all-wheel drive, dual-motor version of the Hyundai IONIQ 6 with 764 miles per hour. In fact, the top 10 list includes no fewer than six models from Hyundai Motor Group’s portfolio, including the GenesisElectrified G80, which is in eighth place with 588 miles per hour.

The fastest-charging Tesla, according to Edmunds’ methodology, is the 2023 Model 3 Long Range, which achieved a charging rate of 569 miles per hour. The next Tesla on the list is the 2021 Model Y Long Range with 20-inch wheels that sits in the 14th position with 538 miles per hour. The 2021 Model S Plaid is in 16th with 530 miles per hour.

Porsche and Mercedes-Benz managed to get in the top 10 list with the 2020 Taycan 4S, in fourth position with 690 miles per hour, and the EQS 450+ in seventh with 593 miles per hour, respectively.

We thank InsideEVs for reprint permission.

Automakers are looking for ways to reduce the coefficient of drag to maximize mileage range between charges.