Electrify Commercial to Install 20 Fast-Charging EV Stations in Utah

PublishedMay 22, 2023

Electrify Commercial on May 17 announced plans to support Rocky Mountain Power, a division of PacificCorp, with the installation of 20 EV charging stations in Utah. The project will include more than 80 individual chargers at 15 stations in the Salt Lake City area and five stations in surrounding regions, a total of 20 charging stations.

As a business unit of Electrify America, Electrify Commercial provides customized end-to-end EV charging solutions to businesses, utility companies, fleet owners, travel centers and convenience stores.

The new charging stations, owned by Rocky Mountain Power, will be featured on Electrify America’s coast-to-coast “locate a charger” map, which includes more than 800 stations and 3,500 individual chargers. Electrify Commercial will provide industry-leading charging equipment, installation, networking and ongoing operations and maintenance.

Each station will have a minimum of four chargers that can charge capable vehicles at speeds up to 350 kW offering speed and convenience for EV drivers. Rocky Mountain Power will set pricing at these charging stations, and customers will be able to access and seamlessly pay for charging through the Electrify America mobile app.

“As electric vehicles continue becoming more mainstream, it’s important to expand access and range confidence in all parts of the country,” said Aaron Young, senior manager, commercial networks and fleets, Electrify America. “With a shared commitment to increase EV adoption, reduce tailpipe emissions and improve air quality, we are excited to collaborate with Rocky Mountain Power to deliver 350 kW charging capability to EV drivers in Utah.”

Electrify Commercial presents a unique opportunity for companies like Rocky Mountain Power to own their own charging stations while leveraging Electrify America’s experience building the largest open, DC-fast charging network in the U.S. The collaboration will help Rocky Mountain Power to expand critical EV infrastructure needed for Utah’s future growth.

“Salt Lake City is the top city in the U.S. to own an electric vehicle, making it more important than ever to provide accessible charging in the region and in other parts of Utah,” said James Campbell, director of innovation and sustainability, Rocky Mountain Power. “Electrify Commercial will play an important role in helping us achieve our electrification goals and enable seamless EV travel throughout the state of Utah.”

The first charging stations from this collaboration are expected to open in 2024 in Salt Lake City, the Wasatch Valley Front and Moab.

Source: Electrify America

The project received federal funding through the Tennessee Department of Transportation.

EPA Expected to Drop Bombshell ICE Vehicle Regulation

Written by William Johnson, Teslarati
Published April 10, 2023

A new report from the EPA indicates the agency may release a set of dramatic new ICE vehicle regulations as soon as April 12.

Outside of the EV production ramp taken on by some of the most notable automakers on the planet, national governments worldwide are instituting ever-tightening regulations on gas-powered vehicles currently sold. Recently, the EU released its Euro 7 emissions standards, and now, the U.S. EPA is poised to do the same, according to a new report from The New York Times.

As unearthed by the NYT, the EPA’s newest regulations on ICE vehicles could be some of the most stringent the U.S. has seen. According to anonymous insider sources, the regulation would require up to two-thirds of vehicles sold in the U.S. to be 100% electric by 2032, a significant jump from the current goal of 50%, set by the Biden administration late last year.

Not only would this new regulation be a massive jump in terms of the goals of the Biden administration, but it would also be a monumental leap regarding the number of EVs on the road. Just last year, only 5.8% of all vehicles sold were electric, meaning this new regulation would be more than an 11-fold increase in market share by 2032.

The EPA was not immediately available to comment on the validity of this report to Teslarati. However, in a comment to the NYT, one EPA spokesman said the agency is currently working on a plan to accelerate the EV transition, though they were not specific regarding the policy’s goals. The EPA is expected to announce these proposed new regulations in Detroit on April 12.

After being proposed, the policy would be open for public comment and go through a lengthy government review process before being finalized.

It should be noted with the 2024 presidential race already beginning to heat up, it remains unclear if this new policy would survive the next administration. Still, under pressure from environmental groups to act after opening a new oil drilling location in Alaska, President Joe Biden may attempt to push through the new rule before his term ends.

We thank Teslarati for reprint permission.

EPA's Strongest Emissions Standards Ever May Boost EV Sales

Written by Steven Loveday, InsideEVs
Published April 12, 2023

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan on April 12 announced proposed key gas car regulations that could promote EV adoption and save Americans money.

The new standards aim to be some of the most stringent ever, to further limit tailpipe pollution. These proposed changes are not final, which means there will likely be many modifications over the coming weeks and months before heading to a final approval stage.

As proposed, the emissions regulations would be phased in from 2027 through 2032. The EPA expects such measures to reduce emissions by a minimum of 40% by 2030 and save car owners $12,000 over the course of ownership, so long as they own a car that complies with the new rules.

Under the new plan, electric cars, trucks and SUVs could comprise some 67% of all new light-duty passenger vehicle sales in the U.S. by 2032. Moreover, sales of medium-duty EVs could climb to an impressive 46% of all vehicles sold by 2032.

The standards would become stricter as time goes on. The end goal is to reach a U.S. fleetwide average of 82 grams per mile of carbon dioxide for light-duty vehicles and 275 grams for medium-duty vehicles by model year 2032.

The current rules aim for a fleetwide goal of 161 grams of carbon dioxide per mile by model year 2026, for both light- and medium-duty vehicles.

According to the EPA, the proposed standards could decrease emissions by as much as 56% compared to the existing standards.

It's important to note the proposed EPA emissions standards do not have a specific EV requirement, and they don't ban gas-powered vehicles. Instead, automakers can meet the mandates with whichever vehicles they see fit.

That said, the standards would almost certainly boost EV production and sales since manufacturers would likely need to sell an increasing number of electric cars in order to comply with the standards. Many automakers have already invested heavily in fully electric cars, so it simply makes sense they'll continue on that path.

The proposed rules, labeled by the organization as Phase 3, also include guidance for heavy-duty vehicles, meaning there will be stricter emissions regulations put into place for school buses, delivery trucks, construction-related vehicles, etc. The goal is for 50% of new buses and 25% of new heavy truck sales to be fully electric by 2032.

If all goes as planned, the U.S. could save trillions of dollars on fuel costs and health care, while eliminating around 10 billion tons of emissions. As a result of the new mandates, at least 50% of all new vehicles sold in the U.S. by 2030 should be zero-emission vehicles, though the number stands to be as much as 10% higher. In 2022, only 6% of new U.S. vehicle sales were fully electric cars.

Finally, the EPA is also working to set specific rules about minimum warranties for electric car batteries, as well as making built-in battery health monitors required in new cars.

We thank InsideEVs for reprint permission.

EV Charging Infrastructure Strength in Each U.S. State Analyzed in New Study

Written by Zachary Visconti, Teslarati
Published Sept. 11, 2023

Public charging is a common concern for new EV buyers and current owners alike, and local charging infrastructure can depend heavily on where a person lives. In a recent study, one organization looked at each U.S. state to assess the maturity of their local charging infrastructure, demonstrating some of the places where it may be easiest---and hardest---to own an EV.

In a joint study from research firm SBD Automotive and location-data company Here Technologies, researchers analyzed the number of public charging across all 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia to determine which had the best and worst charging infrastructures, via Green Car Reports.

The research used data from Here’s EV Charge Points API and the U.S. Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center (AFDC.)

The study looked at multiple categories of charger density from 2020-2022, including charging points per road length, average charging power, the state’s EV market share (2022 only), and the number of EV fleets per charging point. Using the category breakdowns, the two parties then assigned scores to states based on these factors.

Washington D.C. ranked first on the index, ahead of state leaders Connecticut, Vermont, Massachusetts, Maryland and Maine. Making up the rest of the top 10 states were New York, Colorado, Rhode Island and California.

The index also includes a simple infographic demonstrating the number of EVs per charging point in 2022. The graphic shows New Jersey as the charging density leader, with states including Florida, Texas, California and many others trailing just behind. Following the study, researchers suggest a rate of one public charger for every eight or nine EVs.

Most EV owners charge their vehicles at home, work or other consistent locations rather than at charging stations. However, anyone planning to use their EV on a road trip or a long commute may need regular access to public charging. With EV adoption rates rapidly increasing, public charging will need to follow to accommodate the increasing number of vehicles on the road---and to prevent current chargers from getting too full.

The study comes after several announcements of automakers switching from Combined Charging System (CCS) charging hardware to Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS) plugs in the U.S. The shift will see vehicle manufacturers such as Ford, GM, Rivian, Honda and more building future cars with the NACS plug, some as soon as next year, which will also give them access to the Tesla Supercharger network.

We thank Teslarati for reprint permission.

Mitchell's "Plugged-In: EV Collision Insights" report looks at trends in repairing both EVs and ICE vehicles.

EV Collision Claims Increase in Q1

PublishedMay 16, 2023

Mitchell, an Enlytecompany, on May 16 reported electric vehicle (EV) repairable claims frequency increased in Q1 2023 to 1.13% in the U.S. and 2.41% in Canada. The data was featured in the company's latest "Plugged-In: EV Collision Insights" publication, which provides up-to-date EV claims and market information to the auto insurance and repair industries.

"EV sales broke records in 2022 and the combination of high gas prices, government incentives and increased vehicle production helped drive consumer demand," said Ryan Mandell, director of claims performance at Mitchell. "With more EVs on the road, there will naturally be more EV collision claims. That puts a strain on auto insurers, who must balance policyholder expectations with higher than average vehicle repair costs and cycle time. It also puts a strain on collision repairers tasked with properly and safely restoring these automobiles to OEM standards."

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), global EV sales are expected to grow another 35% this year and reach 14 million by the end of 2023. If the latest IEA projections are met, the share of EVs in the overall car market will have risen from approximately 4% in 2020 to 14% in 2022 and 18% in 2023.

Additionally, Cox Automotive reported the U.S. recorded a record-breaking first quarter with EV sales surpassing 250,000 and 7.2% of total new vehicle sales---setting the expectation that EV sales growth will surpass that of the industry for the foreseeable future.

To highlight the impact of electrification on automotive claims, Mitchell compared data from Q4 2022 to Q1 2023, showing:

• Average EV repairable severity has decreased to $4,749 in the U.S. and $6,406 in Canada but remains higher than for internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles
• OEM parts usage and the percentage of parts repaired in EVs increased to 90.76% and 12.68% respectively
• Refinish time is nearly an hour more for EVs than for ICE automobiles, adding to claim costs
• EV models new to the market are now entering U.S. collision repair facilities for the first time

The report also includes data on EV claims frequency by geographic region as well as vehicle make and model. To download the current issue, visit www.mitchell.com/plugged-in. You can also subscribe to future issues by completing the web form.

Source: Mitchell

EV Consideration at Record High, but Dealers Feel Unprepared

PublishedJune 27, 2023

Despite growing interest, a gap exists between consumer enthusiasm for electric vehicles (EVs) and their actual purchasing decisions, according to new research released June 27 by Cox Automotive. 

The 2023 Path to EV Adoption: Consumer and Dealer Perspectives study also reveals a lack of EV readiness among U.S. automotive dealers regarding sales and service. As EV inventories continue to climb, dealers must bridge this gap.

"Education for both consumers and dealers remains a critical factor in driving widespread confidence and adoption of electric vehicles," said Kayla Reynolds, manager of research and market intelligence, Cox Automotive Mobility. "For dealers specifically, preparation is paramount, and our findings emphasize the urgency of equipping dealers with EV sales and servicing capabilities to meet the needs and demands of EV buyers."

The Cox Automotive study, available for download, surveyed 1,024 consumers and 152 dealers, comparing data points from electric vehicle research conducted by the company over the last several years.

Key Takeaways

EV Consideration Grows Rapidly, Sales More Slowly

Cox Automotive is forecasting 1 million new EVs will be sold in the U.S. in 2023, a record and more than twice the volume sold in 2021. The industry's sales growth has been powered not only by Tesla's rapid expansion, but also a flow of new products into the market---33 new EVs are being launched in 2023 alone, according to estimates from Kelley Blue Book, a Cox Automotive company. More than 50 additional new or updated EVs will be launched in 2024.

According to Cox Automotive research, 51% of consumers are now considering either a new or used EV, up from 38% in 2021. Still, while interest in EVs rapidly increases, the gap between consideration and sales remains wide. EVs will account for less than 8% of total new-vehicle sales in 2023. On the used side, EV share of the total market remains approximately 1%. In many parts of the country, new EV inventory levels are increasing, as products arrive more quickly than consumers buy. In June, EV days of supply---a measure of inventory levels in the U.S.---was approaching 100 days, nearly twice the industry-wide average. As the Cox Automotive study shows, EV consideration is well ahead of sales.

Affordability continues to the top obstacle for EV buyers, with 43% of intenders noting EVs are too expensive, up slightly from the level in 2021. Other barriers, however, are falling. In 2021, 40% of intenders cited a lack of charging stations as a top roadblock. That number has fallen to 32%.

Future EV Readiness Gap

There is a significant gap in readiness between consumers and dealers in terms of embracing electric vehicles. According to the survey, 53% of consumers feel EVs are the future and will largely replace gas engines over time, compared to only 31% of dealers. Nearly half (45%) of dealers surveyed feel EVs still need to prove themselves in the marketplace. While consumer adoption of EVs is expected to soar as more models hit the market, dealerships are not prepared regarding sales and service capabilities, raising concerns about the overall customer experience and satisfaction. According to the survey, 82% of dealers are required by their OEM to make an EV investment. This should help dealers build the infrastructure needed to support EV growth.

OEM Support Needed

Despite concerns, dealers see EVs as important to the growth of their dealerships, both in selling (55%) and servicing (57%) EVs. However, the study revealed dealerships need more support and guidance from automakers, which they view as their preferred source of EV information. Dealers are thirsty for comprehensive and up-to-date information to ensure they become the go-to resource for customers, specifically in areas of charging infrastructure and battery technology. According to the study, areas where dealers need to learn more about EVs include the battery lifecycle, battery health and overall servicing of an electric vehicle. According to the survey, this is consistent with EV owners, who also showed an interest in learning more about battery health.

Crucial Need for Equipping Dealerships

While the likelihood of an EV buyer deciding to purchase before visiting a dealership is high, current EV owners still prefer dealerships for servicing and maintenance. Unfortunately, more than half of the dealerships surveyed are not fully prepared to handle the specific needs of EVs. Feedback collected from dealers who took the survey noted more infrastructure for DC fast chargers and more technicians dedicated to BEVs are needed. This preparation will be essential, as among dealers who do not currently sell EVs, 55% are expecting to begin in the next year and 34% within the next six months, according to the study.

Source: Cox Automotive

EV Owners Have Lowest Satisfaction with Most Important Mobile App Features

PublishedMay 31, 2023

Usage of auto manufacturers’ mobile apps for electric vehicles has increased, according to the J.D. Power 2023 U.S. OEM EV App Report, released May 30. 

Even though app usage by owners of gas-powered vehicles has increased during recent years, EV owners are still likely to use their apps more often, especially for needs such as viewing active charging status or checking range information. Nearly two-thirds (66%) of EV owners use their brand’s app at least half of the time they drive, which is indicative of its increasingly important role in the EV ownership experience.

J.D. Power is increasing its presence in the field of customer satisfaction with automotive mobile apps as the industry faces ongoing challenges to provide a compelling customer experience. Acknowledging the increase of EV sales and model offerings, the report evaluates the all-important user experience with a brand’s smartphone app.

“Even though EV app usage has increased over time, the app features EV owners say are most important to them are among those that have the lowest satisfaction,” said Jason Norton, senior manager of global automotive consulting at J.D. Power. “Manufacturers need to focus on improving the performance of the areas that matter most to EV owners in order to maximize their impact and elevate the user experience.”

Key Findings

Focus on what’s important: Speed and ease of navigation are the two most important app usage elements for EV owners, yet these are among the lowest-scoring areas overall. Conversely, an app’s visual appeal is least important to EV owners yet ranks near the top in satisfaction. This suggests manufacturers need to do a better job of focusing on areas that are most critical to app users to provide the most engaging and productive experience.

Apps are a big deal: More than half (59%) of Teslaowners say the availability of the smartphone app had at least a moderate effect on their decision to purchase, compared with 35% of non-Tesla EV owners. Furthermore, 21% of Tesla owners say it had a major effect vs. just 7% of non-Tesla EV owners. As Tesla owners have often been on the forefront of EV trends, this suggests the industry must do a better job of communicating the availability and effect of their smartphone apps to help attract interested EV shoppers.

Charge ahead: More than two-thirds (68%) of EV owners say that they use their app at least every other drive to monitor the charging process and viewing their available range, which is in line with 2022 results. While owners predominately charge their vehicles at home, 85% say they still desire the ability to find charging stations in case they need one while away from home.

Feature desirability is high---and owners want more: Of the 25 most common app features, 19 features are cited as desirable by more than 70% of EV owners. However, only eight features are widely available throughout the industry.

Help wanted: Most owners receive help from the dealer or manufacturer in explaining or setting up their smartphone app. More than eight in 10 (85%) EV owners say they received some sort of assistance, and 90% of premium brand owners (excluding Tesla) say they received dealership support. EV app features need to be explained to owners by dealership personnel, as highlighted by the 25% of owners who say they have never used their EV app because they didn’t know how to do so.

App connection concerns: More than one-third (37%) of EV owners say they had some type of connection-related problem with their app in the past 30 days, up from 32% a year ago. This may suggest that increasing app usage is straining some manufacturers’ app network capacity.

Report Ranking

Tesla ranks highest among manufacturers’ EV mobile apps with a score of 838 (on a 1,000-point scale). Mercedes me connect (833) ranks second and MyHyundai(827) ranks third. The report average is 741.

The U.S. OEM EV App Report, formerly the U.S. OEM EV Benchmark Study, gauges EV owners’ experience with their brand’s mobile app. Insights are derived from surveying EV owners and an assessment of the most relevant EV mobile apps. Results are based on a standardized assessment approach relying on more than 340 best practices for vehicle apps that include more than 60 EV-specific attributes.

The report includes apps from the top 20 award-eligible brands that sell EVs in the United States; five profiled EV brands in Europe; and eight profiled EV brands in China. Additionally, almost 1,400 EV owners in the U.S. were surveyed in April-May 2023 to gather insights on app usage, feature desirability and app overall execution.

Source: J.D. Power

EV Price, Technology Hurdles Deter Buyers

A recent survey revealed a a cooling of consumer sentiment towards EVs in the last two years.

Written by Autobody News Staff
Published Nov. 20, 2023

A recent global survey by S&P Global Mobility revealed high costs and technology concerns are the primary barriers preventing consumers from embracing EVs. This insight comes at a time when the auto industry is rapidly pivoting towards electrification.

The survey, encompassing responses from 7,500 individuals worldwide, found 48% perceive EV prices as prohibitively high despite understanding the inherent premium attached to these vehicles. 

"Pricing is still very much the biggest barrier to electric vehicles," said Yanina Mills, a senior technical research analyst at S&P Global Mobility.

The survey also highlights a cooling of consumer sentiment towards EVs in the last two years, a trend Mills attributes to the natural fluctuations of an immature market segment. Despite improvements in EV range and the diversity of models available, less than half of the respondents believe EV technology is primed for mass market adoption. Only 42% are considering an EV for their next vehicle purchase, with 62% waiting for further technological advancements.

This hesitation marks a stark contrast to earlier attitudes. In 2019, only 58% of respondents were open to buying an EV, a figure that shot up to 86% in 2021 due to the influx of mainstream models and supportive policies. However, as of May 2023, the openness to purchase an EV has dropped to 67%, a 19-percentage point decrease from 2021.

Brian Rhodes, director of connected car and vehicle experience for S&P Global Mobility, cites rising interest rates, inventory shortages and changes in the U.S. tax-credit program as contributing factors to this shift. Additionally, concerns over the reliability of charging networks have also dampened enthusiasm.

Charging infrastructure remains a significant issue, with 46% of respondents worried about charging times and 44% about the availability of charging stations. Mills pointed out consumers are reluctant to delay charging more than what would typically take a lunch break. This underscores the need for a robust fast charger network and EVs capable of using such technology efficiently.

The survey also sheds light on the misconception regarding home charging. While widely believed to be the primary mode of charging, only 42% of EV owners typically charge their vehicles at home. This finding suggests a diverse charging behavior among EV users, spanning various locations.

In terms of range, the majority of respondents were content with an EV range below 300 miles, aligning with the capabilities of most EVs currently on the market. Mills, however, notes a persistent "what if..." factor that continues to make consumers hesitant.

Finally, the survey revealed consistent reasons for purchasing EVs: fuel savings (69%), environmental benefits (56%), and the driving experience (31%). Yet, the financial implications of owning an EV, especially in areas with high electricity costs, add complexity to the decision-making process. 

"All-electric everything doesn't seem to be achievable for a lot of consumers," Mills said.

The same manufacturing processes driving production savings could also cause a surge in costs to repair after a collision.

EV Suspected Source of Cargo Ship Fire that Killed 1

PublishedJuly 26, 2023

An electric car being transported by a cargo ship is the suspected source of a fire that broke out on the ship late July 25, the Dutch coast guard said.

Reutersreported the fire forced several of the 23 crewmembers to jump from the ship. Some were injured and one was killed.

The ship, the Fremantle Highway, was off the northern tip of the Netherlands when the fire started. It was carrying 2,857 cars from Germany to Egypt, 25 of which were electric.

A coast guard spokesperson said the ship was still burning when the news was reported July 26. A Dutch news source reported it had been towed out of shipping lanes.

EVgo Gets $6.6M Grant from CA to Deploy Fast Charging Stalls

PublishedApril 7, 2023

EVgo Inc. on April 4 announced it has been selected for proposed awards of $6.6 million from the California Energy Commission’s (CEC) California Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Project (CALeVIP) 2.0 program.

The funding is designed to aid the deployment of fast charging infrastructure in the central and eastern regions of California through the Golden State Priority Project (GSPP), which provides rebates for the installation of DC fast chargers capable of at least 150kW, focusing exclusively on disadvantaged community or low-income community census tracts.

With the rebate, EVgo will be deploying high-power 350kW chargers at each of the locations supported through this program as part of the company’s ongoing commitment to delivering a best-in-class charging experience.

“EVgo recognizes the ongoing importance of public-private partnerships to enable rapid EV adoption, and the California Energy Commission is a true leader in incenting market acceleration and private sector investment through programs like CALeVIP 2.0,” said Jonathan Levy, chief commercial officer at EVgo. “EVgo and the CEC share a commitment to Electric for All that includes ensuring fast charging infrastructure is distributed equitably and installed in communities across demographics and geographies.”

Launched in January, the GSPP was the first project available through CALeVIP 2.0 with a focus on equity and swift charger installation. With the proposed funding, EVgo will build more than 100 DC fast charging stalls across 17 locations in central and eastern California, including Fresno, Hayward, Manteca, El Cerrito, Antioch and San Jose.

More than 40% of EVgo’s existing fast charging network in California is located in disadvantaged and/or low-income census tracts, and with these 17 fast charging projects, EVgo can bring more convenient and affordable charging solutions to neighborhoods that will benefit most from the electrification of transportation.

In addition to its focus on equity, GSPP incorporates a number of public funding best practices, including a focus on higher-power equipment and project readiness, prioritizing projects likely to be able to deliver near-term results for Californians.

Source: EVgo

EVs Close to Gas Cars on Cost, But There Are Other Obstacles

Written by Steven Loveday, InsideEVs
Published Dec. 21, 2022

Electric cars are finally at a point where they mirror their gas-powered cousins when it comes to the cost of ownership---EVs are cheaper to own, but they tend to cost more upfront.

While this is a big step forward for EV adoption, JD Power said, there are still other factors that need to be addressed.

According to Automotive News, JD Power's EV Index pointed out four of six categories holding back EV adoption. Moreover, it seems there's still a long way to go before a few of those categories are successfully addressed.

The index suggests that while automakers are pumping time and money into the transition from gas cars to EVs, it will likely be a very long time before the two become equals.

"The EV marketplace is new, complex and dynamic, and most importantly, there are interdependencies that affect true adoption during the transition from ICE to EV," JD Power's Vice President of EV Practice Elizabeth Krear told Automotive News. "Having the ability to keep a pulse on all these interdependencies is critical."

People who buy an EV don't often return to a gas car. They also learn quickly the electric car saves them money, and it's easy to sell, holding its value quite well. However, they also learn there's a lack of public charging infrastructure, and much of it doesn't work on a regular basis.

Interestingly, while it seems EV adoption is increasing, JD Power's data shows it declining---because even though more people may want an electric car, it doesn't mean it's easy to get one.

JD Power's new EV Index looks at the progress of the transition from ICE to electric powertrains via millions of related data points, and will be tracking the data sets and updating the index on a monthly basis going forward. It pits EVs against gas cars in six categories: interest, availability, adoption, affordability, infrastructure and experience.

On the 100-point scale, the highest scores suggest EVs have reached parity with their fossil-fuel friends, as affordability and experience are positives. When the new U.S. federal EV tax credit kicks in, it should help even further. Moreover, as more compelling EVs come to market, the experience category should also continue to improve.

However, it appears many people simply aren't interested, the cars aren't readily available, and/or the infrastructure is a concern.

JD Power said the infrastructure is actually getting worse. InsideEVsfollows many EV owners on various social media sites, and even the most hardcore fans of the segment often complain about the terrible situation that is public fast charging. Tesla owners seem to be much happier with their charging experience than others, but there are still issues. Plus, more people are buying EVs, which means more competition for a charging stall.

With all of this said, JD Power still forecasts EV adoption will grow very quickly between now and 2025. The publication believes by the middle of the decade, about one in five cars on U.S. roads will be EVs. Currently, it's about one in 20.

We thank InsideEVs for reprint permission.

EVs Helped Keep Lights on At Dealership After Major Earthquake

Written by Iulian Dnistran, InsideEVs
Published Dec. 28, 2022

After a 6.4 magnitude earthquake shook Northern California and left about 70% of the homes and businesses without electricity, one dealership managed to keep the lights on with help from a couple of EVs.

Harper Motors in North Eureka, CA, which has operated in Humboldt County since 1912 and sells both new and used cars, including EVs, posted two photos on its Facebookpage showing how it managed to stay open for business during the blackout.

Using the vehicle-to-load (V2L) feature of a FordF-150 Lightning and KiaNiro EV, the dealership had plenty of power for its showroom and parts department.

“Powered by a Niro EV and F150 Lightning, we are open for sales, and parts if you need us,” wrote the business on its Facebook page.

The Ford F-150 Lightning’s V2L function, Pro Power Onboard, can provide up to 9.6 kW of power from a total of 11 outlets, including four 120V outlets in the front trunk and a 240V outlet in the bed of the truck.

The Kia Niro offers up to 1.8 kW of power from its front charging port or rear trunk, but only if the car is specced in its top “wave” trim level.

This isn’t the first time owners have used their EVs to power homes or businesses during power outages. In November, after Hurricane Nicole hit Florida, an F-150 Lightning owner used his truck to cook some food and help out his neighbor. And in August, a pair of Lightnings helped with the clean-up efforts after the terrible floods in Kentucky.

Ford’s electric truck can power an entire house for several days if configured properly. The option pack is called Ford Intelligent Backup Power and it involves some modifications to the home’s electrical system, but it's basically an automatic central home generator that turns on when the grid goes offline.

We thank InsideEVs for reprint permission.

EVs Onboard Cargo Ship That Caught Fire ‘in Good Condition': Report

Written by Iulian Dnistran, InsideEVs
Published Aug. 23, 2023

The approximately 500 all-electric vehicles aboard the Fremantle Highway cargo ship that caught fire in July off the Netherlands’ coast are reportedly in good condition, according to Automotive Logistics, quoting Peter Berdowski, CEO of Boskalis Salvage Company.

Speaking with the local Dutch press, Berdowski said the 500 EVs are among the 1,000 vehicles that “seem to be in good condition” and are “perfectly movable."

Per local media reports, the lower four decks of the cargo ship---out of a total of 12---are relatively undamaged, and it’s there where the battery-powered vehicles were located. At the same time, the four uppermost decks experienced temperatures so high they “totally fused with the cars” as a result of the fire, Berdowski said.

Previously, it was reported the vessel was carrying nearly 3,000 vehicles, but the report from Automotive Logistics said more than 3,700 cars were on board the ship when the fire started, with models from Volkswagen, BMWand Mercedes-Benz being transported from Germany to Egypt. The initial report also mentioned the fire allegedly ignited near an unspecified EV.

Following the fire, the Fremantle Highway roll-on/roll-off cargo ship was towed to the port of Eemshaven in the Netherlands, where oil is currently pumped out to reduce any risk of oil spills. The vessel can stay there until Oct. 14, when it will have to be moved somewhere else or scrapped along with the cars that are on board.

It’s unclear how the remaining cars will be recovered. Berdowski said there’s the risk of the fire restarting: “You wouldn’t want the cars to catch fire again during the moving process and restart the entire misery. Moreover, these cars have charged batteries with high voltage, which can be extremely dangerous.”

The International Union of Marine Insurance (IUMI) said after the initial inspection of the vessel that to date, “no fire onboard a ro-ro (roll-on/roll-off) or PCTC (Pure Car and Truck Carrier) has been proven to have been caused by a factory-new EV."

The Fremantle Highway caught fire July 25 while floating north of Ameland in the North Sea. The fire killed one member of the crew on board and injured several others.

We thank InsideEVs for reprint permission.

EVs Totaled at Lower Rate than ICE Vehicles

Recent claims data from Mitchell debunks the perception that EVs are more often declared a total loss following a crash than their ICE counterparts.

Written by Autobody News Staff
Published Nov. 8, 2023

Mitchell, an Enlytecompany, on Nov. 8 released its latest trends report: Plugged-In: EV Collision Insights, examining total loss frequency for electric and ICE automobiles. 

In the U.S. and Canada from Q1 to Q3 2023, the EV total loss rate was 7.25% for models 2020 and newer. Luxury ICE automobiles manufactured over the same time period and with a comparable actual cash value (ACV) had a rate of 7.47% versus 8.49% for all ICE vehicles.

“Many believe that auto insurers are writing EVs off as a total loss more often than their ICE counterparts of a similar model year and ACV, even with only minor damage,” said Ryan Mandell, director of claims performance at Mitchell. “Our data simply does not support that conclusion. In fact, even though an EV’s lithium-ion battery significantly increases the likelihood of a total loss outcome, we do not see these automobiles declared total losses more often than ICE alternatives.”

Along with total loss frequency, the Q3 2023 Mitchell report documents the difference in EV and ICE automobile:

Labor: Labor for EVs represented nearly half the cost of the total collision repair (49.66%) as compared to ICE alternatives (41%), equating to more than six additional labor hours per job.

Claims Severity: Repair costs for all EVs continue to trend higher than those for gasoline-powered vehicles, with a differential of $950 in the U.S. and $1,301 in Canada. These numbers are expected to grow in the coming months as supplements are written.

Parts Usage and Repair: OEM parts are the standard for EV repair with 88.85% of repairable EVs using parts provided by the vehicle manufacturer versus 67.48% for ICE alternatives.

The Plugged-In: EV Collision Insights report also highlights a modest increase from Q2 in claims volume for repairable EVs of 1.86% in the U.S. and 3.14% in Canada. The top North American regions for EV collisions---British Columbia, California and Quebec---saw increases in claims frequency as well.

To download the full report, visit the Mitchell website. You can also subscribe to future issues or access previous reports online at www.mitchell.com/plugged-in.

EVs: The Heavier the Load, the Shorter the Trip

Written by Andrew Gross, AAA
Published June 7, 2023

When drivers load an electric pickup with heavy cargo, they make the vehicle work harder, significantly reducing the truck’s range. But by how much?

AAA Automotive Engineering researchers recently tested the FordF-150 Lightning, the electric version of the iconic best-selling American pickup, to determine the impact of payload on the range. When loaded with 1,400 pounds of sandbags, 110 pounds shy of its maximum capacity, the Lightning’s range dropped from 278 miles to 210 miles, a reduction of 24.5%.

“Our testing revealed a significant range reduction, but it’s important to note that the Lightning was loaded to near its maximum capacity,” said Greg Brannon, director of AAA Automotive Engineering. “Most buyers will likely use their Lightning with a lighter load, resulting in a much smaller range reduction.”

It’s also important to remember the driving range of all vehicles, whether gas-powered or electric, is affected by weight. And as battery technology continues to improve, EV range will likely increase.

However, even with current technology, electric vehicles are still more energy efficient than gas-powered vehicles regarding energy consumption. The Ford Lightning’s range is less than its gas-burning cousin, which may get more than 500 miles per tank unloaded. Buyers concerned about EV range should consider the driving they will be doing and choose the right vehicle for their needs. The difference, for now, is that it is easier to gas and go than stop and charge.

In general, heavier payloads will reduce the range of an EV. This is because the extra weight requires more energy to move.

The type of driving also plays a role. Highway driving, which typically involves higher speeds and less regenerative braking, will further reduce range. Unlike gas-powered vehicles, which perform more efficiently at highway speeds, EVs thrive in urban driving conditions due to regenerative braking from more frequent stops. Regenerative brakes capture the energy from braking and convert it into the electrical power that charges the vehicle’s high-voltage battery. This electricity can then be stored in the car’s battery or power other electrical components.

In the case of battery electric pickups used as work vehicles, permanent loads---such as equipment racks, toolboxes and equipment trays built into the vehicle---will reduce the range at all times, even without additional cargo.

Source: AAA

F-150 Lightning Wins 2023 North American Truck of the Year

PublishedJan. 11, 2023

The FordF-150 Lightning is charging into the new year as the North American Truck of the Year™.

This is the latest award in the electric truck’s trophy case and marks the third straight NACTOY Truck of the Year award for Ford. It’s also the fifth NACTOY award for Ford in the past three years.

“Earning North America's Truck of the Year is huge for the team that has been working so hard to build and deliver as many Lightnings as possible, as quickly as possible,” said Jim Farley, Ford president and CEO. “We’re moving fast to further ramp production to a 150,000 run rate this fall and pushing to improve every aspect of this truck. We’ve started delivering Lightnings from the factory with a fantastic new user interface update to improve the driver experience that we’ll also roll out to all of our Lightning owners over-the-air.”

The F-150 Lightning is the best-selling electric truck in the U.S. since its launch in May 2022, with sales totaling 15,617, helping Ford to become the No. 2 EV automaker in the U.S. in 2022.

“When America's best-selling vehicle goes electric you know the transition has momentum,” said Karl Brauer, NACTOY juror and freelance journalist for Forbes. “Ford's effort to create an all-electric F-150 is remarkable because it combines the standard truck's dimensions, which means it retains massive aftermarket support, with substantial upgrades to areas like storage and mobile power support. It's really the best of all worlds, giving the F-150 Lightning a wide range of applications for both traditional and new-to-the-segment truck customers.”

To win the North American Truck of the Year, vehicles must be new or substantially changed for the year. The jury of 50 professional automotive journalists from across North America choose a winner based on innovation, design, safety, performance, technology, user experience, driver satisfaction and value.

North American Truck of the Year is the latest award in the F-150 Lightning trophy case. Others include Motor Trend Truck of the Year, The Car Connection Best Car to Buy, EdmundsTop Rated, Detroit Free PressTruck of the Year, Green Car Reports Best Car to Buy, TIMETop 200 Invention of 2022, 2023 Kelley Blue Book Best Buy Award, 2022 AltairEnlighten Award, Sobre Ruedas 2022 Awards, Wards10 Best Engines & Propulsion Systems, Internet Brands Best Car to Buy, Victory & ResedaVehicle of the Year, TopGear.com 2022 American Car of the Year, AutoblogTechnology of the Year 2022, Motor1Star Awards, CarBuzzSave the Planet award and multiple Sabreawards.

Source: Ford

F-150 Lightning Wins MotorTrend Truck of the Year for 2023

PublishedDec. 13, 2022

The new F-150 Lightning electric pickup truck has added the prestigious 2023 MotorTrendTruck of the Year award to its trophy case.

The win sets a precedent---the F-150 Lightning is the first electric truck to win by a unanimous vote among the judges. It’s also only the second time an electric vehicle has won unanimously in the history of MotorTrend's Of The Year competitions.

“It’s really brilliant for the team that Lightning is the first EV truck to win by unanimous vote,” said Darren Palmer, vice president, electric vehicle programs. “This truck is full of firsts, and this one is really special to add to Lightning’s historic launch.”

The F-150 Lightning earned the title of America’s best-selling electric truck in November, with sales totaling 2,062. Since the truck was introduced in May, sales have totaled 13,258. The success of Lightning has contributed to Fordbeing the No. 2 EV brand in the U.S. year to date.

“The F-150 Lightning and its nearly instant torque with ride and handling make it without a doubt the best truck Ford has ever made. If that feels like a bold statement, consider that amongst our judges, the F-150 Lightning won Truck of the Year by unanimous decision---the first EV truck to convince all judges across the board,” said Ed Loh, MotorTrend group head of editorial. “The Ford F-150 Lightning is no less than a milestone achievement in the history of American mobility.”

Ford is ramping up quickly to deliver 150,000 Lightning trucks per year by the end of next year. Ford’s electric vehicle business is growing with a conquest rate of over 60%.

Source: Ford

Fatal 2021 TX Tesla Crash Tied to Excessive Speed, Not Autopilot

Written by Simon Alvarez, Teslarati
Published Feb. 9, 2023

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) confirmed Feb. 8 its investigation into an April 2021 fatal crash involving a TeslaModel S in Texas found no indications the vehicle was operating on Autopilot at the time of the incident.

Instead, the probable cause of the crash was determined to be the driver’s excessive speed, alcohol impairment and inability to maintain control of the vehicle.

Two men died in the accident, which caused the Model S to burst into flame. The victims were 69-year-old engineer Everett Talbot and 59-year-old Dr. William Varner. One man was found in the front passenger seat, while the other was found in the back seat.

Following the crash, Harris County Pct. 4 Constable Mark Herman told reporters investigators were “100% certain” there was no one in the Model S’ driver’s seat when it crashed. This prompted widespread coverage from numerous media outlets, with several immediately declaring the fatal incident a “driverless” crash.

“They are 100% certain that no one was in the driver seat driving that vehicle at the time of impact. They are positive… Several of our folks are reconstructionists, but they feel very confident just with the positioning of the bodies after the impact that there was no one driving that vehicle,” Herman told journalists. He later noted a search warrant had been executed on Tesla to secure data about the incident.

There were immediate issues with the idea of a fatal Tesla Autopilot crash. For one, the absence of lane markings in the area’s streets meant Autopilot could not have been engaged. Traffic-Aware Cruise Control could only go up to 30 mph in the area as well; the Model S accelerated to 67 mph before it crashed.

Other details, such as allegations firefighters had to call Tesla for help with an uncontrollable fire, were debunked by the the Woodlands Township fire chief a few days after the incident made international news.

The findings of the NTSB have revealed the fatal accident did not involve Autopilot at all. The agency noted a review of the data from the crash showed “no use of the Autopilot system at any time during this ownership period of the vehicle, including the time frame up to the last transmitted timestamp on April 17, 2021.”

The agency also said the probable cause of the crash was the “driver’s excessive speed and failure to control his car, due to impairment from alcohol intoxication in combination with the effects of two sedating antihistamines, resulting in a roadway departure, tree impact and post-crash fire.”

The NTSB further noted “the available evidence suggests that the driver was seated in the driver’s seat at the time of the crash and moved into the rear seat” and “it was not possible to determine whether the doors were manually operational following the power loss.”

These conclusions are in line with footage retrieved from the owner’s home, which showed the driver entering the front seat before driving away.

We thank Teslarati for reprint permission.

The revised rule gives automakers a more manageable timeframe to achieve mileage requirements.

Federal Rebates on ‘Clean’ Vehicles to Be Given at Purchase in 2024

Researchers have found consumers overwhelmingly prefer an immediate rebate, rather than a tax credit.

Written by Autobody News Staff
Published Oct. 10, 2023

Beginning Jan. 1, 2024, people who buy qualifying new and used “clean” vehicles will be able to effectively receive federal rebates when they buy it, rather than waiting for a rebate on the following year’s tax return.

The U.S. Department of the Treasury released guidance Oct. 6 on how customers will be able to transfer their Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) clean vehicle credits---up to $7,500 for a new vehicle and up to $4,000 for used---to the dealership, which will then credit it to the purchase price.

Researchers have found consumers overwhelmingly prefer an immediate rebate.

“President Biden’s Investing in America agenda is focused on lowering transportation costs for consumers and giving American car companies the tools to lead the market,” said Laurel Blatchford, chief implementation officer for the IRA. “For the first time, the Inflation Reduction Act allows consumers to reduce the up-front cost of a clean vehicle, expanding consumer choices and helping car dealers expand their businesses. The IRS has focused on streamlining this process for car dealers as part of its commitment to improving service and helping taxpayers claim the credits they are eligible for.”

Later in October, dealers will be able to register via IRS Energy Credits Online, a new website. In January, they will use the website to submit clean vehicle sales information to receive payment for customers’ transferred credits. Dealers must register with Energy Credits Online for customers to be eligible to transfer their credits.

Customers must meet income requirements to be eligible to transfer the credit.

Ferrari Says EV Factory Completion Date is Close

Written by Joey Klender, Teslarati
Published June 13, 2023

At a recent investor conference, FerrariCEO Bendetto Vigna revealed the company's electric vehicle supercar production factory is expected to be completed in June 2024.

Ferrari has long been one of the world’s most exclusive automakers, building ultra-fast cars for the ultra-wealthy. Its success has always come from its prowess in combustion engine vehicles.

However, with the world’s transition to sustainable energy, especially in vehicles, becoming more evident, Ferrari has spoken on numerous occasions regarding its future with EVs, and it appears to becoming more real.

In June 2022, insiders from the Italian automaker revealed its third production line at the world-famous Maranello plant would be dedicated to the production of electric vehicles. It would help support the company’s goal of having 40% of its sales be fully electric by 2030.

The factory at Maranello will also be carbon neutral by that time.

Maranello’s EV production efforts “will be ready in June 2024,” and when it is completed, it will produce up to 15,000 all-electric units per year, the company told Bloomberg.

Its first EV supercar will be unveiled in late 2025.

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First Cybertruck Delivery Set for Nov. 30

The event is expected to be livestreamed from Gigafactory Texas.

Written by Simon Alvarez, Teslarati
Published Nov. 27, 2023

The TeslaCybertruck first delivery event is scheduled for 1 p.m. CT Nov. 30 at Gigafactory Texas, Tesla Investor Relations (IR) Head Martin Viechasaid.

“The Cybertruck delivery event starts at around 1 p.m. CT on Thursday, in case someone’s unsure. I’ve noticed that few people thought it’s an evening event,” Viecha clarified on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter. 

Expectations are high that Tesla will livestream the event, though Viecha did not provide information about when it will go live. 

The update surprised some electric vehicle advocates on social media, considering Tesla has typically held its vehicles’ first delivery events in the U.S. at night.

Holding the Cybetruck’s first deliveries in the afternoon means EV enthusiasts from European countries would be able to view the event at around 8 p.m. local time. However, in countries such as Australia---a large market for pickup trucks---the Cybertruck’s first delivery event would be starting very early at 6 a.m. local time.

The excitement surrounding the Cybertruck’s first deliveries is notable. Over the weekend, social media posts indicated the Cybertruck’s display units in select Tesla stores are attracting a lot of attention from visitors.

We thank Teslarati for reprint permission.

First Production Lucid Air Sapphires Roll Off Assembly Line

The $249,000 EV is expected to be the world’s first fully electric luxury super-sports sedan.

Written by Maria Merano, Teslarati
Published Oct. 4, 2023

On Sept. 29, Lucid Motors shared on Xa snapshot of the first production Lucid Air Sapphire super sedan going through the ADAS system calibration in its AMP-1 manufacturing facility in Casa Grande, AZ. The EV manufacturer added customer deliveries will begin soon.

Lucid Motors teased the Air Sapphire’s start of production in Arizona in the summer. In July, the company shared a picture via X of a Lucid Air Sapphire release candidate on the line at Casa Grande. In August, Lucid released the official specs of the halo car. 

The $249,000 Lucid Air Sapphire is expected to be the world’s first fully electric luxury super-sports sedan. Lucid noted the EV can achieve 0-60 mph in 1.89 seconds, making it faster than the TeslaModel S Plaid.

“Sapphire represents the pinnacle of electric performance, finally achieving the performance that I’ve so long searched for,” said CEO Peter Rawlinson. “After painstaking development work, I am able to confirm Lucid Air Sapphire has achieved a satisfactory performance, and I trust the most discerning drivers will agree."

The Lucid Air Sapphire is a limited-production model to be available in the U.S. and Canada. The Sapphire will start at $249,999 in the U.S. and $325,000 in Canada.

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Owner and early Tesla investor Steve Jurvetson also donated his Roadster and Model X to the museum.

The truck was hit by a Toyota Corolla that crossed the center line.

First Rivian R2 Model to Be Revealed in 2024, Priced from $40,000

Written by Iulian Dnistran, InsideEVs
Published June 22, 2023

Rivianwill reveal the first model in the smaller, more affordable R2 range in early 2024, according to the company’s CFO Claire McDonough, who spoke with Emmanuel Rosner during Deutsche Bank’s Global Auto Industry Conference Call.

McDonough said she saw the clay model teased recently during a Q&A session with CEO RJ Scaringe and the whole team is “incredibly excited about the differentiation of the products.”

Rivian’s first R2-based model will be a mid-size SUV crossover which could have a starting price of around $40,000 and a maximum retail price of $60,000, slotting right under the flagship R1T pickup, which starts at $73,000, and the R1S SUV that has an MSRP of $78,000.

In other words, we can expect the upcoming R2S SUV---the name hasn’t been confirmed, but it will likely follow the same scheme as the R1 lineup---to have a similar size and price to the Ford Bronco.

Production of the R2 SUV is set to begin two years after its reveal, so sometime in 2026, when the company estimates it will have increased production of the R1-based vehicles to 85,000 units per year, up from 65,000, while production of the Amazon-only electric delivery van (EDV) will go down from 85,000 to 65,000 units yearly.

With this being said, the total capacity of the assembly facility in Normal, IL, will remain at 150,000 units per year in 2024, with a second factory yet to be built in Georgia set to take over the manufacturing of the R2 models.

During the conference call, McDonough hinted at the possibility of the R2 platform reaching a global audience and not being restricted to North America only, as the R1-based vehicles are.

“So we talked a little bit about, right, where we were in 2018, 2019, relative to the work that we’ve been conducting over the course of the last two years to get those material costs down," McDonough said. "I hear we’re starting from a very different position of negotiations as it pertains to the R2 platform and the size and skill that that platform will become over time for Rivian. I’m not just [talking] in North America, but globally as well.”

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First Tesla Cybertruck Built at Giga Texas

Written by Simon Alvarez, Teslarati
Published July 17, 2023

The first TeslaCybertruck has been produced at Gigafactory Texas. An image of the production all-electric pickup truck was posted by the EV maker on its official Twitteraccount. 

As is typical of the company’s other product-related milestones, a commemorative photo of the production Cybertruck featured the vehicle itself and the Tesla team. Members of the Tesla team could be seen smiling as they celebrated. 

The Cybertruck in the commemorative photo will likely be the first of many, as the list of pre-orders is very long. As of January this year, industry watchers estimated there are about 1.7 million Tesla Cybertruck pre-orders. Such a number, or even a fraction of it, will likely keep Tesla busy for the next couple of years. 

The Tesla Cybertruck saw notable delays in its production. When the vehicle was unveiled in late 2019, CEO Elon Musk estimated the vehicle would enter production in late 2021, with more configurations entering production in 2022. This date was postponed several times as the company continued to make adjustments. 

A good reason behind the Cybertruck’s delays is the fact the pickup truck is unlike anything that has ever been produced before. Musk and Design Chief Franz von Holzhausen have said the Cybertruck will be well worth the wait. 

Some of the vehicle’s specs announced during its unveiling are expected to be rolled out to the pickup truck’s production version, including a payload capacity of 3,500 pounds, a towing rating between 7,500 to 14,000 pounds depending on the variant, and 100 cubic feet of exterior storage. 

The Cybertruck is also expected to offer stellar off-road performance with an approach angle of 35 degrees, a departure angle of 28 degrees and up to 16 inches of ground clearance. Similar to other Tesla vehicles, the Cybertruck is expected to feature impressive acceleration, with the pickup truck’s top-tier variant initially announced to have a 0-60 mph time of 2.9 seconds. 

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