The charging network for electric vehicles in the US is expanding rapidly, and the Volkswagen Group has launched a cross-brand electric vehicle promotion campaign. | Overseas Daily
"Top 3 News "
Ford Electric Puma Gen-E Officially Unveiled with Comprehensive Performance Upgrade
Key Points:
Ford's top-selling model in the European market, the Puma, has undergone a significant upgrade with the launch of the all-electric version, the Puma Gen-E. This new model is not only equipped with a brand-new electric powertrain but also features a more sporty design and more interior space than ever before. The Puma Gen-E electric version, with its stylish new appearance, efficient electric powertrain, and increased interior space, has reignited the enthusiasm for this popular compact crossover. Ford claims that the Puma Gen-E is their best Puma model to date, and the driving experience is also the most enjoyable so far.
In terms of appearance, the Puma Gen-E adopts a completely new front fascia design inspired by the Mustang Mach-E, while eliminating the traditional grille and replacing it with a shield-shaped design. In addition, the electric Puma has added a rear spoiler and new wheels, further enhancing its electric vibe. Ford asserts that the new design helps improve aerodynamic performance, thereby enhancing vehicle performance. Inside, the Puma Gen-E is equipped with a 12.8-inch driver display and a 12-inch infotainment screen, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
At the same time, it retains many physical buttons, including climate control buttons, which can also be found in the fuel version. The Puma Gen-E has a WLTP range of up to 234 miles (376 kilometers), and the urban range is even up to 325 miles (523 kilometers), sufficient to meet daily commuting needs. In terms of fast charging, the Puma EV supports a charging speed of up to 100kW, which can charge from 10% to 80% in 23 minutes. Ford will produce the electric Puma along with the fuel version at the Craiova plant in Romania. The Puma Gen-E is now open for reservations and is expected to start deliveries in the spring of 2025. In Germany, the starting price of the Puma Gen-E is $38,800 (approximately €36,900), while the Premium version starts at $41,500 (approximately €39,400).
Ford Puma Gen - E (Source: Electrek)
Opinions:
As an automotive enthusiast, I am extremely excited about the launch of the Ford Puma Gen-E electric version. This new model not only inherits the excellent traditions of the Puma series but also provides more choices and a better driving experience for consumers through electrification and intelligent upgrades. Firstly, the exterior design of the Puma Gen-E is very attractive. It not only retains the classic elements of the Puma series but also makes it look more modern and dynamic through the design language of electrification. This design innovation will undoubtedly attract the attention of more young consumers. Secondly, the electric powertrain and range of the Puma Gen-E are very impressive. In urban commuting, a range of over 300 miles is sufficient to meet the needs of most people, and the fast charging function greatly reduces the waiting time for charging, improving the convenience of travel.
In addition, the interior design and technology configuration of the Puma Gen-E are also quite attractive. The 12.8-inch driver display and 12-inch infotainment screen, as well as the support for wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, make the driving experience more intelligent and convenient. In general, the launch of the Puma Gen-E electric version not only enriches Ford's electric vehicle product line but also provides consumers with an environmentally friendly and high-performance travel option. I believe that with the continuous progress of electric vehicle technology and the increasing demand for environmentally friendly travel from consumers, the Puma Gen-E will achieve good results in the market.
The Rapid Expansion of the Electric Vehicle Charging Network in the United States, with 12,000 Charging Points Added in Three Months
Key Points:
According to the latest report from the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation in the fourth quarter of 2024, the number of electric vehicle (EV) charging ports across the United States has increased by approximately 12,000 in the past three months. As of now, there are nearly 204,000 Level 2 and DC fast charging ports in the national network in the United States, which is twice the number at the end of 2020 when the Biden administration just initiated the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program and took over the White House. Four years ago, 38% of the busiest transportation corridors had at least one DC fast charger every 50 miles. Now, this proportion has increased to 59.1%, and it is expected to reach approximately 70% by the end of 2025.
In the 2024 fourth-quarter NEVI Formula Program update, 126 public electric vehicle charging ports have been put into operation at 31 NEVI sites in nine states, representing an 83% increase in open NEVI ports compared to the previous quarter. (In the third quarter, 69 public charging ports were operational at 17 NEVI sites in eight states.) In the past three months, Illinois, North Carolina, Iowa, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Oregon, and Delaware have announced their first-round awards. Kansas and Virginia have announced their second-round awards. Currently, at least 41 states have issued their first-round requests for proposals. Among them, 35 states have issued conditional awards or reached agreements for 3,560 fast-charging ports at more than 890 charging station locations.
According to data from the Federal Highway Administration, all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia are eligible for two rounds of NEVI funds totaling nearly $2.4 billion. As of last Friday, 37 states are eligible for the third round of funds totaling $586 million for fiscal year 2025, and the remaining 13 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico are expected to be approved by the end of 2024. If these funds are distributed to the states before Donald Trump takes office on January 20, the likelihood of these funds being revoked is minimal.
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet in the United States (Source: Electrek)
Opinions:
The progress made by the United States in the construction of electric vehicle charging infrastructure is remarkable. This not only reflects the country's emphasis on the future development of electric vehicles but also demonstrates the Biden administration's determination to promote clean energy and reduce carbon emissions. The addition of 12,000 charging ports not only provides more convenience for electric vehicle users but also lays a solid foundation for the popularization and promotion of electric vehicles. As the electric vehicle market continues to expand, the improvement of charging infrastructure has become the key to promoting the development of the industry. The rapid increase in charging ports across the United States can not only alleviate the range anxiety of electric vehicle users but also enhance the feasibility of long-distance travel with electric vehicles, which is crucial for improving the attractiveness and market competitiveness of electric vehicles.
In addition, as more states join the NEVI Formula Program and open up applications for funds, we can expect that the future electric vehicle charging network in the United States will be more dense and convenient. This is of great significance for promoting the development of the electric vehicle industry, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and achieving environmental protection goals. However, despite the significant progress, the United States still faces challenges in the construction of electric vehicle charging infrastructure, such as the standardization of charging technology, the balanced distribution of the charging network, and the alignment with international standards. In the future, the United States needs to continue to increase investment, optimize the layout of the charging network, and promote technological innovation to ensure its global competitiveness in the electric vehicle field.
General Motors Transfers Shares of Michigan Battery Plant to LG Energy Solution
Key Points:
General Motors (GM) recently announced plans to sell its stake in the soon-to-be-completed electric vehicle battery plant in Lansing, Michigan to its joint venture partner, LG Energy Solution. The Lansing plant is one of the four battery plants planned to be opened in the United States and is part of GM's joint venture with LG, Ultium Cells. GM's first plant in Warren, Ohio, began producing batteries for the GMC Hummer and Cadillac Lyriq in September 2022.
Earlier this year, the Ultium Cells plant in Spring Hill, Tennessee, began shipping battery cells to GM for its new electric models, such as the Chevrolet Blazer, Equinox, and Silverado EV. The third plant, the 2.8 million-square-foot facility in Lansing, Michigan, was originally scheduled to open later this year. Despite the plant being nearly complete, GM has decided to sell its investment. GM announced on Monday that it has reached a non-binding agreement to sell its stake in the Lansing electric vehicle battery plant. GM's Chief Financial Officer, Paul Jacobson, said the company believes "it already has the right battery cell and manufacturing capacity to grow in the electric vehicle market in a capital-efficient manner."
The transaction is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2025. LG will immediately gain access to the facility and its nearly 100 employees. GM said the plant will still fulfill its previously announced employment commitments. This sale will not affect GM's ownership in the Ultium Cells joint venture or the fourth planned electric vehicle battery plant with Samsung SDI.
In another press release on Monday, GM and LG announced the extension of their 14-year battery partnership to include the development of prismatic battery cells. The company said that prismatic battery cells have a more efficient planar design that can reduce the weight and cost of electric vehicles through space-efficient packaging. Kurt Kelty, Vice President of Battery Cells and Packaging at GM, said: "We are focused on optimizing our battery technology by developing the right battery chemistry and form factor to improve electric vehicle performance, enhance safety, and reduce costs." By extending the partnership with LG, GM has taken an "important step" towards these goals.
Chevrolet Electric Vehicle (Source: Electrek)
Opinions:
General Motors' decision to sell its stake in the electric vehicle battery plant in Lansing, Michigan to LG Energy Solution reflects the company's strategic adjustment and capital operation considerations in the global electric vehicle market. This move not only demonstrates GM's trust in its partner LG Energy Solution but also shows its intention to seek more efficient capital allocation in the global electric vehicle industry. From the perspective of capital efficiency, GM's decision is wise. By selling the stake, GM can focus its capital on its core competencies, such as the research and development, marketing, and brand building of electric vehicles, while leveraging LG's professional capabilities in battery manufacturing to ensure the stability and cost-effectiveness of battery supply. This cooperation model helps GM maintain flexibility and competitiveness in the fierce market competition.
In addition, this decision is also in line with the development trend of the global electric vehicle industry. As the electric vehicle market continues to expand, the supply stability and cost control of batteries, as one of the core components, have become particularly important. Through cooperation with LG, GM can not only ensure the continuity of battery supply but also reduce the cost of electric vehicles through technological innovation and improve market competitiveness. However, this decision may also bring certain risks. Battery technology is evolving rapidly, and GM needs to ensure that it can continuously obtain the latest battery technology and products in its cooperation with LG to maintain the competitiveness of its electric vehicle products. At the same time, GM also needs to closely monitor changes in the global supply chain to deal with possible problems such as fluctuations in raw material prices and supply disruptions.
"Big Events "
The French Luxury New Electric SUV DS N°8 Unveiled with a Range of up to 466 Miles
The French luxury car brand DS has recently revealed detailed information about its new electric SUV, the DS N°8. This flagship electric vehicle has become the focus with its elegant design and an outstanding range of up to 466 miles (approximately 750 kilometers). The DS N°8 will replace the DS 9 mid-size sedan as the new flagship in the brand's lineup. DS, a French luxury car manufacturer under the Stellantis Group, is known for its luxury and innovation. From the initial impression, the DS N°8 appears particularly striking even under camouflage.
DS has not yet disclosed the power output data, but it can be expected that this electric vehicle will have sufficient power and may be equipped with a fast charging function. Fans of the DS brand may notice that DS has changed its naming method by adding the French numeric symbol N°, which is a tribute to the brand's tradition, derived from the Citroën DS 19 in the 1950s, and also implies Chanel N°5. According to the press release, this naming method "embodies elegance and timelessness beyond language" and states that "N°" is designed in the shape of a diamond tip, symbolizing elegance and class. Although this naming method is somewhat exaggerated, it is quite distinctive.
DS N°8 (Source: Electrek)
According to WLTP (Worldwide Light-duty Vehicle Test Procedure) data, approximately 50 pre-production vehicles have been undergoing daily tests in France. From the appearance, the streamlined aerodynamic design of the DS N°8 makes it a clear target for competitors such as the Tesla Model Y and BMW iX, but the DS N°8 adds an extra touch of elegance and uniqueness. The latest images of the flagship electric vehicle's cockpit show that it is equipped with a large horizontal central screen embedded in a flat dashboard. It is equipped with an X-shaped steering wheel and speakers surrounding the front doors, all of which are more simplified than the designs of the brand's current models.
Currently, the price of the DS N°8 has not been announced, but like Citroën, it will not be sold in the US market. DS plans to launch two models on the STLA Medium platform, both of which will be produced at the Melfi plant in Italy. The platform is designed to accommodate both internal combustion engines and battery electric drive systems, but currently, DS has stated that it is committed to full electrification. The launch of the DS N°8 not only showcases DS's ambition in the electric vehicle field but also indicates the competitiveness of French luxury electric vehicles in the global market. With the continuous progress of electric vehicle technology and the increasing demand for environmentally friendly travel from consumers, the DS N°8 is expected to gain a foothold in the market.
Silicon Valley Electric Truck Startup TELO Launches Small Electric Pickup Configurator with a Starting Price of $41,000
The Silicon Valley electric truck startup TELO has recently released an online configurator for its micro electric pickup and announced design updates and a lower-than-expected base price. However, consumers will need to be patient as production of the vehicle is still several months away. Last June, TELO announced plans to build an electric truck that is about the size of a Mini but has a cargo bed that can rival that of a Hummer. It seemed impossible at the time, but TELO has managed to do this by redesigning to reduce wasted space in the vehicle design, especially in the truck sector where manufacturers often consider the large front hood as an important part of the design.
