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All-Electric Mercedes EQC Hits the Road

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Almost a year ago, we told you about the all-electric Mercedes EQC. It’s a step toward zero-emissions from the luxury automaker. As of now, it’s set to arrive in 2022 but has now been seen on the roads for testing.

all-electric Mercedes EQC
Mercedes

All-Electric Mercedes EQC Specs

The electric Mercedes features a new platform that is the basis of all future EQ cars from the company. It’s a modified version of the GLC and resembles an Audi e-Tron.

It comes complete with an 80kWh battery and two electric motors. One drives the front axle while the other runs the rear. In total, this SUV features 403 horsepower. It also contains dual-display infotainment plus the digital dial setup. It’s the same one found in the MBUX infotainment system on modern Mercedes models.

The interior highlights over 17 cubic feet of cargo space, new vents and copper accents. It’s all that a family needs for a leisurely trip and more. Drivers also take notice of the quiet cabin. With a single charge range of 232 to 259 miles, this SUV is quite capable. It’s competing against the Jaguar I-Pace and Tesla Model X.

The Maximum Range mode utilizes the on-board cameras and navigation system. It sees the road ahead to provide assistance to the battery pack. Drivers in the UK receive a free one-year subscription to the IONTY network.

Waiting for Updates

EQ stands for electric intelligence and we think Mercedes hits the nail on the head. They’ve done a fabulous job of creating an electric SUV that appeals to the masses. We can’t wait to see this electric crossover in person.

What are your thoughts on the new EQC? Do you think it will hold up against the rivals or be an overpriced SUV? If you plan on purchasing an electric vehicle, let us know what model you’re looking at.

Cadillac Escalade EV Could See a 400-Mile Range

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With all the new electric vehicle options out there, the amount of range they can go is always on everyone mind. Nobody wants to sit and wait for their car, truck or SUV to charge when on that weekend getaway or family vacation. This is why you should consider a Cadillac Escalade EV. It wasn’t that long ago that Cadillac debuted their electric SUV plans, but now we have more details.

2019 Cadillac Escalade - Cadillac Escalade EV
Cadillac

Cadillac Escalade EV

In 2021, the 5th generation Cadillac Escalade is being offered with three different powertrains. One of the options will include an all-electric version. This will squash the worry of how far you can drive between charges. The 2021 Escalade will push the limits of a full-size SUV range at just around 400 miles. This will serve the needs of traveling long distances without the need of sitting at charging stations. The only downside to this is the size of the battery pack this will take. Considering the size and weight of the Cadillac the battery will have to be pretty large.

EV Contenders

The only all-electric SUV on the market right now is the Tesla Model X. This EV will take you about 325 miles before you need to charge. Tesla utilizes a 100 kWh battery to make this happen. However, when the Cadillac Escalade is ready in 2021, Tesla could be competing by then with a 400-mile range of its own.

The only contender, not yet on the market in the long-range, luxury SUV segment is the Rivian R1S. They are also advertising a 400+ mile range.

We can’t wait to see the future of these electric vehicles. With more car companies going to all-electric cars, trucks and SUV’s it should be interesting to see the how far some of these can go without being plugged in. What do you think about all the new models?

What Happened to GM Electric Vehicles?

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At the end of 2017, Mary Barra, the GM CEO, announced that the company would introduce two electric vehicles within 18 months. Both of these models were set to be crossovers based on the BEV2 platform. One of them would go to China while the other would remain at home. Still, we have to ask ourselves all these months later; what happened to the GM electric vehicles?

GM electric vehicles
GM

18 Months Arrived

The 18-month timeframe has come and gone since Barra’s presentation. Yes, we still don’t see any expansion to the GM EV lineup. In all fairness, there has been some testing of a Chevy Bolt EUV crossover, but that won’t arrive until the end of this year.

In the meantime, there’s no word on the upcoming EVs, so we don’t know if delays occurred or plans changed completely.

Competition Pulls Ahead

While GM continues to drag their heels, Tesla released the Model 3 and announced an upcoming Model Y. Nissan updated its Leaf and Hyundai launched the new Kona Electric. Kia got into the action as well with the Niro and Soul EV lineup.

Looking into the luxury market, we also see the Jaguar i-Pace, Mercedes-Benz EQC and Audi e-Tron. There’s no lack of competition in the field and GM is starting very far behind in the race.

While we can’t deny that the company faced a lot of restructuring lately, we have to face the facts. The American automaker started off as one of the electric car leaders and now fell dramatically behind.

Future Plans for GM Electric Vehicles

GM plans to introduce a new electric architecture which will replace the BEV2 platform by 2021. The company also aims to reduce lithium-ion battery costs and increase range with the latest technology. We hope that they are simply falling behind on the plans and that they can still pull ahead in this cut-throat competition.

In the meantime, don’t forget to check out our Complete 2019 EV Lineup & Ranges.

Illinois EV Bill Will Require $1,000 Annual Registration Fee

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Did you see the new proposed bill in Illinois that will raise annual registration for an EV from $17.50 to $1,000? Let’s take a closer look at the Illinois EV bill and see what it means for electric vehicle owners.

Illinois EV Bill
Tesla

HB 3233 (Illinois EV Bill)

Part of HB 3233 includes some new fees for the state infrastructure plan. This bill plans to double gas tax to 44 cents per gallon while increasing registration and licensing fees to all drivers.

Still, nothing is more drastic than the outrageous registration fees for EV owners. It could be as much as $1,000 each year. As of now, it doesn’t appear that hybrids are responsible for this, only all-electric cars and SUVs.

Martin Sandoval introduced the legislation with hopes that it would increase annual funding an additional $2.4 billion. With gas taxes doubling, electric vehicles seem to pay the price in other ways. Obviously, both Rivian and Tesla oppose the proposal.

Will This Hurt the EV Industry?

Forcing EV owners to pay more than 400 percent compared to the gas-powered vehicles only decreases investments in this technology. Illinois will continue to rely on petroleum, increase emissions and hurt the state’s economy.

Last year, Illinois sold 6,400 electric vehicles in 2018. It was the seventh top state for EV sales. At this time, there are also about 15k registered EVs in the state, but that number continues to grow.

If the state wants to continue lowering carbon emissions, this bill doesn’t line up. The fee is simply too high and seen as punishing. If you ask us, it’s downright craziness. States should be offering an incentive to EV drivers, not making it more difficult for them.

Of course, you can still save some money. Just make sure you purchase one of the cheapest electric vehicles on the market. Then, you give yourself the cash needed to pay your ridiculous registration fee.

Complete 2019 EV Lineup & Ranges

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More people are turning to electric technology when it comes to their cars. Why not? With the selection currently available, there’s something for everyone. That’s why we decided to put together a comprehensive guide to the complete 2019 EV lineup. We’ve also included the ranges of each on a single charge. Hopefully, this listing will help you determine the electric car that’s right for you.

2019 EV Lineup
Audi

2019 Audi E-Tron

We’ve been talking about the Audi electric road car for quite some time now. Order books are finally open and it has hit the dealerships. This electric SUV features a 95 kWh battery that gives it a 204-mile range. Just keep in mind that you need to invest a good deal of cash for this ride. Starting prices are around $75k, but it’s well worth the money, in our opinion.

2019 BMW i3 passenger side view
BMW

2019 BMW i3

If you think this BMW looks a little weird, you aren’t the only one. We haven’t been a fan of the styling from the beginning, but have to admit that this luxury electric car does have a few things going for it. For starters, it contains a carbon-fiber chassis. This increases stiffness and reduces the vehicle’s weight. With that said, it does cost more than $44k and only comes with a 153-mile range on a single charge. Still, it’s a great urban vehicle and simple to park.

red 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV
Chevrolet

2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV

Chevy offered the first mainstream answer to Tesla with the Bolt. This small hatchback is affordable at just $36k and goes 238 miles on a single charge. It’s the ideal option for people that can’t spend a lot and don’t want to drive in some futuristic i3.

gray 2019 Fiat 500e
FCA

2019 Fiat 500e

This Italian electric car doesn’t make much sense to us. First of all, we don’t understand how Fiat continues to sell these. They aren’t capable and aren’t even cheap. Starting prices begin around $33k and the 84-mile range is a joke.

2019 Honda Clarity Fuel Cell
Honda

2019 Honda Clarity Fuel Cell

Most people don’t know that this Honda is available. It’s spacious but is only available in California where there is a hydrogen infrastructure. It does feature an EPA-estimated range of 366 miles, which is significant. The downside is that you aren’t given the option to purchase this car. If you want one, you must lease it. Suffice to say, we aren’t fans.

2019 Hyundai Ioniq Electric plugged in
Hyundai

2019 Hyundai Ioniq Electric

On the lower end of the price scale is this option from Hyundai. This basic vehicle starts around $30k but only has a range of 124 miles. If you want electric technology, don’t have far to drive and need to stick to a budget, this might be what you are looking for.

red 2019 Hyundai Kona Electric
Hyundai

2019 Hyundai Kona Electric

One of the more excited EVs available now is the Kona Electric. We like the styling, it has lots of standard equipment and starts under $37k. Considering it’s a Hyundai, you also gain an exceptional warranty. With a 258-mile range, you get everything you need including a fun drive.

2019 Jaguar I-Pace
Jaguar

2019 Jaguar I-Pace

We wouldn’t initially expect Jaguar to release an electric SUV, but the automaker did. We are glad because the I-Pace has a unique look we are fond of. Of course, it drives just like it should and is a great alternative to a Model X. There’s plenty of interior room and it will go 234 miles on a single charge.

passenger side 2019 Kia Niro EV
Kia

2019 Kia Niro EV

Kia gave it their best effort when they made this electric vehicle. It provides a 239-mile range at a low starting price of just $38k. You wouldn’t expect it to be as much fun as it is, but you will enjoy it immensely. Plus, there are a ton of standard features, making it a great value for the money.

green 2019 Kia Soul EV
Kia

2019 Kia Soul EV

Another Kia option is the Soul EV. It’s not just affordable, but also a fun little crossover-type vehicle with plenty of torque. The trouble is, it only goes 111 miles on a charge. If you wait for the 2020 model, you might benefit from a few upgrades that are coming down the line.

2019 Nissan Leaf plugged in
Nissan

2019 Nissan Leaf

The Leaf was featured in our cheapest electric vehicle list, but that low price comes at a cost. You can only expect to go 150 miles, but it still continues to be one of the world’s bestselling EVs. They are well-built and simple if you are looking for something basic.

white 2019 Nissan Leaf Plus
Nissan

2019 Nissan Leaf Plus

Nissan wanted to compete with the Kona, Bolt and Model 3, so they created the Leaf Plus. It features a range of 226 miles and offers more value for the price. We find some of the technology to be strange, but the power and torque should impress.

2019 black 2019 Smart ForTwo EQ
Daimler

2019 Smart ForTwo EQ

We recently told you that the Smart cars would be discontinued in America, but we still have to include this in the lineup for now. Not only is this vehicle expensive, but it only goes 58 miles, which is the worst of this list. Still, it’s the easiest to park and seems to have a small following of fans.

red 2019 Tesla Model 3
Tesla

2019 Tesla Model 3

The Model 3 set the standard for EVs. It’s fun to drive, comfortable, offers plenty of cargo space and has one of the highest ranges. The Long Range AWD goes 310 miles. Still, it has some downsides. For one, it isn’t cheap. Customers also complain that the display isn’t simple to use.

red 2019 Tesla Model S
Tesla

2019 Tesla Model S

The Model S has been around since 2012, with several updates along the way. It’s still the reigning champ of electric vehicles. The S 100 D runs 370 miles on a charge but also costs $88k before special wheels, paints or upgrades.

white 2019 Tesla Model X
Tesla

2019 Tesla Model X

Just like the Model S, this car is expensive and fast. It is also roomier and bigger plus it offers some cool doors. The X 100D provides users with 325 miles of driving range. We don’t think that’s too shabby considering the size.

white 2019 Volkswagen e-Golf
Volkswagen

2019 Volkswagen e-Golf

VW wastes no time testing various concepts, but this is the only production model currently available. We aren’t impressed by the 119-mile range, but it is a nice car to drive. The starting price is under $32k, which is another perk worth mentioning.

Favorite in the 2019 EV Lineup

After examining all the options in the 2019 EV Lineup, we would love to hear what your preference is. What 2019 EVs interest you the most and which just disappoint? Let us know your thoughts and make sure you holler at us if we missed a car or SUV in the 2019 electric vehicle lineup.

Faraday Future Receives $225 Million for Electric Car Startup

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Faraday Future has spent years attempting to bring its first EV to market. It’s been a rough road for the company and now, they’ve announced that they received a $225 million bridge loan to help them get started.

Faraday Future
Faraday Future

Faraday Future History

The electric automaker isn’t a stranger to controversy. It began with many lawsuits from its vendors. Then, executives left and the CEO, Jia Yueting had his fortune taken from him in China.

Even though the company was able to raise millions, they still ran out of funds. That’s when a Chinese holding company offered a $2 billion investment. Just when everything started looking up for the company, things fell apart again.

Evergrandne entered into a partnership with Faraday Future to take 45% in the company in exchange for the $2 billion investment. Initially, they were to provide $800 million in early 2018 and then make the remainder of payments over time.

The outcome was different, however. The Chinese company didn’t make the extra payments and then attempted to take control of the company. Evergrandne also tried to prevent Faraday Future from getting funding elsewhere.

This led to layoffs, more people quitting and furloughs during the fourth quarter. By the time the company settled with its investor, many of the top executives already left. They also lost several vital engineers.

Faraday Future claims that this investment enables them to bring their FF91 vehicles to market. They also plan to produce an FF81 car by 2021.

Where is FF Headed?

The trouble is that most people have lost complete faith in FF. Even though the company creates some new and innovative EV tech, they just can’t compete right now with other companies.

This bridge loan is likely a recipe for disaster and leads the company into more capital issues. Because of this, it’s hard to believe that we will ever see anything come from the company.

What are your thoughts? Will Faraday Future make it big in the EV market and compete with Tesla or will it be a flop? Let us know.

Freightliner Electric Vehicles to Launch in Portland

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Freightliner is expanding its fleet. This time, they plan to add new medium and heavy-duty electric vehicles. The new Freightliner electric vehicles will come out of Silicon Forest in Portland, Oregon. Currently, Daimler Trucks North America is renovating the plant to handle production. First, they plan to test out these electric trucks with several customers.

Freightliner electric vehicles
Daimler

Freightliner Electric Vehicles

By the end of this year, the company plans to release 200 electric trucks for consumers to try. 50 of these will be in the United States. NFI and Penske are the first companies to test out this lineup. These trucks include:

  • Freightliner eM2 (produced in Oregon)
  • Fuso eCanter (made in Europe in Japan, but will be available in America)
  • Freightliner eCascadia (produced in Oregon)
  • Mercedes-Benz eActros (made in Europe)
  • Saf-T-Liner eC2 electric school buses (built by Thomas Built Buses out of North Carolina)

To further facilitate the arrival of these zero-emission vehicles for commercial transport, the company hopes to see three things. First, a standard charging infrastructure needs completion. Currently, Daimler AG is the founding member of CharIN. This organization works to standardize the requirements for EV charging.

The next hurdle is to create batteries that are powerful, but also lighter and cheaper. Commercial vehicle batteries must meet durability and quality standards that live up to customer expectations. After that, the cost of ownership must decrease. This could be done through fewer maintenance requirements, reduced energy rates and increased incentives.

Future of Electric Semi Trucks

With Tesla looking to create electric semi trucks as well, it makes sense for other companies to get in the action. The Tesla semi truck was initially planned for production any day. However, the company recently pushed that date back to 2020. Of course, they tend to promise one thing and deliver another, so this comes as no surprise. As a result, they allow other manufacturers time to compete.

Colorado Wants to Fine Gas Drivers Parked at EV Stations

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There’s been a lot of news lately regarding gas-car drivers who want to hurt EV owners by parking in their charging stations. Sometimes though, it’s just that people aren’t thinking about others when they do it. Whether it’s because of passive-aggressiveness or just inconsideration, electric vehicle owners have trouble finding charging stations while on the road. Now, Colorado proposes to do something about it and might begin to fine gas drivers parked at EV stations.

fine gas drivers
Green Car Reports

Can They Fine Gas Drivers?

Colorado plans to change what’s happening with the help of the law. The House of Representatives passed a bill which allows a $150 fine for drivers that park a combustion engine vehicle in an EV-reserved space. There’s also a $32 surcharge attached to that fine.

What’s interesting about the bill is that EV owners face similar punishment. If they leave their vehicle unplugged at the charger for more than 30 minutes, they could face the same consequence. There are some exceptions to this bill such as overnight parking, airports and lodging.

Now, the bill has been turned over to the state’s Senate for further approval.

Once the bill makes it through the Senate and becomes a law, ICEing will be discouraged. If you haven’t heard of the new movement, it relates to gas car drivers intentionally parking in EV spaces. It’s done to make life harder for electric car owners.

Another perk of the bill is that crowding at the stations will see a reduction. As EVs become more prominent, owners must leave as soon as their power is full instead of hogging the spot.

Electric Vehicle Laws

As these vehicles become more popular, it’s clear that more laws need to be in place to keep order. Unfortunately, society proves that we require rules that remind people to think about one another. What happened to the days when we naturally cared?

If you’ve been thinking about driving a new EV, you might want to check out our 2019 Electric Vehicle Lineup for some ideas.

Genesis Essentia EV Coupe to Enter Production

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We just found out that the Genesis Essentia EV Coupe will enter production. If you remember, we first saw the Essentia at the 2018 New York Auto Show. This grand tourer was unlike anything we ever saw before. At that time, we weren’t sure it was going to enter production, but execs at Genesis recently confirmed it will.

Genesis Essentia EV Coupe
Genesis

Genesis Essentia EV Coupe Design

Before you get into the spacious interior, you must first enter through the two gullwing doors. Both the chassis and body are made from carbon fiber. Then, there are two electric motors. One of them sits on the front axle while the other is on the rear. These work together to launch the coupe from 0 to 60 mph in only three seconds.

Honestly, we think the sleek design of the Essentia beats Tesla any day of the week. It features classic body lines and is just downright stunning. What pushes it over the edge is the tech-filled interior. You can’t help but notice all the touchscreens as you enter the cabin.

Manfred Fitzgerald, the global head of Genesis then announced at this year’s Auto Show that their upcoming electric vehicle won’t be the Mint Concept. If you remember, we just told you about this Concept with our Auto Show electric car roundup. This only leaves Essentia to enter production.

Of course, we haven’t received the full announcement from the company yet, but it seems inevitable.

Electric Car Competiton

We don’t know when we can expect the Essentia EV to make an official debut, but we expect it won’t take long. With Tesla ramping up sales and other automakers jumping in the game, Genesis won’t want to wait. Even Porsche is rolling out a new Taycan to compete. If Hyundai’s luxury arm wants to stay competitive, they won’t drag their feet on this exciting endeavor.

How about you? Do you have a favorite luxury electric vehicle? Let us know in the comments.

Aston Martin Rapide E: First Look

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The time has come to take a look at the Aston Martin Rapide E. It’s been four years since the all-electric Aston Martin model was first introduced and now we get to see it at the 2019 Shanghai Auto Show. While we don’t have a price yet on this vehicle, we do know that only 155 of them will be produced.

Aston Martin Rapide E
Aston Martin

Aston Martin Rapide E Specs

This Aston Martin comes powered by a 65kWh, 800-volt battery. Estimates indicate a travel range of more than 200 miles. The twin motors are mounted on the rear axle and generate 450kWh, equal to more than 600 horsepower. This gets the electric car to 155 mph. Expect to reach 60 mph in just less than four seconds.

This EV comes equipped with an eight-inch display on the center of the dash and a ten-inch digital instrument cluster. Support is provided for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay technologies as well.

You will notice that the Rapide E looks a lot like it’s combustion engine counterpart. Of course, the electric blue accents on the brake calipers and headlights are different. Unlike Tesla, there isn’t a floor of batteries. Instead, the system is located where the engine would have been.

Where Has It Been?

We first heard about this model back in 2015. To make it happen, the automaker needed some funding from China. At the time, LeEco, a Chinese tech conglomerate announced a partnership on the project. But then, in 2017, LeEco pulled out of the deal.

That’s when Aston Martin looked to Formula One engineering house Williams to bring the car to market. If you remember, Williams helped create the batteries for Formula E electric race cars. The Rapide E comes out of South Wales in the village of St. Athan. In fact, the automaker calls this facility the “Home of Electrification.” It should be interesting to see what other vehicles make their way out the doors.

Love electric cars? Don’t forget about Drive Electric Earth Day – happening soon.

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