Car Blog Writers

Bosch 2020 eBike Motors & Batteries Unveiled

By Leave a Comment

For years, Bosch led the market in electric bicycle motors and batteries. Since the company released its technology, there haven’t been many updates. Now, Bosch plans to unveil a new line of equipment. Let’s take a look at what the Bosch 2020 eBike motors and batteries mean for consumers.

Bosch 2020 eBike motors
Bosch

New Bosch 2020 eBike Motors & Batteries

Bosch’s new lineup features new motor casings plus larger batteries. Previously, there were two classes for Bosch motors: a small, quiet Active Line and the more massive, powerful Performance Line. In 2020, the Performance line is mounted inside a smaller case, similar to the previous Active Line. It features 65 NM of torque and provides 300% pedal assist boost.

This lineup also features two special editions: Bosch Performance Line CX plus the Performance Line Speed.

Both of these received a new magnesium casing which lowers the weight. They also come with larger chainrings. The top speed of a Performance Line Speed is 28 mph, which is more than the 20 mph limit on other motors from the company.

Other Updates from Bosch

Aside from those revelations, other changes have occurred. The new motors in the Cargo Line also increase up to 28 mph.

The Powertube batteries received an update as well. Previous models achieved 500 Wh, but the new batteries up that to 625 Wh. If you need to keep the price down, there is also a 400 Wh battery in the better case.

Bosch Leading the Pack

We are happy to see Bosch step forward with this new lineup. With no important updates in many years, what they are doing now is welcomed. Of course, there is a lot of competition in the electric bike market. Just think about the HPC Scout Pro electric bicycle that hits 45 mph.

Who do you think the leader will be with ebike technology? Let us know your thoughts.

MIKU MAX Electric Scooter: First Look

By Leave a Comment

Scooters. They are small, affordable, and are perfect for shorter commutes. Don’t believe that electric scooters can have such a big impact? Let’s take a first look at the all-new MIKU MAX electric scooter. Prices are listed from $600 to $1000 online.

MIKU MAX electric scooter
Electrek

First Look at MIKU MAX electric scooter

Much like the auto industry, all electric seems to be the direction that most scooter companies are headed. So what makes the MIKU MAX a worthy competitor in the scooter industry, electric or not? First off, its looks.

It is quite possibly the most unique looking electric scooter on the market. The intentional C shape of this scooter creates a ton of open space. This gives the rider an ability to store a number of oddly shaped things.

Until now, storage on scooters has been limited to small and restrictive compartments.

You may notice some odes to the motorcycle when you look at the gas tank shape on top. This electric scooter also has foot pegs and a modern take on the vintage motorcycle headlight.

The positioning of this scooter also feels more like a sporty motorcycle with the handlebar location and seat angle.

Specifications

So, let’s get into some specs of this unique electric powered scooter. Here is what its functionality looks like:

  • Range: 60 km or 37 miles
  • Top speed: 45 km/h or 28 mph
  • Charge time: 4 hours
  • Weight: 79 kg or 174 lb
  • Load capacity: 220 lb or 100 kg
  • Climbing angle: 21º

The top speed and range make it clear what this scooter is intended for, commuting and playing. This scooter has a nice weight at 174 pounds that creates a better and safer center of gravity.

Now let’s take a look at the more mechanical specs of this electric motorcycle-like scooter.

MIKU MAX motor
Electrek
  • Motor: 800 W Bosch hub motor in the rear
  • Battery: 60V 20Ah or 1.2 kWh removable Li-ion battery
  • Brakes: hydraulic disc and rear motor regenerative braking
  • Tires: 3.0 x 10″
  • Suspension: front suspension fork and rear dual shock suspension

A very notable feature here is the Bosch regenerative rear motor that can increase efficiency from 5 to 20% while braking.

While a smaller motor doesn’t allow for very fast speeds, it gives this scooter a little more pep off the line. This makes city riding and maneuvering that much more fun.

Our Take

What we’ve noticed in today’s world is that if a company wants to disrupt an industry and make something electric; it has to be just as good if not better.

While the range of the MIKU MAX is a little bit small, for a lot of people this scooter will serve them very well.  

All in all, this is a very capable and utilitarian electric scooter. Take it to grab a case of your favorite beverage or to your local hangout spot. This scooter doesn’t have a ton of features on purpose, so it tends to cut through the clutter.  It creates a fun and lively electric scooter experience.

If you are a fan of electric scooters, don’t forget to read our post about the Honda Electric CRF450 Dirt Bike & Scooter.

Complete 2019 EV Lineup & Ranges

By Leave a Comment

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

By Leave a Comment

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.

Colorado Wants to Fine Gas Drivers Parked at EV Stations

By Leave a Comment

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

By Leave a Comment

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.

2019 New York Auto Show Electric Vehicles

By Leave a Comment

The 2019 New York Auto Show is happening through Sunday, April 28th and we’ve already seen a ton of electric vehicles to share with you. Automakers wasted no time getting their new EVs on the show floor as soon as the doors opened. While there aren’t a lot of new premieres to show you right now, we still got the chance to take a hard look at some new electric vehicles you will want.

Here are the best EVs from the New York Auto Show.

2019 New York Auto Show
CNET

Kia HabaNiro Concept

Clever name, don’t you think? This electric crossover looks slightly chunky, but it does feature butterfly doors and a bright red interior. It is estimated to have more than a 300-mile range plus Level 5 autonomous driving ability. Of course, it’s just a concept, so we don’t know if it will make it to production.

In addition, Kia also displayed the Niro EV at the show.

Qiantu K50
Motor Authority

Qiantu K50

Qiantu claims that the K50 will be available in the United States during 2020. The retail price will be between $125k and $150k depending on the model. The company plans on selling 1,000 of the “Signature Series” first and then another 2,500 the following year.

Genesis Mint Concept
Road & Track

Genesis Mint Concept

Genesis revealed the Mint concept during the show. While this vehicle most likely won’t make production, the automaker does plan to introduce a production EV that features an electric drivetrain as early as 2021.

Rivian Pickup
Rivian

Rivian

There’s been a lot of buzz lately regarding Rivian. We just told you how GM backed out of a recent partnership with them. During the show, the R1T electric truck and R1S electric SUV were on display.

Audi e-Tron
Audi

Audi e-Tron

This Audi goes on sale in the States next month, but we got a sneak peek at it during the show.

Rimac C_Two
Rimac

Rimac C_Two

The Rimac C-Two, otherwise known as the Concept_Two was also on display. This is one of the higher-priced hypercars of the future.

Other Electric Cars at the 2019 New York Auto Show

Of course, the motor show wouldn’t be complete without some of the every day EVs as well. If you are heading to show, expect to see your average Chevy Bolt and Nissan Leaf on the floor as well.

Stay tuned to Car Blog Writers for more news from the event.

Electric Vehicles Take Over 2019 Shanghai Auto Show

By Leave a Comment

We’ve been watching all of the news coming out of the 2019 Shanghai Auto Show and it seems the big deal is all the electric vehicles on display. If there was a doubt about which way the Chinese market is moving, this show would make it clear. Of course, we see some models such as the Audi AI:ME which steers the way toward autonomous transport. Aside from that, there are many more innovations that should be noted.

2019 Shanghai Auto Show
CNET

Electric Vehicles

Coming back down to reality a minute, we see some vehicles that are in the closer future. For example, VW debuted the ID Roomzz. This three-row SUV is set to go on sale in 2021, which might also include the US market.

Thankfully, we didn’t just see SUVs at the motor show. Considering we keep hearing about how the sedan is dead, you wouldn’t know it to look at Shanghai. There have been plenty of electric sedans on display.

Infinitis also revealed the Q Inspiration electric sedan. We also saw the Nio ET Preview, plus the Aston Martin Rapide E, we told you about the other day.

While we discuss hypercars, there’s a rumor of an all-electric Lotus around the corner. We don’t have much to go on right now, but there’s been a sketch released that’s supposed to get us all excited.

white Aston Martin E-Rapide
CNET

2019 Shanghai Auto Show

The auto show continues through April 25th. You could hop on a flight now and still get there in time to see some of the displays. Or, you could stay tuned to Car Blog Writers where we plan to have more reports for you coming soon.

Speaking of electric cars, did you get a chance to check out the five cheapest electric vehicle models? If you want an EV, but don’t want to spend the money, this is an excellent resource for you.

 

Drive Electric Earth Day Events Happening Now

By Leave a Comment

What started as an annual Drive Electric week, has become a month-long extravaganza of events. From April 1st through April 30th, various locations throughout the United States are hosting events you might want to check out. Let’s take a closer look at what’s happening during the Drive Electric Earth Day events.

Drive Electric Earth Day
Drive Electric

What’s Happening in Your Area?

Most every state is participating with at least one event. In higher population areas, you will find several to join in. Just look at the map on the official Drive Electric Earth Day website.

Just keep in mind that the events aren’t only scheduled for Earth Day or the weekend. Instead, they are spread over the month so you will want to plan accordingly.

Since 2011, organizations such as the Sierra Club, Plug in America plus the Electric Auto Association, have been holding events. Then, this national celebration spread internationally as well. In total, there were 321 worldwide celebrations last year.

The details of each experience might differ slightly. Some involve owners showcasing their new EVs while others include test drives. You might even get the chance to see some concept vehicles or enjoy food, games and other free goodies. Either way, it’s a chance to see what companies support clean energy and to learn more.

Drive Electric Week will also occur this year, but not until September 14th through September 22nd.

Your Plans for Drive Electric Earth Day

What do you plan to see in your area? Are you hoping to test drive a Tesla or check out the new BMW i3? You might also get the chance to catch a glimpse of some of the electric motorcycles we’ve been talking about. At a few of the events, it’s likely you’ll meet some real owners. That offers a great platform to ask your questions and get answers provided by someone other than the dealer.

New Cadillac Numbering System is Confusing

By Leave a Comment

Cadillac plans to adopt a confusing number system based on the torque of their future vehicles. The plan is to begin the new Cadillac numbering system with the XT6, but we aren’t sure consumers are going to be happy.

Cadillac numbering system
Cadillac

What is the New Cadillac Numbering System?

Normally, when an automaker numbers their vehicles, they use the engine displacement. Sometimes it says V6, V8 or shows something about the horsepower of the engine. Cadillac thinks it would be best to mix things up by including the engine’s torque with these figures. By the way, it will be measured in Newton-meters instead of the usual pound-feet.

Are you confused yet?

The 2020 XT6 will feature the Newton-meters torque figures in the badge. It will also come with all XT and CT models. That’s not the end of the confusion, though. The XT6 has a 3.6-liter V6 engine. It produces 310 horsepower plus 271 pound-feet of torque. That measures 367 Nm, but Cadillac isn’t going to put 367 on the badge. Instead, they decided to round to the nearest 50 Nm, so the XT6 will actually have a 400 badge.

If you need a math refresher, 50 Nm is the same as 37 pound-feet of torque. This means that the badges on the cars are going to be incorrect. We aren’t sure that Cadillac really cares about being right.

What Are They Thinking?

Why is Cadillac making these changes? The company is moving forward with labeling their cars beyond displacement. As they move to electric propulsion, they need a way to convey power without the typical engine specs.

The other reason is to move to a universal, global, metric system. They plan to think more about the other markets they do business in. In Asia and Europe, it’s common to talk about Newton-meters versus pound-feet.

However, the Escalade and V-models are exempt from the new Cadillac numbering system. In other words, their best cars and SUVs won’t confuse us.

%d bloggers like this: