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The Top 5 Electric Cars to Rule Your Road in 2023

The future is whirring on four wheels, and we’re talking about the coolest electric cars of 2023. They’re sleek, powerful, and packed with tech that makes driving a blast. Ready to ditch the fuel pump and join the electric revolution? Here are the top 5 electric cars to spark your joy in 2023:

Tesla Model 3: King of the Road

The Model 3 is the king of the bunch, with sleek looks, long-range battery power, and a fancy autopilot system that practically drives itself. It’s like having a robot chauffeur who can whip you through city traffic or zoom you down the highway. Plus, there’s tons of space inside for you and your friends, making it perfect for road trips or pizza runs. It’s not the cheapest, but its popularity and performance make it a top pick for many.

Hyundai Ioniq 5: The Eco-Chic Space Machine

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is like a spaceship landed on Earth. It’s got funky retro vibes, with sharp angles and a boxy design that screams “I’m cool, and I care about the planet.” But don’t let the looks fool you – this car is packed with power, zipping from 0 to 60 in just a few seconds. And the best part? The Ioniq 5 is super efficient, meaning you can drive for miles on just a single charge. Plus, the inside is like a living room on wheels, with comfy seats and tons of space to stretch out. Perfect for eco-conscious hipsters and families alike.

Chevrolet Bolt: The Budget-Friendly Buzz

This little rocket is one of the most affordable EVs on the market, but it doesn’t skimp on fun. It’s got a zippy engine, spacious interior, and a long-range battery that lets you explore without range anxiety. Think of it as the electric car for everyone – a friendly, practical option that won’t break the bank. It’s like having a reliable friend who’s always ready for an adventure, and who happens to be super quiet and good for the environment.

Polestar 2: The Scandinavian Speedster

This sleek beauty is the Volvo’s rebellious cousin, all sharp lines and minimalist design. But don’t underestimate its power – the Polestar 2 can rocket from 0 to 60 faster than you can say “fika” (Swedish for coffee break). The interior is a haven of calm and comfort, with high-quality materials and minimalist Scandinavian vibes. It’s like driving a piece of modern art that happens to be super fast and good for the planet.

Ford Mustang Mach-E: The Electric Pony That Kicks Gas

Ford’s iconic Mustang gets an electric makeover, and the result is the Mach-E. This muscle car with a green heart is a head-turner, with a sporty design and a powerful engine that makes driving just plain fun. But unlike its gas-guzzling ancestor, the Mach-E is whisper-quiet and super efficient. It’s like having a wild mustang tamed by the power of clean energy. This car is for the adventurer who wants the thrill of a sports car without the guilt of fossil fuels.

December 23, 2023
5 most innovative cars of 2023
The year 2023 is expected to bring a lot of exciting changes to the automotive industry. From electric cars to self-driving cars, the future of transportation is looking bright. Here are the top 5 most innovative cars of 2023.

Mercedes-Benz EQS: This electric car is expected to be one of the most luxurious and innovative cars of 2023. It will have a range of over 400 miles and will be able to charge up to 80% in just 20 minutes.

Porsche 911 Dakar: This car is a jacked-up, rough-and-tumble version of the 911 that is perfect for living out your rally raid fantasies on the way to the supermarket. It is expected to be released in 2023.

Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato: This car is designed for off-road adventures. It will have spotlights, big bolt-on wheel arches, and owners will feel incredibly smug every time they see a regular supercar gingerly edging their precious carbon fiber splitter over a speed bump. It is expected to be released in 2023.

Range Rover Sport SV: This car is expected to be one of the most powerful and innovative SUVs of 2023. It will have a BMW-shared twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 powerplant and plug-in hybrid boost is a possibility.

Alpine A110R: This car is expected to be one of the lightest and most agile sports cars of 2023. It will have a diet of carbon fiber components including a new roof, rear screen, and even carbon wheels. It is expected to be released in 2023.

These cars are just a few examples of the exciting innovations that are coming to the automotive industry in 2023. With electric cars, self-driving cars, and other new technologies, the future of transportation is looking very bright.
December 17, 2023
German Company Volocopter Tests Electric Air Taxi in Osaka and Amagasaki

A German company that develops electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicles, Volocopter, has successfully completed crewed test flights of its VoloCity air taxi in Japan. The tests took place over the course of a week in the cities of Osaka and Amagasaki, in preparation for the 2025 World Exposition, Osaka Kansai Expo. Volocopter aims to showcase its commercial air taxi at the international exhibition.

The purpose of the flight tests in Japan was to assess the operation of electric aerial vehicles (EAV) under conditions expected during the Expo. Additionally, the tests aimed to raise public awareness of eVTOL vehicles in Japan. The final day of flight testing was co-hosted by Sumitomo Corporation, a strategic partner and investor in Volocopter.

Since 2018, Volocopter has been actively focused on Japan, particularly after the country declared its commitment to urban air mobility. Christian Bauer, the managing director of Volocopter, emphasized the importance of building public awareness and creating the urban air mobility (UAM) ecosystem in Japan. The company and its partners are preparing early for the 2025 Expo to develop the expertise needed to operate their eVTOLs seamlessly.

Volocopter has also received multiple grants in Japan to conduct educational initiatives, including classroom studies on eVTOLs for school children in Osaka. The company is actively contributing to the advancement of urban air mobility and the integration of eVTOL technology into Japan’s transportation landscape.

December 14, 2023
The Future of Urban Riding: A Closer Look at Ryvid’s Electric Motorcycle

In the realm of new motorcycles, the Ryvid Anthem stands out as a noteworthy addition. This full-size electric motorcycle is not only more affordable than its electric counterparts but also boasts a greater range than typical e-bikes. Its design caters to ease of use, particularly for those transitioning from powered bicycles to motorcycles, making it a potential gateway for new riders.

Recently, Roadracing World took the Anthem for a spin through the streets of Long Beach, California, and the surrounding areas. The findings reveal a refined city motorcycle, well-suited for urban use with comfort, user-friendly features, and ample speed. The design incorporates practical elements for commuting, making it a viable option for daily riders.

The construction of the Anthem emphasizes simplicity and ease, with a folded-steel backbone frame that requires no welding. It is powered by a 72-volt, air-cooled brushless direct current motor, delivering 10 horsepower with peak performance reaching 20 horsepower and 53 lbs.-ft. of torque. The motor connects to the rear wheel through a carbon belt with a 4.7:1 ratio.

The Anthem is equipped with a 4.3 kWh lithium-ion battery that holds 84 volts when fully charged. Notably, the battery is designed for quick and easy removal. Unlatching two locks and disconnecting three cables allow the battery to be rotated off its support pins and wheeled away using a handle. This feature facilitates convenient recharging and transportation.

The motorcycle has a reported maximum speed of 75 miles per hour and a range of up to 75 miles. It offers two power modes, Sport and Eco, with Sport mode allowing manual engagement of battery regeneration. In Eco mode, regeneration during slowing down happens automatically. The Anthem’s road-ready weight is 313 pounds, and it features an electrically adjustable seat, allowing height variation between 30 and 34 inches.

Braking is handled by a four-piston caliper at the front with a single 320mm disc and a twin-piston caliper at the rear gripping a 220mm disc. The suspension includes an inverted fork at the front, adjustable for rebound and compression damping, and a single shock at the rear with damping and preload adjustability.

The Anthem rides on cast aluminum five-spoke rims, fitted with Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tires. The wheelbase measures 52 inches, ground clearance is 7.5 inches, and the rake and trail are set at 26 degrees and 152mm, respectively.

November 27, 2023
Xiaomi’s First Electric Vehicle: The SU7, SU7 Pro, and SU7 Max

Xiaomi’s upcoming electric vehicle, the SU7 (Speed Ultra 7), is making waves as it receives certification from China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (CMIIT). This approval reveals details about the vehicle’s specifications and images, with the SU7 series comprising three variants: SU7, SU7 Pro, and SU7 Max. Let’s delve into what we know about Xiaomi’s venture into the electric vehicle market.

Xiaomi SU7
The SU7, identified by model numbers BJ7000MBEVR2 and BJ7000MBEVA1, is a C-class sedan featuring a single motor from UAES (United Automotive Electronic Systems) with a peak power of 220kW (295hp). It utilizes LPT (lithium iron phosphate) batteries from FinDreams, a BYD subsidiary. The SU7 optionally offers LiDAR, possibly for driver assistance and autonomous capabilities. The design, influenced by BMW iX and Mercedes-Benz EQXX designers, boasts a sporty feel with features like yellow Brembo callipers, Michelin PSEV tires, and a three-section electric rear wing.

Xiaomi SU7 Pro, SU7 Max
These models, associated with a different model number, are powered by dual motors from Suzhou Innovance Automotive, providing 220kW (295hp) and 275kW (386hp), respectively. Both variants are equipped with Li-ion ternary batteries from CATL. The SU7 series offers options with or without LiDAR, with the component positioned behind the front windshield. Notably, a camera on the B-pillar hints at a potential face recognition unlocking feature.

Specifications and Dimensions
The SU7 measures 4,997mm in length, 1,963mm in width, and 1,455mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,000nm. Comparatively, it surpasses popular EVs like the Tesla Model 3 and Nio ET5 in size. The SU7 weighs 1,980kg, while the Pro and Max variants weigh 2,205 kg.

Connectivity and System
Anticipated to feature HyperOS in its in-car system, the SU7 series aims for seamless connectivity with other Xiaomi devices. The original design, led by the main designer of BMW iX, promises a unique and sporty look with advanced features like a three-section electric rear wing.

Launch Timeline and Price
Mass production is set to commence in December 2023, with trial production underway at BAIC’s Beijing factory. Deliveries are expected to start in February 2024, and the rumored starting price is 149,000 Yuan (~$20,500). The SU7 series is likely to be available in shades of gray and blue.

As Xiaomi steps into the electric vehicle market, the SU7 series aims to make a significant impact with its unique design, advanced features, and competitive pricing. Keep an eye out for its official launch and entry into the world of electric mobility.

November 18, 2023
Study Reveals Tesla Model S Faces Highest Depreciation Among Electric Cars

Electric cars, like Teslas, can lose value quickly, but a recent study by iSeeCars shows that the Tesla Model S experiences the highest depreciation over a five-year period, while the Tesla Model 3 has the lowest. iSeeCars found that electric vehicles (EVs) as a category are generally worse at holding their value compared to hybrids and pickup trucks.

The study reveals that electric vehicles, on average, lose 49.1% of their value over five years, making them the worst-performing segment in terms of depreciation. In contrast, trucks and hybrids retain more value, with only 35% and 37% depreciation, respectively, over the same period.

However, there is some positive news for EVs. In 2019, electric vehicles experienced an average depreciation of 67.1% after five years, indicating a significant improvement of 18% in the recent study.

The depreciation discrepancy between EVs and hybrids may be influenced by factors such as federal tax credits offered on electric vehicles. Karl Brauer, iSeeCars executive analyst, points out that incentives, combined with concerns about battery replacement costs, contribute to the higher depreciation of used electric vehicles compared to their gasoline counterparts. He suggests that this trend may continue until electric vehicles become more competitive in terms of pricing and consumers gain confidence in their long-term ownership costs.

When examining individual electric car models, the Tesla Model 3 stands out for holding its value relatively well, while the Tesla Model S experiences the highest depreciation. This variation in depreciation percentages emphasizes the importance of considering specific models when evaluating used EVs. The study suggests that for consumers interested in purchasing a used electric vehicle, the high depreciation rates can result in attractive deals. However, those buying new electric vehicles should be prepared for a significant decrease in value over the first five years of ownership.

November 12, 2023
Honda’s eMTB Concept: The Future of Electric Mountain Bikes

The Tokyo Motor Show, now known as the Japan Mobility Show, is all about the future of transportation. Honda, a major player in the automobile industry, showcased various concepts and products related to the future of mobility. They emphasize the idea of dreams turning into reality with their booth’s theme, the Honda DREAM LOOP. While autonomous cars and flying vehicles were the highlights, there was one intriguing addition: an eMTB (electric mountain bike).

The Honda e-MTB Concept, as per the press release, is described as “the mountain bike that offers more FUN in nature.” Unfortunately, the provided information is quite limited. By examining the images, it’s evident that the design of this concept bike shares visual similarities with the Honda RN01 DH bike, which never made it into production.

This resemblance is likely due to the influence of Honda’s power sports team on the design. Notably, the eMTB features a swingarm shape and shock placement reminiscent of the RNO1, although the ebike uses a cast aluminum swingarm. The unique frame and swingarm are constructed using thin-wall aluminum casting technology employed in high-performance motorcycles. Together with the distinctive frame design, they aim to blend functionality and style.

It’s essential to remember that this is merely a concept, so there’s uncertainty about how much of it will make it to production, if at all. What makes the eMTB concept even more interesting is the mobile charging station showcased at the Japan Mobility Show. Honda provides limited details about this, but it appears to house their new Mobile Power Pack e:, which seems to be a high-capacity energy storage unit. The lid of the Power Pack e: container even includes a small toolset for trailhead adjustments. While this unit may not charge the bike any faster than a regular outlet, it could prove incredibly useful for recharging during extended ebike adventures in remote areas, such as multi-day trips while camping.

In the rapidly evolving world of electric mobility, innovations like the Honda e-MTB Concept and its associated mobile charging station are paving the way for exciting possibilities. These developments show how Honda is considering more than just vehicles and is exploring solutions to make electric mountain biking and other electric-powered adventures more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

While the eMTB itself is in the concept stage, the concept of mobile charging stations may well become a practical addition to the world of electric biking, offering greater convenience to riders exploring the great outdoors. The Japan Mobility Show highlights the exciting path that the future of mobility is taking, driven by dreams and innovation.

October 31, 2023
Classic Meets Modern: The BMW R75 Gets an Electric Makeover

Electric motorcycle conversions of classic bikes are gaining momentum. Paris-based custom shop Mototherapy has introduced ‘Ride Mercury,’ an electric motorcycle conversion project that targets classic BMW boxers, and they’ve rolled out their prototype, the ‘R01.’

The R01 is based on the timeless BMW R75 motorcycle, which has been carefully restored, preserving most of its original charm.

Mototherapy’s objective with the ‘Ride Mercury’ project is to revive classic motorcycles by adding electric drivetrains. Company founder Jean-Marie Raymon emphasizes that functionality is at the heart of their efforts, aiming for a practical enhancement rather than creating a mere showroom novelty.

To achieve this, Mototherapy’s team has ingeniously designed a full electric drivetrain that seamlessly fits into the BMW R75’s chassis, without the need for any frame modifications. This plug-and-play system keeps the essence of the original motorcycle intact.

The electric motor delivers up to 20 kW of power, producing a maximum of 340 Nm of torque and 30 hp, driving the rear wheel. The current range on a single charge is approximately 150 km (93 miles), and the onboard 1.8 kW charger takes about six hours for a full recharge.

All the essential components are neatly packaged within custom-made aluminum enclosures, with structural elements crafted from steel. Two of the four batteries are housed in cases designed to resemble the boxer’s iconic cylinder heads, while the other two are positioned closer to the front of the bike. The electric motor is located where the original transmission used to be and is directly connected to the BMW’s original driveshaft.

Because Mototherapy handles all design aspects in-house, the layout is continually evolving. A second-generation design is already in the works, featuring ‘cylinder heads’ positioned a bit lower for improved ventilation.

It’s essential to note that the R01 serves as a proof of concept. This explains the use of Ride Mercury’s prototype ‘engine block’ design and the fact that many other aspects of the bike remain original. The objective is to demonstrate that an electric drivetrain can be retrofitted onto a vintage motorcycle without requiring a complete overhaul of the machine.

Only a few components have been upgraded, such as the headlight internals and the digital dashboard that connects to the motor’s controller. Currently, the original fuel tank is an empty shell, but the team is exploring options to convert it into storage space or integrate an enhanced charging port.

For those looking to get their hands on one, the entire package isn’t available as a ‘crate’ system yet. However, Ride Mercury will assemble a complete electric BMW R75 for a starting price of €29,500 (around $31,233). Pre-orders for the R01 will open next week, with the first deliveries expected in the second quarter of the coming year.

October 12, 2023
Xiaomi’s Dual-Powertrain Car: Electric and Extended-Range Versions

Xiaomi is getting ready to launch its very first electric vehicle (EV), and it’s generating quite a buzz. This news is coming from a source called Pandaily based in Beijing, and they’re saying Xiaomi’s upcoming car will come in two versions: one fully electric and the other with an extended-range powertrain.

This report follows another piece of news that said Xiaomi is hiring engineers in China to work on extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) range extenders. What’s interesting is that the basic model will use a 400V voltage platform and a BYD Blade Battery, while the fancier version will go for an 800V voltage platform and a CATL Qilin Battery with a big 101kWh battery pack.

Now, let’s talk about the extended-range version. This one is expected to have either a 1.5-liter or 1.5T range extender paired with a big battery. If you’re wondering what a range extender is, it’s a gasoline engine that can help extend the range of a battery electric vehicle. It does this by powering an electric generator that charges the car’s battery. So, this choice by Xiaomi could give their car a longer range, which is great news for potential buyers.

When it comes to the design, Xiaomi’s first car is aiming to catch the eye of the younger generation. It’ll be a sleek coupe with a low profile, a longer front, and a sporty fastback rear end.

But that’s not all. Recently, the car was spotted on Bluetooth SIG certification, and it spilled the beans on some of its tech features. It will have a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295 chipset, Bluetooth 5.2, USB Media functions, and even support for Apple CarPlay.

Xiaomi is making big strides in the car manufacturing world since announcing its entry into the industry. Mass production is expected to kick off in 2024, and right now, the car is in the trial production stage. Reportedly, they’re churning out about 50 prototype cars each week. So, we’ll definitely be hearing more about Xiaomi’s car in the near future.

October 9, 2023
Honda’s Futuristic Urban Mobility: The Honda Pocket Electric Scooter

Honda is creating excitement with the unveiling of its new small electric vehicle (EV) concept, set to debut at the 2023 Tokyo Auto Show. The vehicle, known as the SUSTAINA-C, offers a fresh and charming design that captures attention with its playful appearance. Although currently a concept, the SUSTAINA-C hints at a shift towards more cheerful and compact transportation options in contrast to the prevailing trend of stern-looking crossovers.

This intriguing concept car is constructed using a recyclable acrylic material, demonstrating Honda’s commitment to sustainability. While details about the powertrain are yet to be disclosed, the SUSTAINA-C has the potential to create a delightful and environmentally friendly urban driving experience.

Adding to the allure of this announcement, Honda also revealed an electric scooter that complements the SUSTAINA-C perfectly. Named the “Honda Pocket,” this electric scooter shares the same recyclable acrylic material as its automotive counterpart. Although specific powertrain details are lacking for both vehicles, the concept of owning a nimble Honda hatchback that conveniently accommodates a scooter in its trunk opens up exciting possibilities for urban mobility.

The prospect of effortlessly parking a lively Honda hatchback, deploying a scooter from the trunk, and zipping through city streets to reach a favorite ramen spot is undoubtedly appealing. While this combination may be better suited for densely populated cities like Tokyo, the concept of onboard last-mile mobility holds promise as urban centers continue to grow and evolve.

In addition to the SUSTAINA-C and the Honda Pocket, the automaker also introduced the SC e concept—a pragmatic scooter designed for urban living. This scooter boasts a conventional appearance but comes equipped with two swappable Mobile Power Packs. This innovative feature could revolutionize daily commuting, particularly in bustling metropolises like Tokyo, where scooters already serve as a popular mode of mass transportation. Offering the ability to swap batteries at charging stations, the SC e concept could make EV ownership accessible to apartment dwellers and significantly reduce traffic congestion in city centers.

With Honda’s forthcoming reveals at the Tokyo Auto Show, there is much anticipation surrounding the automaker’s vision for the future of urban transportation. While the precise details and availability of these innovative vehicles are still under wraps, it is clear that Honda is exploring creative and eco-conscious solutions to meet the evolving needs of urban commuters.

October 2, 2023