Hello! Thank you for checking out this weeks’ EV North Newsletter!

This is the very first email being sent via our new service provider and with the new name - EV North - so let me know what you think of same, yet new, format. More things coming your way too! I’d like to do contests, support local EV Society Chapters such as mine (EVAAC.ca) and new types of EV content to keep you all up to date!

Also, if you are enjoying your weekly dose of EV news from us - why not refer us to your friends?!

Canada

Toyota and Tesla Dominate Best Value in Canada Awards for 2023.

In the twelfth edition of the annual Best Value in Canada awards, Toyota and Tesla emerged as the leading brands for value, especially in the realm of electrified vehicles. Vincentric, the organization behind the awards, revealed that Toyota secured two brand awards and six individual Best Value model awards. This marks the sixth time that Toyota has claimed the titles of Car Brand and SUV & Van Brand. Tesla, on the other hand, received two brand awards and four Best Value model awards. Ram also stood out, winning the Best Brand Value for trucks for the third time.

Notably, the awards witnessed an overwhelming number of electrified vehicles, according to Vincentric. Out of the 25 Best Value awards presented, a significant 17 were bestowed upon electric vehicles (EVs), plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), or hybrids. Furthermore, 14 electrified vehicles were recognized as the Lowest Cost to Own.

Vincentric President David Wurster highlighted the increasing prominence of alternative-fuel vehicles, stating that this year's awards showcased a 15% rise in winners from the electric, hybrid, and plug-in categories compared to the previous year. Wurster emphasized that not only do these vehicles reduce tailpipe emissions, but they also offer better value and lower overall costs when compared to traditional gasoline-powered options.

To determine a vehicle's cost of ownership, Vincentric evaluates eight cost factors, including depreciation, fees and taxes, financing, fuel, insurance, maintenance, opportunity cost, and repairs. These evaluations encompass all ten provinces and the Northwest Territories, considering a range of annual kilometers and insurance costs.

Below is the list of the 2023 award winners:

• Best Value Car Brand: Toyota

• Best Value SUV & Van Brand: Toyota

• Best Value Truck Brand: Ram

• Best Value Electric/Plug-In Hybrid Car: Tesla Model 3

• Best Value Electric/Plug-In Hybrid SUV & Van: Tesla Model Y

• Lowest Cost to Own Electric/Plug-In Hybrid Car: Chevrolet Bolt EV

• Lowest Cost to Own Electric/Plug-In Hybrid SUV & Van: Ford Mustang Mach-E

With their outstanding value and cost-of-ownership credentials, Toyota and Tesla solidify their positions as the top brands in Canada for 2023. The Best Value in Canada awards demonstrate the increasing popularity and viability of electrified vehicles among Canadian consumers.

Are you on Reddit? Check out our subreddit at https://reddit.com/r/evcanada 

GM EVs to Utilize Tesla Chargers in Canada by 2024, other companies join as well.

In an exciting development for electric vehicle (EV) drivers, General Motors (GM) has announced a collaboration with Tesla that will enhance the charging experience for GM EV customers in Canada. Starting in 2024, GM EV drivers will have access to Tesla's extensive Supercharger Network using an adapter. By 2025, GM's EV designs will incorporate Tesla's North American Charging Standard (NACS) directly, eliminating the need for an adapter.

The move comes after Tesla's decision to open a portion of its Canadian Supercharger network to non-Tesla EVs. This initiative aims to increase accessibility and provide more charging options for EV drivers across the country. The collaboration between GM and Tesla will further simplify the charging process and encourage the adoption of a single North American charging standard.

GM's alignment with Tesla's charging standard will offer its customers a broader range of charging options, enhancing convenience and flexibility. By integrating the Tesla Supercharger Network into GM's vehicle and mobile apps, drivers will easily locate, pay for, and initiate charging at available Tesla Superchargers.

This collaboration follows Ford's footsteps in adopting the NACS and partnering with Tesla. Ford recently announced its decision to utilize the NACS for its EVs and grant its customers access to the Tesla Supercharger network.

With GM's integration of Tesla's Supercharger Network and NACS into their EV designs, the charging infrastructure in Canada will become more accessible and user-friendly, paving the way for a seamless and efficient EV charging experience.

In addition to Ford and GM, charging manufacturers ABB and FLO have also joined the “NACS movement” by announcing they’ll add the NACS to their chargers.

Volvo Aims to Disrupt EV Market with Affordable EX30 Compact SUV.

Volvo is set to make waves in the EV market with its competitively priced EX30 compact SUV. The 2025 Volvo EX30 is a smaller SUV offering decent range and an enticing starting price of just $44,800 CAD. Production is scheduled to commence later this year, with customer deliveries expected in early 2024.

The Swedish automaker's upcoming compact EX30 SUV is equipped with a modest battery that manages to deliver a respectable range. What's even more compelling is the starting price of $44,800 CAD, which is impressive considering the recent surge in EV prices. Volvo is embracing the concept of "small" and has dubbed its announcement an "unboxing" event.

Although Volvo has not shied away from larger vehicles, such as the upcoming EX90 luxury three-row SUV based on the popular XC90, the company's decision to offer an affordable EV in a smaller segment is commendable. In a market where bigger vehicles often require larger batteries with higher carbon footprints, Volvo's effort is refreshingly modest.

Admittedly, Volvo has made some compromises in terms of specifications. The EX30 will be available in two trims: a single-motor extended-range model and a higher-performing dual-motor version. Both trims feature a 69 kWh battery with 64 kWh of usable power. The battery supports DC fast charging of up to 153 kW, allowing for a zero to 80 percent charge in just 26.5 minutes.

The extended-range motor of the EX30 is situated in the rear axle, generating 268 horsepower and 253 pound-feet of torque. In contrast, the dual-motor version adds a 154-horsepower motor to the front axle, resulting in a total output of 422 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque. The single-motor model achieves a zero to 60mph acceleration in 5.1 seconds, while the AWD version accomplishes the same in a swift 3.4 seconds, making it Volvo's fastest accelerating car to date.

In terms of range, the single-motor version is estimated to achieve approximately 442 kilometers, while the dual-motor trim falls slightly shorter at 426 kilometers. However, these figures are estimates, and the final ratings from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) may be slightly lower.

When examining the specifications in detail, Volvo's focus on small becomes relative. The EX30 boasts a slightly shorter wheelbase (104.3 inches) compared to the Volkswagen ID.4 (108.9 inches) and the Tesla Model Y (113.8 inches). However, it offers a slightly larger cargo capacity of 31.9 cubic feet, surpassing the ID.4's 30.3 cubic feet and the Model Y's 30.2 cubic feet. Overall, the EX30 measures 166.7 inches in length, 61.1 inches in height, and 80 inches in width.

In addition to the EX30, Volvo will introduce a limited-edition Cross Country variant, featuring bespoke features like increased ground clearance and 19-inch black wheels, with the option of 18-inch wheels accompanied by custom tires.

While the EX30 may lack some of the more expensive sensors found in the EX90, such as lidar laser sensors for road object detection, it does possess impressive safety technology. The vehicle will be the first Volvo model to incorporate the next-generation Park Assist Pilot, capable of handling various parking spaces, including parallel, curved, perpendicular, and diagonal fishbone-style spots. It will also feature a safety alert system to prevent "dooring" accidents by warning the driver if a cyclist or pedestrian is approaching while opening the door.

Similar to other Volvo vehicles, the EX30 will be equipped with a portrait-style touchscreen that runs an operating software featuring native Google apps like Maps, Assistant, and Play. Other software suppliers, including Apple and Qualcomm, as well as Volvo's parent company Geely's connected car startup, Ecarx, will contribute to delivering an exceptional user experience.

Nevertheless, when the EX30 hits the market next year, it will face stiff competition. In addition to the current dominance of compact two-row electric SUVs like the Tesla Model Y, Ford Mustang Mach-E, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Kia EV6, Volvo will have to contend with an array of new models, including the Chevy Equinox and Blazer EVs, Polestar 3, and Honda Prologue.

Volvo has set an ambitious goal of selling 600,000 EVs by the mid-2020s and plans to establish a battery manufacturing facility in Europe by 2026. The company is collaborating with its Swedish partner, Northvolt, to develop a new generation of batteries with higher energy density. These batteries, expected to be integrated as a structural element of the vehicle and available after 2025, will enable longer driving ranges of up to 625 miles (approximately 1,006 kilometers) and significantly reduce charging times.

Thus far, Volvo has launched two long-range EVs: the XC40 Recharge, which debuted in 2021, and the C40 Recharge, introduced this year. Due to software issues, the release of the EX90 has been postponed until early next year.

EV Around the World 🌏

Toyota's Ambitious EV Plans Unveiled: 900-Mile Batteries on the Horizon.

Toyota is responding to environmentalists and shareholders' demands for increased electrification efforts with a bold new plan. The company aims to introduce EVs with a range of over 600 miles by 2026 and plans to achieve an impressive 900-mile range on a single charge after 2028. This strategic move showcases Toyota's commitment to staying competitive in the evolving electric vehicle market.

According to recently revealed plans, Toyota's next-generation EVs will make their debut in 2026 under the Lexus brand. These vehicles will utilize a cutting-edge lithium-ion battery technology, offering a remarkable driving range of over 600 miles on a single charge. The subsequent phase, anticipated for 2026-2027, involves the use of a bipolar lithium iron phosphate battery, which promises a 40% reduction in costs compared to previous iterations. By 2027-2028, Toyota plans to introduce an advanced bipolar lithium iron battery with an additional 10% increase in range.

Toyota is fully committed to the widespread adoption of EVs. The company expects to manufacture approximately 1.7 million EVs based on a newly developed, purpose-built architecture by 2030. These vehicles will benefit from solid-state batteries, which are set to enter production in 2027. Solid-state batteries have the potential to enhance range by 20% compared to the next-generation lithium-ion packs. Furthermore, Toyota has plans to introduce an advanced solid-state battery after 2028 that could achieve a remarkable 50% increase in range, enabling over 900 miles of zero-emissions driving.

With respect to innovation and efficiency, Toyota is not just focused on improving battery technology; it also aims to revolutionize vehicle production. Taking inspiration from Tesla's Giga Presses, Toyota plans to implement giga casting technologies to simplify and accelerate manufacturing processes. Additionally, the company is dedicated to developing ultra-aerodynamic designs with a drag coefficient below 0.20 within the next two to three years.

Toyota's top executives recently outlined their comprehensive plan at the Higashi-Fuji Technical Center, emphasizing the company's determination to lead the world in battery technology. Despite their ambitious EV goals, Toyota will continue to develop and manufacture internal combustion engine cars and hydrogen-powered vehicles alongside their EV lineup. Currently, Toyota's only EV available in the United States is the bZ4X crossover, which offers an EPA-estimated range of 252 miles and starts at $42,000.

Porsche Mission X Electric Hypercar Concept Revealed - A Glimpse into the Future of Sports Cars.

Porsche recently unveiled its latest concept car, the Mission X, which is designed to celebrate 75 years of Porsche sports cars. While not currently available for sale, the Mission X provides a preview of what future sports cars could look like.

According to Oliver Blume, Chairman of the Executive Board of Porsche AG, the Mission X serves as a technology beacon for the sports car of the future, drawing inspiration from iconic Porsche sports cars like the 959, Carrera GT, and 918 Spyder. Blume emphasizes the importance of daring to dream and constantly evolving to remain true to the Porsche brand.

The Mission X is a relatively compact hypercar, measuring approximately 177 inches in length and 78.7 inches in width. With a wheelbase of 107.4 inches, it shares dimensions with the Carrera GT and 918 Spyder. The concept car features staggered tires, with 20-inch wheels at the front and 21-inch wheels at the rear, designed for optimal aerodynamics.

Combining performance and luxury, the Mission X boasts a sleek, low-slung body finished in Rocket Metallic, a specially designed paint color for the concept. Carbon fiber components below the beltline add a touch of elegance with their satin finish. The rear of the car is characterized by a full-length light unit with transparent, illuminated Porsche lettering that creates a striking visual effect.

Inside, the Mission X showcases driver-focused asymmetry and a distinctive color concept. The seats are colored differently, with the driver's seat in Kalahari Grey and the passenger seat in Andalusia Brown. The interior also features motorsport-inspired elements such as an open-top steering wheel with mode switches and shift paddles, as well as multiple cameras for recording driving experiences.

If the Mission X goes into series production, Porsche aims for it to be the fastest road-legal car on the Nürburgring Nordschleife. It is expected to have a power-to-weight ratio of approximately one horsepower per 2.2 pounds and achieve exceptional downforce values. Additionally, the Mission X's 900-volt system architecture would enable significantly improved charging performance compared to the current frontrunner, the Taycan Turbo S.

The battery of the Mission X is centrally located behind the seats, ensuring excellent agility by centralizing the car's mass. This layout follows the tradition of Porsche's innovative super sports cars, including the Porsche 959, Carrera GT, and 918 Spyder, which served as milestones in the world of high-performance vehicles.

With its Mission X concept, Porsche continues to push the boundaries of e-performance and sustainable mobility. While the future of the Mission X is yet to be decided, it represents Porsche's commitment to evolving and delivering the ultimate sports car experience.

Lucid Air Battery Teardown: Cutting-Edge Engineering Secrets Revealed.

Clean Energy and Mobility

Largest Floating Solar Farm in North America Powers Up in New Jersey.

The largest floating solar farm in North America has been successfully launched, bringing clean energy to New Jersey. Spanning 17 acres of the Canoe Brook reservoir in Short Hills, this impressive 8.9 megawatt (MW) floating solar array is owned and operated by NJR Clean Energy Ventures (NJR CEV) in collaboration with New Jersey American Water. With its 16,510 solar panels, this innovative project is set to power 1,400 homes annually while meeting 95% of the energy requirements for the Canoe Brook Water Treatment Plant.

The floating solar farm combines cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices to maximize its efficiency and environmental impact. By utilizing the water's cooling effect, the solar panels can operate at optimal levels, ensuring increased energy production. Additionally, this installation significantly minimizes water evaporation, creating a win-win situation for renewable energy generation and water conservation.

New Jersey proudly boasts the largest floating solar farm in North America, signaling a significant step towards a cleaner and more sustainable future. With its vast array of solar panels floating atop the Canoe Brook reservoir, this innovative project brings renewable energy to thousands of homes while reducing water evaporation. NJR CEV's commitment to expanding clean energy opportunities and making use of underutilized resources paves the way for a greener world.

QuickEV

• Leaked Report: Alpha Tesla Cybertruck Had Multiple Design Flaws.

• Mercedes-Benz receives California approval of automated driving tech.

• Tesla: new location in Fremont to expand 4680 battery cell production.

• EVBox: fastest charging station ever - the 400kW EVBox Troniq High Power.

• KORE Power’s big EV battery factory just got an $850M DOE boost.

• Tesla is rumored to be planning a ‘more than $4.5 billion factory’ in Spain.

• Shopping For A Tesla Is Like Shopping With Amazon Prime: Analyst.

• [VIDEO] Toyota Reveals GR H2 Hydrogen Racing Concept at Le Mans.

  
  

EV Tweet of the Week