This is EV North’s 100th issue and I wanted to thank you all for coming on this ride. What started 2 years ago as a way to dedicate time to stay informed, meet people in the EV industry and help others on their EV journey as turned into all of those things and more. Admittedly, life is busy and sometimes the issues get sent out later that I would like them to, but family comes first and my time with them is important to me.

With that being said, I am still on the hunt for a partner on this endeavour so that more valuable EV content can be provided. See my blurb below and let me know if you are or someone you know are interested:

“I want to start creating MORE original content (not just here and there) - think videos, articles, and more. However, with the upcoming opportunities, I've come to the realization that I can't do it all alone.

I have a full time job and a family that includes 2 busy sons. That's why I'm on the lookout for a passionate individual who shares my enthusiasm for electric vehicles and is eager to join me as a partner.

Here's what I'm envisioning:

- Collaborating on creating original content (articles & video) that resonates with our audience and drives engagement.
- Expanding our reach and growing our subscriber base through innovative strategies.
- Exploring monetization avenues to turn our passion project into a sustainable business venture.

While there hasn't been substantial revenue from the newsletter yet, I firmly believe that with the right partner by my side, we can unlock its full potential and achieve great things together.

So, if you or someone you know is passionate about electric vehicles, can write, is good in front of a camera (or at least willing to be), content creation, and ready to embark on an exciting journey, please don't hesitate to reach out to me. Let's connect, brainstorm, and see how we can make a difference in the EV industry!

Feel free to tag or share this post with anyone who might be interested. Together, we can drive change and electrify the future!

-Michael Timmons"

Canada

Cupra Could Be Eyeing Canadian EV Market Expansion.

Spanish electric vehicle manufacturer, Cupra, is hinting at a potential entry into the Canadian market. With successful ventures in Australia last year, the company is now setting its sights on North America, potentially introducing its cutting-edge EV lineup to Canadian consumers.

Wayne Griffiths, CEO of Cupra, hinted at the possibility during Seat's annual press conference, emphasizing the positive reception received from initial tests with potential North American clients. Cupra, born in 1996 as part of the Seat brand and now a standalone entity, has a rich history rooted in performance and innovation. Volkswagen is the majority stakeholder in Seat.

Cupra's entry into the EV market started in 2021 with their entry model: Born. Born is closely linked to the Volkswagen ID.3, and continued into the EV market with the all-electric Tavascan SUV in 2020, marking the brand's expansion beyond Europe. Leveraging its ties with Volkswagen, Cupra aims to capitalize on the growing demand for electric mobility.

The brand's recent success is evident in its soaring sales figures, with a staggering 92.7% increase in deliveries in 2022 compared to the previous year. Meanwhile, parent company Seat experienced a decline in sales, highlighting Cupra's emergence as a key player in the automotive industry.

Cupra's potential entry into the Canadian market aligns with its long-term strategy for global expansion. With Volkswagen's established manufacturing facilities in the United States and Mexico, including an EV plant and battery lab in Tennessee, Cupra could leverage these resources to localize production and qualify for rebates and incentives.

While a specific timeline for Cupra's Canadian debut remains undisclosed, Griffiths previously expressed the company's ambition to establish a presence in North America by the end of the decade. As anticipation grows, Canadian consumers can look forward to experiencing Cupra's signature blend of design, performance, and sustainability firsthand.

As Chinese EVs (excitedly and inevitably) make their way to Canada, if Cupra enters first, they could establish themselves and take advantage of customers waiting for more affordable and varied EV options.

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

Tesla FSD Free Trials Expand to Canada, Subscriptions Available in this month.

Tesla is extending its offering of free one-month Full Self-Driving (FSD) trials beyond the United States, now reaching Canada’s customers.

Upon installing version 2024.3.10 on your Tesla, you'll receive the following email:

Your Full Self-Driving (Supervised) Trial starts now!

You’ve been granted a 30-day complimentary trial of Full Self-Driving (Supervised) for your Model Y ending in _____.

Under your supervision, Full Self-Driving (Supervised) can drive your Tesla almost anywhere. It will make lane changes, select forks to follow your navigation route, navigate around other vehicles and objects, and make left and right turns. You and anyone you authorize must use additional caution and remain attentive. It does not make your vehicle autonomous. Do not become complacent.

The installation of 2024.3.10 will introduce FSD (Supervised) 12.3.3. This version has proven to be a significant improvement over FSD version 11, delivering human-like drives with zero disengagements. It's evident why Tesla is widely adopting FSD 12.3.3 and offering complimentary one-month trials – this version is notably superior. While not flawless, it represents a substantial leap forward from previous FSD iterations.

According to Rohan Patel, head of Tesla Policy and Business Development, both the free FSD trial and the upcoming monthly subscription will be available in Canada. The subscription service is expected to launch before the 30-day trial concludes.

Regarding pricing in Canada, Patel indicated that it will closely align with the cost in the United States. Currently, FSD subscriptions in the U.S. are priced at $199 USD, which translates to approximately $269 CAD.

Nissan launches “The Arc” with the goal to cut EV costs by 30% and also announces plans to launch 16 new EV models by 2026.

EV Around the World 🌏

Genesis Unveils Neolun Concept: All-Electric Luxury SUV Takes Center Stage in New York.

Genesis has unveiled the Neolun Concept, marking the brand's debut into the realm of full-size electric SUVs at the prestigious New York International Auto Show. As the first of its kind in the Genesis lineup, the Neolun Concept offers both luxury and innovation, and giving consumers a glimpse into the brand's vision for the future of electric mobility.

Named "Neolun" to signify the fusion of novelty and celestial elegance, this concept SUV draws inspiration from Korea's iconic moon-shaped porcelain jars, blending timeless design with cutting-edge craftsmanship.

Led by Genesis Chief Creative Officer Luc Donckerwolke, the Neolun Concept showcases a minimalist aesthetic with its reductive design philosophy, characterized by clean lines and a focus on essential elements. One of the standout features is the absence of B-pillars, allowing for distinctive coach doors that enhance accessibility and interior spaciousness. Complementing this design, electric side steps automatically deploy to facilitate effortless entry and exit for passengers.

The exterior design of the Neolun Concept exudes strength and sophistication, with body-integrated lamps and a two-tone color scheme inspired by Korea's tranquil night sky. Inside, the cabin reflects Korea's renowned hospitality culture, offering a serene and welcoming environment for occupants. Drawing inspiration from the traditional "ondol" heating system, the Neolun Concept features radiant heating throughout the interior, ensuring comfort during every journey.

Passenger convenience is further enhanced by swiveling front-row seats and state-of-the-art display screens, providing a sensory-rich experience for all occupants. Crafted with premium materials such as cashmere and naturally dyed leather, the interior exudes luxury and relaxation. The sound system, meticulously designed for optimal acoustics, delivers an immersive audio experience akin to a concert hall.

Genesis will showcase the Neolun Concept alongside other innovative models at the 2024 New York International Auto Show, offering attendees a glimpse into the future of luxury electric vehicles.

Polestar 4: Official Price Revealed Ahead of Debut.

Polestar has unveiled the official price of its highly anticipated Polestar 4 electric crossover coupe, offering a pleasant surprise to potential buyers with a lower starting price than initially estimated. Similar to its larger SUV counterpart, the Polestar 3, the Polestar 4 is set to enter the electric vehicle market with its competitive pricing and impressive features.

Production of the Polestar 4 is scheduled to commence in late April, with the first customer deliveries expected in the fourth quarter of this year. This price adjustment reflects Polestar's commitment to making electric mobility more accessible to a broader audience while maintaining high standards of performance and quality.

In line with its expansion plans, Polestar aims to accelerate its lineup and reach more customers by offering compelling options in the electric vehicle segment. Backed by Volvo's parent company, Geely, Polestar recently secured $950 million in external financing to support its ambitious growth strategy.

The Polestar 4 boasts impressive specifications, including a targeted range of over 300 miles and a substantial 102kWh battery. Notably, it features a unique design with the absence of a rear window, offering an immersive rear occupant experience. Equipped with a 400kW (544 horsepower) maximum power output, the Polestar 4 promises exhilarating performance, with a zero to 62mph sprint time of just 3.8 seconds.

Here are some of the Polestar 4 specs:

The 102kWh battery ensures ample range, while advanced features such as bidirectional charging with vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability and a heat pump contribute to enhanced efficiency and convenience.

With support for up to 200kW DC fast charging and 22kW AC charging, the Polestar 4 offers seamless charging solutions for on-the-go convenience. Whether it's the powerful performance, advanced technology, or impressive range, the Polestar 4 is poised to make a significant impact in the electric vehicle market.

Do you enjoy one or all of the following?

• Learning about EVs?

• Deep dives on EVs and the EV industry as a whole?

• An email with character and humour?

• Someone else connecting the EV dots so you don’t have to?

Then The EV Universe if the place for you! Check it out below:

CATL: The Potential Secret Weapon Behind Tesla's $25,000 USD EV.

As the electric vehicle (EV) market continues to grow, Tesla's promise of a $25,000 USD EV has captured the attention of consumers and investors. Amid speculation about how Tesla will achieve this feat, one key element seems to revolve around a strategic partnership with Chinese energy giant CATL (Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited).

Recent reports suggest that CATL is supplying battery tooling to Tesla's Gigafactory in Nevada, hinting at a deeper collaboration between the two companies. Rather than importing battery modules, Tesla is speculated to lease tooling from CATL and collaborate on developing new battery chemistries. This innovative approach could enable Tesla to produce advanced battery cells at a lower cost, potentially paving the way for its affordable EV.

CATL's chairman, Robin Zeng, confirmed to Bloomberg that the companies are exploring new electrochemical structures to enhance battery recharging speed. This partnership not only benefits Tesla but also allows CATL to maintain a foothold in the Western market without exporting batteries to the U.S.

Zeng emphasized the potential cost reduction for Tesla's $25,000 USD car, especially if it targets applications like robotaxis, where longer battery life translates to lower average costs. Tesla's existing partnership with CATL for its made-in-China vehicles and Model 3 Standard Range vehicles underscores the synergy between the two companies.

Tesla's strategy of leasing CATL's battery tooling and design circumvents challenges posed by the U.S. EV tax credit, which imposes stringent requirements on battery sourcing. By assembling batteries within a preferential country, Tesla sidesteps protectionist measures and opens doors for Chinese battery companies to penetrate the U.S. market.

While concerns about foreign automakers penetrating the U.S. market persist, CATL's collaborative model offers a potential compromise. By enabling automakers to produce advanced batteries affordably, while discouraging market penetration through circumvention of tariffs, this approach could foster domestic EV affordability and innovation.

QuickEV

• [VIDEO] Kia EV9 experience at Tesla Supercharger - 800V?

• Mercedes-Benz offering discounts on 2023 EV models.

• [VIDEO] Cybertruck VS Dual-Track Bombardier Bombi In Tug Of War.

• Fisker Ocean Owners Will Feel Burned If Company Goes Under.

• [VIDEO] Kia EV9 Charging Is Held Back By Tesla Supercharging Network.

• Smartphone builder Xiaomi’s SU7 EV offers 434 mile range for under $30k USD.

• [VIDEO] MKBHD Review: The VinFast VF8 Is “Behind The Times”

EV Tweet of the Week