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

Welcome to The EV North - a weekly newsletter that brings together some of the biggest EV news stories and delivers them to your inbox. There is a focus on Canada & North America but you’ll also find EV news from around the world!

Also, be sure to check us out on X / Twitter and LinkedIn!

In this issue:

• When Is the Best Time to Buy an Electric Vehicle?

• Lucid Gravity: All-Electric Luxury SUV Set to Launch in Canada Starting at $113,500 CAD.

• How Much Energy Does a Tesla Model 3 Use Idling in Freezing Canadian Winter?

• Canoo Files for Bankruptcy and Ceases Operations.

• DOE Announces $6.57 Billion Loan to Rivian for Georgia EV Manufacturing Facility.

• Kia Unveils Enhanced 2025 EV6 GT with Performance Upgrades and Virtual Gear Shift System.

• + more!

Canada

When Is the Best Time to Buy an Electric Vehicle?

Recently announced, Tesla will be increasing prices in Canada by at least $4,000 on all of their models starting February 1st. Not the news anyone was hoping for to start the year off, especially since this could be a very dominant year for EVs in general.

Some may speculate this is in alignment with Canada’s 11th province to the south and their “leader” who is looking to impose a 25% tariffs on imports from Canada…Let’s be clear here that the end consumer pays the tariff on the products and not the company importing the product. When the government adds a 25% tariff on gas, it’s not the gas companies getting charged, it’s the person at the pump.

So buy an EV and avoid paying taxes on gas.

Also, the refreshed Tesla Model Y “Juniper” has made it’s way onto the Tesla Canada website indicating deliveries to begin in March..

With all that said, when is the best time to buy an EV?

Purchasing an EV is an exciting decision, but timing your purchase can make a significant difference in your overall cost and benefits. Whether you’re eyeing the latest Tesla or a sleek new offering from Rivian, Polestar, Lucid, Hyundai, Kia or Ford, understanding the best times to buy and the incentives available can help you save money and maximize perks. Here's a breakdown of when and why you should consider buying an EV.

1. End-of-Year Discounts

Many manufacturers ramp up sales promotions near the end of the calendar year. Why? Automakers and dealerships often aim to meet annual sales targets and clear out inventory to make way for new models. For buyers, this translates into attractive discounts, cashback offers, and competitive financing rates.

Historically, Tesla has offered financial discounts or incentives, such as free Supercharging, and discounts when using referral codes to encourage purchases in Q4. With the new refreshed Model 3 available, discounts on earlier models in the used EV market should bring a Tesla Model 3 within more people’s budgets, especially if you are okay with some older tech.

Hyundai frequently provides discounts on their IONIQ 5 and 6 models during the holiday season.

Last year, Ford dealers reduced prices on the Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning to clear inventory before the new year.

2. Around Model Refreshes or New Model Launches

As indicated above, if a manufacturer is introducing a refreshed or brand-new model, older versions may be discounted to make room for incoming inventory. For example:

Tesla recently refreshed its Model 3 with the "Highland" update. As a result, buyers found discounts on existing inventory of the pre-refresh version.

Rivian has teased updates to its R1T and R1S vehicles, which could lead to promotions on current configurations.

Kia is set to release the latest EV6, which could lead to significant discounts on older models.

If you're not fixated on the latest technology or design, opting for an outgoing model can be an excellent way to save.

3. Manufacturer Referral Programs

Also indicated above, some EV manufacturers offer referral credits or rewards for using a referral code when making a purchase. These incentives can include discounts, free charging, or exclusive perks. Notable examples include:

Tesla’s referral program allows buyers to use a referral link to earn credits, which can be redeemed for Supercharging miles, Tesla apparel, or even toward the purchase of a new Tesla.

Lucid offers referral credits for purchases of their luxury EVs, which can reduce costs or provide future perks.

Always ask friends or browse online communities for referral codes to maximize your benefits.

4. EV Tax Credits and Incentives

Timing your purchase around changes in government tax credits can also influence your costs. In many countries, these credits are tied to specific manufacturers or production limits. For example:

In the U.S., the federal EV tax credit of up to $7,500 applies to models meeting certain battery and production criteria.

In Canada, federal and provincial incentives, like Ontario’s up to $5,000 rebate, can dramatically lower purchase prices. Currently, the government incentives through the iZEV program are on “pause”. Helpfully we will see it re-introduced in the coming months.

Keep an eye on announcements about tax credit changes, as government updates could impact eligibility for specific EVs.

5. Leasing vs. Buying

If outright purchasing isn’t a priority, consider leasing. Leasing promotions often include lower monthly payments and generous terms during key times of the year, especially when new models are introduced.

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

Lucid Gravity: All-Electric Luxury SUV Set to Launch in Canada Starting at $113,500 CAD.

Lucid Motors is finally adding to its lineup in Canada with the introduction of the Gravity SUV, an all-electric vehicle available in two trim levels: the Gravity Touring, starting at $113,500 CAD, and the high-end Grand Touring, priced from $134,500 CAD. The announcement came alongside the debut of the Gravity Touring at the 2025 Montreal Auto Show, running during the month of January.

The Gravity Touring is designed for exceptional range and performance, offering an estimated 720 km of range on a single charge thanks to its advanced 123-kWh battery. It supports ultra-fast charging, allowing drivers to gain up to 320 km of range in just 15 minutes using a 350-kW DC charger. This makes it an excellent option for long-distance travel and day-to-day convenience.

Inside, the Gravity SUV offers unparalleled versatility with spacious interiors and configurations for 5 or 7 passengers. With both the middle and rear seats fully foldable, the vehicle provides up to 3,400 liters of cargo space, making it ideal for families, road trips, or active lifestyles. The interior features a premium design, highlighted by a panoramic instrument panel, a vertical center display, and optional massaging front seats for ultimate comfort.

Practical functionality is also a key focus for Lucid Gravity. It offers a towing capacity of up to 2,700 kg, catering to those who need an SUV that combines luxury with utility. Advanced tech features, paired with a sleek, futuristic design, ensure that the Gravity SUV meets the demands of modern drivers.

While the Grand Touring trim is expected to be available in Canada soon, the Gravity Touring is set to launch in the second half of 2025. Lucid Motors CEO Peter Rawlinson emphasized the significance of this new addition, stating that the Gravity represents a major step forward in combining performance, versatility, and cutting-edge technology, perfectly suited for the Canadian market.

With its impressive specs and premium features, the Lucid Gravity positions itself as a compelling option for those seeking a luxurious and capable electric SUV tailored to the needs of Canadian drivers.

How Much Energy Does a Tesla Model 3 Use Idling in Freezing Canadian Winter?

A Canadian tested their Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD by putting it through a 12-hour "idling" test in freezing Canadian temperatures of around -28°C to simulate how much energy an EV would use to keep occupants warm during a winter emergency. Climate control, heated seats, and the heated steering wheel were kept on throughout the experiment.

Starting at 66% battery charge, the charge dropped 36% to 30% charge and 24.4 kWh over a 12 hour period. This averages to 3% charge loss per hour. By morning, the battery had 29% remaining. The cost of energy used, as shown in the video, shows a value of $5.16 and indicates a gas equivalent of cost of $30.54.

This was an interesting experiment which simulated if you were stranded or stuck in an emergency situation in cold weather with your EV. The interesting (/funny) part of testing EVs in cold to see how long they last, is that no one ever did this with their ICE. No one tested their ICE to see how long the gas would last if you were stranded.

👋 Hello, one quick thing. If you’re enjoying this, can you do me a favour and forward it to a friend? Thank you!

EV Around the World 🌏

Canoo Files for Bankruptcy and Ceases Operations.

Canoo, the US electric vehicle startup known for its Lifestyle Vehicle (LV) and Lifestyle Delivery Vehicle (LDV), has filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy and ceased operations. The filing follows the company's inability to secure a US Department of Energy loan or attract foreign investors.

Under Chapter 7 bankruptcy, Canoo will liquidate all assets, marking the end of the company that began as Evelozcity in 2019. Despite partnerships with NASA, Walmart, the USPS, and others, persistent financial struggles and a $1.5 million SEC fine for misleading revenue forecasts during its 2020 IPO contributed to its downfall.

Canoo's plans for global expansion, including European production, fell apart, and its Oklahoma-based manufacturing operations will now shut down. The bankruptcy casts uncertainty over previously announced orders from Walmart, USPS, and fleet partners. This signals the latest setback for EV startups navigating a competitive and capital-intensive market.

DOE Announces $6.57 Billion Loan to Rivian for Georgia EV Manufacturing Facility.

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has approved a $6.57 billion loan to Rivian New Horizon, LLC to finance "Project Horizon," a massive electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing facility in Stanton Springs North, Georgia. This investment is part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America agenda, aiming to strengthen domestic EV manufacturing and support the clean energy transition. The loan includes $5.975 billion in principal and $592 million in capitalized interest, issued through the DOE’s Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing (ATVM) Loan Program.

The Georgia facility will span 9 million square feet and is designed to produce up to 400,000 electric SUVs and crossover vehicles annually, with the first models being Rivian’s R2 and R3 midsize platform vehicles. The project will help make Rivian’s EVs more cost-competitive with gas-powered alternatives, enabling broader adoption while contributing to Rivian’s global expansion. At full production, the facility is projected to save approximately 146 million gallons of petroleum annually, significantly advancing clean transportation goals.

Project Horizon is expected to create 2,000 construction jobs and 7,500 operational jobs by 2030. Rivian has committed to hiring at least 25% of its workforce locally and is collaborating with Georgia’s QuickStart technical training program to prepare skilled workers. The company has already hired 20 Georgia-based fellows, currently training at Rivian’s Illinois facility, who will transition to the new plant upon completion of their program. Rivian is also exploring ways to expand training opportunities to include more career paths, ensuring a robust pipeline of qualified workers.

The project supports the Biden-Harris Administration’s Justice40 Initiative, which aims to ensure that 40% of benefits from certain federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities. Rivian’s Community Benefits Plan further commits to engaging local communities and labor groups to create good-paying jobs and improve residents' well-being.

Rivian currently produces the R1S SUV, R1T pickup, and electric delivery vans at its Normal, Illinois facility. The new Georgia plant will enable the company to scale production, lower manufacturing costs, and increase its market reach both domestically and internationally. This expansion comes as the U.S. EV market continues to grow, with a 12% increase in sales recorded in the final quarter of 2024. The facility will play a crucial role in meeting this demand while positioning the U.S. as a leader in the EV industry.

Project Horizon will not only accelerate EV adoption but also contribute to environmental sustainability. The clean vehicles produced at the Georgia facility are expected to significantly reduce emissions, offering a greener alternative to gas-powered vehicles. By leveraging clean energy sources, Rivian ensures that its operations align with broader climate goals.

The $6.57 billion loan is the largest ATVM loan issued under the Biden-Harris Administration, marking a major milestone in advancing EV manufacturing. Unlike previous loans focused on EV components, this loan directly supports the production of advanced technology vehicles.

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:

Kia Unveils Enhanced 2025 EV6 GT with Performance Upgrades and Virtual Gear Shift System.

Kia has introduced a host of updates to its 2025 EV6 GT, focusing on improved performance, driving dynamics, and innovative technology. The high-performance electric crossover now comes equipped with a larger 84 kWh battery, replacing the previous 77.4 kWh unit. This upgrade boosts the vehicle's output to an impressive 478 kW and 770 Nm of torque, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds. Additionally, the new battery increases the WLTP range to approximately 450 kilometers, catering to both performance enthusiasts and long-distance drivers.

One of the standout features of the 2025 EV6 GT is its new Virtual Gear Shift system. This innovative technology is designed to emulate the experience of traditional gear shifting in internal combustion engine vehicles, offering a more engaging and immersive driving experience. The system simulates gear changes using a combination of visual cues, engine sound effects, and tactile feedback via motor torque adjustments. This addition bridges the gap between EVs and the familiar driving sensations of gas-powered cars, appealing to drivers transitioning to electric vehicles.

The updated EV6 GT features a refreshed exterior design with redesigned LED headlights, updated front and rear bumpers, and striking 21-inch alloy wheels, enhancing its sporty and modern appeal. Inside the cabin, Kia has introduced a redesigned steering wheel, an updated center console, and the latest version of its 'ccNC' infotainment system. The new infotainment interface offers smartphone-like controls and improved functionality, elevating the overall user experience.

Despite these significant advancements, Kia has made the EV6 GT more accessible by lowering its price in certain markets. In Germany, the 2025 EV6 GT starts at €69,990, making it €3,000 cheaper than the outgoing model and €5,000 less expensive than its high-performance counterpart, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N. This competitive pricing strategy positions the EV6 GT as an attractive option for buyers seeking a blend of high performance, advanced technology, and affordability.

The combination of increased power, innovative features like the Virtual Gear Shift, and a refreshed design is expected to strengthen the EV6 GT's appeal among electric vehicle enthusiasts. By incorporating elements that enhance both performance and driving enjoyment, Kia is not only addressing the needs of existing EV customers but also attracting drivers who are new to electric vehicles.

QuickEV

• Trump announces first moves against electric cars.

• [VIDEO] Hands on w/ the QUICKEST Cadillac Ever Built | The 2026 Lyriq-V!

• Rivian R3X Is Already A Hit With Rimac's CEO: 'Would Buy It In A Heartbeat’.

• [VIDEO] Rivian R2 & Commercial Van at the 2025 Detroit Auto Show.

• Kia’s NACS adapters available now; Supercharger access still pending.

• [VIDEO] Aptera — CES2025 Highlights.

• The Q6 e-tron heads for rugged terrain.

EV Tweet of the Week