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  • EV North Newsletter: Canada EV Sales Mandate, 2023 EV Sales Recap, Xiaomi SU7 reveal, + more!

EV North Newsletter: Canada EV Sales Mandate, 2023 EV Sales Recap, Xiaomi SU7 reveal, + more!

Issue #87 - Wednesday, January 3rd, 2024

Happy New Year!

I wish you all the best in 2024, where you can be happy, healthy and make memories that will last a lifetime. If this time of year has reminded me of anything, it’s that experiences with the people you love are what matter most and what you (and the people around you) will remember. It’s not the latest iPhone, gaming device, fancy watch or even new EV. You might remember when you drove an amazing EV or played games on the latest console but what will matter to you most and what you will remember most, is who was there with you.

Welcome to 2024 - where big things are (supposed to be) happening in the EV world.

Sneak Peek of this issue:
Right before the end of 2023, the government of Canada announced a zero-emission sales mandate that will require all new light-duty vehicle sales in Canada to be BEV or PHEV by 2035. The mandate also has interim milestones that include BEV or PHEV sales to be at least 20% of all sales by 2026 and 60% by 2030. More on this below.

Also in this issue:

  • EV Sales by Top Manufacturers for 2023: Take a look into the EV sales by top manufacturers throughout 2023.

  • XPENG X9: Unveiling China's All-Electric 7-Seater MPV: Explore features of the XPENG X9, China's all-electric 7-seater MPV.

  • Xiaomi Debuts the SU7: All-Electric Sedan: Xiaomi makes entry into the competitive electric vehicle market with the debut of the electric sedan, the SU7.

  • Hyundai Mobis and VinFast to Showcase Cutting-Edge Mobility Technologies at CES 2024: Get a sneak peek into the future of mobility as Hyundai Mobis and VinFast get set to showcase cutting-edge technologies at CES 2024.

Canada

Canada Unveils Plan to Phase Out Gas-Powered Vehicles by 2035.

Canada is charting a course towards a greener future by phasing out the sales of gas-powered cars and trucks by 2035. Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault has introduced the new regulations just before the end of 2023.

Guilbeault, emphasizing the significance of the shift, announced the Electric Vehicle Availability Standard, designed to incentivize automakers to increase the availability of battery-powered cars and trucks in the Canadian market. He highlighted the current tipping point, citing substantial growth in electric vehicle sales and a demand that has consistently surpassed supply.

Under the proposed regulations, automakers will have a 12-year window to phase out combustion engine vehicles. The requirement is to progressively enhance the portion of electric models offered for sale each year.

Starting with a 20% target in 2026, the portion will incrementally rise to 23% in 2027. Subsequently, the share of EVs will accelerate, reaching 34% by 2028, 43% by 2029, and an ambitious 60% by 2030. The mandate culminates with a 100% requirement for electric vehicles in 2035.

Guilbeault urged all provinces to align with the EV plan, noting that Quebec and British Columbia are already surpassing the 20% threshold. He emphasized the federal government's investments in the EV supply chain and encouraged provinces to continue incentivizing electric vehicle purchases.

Additionally, efforts are underway to revise the national building code to promote the spread of charging stations, ensuring that residential buildings constructed after 2025 have the necessary electrical capacity.

In the first quarter of 2023, approximately 1/10 new vehicles registered were electric, indicating the need for EV sales to double to reach the 2026 milestone. The policy will be governed by the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, issuing credits to automakers for the sale of EVs.

Under the credit system, fully electric models will generate one credit, while plug-in hybrids will receive partial or full credit based on their electric range. Manufacturers exceeding annual targets can bank credits for future use or sell them to companies falling short. Up to 10% of required credits can be covered by investing in public fast-charging stations, with an incentive structure in place to accelerate the transition.

G7 countries (Canada, US, UK, Japan, France, Germany and Italy) are all-in for mandating EV sales (althouigh some reluctlantly). Canada, UK and Japan have all mandated 100% EV sales by 2035. The US is set to propose an EV mandate that would require 2/3 of sales be EV by 2032.

The European Union (Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Republic of Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden) member states have given final approval to also phaseout CO2 emitting vehicles by 2035. However, Germany and Italy are oppositional to the mandated sales of EVs.

Also included in the Electric Vehicle Availability Standard, is to provide credits, which can be claimed for investments in fast-charging infrastructure. Companies can generate one credit for each $20,000 CAD invested in new fast-charging infrastructure projects that meet the following conditions:

  • Projects must install new DC fast-charging stations.

  • All stations must have a rated power of at least 150 kW.

  • Stations must be operable for at least five years after installation.

  • All stations must be available to any ZEV with a compatible charging port (or compatible adapter).

  • Stations must be opened between January 1, 2024, and December 31, 2027.

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

EV Around the World 🌏

EV sales by top manufacturers for 2023.

Major EV manufacturers have increased production and sales in 2023 versus 2022 - indicating progress is being made. Let’s take a look at some of the top EV manufacturers to see how they stack up.

BYD sales figures for 2023.

BYD, the Chinese automotive giant, has outpaced Tesla in global electric car sales (total plug-in electric vehicles, meaning BEV+PHEV). With an impressive quarter, BYD sold over half a million all-electric cars, surpassing its annual target of 3 million units for 2023.

In December alone, BYD's passenger plug-in electric vehicles sales soared to 340,178, marking a staggering 45% increase from the previous year.

The year-end figures for 2023 depict BYD's unparalleled success, with over 3.0 million passenger plug-in electric cars sold—a 62% surge from the previous year. 1,574,822 being battery electric vehicles sold for 2023.

Tesla Breaks Delivery Records in Q4 2023, Achieves 1.8 Million EVs for the Year.

Tesla (ever hear of ‘em?) has once again shattered delivery records in its Q4 2023 results, capping off a phenomenal year. With a global delivery of 484,000 vehicles in Q4, Tesla not only met but exceeded its ambitious target of 1.8 million vehicles delivered for the entire year of 2023.

Throughout the first three quarters, Tesla delivered 1,324,074 vehicles worldwide. The Q4 goal of 476,000 deliveries seemed attainable, given Tesla's consistent quarterly performance.

Tesla's Q4 2023 delivery and production results revealed a remarkable production of 495,000 vehicles, showcasing the company's commitment to meeting demand. The yearly figures are equally impressive, with vehicle deliveries growing 38% year-over-year to 1.8 million, and production increasing by 35% to 1.85 million.

Rivian Surpasses Production Targets in Q4 2023, Prepares for Financial Release.

Rivian, has revealed its production figures for Q4 2023 and the full year, showcasing positive growth and exceeding yearly production guidance.

For the quarter ending December 31, 2023, Rivian produced 17,541 vehicles (13,972 delivered), reflecting a 7.5% increase from the previous quarter. Despite a 10.2% decrease in deliveries compared to Q3, the full-year production of 57,232 vehicles surpassed the estimate 54,000 units. Total vehicles actually delivered though, is 50,122 units.

Rivian's commitment to innovation is evident with the introduction of a leasing option for its R1T electric pickup truck, coupled with eligibility for the $7,500 federal tax credit in select U.S. states. As the company prepares to release its Q4 2023 financial results on February 21st, these positive production figures set a promising tone for Rivian's future in the electric vehicle market.

NIO Achieves Impressive Milestone with Over 18,000 EV Sales in December 2023.

NIO, the premium Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, has reported outstanding delivery results for December 2023, marking a significant year-over-year increase and contributing to a remarkable full-year performance.

In December alone, NIO delivered 18,012 vehicles, showcasing a noteworthy 13.9% increase compared to 2022. The deliveries consist of 12,048 electric SUVs and 5,964 electric sedans. For the entire fourth quarter, NIO achieved a 25.0% year-over-year increase, delivering 50,045 vehicles.

The full-year 2023 performance is equally impressive, with NIO delivering a total of 160,038 vehicles, representing a substantial 30.7% year-over-year increase. Cumulative deliveries for NIO vehicles reached 449,594 as of December 31, 2023, solidifying the company's position in the competitive electric vehicle market.

See below for table highlighting sales by manufacturer for 2022 and 2023 which shows substantial growth for each company.

**Note that sales refers to number of vehicles delivered for that specific year.

XPENG X9: Unveiling China's All-Electric 7-Seater MPV (multi-purpose vehicle).

Chinese EV manufacturer, XPENG has officially unveiled an all-electric 7-seater (let’s call it what it is...) van. This is another example of why I am excited to see Chinese EV manufacturers enter the Canadian market - we need more options! I can see an all electric van having a market in Canada and I can think of at least 10 people who would consider one. If the van comes with a bunch of technology and versatility for what life has to offer, then I think this has a market. At a price of ~$68,000 CAD it’s quite competitive in the “van market”, currently Chrysler Pacifica plug-in vans are ~$65,000 CAD.

Priced between RMB 359,800 and 419,800 (equivalent to ~$68,500CAD and $80,000CAD), the XPENG X9 series, based on the cutting-edge SEPA2.0 architecture, is now available for delivery.

Setting a new benchmark in the MPV segment, the XPENG X9 series boasts industry-leading innovations in design, intelligence, space, handling, and safety. This large 7-seater model, created on the SEPA2.0 platform, offers a unique transformation feature, easily converting into a spacious 4-seater SUV with a simple click. This innovation provides a driving experience more comfortable than traditional MPVs and greater flexibility than SUVs.

"With the XPENG X9, we enrich our Smart EV portfolio, addressing primary market needs and fostering the adoption of autonomous driving. Our goal is to capitalize on growth opportunities, demonstrate leadership in Smart EV technologies, enhance organizational efficiency, and secure a dominant market share."

He Xiaopeng, XPENG's CEO and Chairman

Equipped with XPENG's advanced XNGP ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) and the next-generation smart in-car operating system, XOS Tianji, the XPENG X9 spearheads intelligent technology in China. Designed to cater to individual and family travel needs, the XPENG X9 boasts a class-leading in-car floor space of 7.7m². The innovative third-row seats can be electrically folded with a single click, expanding the trunk space to an impressive 2,554L. This large capacity allows for accommodating camping and sports equipment, even with seven passengers on board.

Beyond its spacious interior, the XPENG X9 incorporates features such as an in-car hot and cold smart refrigerator, a 21.4" family infotainment system display, and the world's first wrap-around integrated central AC. These elements, along with zero-gravity reclining sofas, contribute to an enhanced in-car experience for all passengers.

Addressing the stereotype of poor handling in MPVs, the XPENG X9 comes with an active rear-wheel steering system and an intelligent dual-chamber air suspension system. With a class-leading turning radius of 5.4m, smaller than that of compact SUVs, the X9 delivers exceptional maneuverability, ensuring a comfortable driving experience by automatically adjusting suspension spring stiffness based on road conditions.

Nerdy tech info incoming: The XPENG X9 features an 800V high-voltage SiC platform and 3C battery cells, achieving an impressive maximum range of ~702 km. Thanks to the 800V SiC platform, a quick 10-minute charge can add up to 300 km (186 miles) of range. The self-developed 800V XPower powertrain system delivers a maximum power of 370 kW, a peak torque of 640 N·m, accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds, and reaches a top speed of up to 200 km/h.

Constructed with advanced technology, the XPENG X9 features an industry-first front- and rear-integrated aluminum die-casting body structure, providing a torsional rigidity of 46,000 N·m/deg. Safety is prioritized with a 2,000 MPa safety cage and 19 ring-shaped safety designs, meeting the safety standards of China, the US, and Europe for rear collisions.

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Xiaomi Debuts the SU7: all-electric sedan. 

Chinese tech giant Xiaomi makes an entry into the electric vehicle market with the unveiling of its first electric sedan, the SU7, at a high-profile launch event in Beijing. Xiaomi's CEO, Lei Jun, envisions the company's trajectory to be one of the world's top five automakers within the next two decades, challenging industry leaders.

Branded with the acronym SU for Speed Ultra, the SU7 promises cutting-edge "super electric motor" technology, aiming to outpace the acceleration speeds of both Tesla cars and Porsche's electric vehicles. Lei Jun expressed Xiaomi's commitment to revolutionizing the automotive industry by building a dream car that stands shoulder to shoulder with iconic brands.

The SU7 boasts impressive specifications, offering two versions with remarkable driving ranges – one up to 668 km (415 miles) on a single charge and another reaching up to 800 km (just under 500 miles) based on China's test cycle. While pricing details remain undisclosed, Lei Jun hints at a justifiable cost for a vehicle that is expected to make waves in the electric vehicle market.

Highlighting Xiaomi's dedication to innovation, Lei Jun emphasizes that the autonomous driving capabilities of Xiaomi cars will be at the forefront of the industry. With a pledged investment of $10 billion in the automotive sector over a decade, Xiaomi is set to produce its electric cars in collaboration with a unit of the state-owned BAIC Group, utilizing a Beijing factory with an annual capacity of 200,000 vehicles. Xiaomi's ambitious foray into the electric vehicle market signals a paradigm shift as it seeks to redefine the future of transportation.

Hyundai Mobis and VinFast to Showcase Cutting-Edge Mobility Technologies at CES 2024.

Hyundai Mobis (parts supplier to Hyundai, Genesis and Kia) and VinFast, are set to dazzle the audience at CES 2024 with their innovative mobility technologies, reinforcing their commitment to shaping the future of sustainable transportation.

Hyundai Mobis is gearing up to present a portfolio of 20 groundbreaking mobility technologies at CES 2024, ready for mass production. With a focus on expanding international sales, the exhibition will feature products in automotive components, electrification, lamps, and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). Highlighting their commitment to future mobility, Hyundai Mobis will showcase its Innovative Display series, including the world's first in-vehicle rollable display, swivel display, Quantum Dot and Local Dimming Display (QL) display, and a 3D display with OLED-level performance in LCD.

A standout innovation from Hyundai Mobis is the debut of the Transparent Display for automobiles, utilizing holographic optical elements technology. This next-gen display projects clear images on a transparent panel, offering drivers an enhanced sense of space and openness. Transparent displays have the potential to revolutionize automobile designs, providing magnified images on the front windshield for improved safety and convenience.

In the field of electrification, Hyundai Mobis presents the 22 kW-class Integrated Charging Control Unit (ICCU) alongside its battery system (BSA). The ICCU plays a pivotal role in electric vehicle charging and driving, boasting a power conversion system that enhances charging speed and efficiency. With plans for mass production, the 22 kW ICCU is expected to significantly reduce charging times, positioning Hyundai Mobis at the forefront of electric vehicle technology.

Additionally, Hyundai Mobis will unveil a future mobility vehicle at CES 2024, allowing attendees to experience interactive features like the e-Corner system, enabling parallel movement.

Vietnamese automaker VinFast is set to captivate CES 2024 attendees with the introduction of its latest electric vehicle concept and the mini eSUV VF 3. These additions further enrich VinFast's electric vehicle lineup, emphasizing their dedication to sustainable mobility and widespread EV accessibility.

VinFast will showcase its all-electric VF 9 full-size SUV at CES 2024, incorporating a new streaming service into the vehicle for an immersive in-car experience. This innovative integration provides attendees with a firsthand look at the cutting-edge technology within VinFast's electric vehicles.

Demonstrating a commitment to a comprehensive EV ecosystem, VinFast will introduce its electric bikes, DrgnFly, at CES 2024. These electric bikes, initially unveiled at CES 2023, underline VinFast's rapid research and development capabilities. Visitors will have the opportunity to test drive the DrgnFly electric bikes, showcasing VinFast's commitment to a holistic approach in shaping the future of sustainable transportation.

These are just 2 examples of what we can look forward to at CES 2024 which takes place in Las Vegas, Nevada from Tuesday, January 9th to Friday, January 12th, 2024.

QuickEV

EV Tweet of the Week

(Not a tweet but great comparison by Michael Sura).