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

Wanted to give a shout out the the Electric Vehicle Society (https://evsociety.ca/). I have had the pleasure of meeting some of the members of their board of directors in-person and virtually. Check them out, check out your local chapter and consider joining! It’s a great way to connect with like-minded individuals, network using EVs and learn more! Lots of chapters have events throughout the year - so why not attend an event? Find your local chapter HERE.

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In this issue you will find:

• Maximizing your EV Fleet in Canada with Ford.

• Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra Plug-In Hybrids in the Works.

• Tesla Expands Cybertruck Talks in Canada as Rivian Boosts Deliveries.

• Learn about Bidirectional charging with EVs.

• New Tesla Model 3 Performance “Ludicrous” was spotted in Spain.

• Mercedes-Benz Adjusts EV Sales Strategy Amid Changing Market Dynamics

• Apple Ends Electric Car Project: What Happens Next?

• The Health Benefits of Switching to Electric Vehicles for Kids.

• +more!

Canada

Maximizing Winter Efficiency: How Fize Electrique Optimizes Their EV Fleet with Data.

In the chilly winters of Canada, the question of whether electric vehicles can withstand the cold is a common concern among consumers. Alain Fiset, the director of Smart Energy at Fize Electrique, based near Quebec City, has successfully transitioned his company's fleet to electric vehicles since 2018, overcoming the challenges of winter conditions with strategic data utilization.

Fize Electrique's fleet, which includes seven E-Transit vans, an F-150 Lightning, and a Mustang Mach-E, thrives year-round, thanks to Fiset's focus on data-driven optimization. Beyond vehicle selection, Fiset emphasizes the importance of leveraging data and analytics for efficient day-to-day operations.

Ford Pro E-Telematics subscription service has been instrumental in Fize Electrique's success. Despite the E-Transit's smaller battery and estimated range compared to other models, telematics data showcased its suitability for the company's needs even in winter conditions.

The service provides features tailored for commercial customers, allowing Fiset to monitor real-time range and charge status, calculate range averages, remotely precondition vehicles, and facilitate seamless reimbursement for home charging costs.

Fize Electrique's journey to efficiency involved thorough research, vehicle selection, and employee training in EV best practices. Utilizing telematics data, they optimized vehicle efficiency through techniques like vehicle preconditioning and promoting responsible driving habits.

By embracing fully electric fleets, Fize Electrique contributes to Canada's growing EV market, with Ford experiencing a 30% increase in battery electric vehicle sales in 2023 compared to 2022.

Fiset and his team exemplify how businesses harness Ford Pro vehicles and services to enhance productivity, leveraging data to drive success one vehicle at a time.

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

Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra Plug-In Hybrids in the Works, GM Shifts Strategy.

As reported by Autoweek, General Motors is set to unveil plug-in hybrid variants of the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra, as revealed during an investor briefing led by CEO Mary Barra. This move comes despite previous statements indicating a reluctance towards hybrid investments from GM President Mark Reuss back in 2022.

Autoweek sources suggest that GM is expediting the development and launch of these plug-in hybrids, aiming to bridge the gap between conventional combustion engine trucks and newly introduced all-electric models. This accelerated development, labeled as a "crash program," shows that once again GM is scrambling to provide a half-decent product that consumers want (having killed the bolt for the current model year and failing to provide sufficient deliveries of their EVs such as the Cadillac Lyriq and it seems like their Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 EV Truck is late to game).

Personally, I like the idea of plug-in variants for trucks and SUVs for many reasons - some of which I have discussed in a previous article, but to touch on a few points:

• Plug-in versions will help transition the general public from ICE to BEV.

  • Helps consumers overcome “range anxiety”.

  • Gives consumers an idea of “life with an EV”.

• Although not the best case for the environment, PHEVs are still better for the environment than gas vehicles.

The decision to introduce plug-in hybrids reflects a departure from GM's earlier emphasis on pure electric vehicles. Amidst a “reported… 🙃” cooling demand for EVs, GM appears to be responding to the need for transitional technologies, especially in segments like towing and heavy cargo hauling where range anxiety remains a concern.

Previously, GM executives expressed skepticism about the viability of hybrids, favoring direct investments in EVs. However, with evolving market trends and pressures from influential dealers, GM is pivoting towards hybrid offerings to retain customers hesitant to embrace full electrification.

I found this post by Morning Brew pretty funny:

Notably, GM's decision also impacts its plans for electric vans and trucks. Reports suggest a shift in strategy, with plans to replace aging models with electric variants postponed or canceled. This includes shelving plans for electric vans and discontinuing development on electric truck models of varying sizes.

If launched, the new Silverado and Sierra plug-in hybrids would mark GM's return to hybrid technology since its previous foray with two-mode hybrid systems in the late 2000s and early 2010s. Unlike their predecessors, these PHEVs would feature charging ports, enabling users to replenish the battery similar to EV counterparts.

Tesla Expands Cybertruck Talks in Canada as Rivian Boosts Deliveries.

Canadians are anxious to start seeing the Tesla Cybertruck hit our streets and now Tesla is hinting at the arrival of its Cybertruck and Rivian is set to increase deliveries as well!

Tesla recently initiated Cybertruck deliveries in the United States, primarily in Texas and California, with plans for gradual expansion across the country. Traditionally, Tesla's market expansion follows a pattern of launching in the US before moving to Canada.

Rohan Patel, Tesla's head of government affairs and business development, discussed the Cybertruck's Canadian expansion, citing routine paperwork as the only hurdle. He expressed confidence that the process would unfold swiftly, potentially marking one of Tesla's fastest vehicle expansions.

Meanwhile, Rivian, another key player in the EV market, is making strides in Canada. The company notified Canadian reservation holders of the possibility of imminent deliveries after a prolonged wait. Rivian's email highlighted expanded delivery capabilities across the continental United States and key Canadian provinces, including Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario, and Quebec.

While Rivian's service centers in Canada are currently limited to Calgary, Vancouver, and Toronto, efforts are underway to bolster infrastructure to support increased deliveries, especially in Quebec. The email outlined a delivery window of 1-4 months, although Rivian clarified that a subsequent request to "confirm order" was sent in error.

These developments underscore the dynamic growth and evolving landscape of the EV market, with both Tesla and Rivian striving to meet growing demand and expand their presence in Canada. As anticipation mounts for the Cybertruck's arrival and Rivian's accelerated deliveries, enthusiasts and consumers alike eagerly await the next chapter in electric mobility.

EV Around the World 🌏

Unlocking the Potential of Bidirectional Charging in Electric Vehicles.

Bidirectional charging is rapidly gaining traction in the EV market, captivating buyers who seek versatile models capable of both receiving and supplying electricity. This innovative technology empowers EVs not only to store energy but also to serve as mobile power sources for devices, appliances, tools and even other EVs - features increasingly sought after by consumers.

Bidirectional charging holds the promise of financial rewards for EV owners equipped with specific functionalities. For instance, some EVs boast bidirectional charging systems that enable owners to capitalize on electricity rate differentials. By charging their vehicles during off-peak hours when electricity is cheaper and then feeding surplus energy back into the grid during peak demand periods, owners can potentially earn money, leveraging their EVs as lucrative assets.

Notably, major manufacturers are aligning with this trend, announcing plans to integrate bidirectional charging capabilities into their upcoming electric models. General Motors aims to incorporate bidirectional charging into all its 2026 EVs (more on GM changing their minds in the future EV North newsletter issues). Even Tesla, previously cautious about bidirectional charging, has committed to introducing it across its entire lineup by 2025.

Understanding the nuances of bidirectional charging is essential for consumers navigating the EV landscape. Different types of bidirectional charging—V2G (vehicle-to-grid), V2H (vehicle-to-home), V2L (vehicle-to-load), V2V (vehicle-to-vehicle), and V2X (vehicle-to-everything)—offer distinct functionalities, each catering to specific needs and preferences.

V2G: Enables EVs to supply electricity directly to the grid, potentially generating revenue and reducing carbon emissions. While not yet widespread, it holds promise for future energy management and environmental sustainability efforts.

V2H: Facilitates the use of EVs as backup power sources for homes, enhancing resilience during outages. With proper infrastructure, EVs can provide substantial electricity supply, offering economic savings and energy security.

V2L: Empowers EVs to power external devices and appliances, expanding their utility beyond transportation. This feature is increasingly common among modern EVs, enhancing convenience and versatility.

V2V: Allows EVs to transfer power to other EVs, serving as a form of assistance in emergencies or remote areas. While less common, it represents a collaborative approach to energy sharing within the EV ecosystem.

Additional Resources:

Click here for a phenomenal video by “Engineering with Rosie” to learn more about Vehicle to Grid. ~16mins.

Click here for a great video by the Electric Viking talking about the Tesla Powershare. ~13mins.

I wanted to share this video by Munro Live with Tom Prucha talking cells and module packs! It will help you get a visual of various battery components give an idea of what is actually happening in EV battery packs! ~38mins.

New Tesla Model 3 Performance “Ludicrous” was spotted in Spain.

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:

Mercedes-Benz Adjusts EV Sales Strategy Amid Changing Market Dynamics.

Mercedes-Benz recently announced a shift in its long-term strategy regarding electric vehicle sales, signaling a departure from its previous plan to exclusively sell EVs by 2030.

Just three years ago, Mercedes had articulated ambitious plans to transition entirely to EVs by 2030, with a commitment to phase out gas-powered vehicles, albeit with consideration for market dynamics.

In its fourth-quarter earnings statement, Mercedes revealed revised expectations, anticipating that only 50% of its sales will comprise all-electric vehicles - a notable departure from its earlier projections. The company now acknowledges the need to cater to diverse customer preferences, emphasizing flexibility in offering both all-electric drivetrains and electrified combustion engines well into the 2030s. Hopefully they will have a sense and offer plug-in hybrid versions and not just hybrid versions of their vehicles.

Mercedes CEO Ola Källenius clarified that the transition to EV-only sales, even in regions like Europe where EV adoption outpaces North America, won't reach 100% by 2030. This cautious stance aligns with a broader trend among auto executives expressing reservations about the pace of EV adoption.

Tesla's Elon Musk forewarned of slower sales growth in 2024, while EV-focused companies like Rivian and Lucid anticipate stagnant production this year. Major players like GM and Ford have adjusted their plans, delaying factory construction and canceling certain models.

Despite growing EV sales, customers are becoming more price-sensitive and expressing concerns about charging infrastructure reliability and availability. This has led to a rise in hybrid vehicle sales as consumers hedge their bets while awaiting further developments in the EV ecosystem.

Apple Ends Electric Car Project: What Happens Next?

After years of speculation and anticipation, Apple's ambitious EV project, known as "Project Titan," has reportedly been shelved. Following a decade of development efforts, the tech giant has decided to pivot away from creating an autonomous electric vehicle and will instead focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and software - probably for EVs.

According to Bloomberg, Apple has internally announced the discontinuation of Project Titan, with plans to redirect resources toward generative AI initiatives.

While details regarding layoffs remain unclear, reports suggest that many of the approximately 2,000 employees involved in the car project will transition to AI-related endeavors within the company. This move underscores Apple's commitment to advancing AI technologies, potentially leveraging its vast resources and expertise in this area.

Despite speculation about the car's anticipated launch and self-driving capabilities, Apple's pivot to AI signifies a strategic realignment. With significant investments in AI training, exemplified by the development of its proprietary AI model Ajax, Apple appears poised to prioritize AI-driven innovations across its product ecosystem.

Clean Energy and Mobility

The Health Benefits of Switching to Electric Vehicles for Kids.

Transitioning to electric vehicles isn't just about “being green”, having excellent instantaneous performance and saving money - it's also about the related health benefits to the public, specifically kids. A recent report from the American Lung Association underscores the profound impact EV adoption could have on kids' respiratory health, highlighting the benefits and creating a sense of urgency to shift to zero-tailpipe emission vehicles.

The potential benefits are staggering. If all new vehicles sold by 2035 were EVs, the report estimates a remarkable 2.7 million fewer asthma attacks and 147,000 fewer cases of bronchitis among children. Additionally, there would be a significant decrease in upper and lower respiratory symptoms, preventing millions of cases, along with a notable reduction in infant mortality.

Laura Kate Bender, the American Lung Association's national assistant vice president for Healthy Air, emphasizes the vulnerability of children to air pollution due to their developing lungs. For those growing up with conditions like asthma, the impact can be life-altering, often leading to frequent emergency room visits.

The urgency to transition to EVs stems from the substantial contribution of combustion engine vehicles to climate change, accounting for over a quarter of global emissions. Governments worldwide are pushing for accelerated EV adoption to mitigate these effects, recognizing the profound benefits for children, especially those susceptible to respiratory ailments.

However, achieving a fully electric fleet, as envisioned by various Governments’ net-zero emission goals, presents significant challenges. Fleet turnover is slow, and concerns linger regarding EV affordability, charging infrastructure, and grid sustainability.

Despite these hurdles, EV sales are steadily rising, comprising over 8% of all vehicle sales in 2023. Yet, transitioning away from gas-powered vehicles entirely by around 2035 is essential to meet ambitious emission targets. Recent regulatory shifts, such as the EPA's decision to delay strict new rules on gas-powered vehicles, add further complexity to the transition.

QuickEV

• Faking It: 2025 Dodge Charger EV To Simulate Vibrating 'Engine'.

• Armored Glass Repels Tesla Cybertruck Smash-And-Grab Attempt.

• [VIDEO] Should You Buy A Tesla Model Y? 3-yr 100,000km owner review.

• The 2025 Ram 1500 Ramcharger Is An Extended-Range EV. What Does That Mean?

• Elon Musk Claims The New Tesla Roadster Hits 60 MPH In Less Than One Second.

• [VIDEO] Watch this humanoid robot work on NIO’s EV assembly line.

• Renault Scenic E-Tech Named Car of the Year 2024 at Geneva International Motor Show.

EV Tweet of the Week