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

This week is a busy week for parents as we all gear up to get our kids ready for back to school! It’s hard setting your child free into the wild - whether it’s their first year of daycare or school, or their 12th year. Now that schools are starting up please be mindful of school buses and be extra cautious in school zones. If you want to take it a step further, you could send your school board a note regarding electric school buses! 😜 

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Canada

Fisker Expands European Presence and Prepares for Canadian Deliveries.

Fisker, an innovative electric vehicle manufacturer, is making significant strides in its global expansion plans. The company is now set to enter new European markets and is on the verge of delivering its much-anticipated Fisker Ocean SUV to Canadian customers. Here are the latest updates on Fisker's journey to electrify the world:

European Expansion

Fisker is thrilled to announce its expansion into three new European markets, further solidifying its foothold on the continent. The EV pioneer is now accepting orders for the Fisker Ocean in Belgium, the Netherlands, and Switzerland, bringing the total number of European markets served to an impressive ten. Fisker had already made a mark in Austria, Denmark, France, Germany, Norway, Sweden, and the United Kingdom.

Canadian Deliveries Imminent

In addition to its European endeavors, Fisker is gearing up to fulfill orders for the Fisker Ocean in Canada, with deliveries slated to commence in September. The company aims to complete the necessary homologation process for the Ocean EV in Canada by September 7, paving the way for customer deliveries.

Henrik Fisker expressed his gratitude to Canadian customers for their patience, saying, "We have strong reservations and a solid bank of orders for the Fisker Ocean in Canada. We have always planned to reach customers throughout North America and are excited to be completing that strategy."

Interest from customers in the Vancouver and Toronto areas has been particularly strong, prompting Fisker to establish retail and service locations, as well as Fisker-certified collision-repair centers in these regions. The company is committed to providing comprehensive sales and service support in Canada, including mobile service staffed by Fisker-trained technicians and consumer financing through Scotiabank, the nominated retail financing partner.

To give prospective customers a taste of the Fisker experience, the company will organize pop-up test drive events in the Vancouver and Toronto areas in September, with additional events planned for the fall.

As Fisker continues to make waves in the global EV market, it remains dedicated to expanding its presence, delivering top-quality vehicles, and providing exceptional customer experiences across Europe and North America. Stay tuned for more updates on this electrifying journey.

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

Federal Investment of $28 Million to Boost EV Charging Infrastructure in Quebec.

In a significant move toward expanding EV infrastructure, the Canadian federal government has allocated $28,292,086 in funding for the installation of 1,578 new EV chargers in Quebec. The announcement, made in Quebec City, marks a crucial step in promoting sustainable transportation across the province.

This substantial funding injection is made possible through the Zero Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program (ZEVIP). The initiative supports 18 distinct projects that collectively encompass 1,151 Level 2 chargers and 481 DC fast chargers, enhancing Quebec's charging network significantly.

With the growing popularity of EVs in Quebec, the federal government's commitment to expanding charging infrastructure is well-timed. In Q2 2023, new EV registrations achieved an impressive milestone, capturing a remarkable 10.5% market share nationwide. Notably, over 40% of these EVs are located in Quebec, highlighting the province's strong commitment to eco-friendly transportation.

Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Jonathan Wilkinson, emphasized the broad reach of this funding, stating, "Today, I announced federal investments to deliver over 1,500 new chargers across Quebec, from Rimouski to Gatineau and beyond." This investment aligns with the Government of Canada's continuous efforts to encourage Quebecers to embrace electric vehicles through purchase incentives and a robust charging network.

Federal Incentive Program's Impact

Since the inception of the federal iZEV purchase incentive program in 2019, nearly 260,000 rebates for EV purchases have been issued. Notably, Quebec drivers have received over half of these incentives, totaling almost 137,000 rebates. This underlines the province's active role in adopting green transportation solutions.

Positive Outlook for EV Infrastructure

Electric Mobility Canada president and CEO Daniel Breton expressed optimism about the future, saying, "While there is still a lot of work to be done in terms of charging infrastructure deployment, there is no doubt that with today’s announcement, we are heading in the right direction."

Key Funding Recipients

The $28 million in funding will benefit both governmental and private corporations. Some of the major recipients include:

• Hydro Québec: Receiving $21.7 million for seven projects, involving the installation of 1,194 chargers, including 385 fast chargers.

• CN: Granted $4.4 million to support 62 fast chargers (12 in Quebec and 50 in the rest of Canada).

• Les Pétroles R.L. Inc.: Allocated $1.3 million to deploy 57 chargers across Quebec.

• Bell Canada: Awarded $375,000 to install 75 Level 2 chargers at workplaces throughout Quebec.

• Syndicat des copropriétaires Lowney sur Ville: Granted a total of $423,708 for two projects to install 85 Level 2 chargers in multi-use residential buildings (MURBs) in Montreal.

Other recipients include the Conseil régional de l’environnement et du développement durable de l’Outaouais, Montreal-Trudeau International Airport, Saroukian Holdings Ltd., Société de développement et de mise en valeur du Parc olympique, Les Entreprise Alfred Boivin, and Ikea Properties Ltd.

Furthermore, an additional 126 chargers will be installed across the province through an unspecified partner, with all of them becoming available by 2025.

This substantial investment signifies a positive stride toward bolstering Quebec's EV charging infrastructure and facilitating the transition to sustainable transportation options. The federal government's commitment to greener mobility is poised to benefit both residents and the environment alike.

Prince Edward Island to Quadruple EV Fast Chargers by 2024 Amid Tourist Charging Issues.

If you're a proud EV owner planning a vacation on Prince Edward Island, it's crucial to plan your charging needs in advance. Derek Burnett, a resident of Gaetz Brook, N.S., recently faced charging challenges during a family trip to P.E.I. His experience highlights the need for improved EV infrastructure, but the province is taking steps to address the issue.

During their trip, Burnett's family relied on a Charlottetown hotel with three Level 2 chargers, which can take up to five hours for a full charge. Their plan was to leave the car charging overnight, expecting it to be ready for daytime adventures. Unfortunately, two of the hotel's chargers were out of order, and the third was constantly in use.

Forced to find an alternative, they turned to an app to locate charging stations. Charlottetown had just four Level 3 chargers, the fastest type. Their first choice turned out to be a Level 2 charger, and the provincially owned charger near Canadian Tire was out of service. Even an auto dealership's charger was in use, leading them to another dealership with a long queue.

Burnett explained, "We can get from 20 percent to 80 percent charge in about 20 to 25 minutes, so we knew we didn't have to wait long.... It was just waiting for our turn."

Most of the other drivers they encountered were tourists, and they all shared their frustrations about the scarcity of EV charging stations in the Maritimes.

The sustainability division director for P.E.I.'s Department of Environment, Energy, and Climate Action, Derek Ellis, acknowledged the challenges faced by tourists. He noted that most Island residents charge their EVs at home, making it less of an issue for locals. However, the province is committed to making EV tourism hassle-free.

P.E.I. aims to quadruple the number of Level 3 chargers by the end of 2024. Currently, the province has six fast chargers, and they plan to expand these chargers to have two ports each. Additionally, they are inviting proposals from companies to add another dozen stations in the coming year, increasing the total number of charging ports to 24 or 25.

Ellis emphasized the collaborative effort between public and private sectors, saying, "Moving forward, it'll be a combination of… public and private investment on this front. I think the province and our federal government will have to continue to be active."

He also mentioned that the broken charger near Canadian Tire in Charlottetown is scheduled for repairs.

Despite his charging challenges, Burnett remains an advocate for electric vehicles. He encourages people not to be discouraged by his experience but advises, "Right now, anybody that has an electric vehicle going on a long trip, they do need to plan."

EV Around the World 🌏

Tesla Unveils Enhanced Model 3 with Redesigned Interior, Improved Range, and Innovative Features.

Tesla is rolling out an upgraded and redesigned Model 3 in Europe, formerly known as the Highland. This revamped version boasts enhancements to both the exterior and interior, promising superior comfort, acoustics, and extended range.

If you want to watch an in-depth look at the new Model 3, check out the QuickEV section at the end of the newsletter below 👇️ 

Exterior Transformation

One of the most conspicuous changes is seen at the front of the Model 3, where Tesla has replaced the front bump with a sleeker, more streamlined design featuring a single central vent. The headlights have been redesigned, now sporting a slim profile with LED daytime running lights.

While the sides of the car remain relatively unchanged, Tesla has introduced fresh alloy wheel designs, including 18- and 19-inch options. At the rear, the taillights have been reconfigured, departing from the split design of the previous model. The redesigned bumper now integrates fog lights, and two new paint options, including a Model S-like red and a "stealth grey," have been added.

These exterior refinements contribute to improved aerodynamics, boosting the Model 3's range by over 10 percent. The rear-wheel-drive version now achieves 344 miles WLTP, while the long-range model reaches an impressive 421 miles WLTP.

Tesla has focused on enhancing ride comfort with updated suspension tuning and a sturdier body. Inside the Model 3, the automaker is committed to reducing interior noise levels. This effort includes extending acoustic glass to the rear windows and the back window.

Interior Innovation

The Model 3's interior receives significant updates as well. A new dash design features LED lighting and a customizable panel. Changes to the steering wheel have replaced traditional indicators with buttons. The infotainment system has undergone upgrades, featuring a brighter, more responsive screen. Users can now control the passenger air system, and Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity have seen improvements. Tesla has also boosted the stereo system from 14 to 17 speakers, promising enhanced audio quality.

Passengers in the rear seats will benefit from their own dedicated screen, an 8-inch display that provides access to adjustable climate controls, music, and entertainment apps like Netflix, YouTube, and Disney Plus.

Availability and Pricing

Tesla plans to commence deliveries of the upgraded Model 3 in October, initially in select European countries and the Middle East. However, availability in North America and the UK has not yet been announced. The base price for the rear-wheel-drive model starts at $63,000, while the long-range version is priced from $75,000.

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Mercedes-Benz Unveils the Future of Electric Luxury with the Concept CLA Class.

Mercedes-Benz took the stage at IAA Mobility 2023 in Munich, Germany, to introduce the Mercedes-Benz Concept CLA Class, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the brand's upcoming electric vehicle family. This visionary concept car represents Mercedes-Benz's commitment to redefining the entry-level luxury segment.

The Concept CLA Class is not merely a design exercise; it lays the foundation for an entirely new category of all-electric Mercedes-Benz vehicles. This innovative range of vehicles will include a four-door coupé, a shooting brake, and two captivating SUVs, all boasting elevated product quality.

At its core, the Concept CLA Class embodies the aspirations of modern car buyers. It seamlessly combines the unmistakable Mercedes-Benz experience with advanced features, heightened comfort, top-tier safety, and cutting-edge technology. Moreover, it caters to eco-conscious drivers with its impressive electric range of over 750 kilometers (466 miles) based on WLTP standards, while consuming just 12 kWh per 100 km.

Revolutionary Platform and Safety Focus

The driving force behind this transformation is the Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA) platform, purpose-built for electric vehicles. MMA will underpin a versatile family of four vehicles encompassing various body styles. This platform plays a pivotal role in accelerating Mercedes-Benz's electrification efforts, aligning with ambitious targets. Safety remains a paramount concern, with all MMA-based vehicles adhering to Mercedes-Benz's "real life safety" philosophy, ensuring occupant protection.

The Concept CLA Class showcases an innovative battery system, offering customers a choice between two cell chemistries. The top-tier variant features a silicon-oxide anode design for remarkable energy density, while the entry-level option incorporates lithium-iron phosphate technology. Notably, the battery boasts a compact volume, secured using adhesive instead of screws. This not only reduces weight but enhances crash safety. With an 800 V configuration, the vehicle supports high-power 250 kW DC charging, delivering up to 400 kilometers (248 miles) of range in just 15 minutes.

Leading-Edge Infotainment and Sustainable Materials

The Concept CLA Class introduces "MB.OS," a new operating system, to provide an unparalleled user interface and experience through the MBUX Superscreen. Sustainable materials play a vital role in the car's construction and interior, featuring CO₂-free steel, CO₂-reduced aluminum, eco-friendly leather upholstery, and trim made from paper. This eco-conscious approach aligns with the desires of a youthful and dynamic global market segment.

The Future of EV Networking

Beyond being a striking EV, the Concept CLA Class offers a glimpse into the future of EV networking with the energy grid. Through bidirectional charging technology, this Mercedes-Benz showcases its commitment to innovation. When connected to compatible bidirectional DC charging stations, the vehicle becomes a versatile energy storage device. It can store solar energy for later use, provide backup power during outages (Vehicle-to-Home or V2H), or support grid stabilization and energy trading (Vehicle-to-Grid or V2G). Mercedes-Benz recognizes that market-specific conditions and energy supplier requirements may influence the use of bidirectional charging.

A Revolution in Automotive Technology

Markus Schäfer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG and Chief Technology Officer, affirms the groundbreaking nature of the Concept CLA Class. He states, "Our MMA platform will enable us to offer our customers in this market segment a class-defining combination of performance, sustainability, safety, and comfort paired with an outstanding digital experience."

In summary, the Mercedes-Benz Concept CLA Class sets the stage for an electric future that redefines luxury, performance, and sustainability. With its visionary design, advanced technology, and eco-friendly ethos, it symbolizes Mercedes-Benz's commitment to shaping the automotive landscape of tomorrow.

Clean Energy and Mobility

Harnessing Sunshine: The Compelling Case for Solar Panels Along California's Highways

California has the potential to generate electricity for 270,000 homes by installing solar panels in the vacant areas beside highway interchanges across three Southern California counties, according to a report by Environment California and The Ray.

These spaces, currently unused due to heavy traffic and unsuitable for wildlife, receive ample sunlight, particularly in sunny Southern California.

The report highlights the benefits of using this land for solar power generation, revealing nearly one gigawatt of solar potential from these areas.

These locations are often near transmission lines and state-owned, simplifying large-scale solar projects. California's Senate Bill SB49 supports these efforts.

This solar initiative is not unique to California, as the Federal Highway Administration and the Biden administration view it as crucial for achieving sustainability goals.

Environment California has advocated for various solar projects, including rooftop installations on warehouses, parking lots, superstores, and aqueducts to reduce emissions from electricity generation.

What other unused vacant “real estate” exists in Canada that could be used for solar panels?

Zinc-Air Batteries: A Promising Alternative to Lithium-Ion, Study Finds.

Researchers at Edith Cowan University in Australia have unveiled the potential advantages of zinc-air batteries for electric vehicles when compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries.

Zinc-air batteries, considered one of the earliest energy storage systems, employ a zinc anode (negative electrode) and an air-based cathode (positive electrode). While an earlier study on Science Direct highlighted limited power output and sensitivity to humidity and temperature as drawbacks of zinc batteries, the Australian team has made significant advancements to address these challenges.

By incorporating innovative materials such as carbon, cost-effective iron, and cobalt, the researchers have enhanced the performance of zinc-air batteries. The study emphasizes that these batteries can offer affordability, environmental sustainability, safety, and a high energy density.

Dr. Muhammad Rizwan Azhar, who led the project, underlines the potential of zinc-air batteries due to the abundant availability of zinc in countries like Australia. He believes these batteries can provide a cost-effective, eco-friendly, and high-energy-density solution.

Battery technology continues to evolve worldwide. General Motors recently invested $60 million in Mitra-Chem, a Silicon Valley start-up focusing on iron-based cathode active materials and employing machine learning to expedite lab-to-production processes.

Toyota, in July 2023, announced a breakthrough in solid-state battery technology, promising a remarkable 745 miles of range with a 10-minute recharge. Simplified production methods for both solid-state and liquid-based batteries could lead to reduced weight, size, and overall costs.

Stellantis also revealed a prototype battery that integrates inverter and charger functions within the modules. Collaborating with France's National Centre For Scientific Research (CNRS) on the Intelligent Battery Integrated System (IBIS) project, Stellantis aims to incorporate these batteries into EVs by the end of the decade, potentially revolutionizing electric vehicle technology.

QuickEV

• Unplugged Performance Reveals ‘Dark Knight’, a Carbon-Widebody Tesla Model S Plaid.

• Lucid targets $50K EV right in the heart of Tesla M3 and MY.

• [VIDEO] Rimac Nevera Drag Race 1,800-HP Lamborghini Huracan.

• Redwood Materials Raises $1B To Boost Its US Battery Recycling Efforts.

• BMW reveals Vision Neue Klasse EV concept.

• [VIDEO] Range Loss of a Cadillac Lyriq at 70mph VS 80mph.

• Lotus will reveal its electric Emeya hypercar September 7th.

• Polestar Synergy Electric Fantasy Supercar Debuts At IAA Mobility.

• [VIDEO] Close look at Tesla Model 3 Highland.

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