Hello! Thank you for checking out the EV North Newsletter!

In this issue you will be brought up to speed on EV news. Here are some topics that will be covered below:

• 2024 Kia EV9: A Canadian Perspective on Kia's New Electric SUV. Explore the features and specifications of the 2024 Kia EV9 from a Canadian perspective. Learn about its design, performance, and how it fits into the evolving landscape of electric SUVs.
  

• Gaspésie–Îles-de-la-Madeleine Embraces Green Transit with $1.75M Funding for Electric Buses.
  Discover how the Gaspésie–Îles-de-la-Madeleine region is advancing its commitment to sustainable transit with a substantial $1.75 million funding injection for the adoption of electric buses.
  

• The Karma Kaveya Coupe: A Flagship of Power and Elegance.
  Delve into the world of luxury and sophistication with insights into the Karma Kaveya Coupe. Uncover the features that make this car a flagship of power and elegance.
  

• ExxonMobil's Lithium Production Venture: Transforming the Landscape of Battery-grade Lithium.
  Gain an understanding of ExxonMobil's foray into lithium production and its potential impact on the battery industry. Explore how this venture might shape the future of battery-grade lithium production.
  

• Tesla Introduces Resale Restrictions for Cybertruck Buyers.
  Get the latest on Tesla's move to introduce resale restrictions for Cybertruck buyers. Learn about the details of these restrictions and the implications for the resale market.
  

• Canoo Unveils Cutting-Edge American Bulldog Electric Pickup.
  Stay ahead in the electric vehicle scene with a glimpse into Canoo's latest innovation – the American Bulldog Electric Pickup. Explore its cutting-edge features and how it contributes to the evolution of electric trucks.
  

Canada

2024 Kia EV9: A Canadian Perspective on Kia's New Electric SUV.

Kia's groundbreaking 2024 EV9, starting at $59,995 in Canada, introduces a revolutionary trim structure with Wind and Land options and a GT-Line package, setting new standards in electric SUV innovation. Unveiling an expansive design, agile handling, and robust charging capabilities, the EV9 promises a driving experience beyond expectations.

Breaking away from tradition, the EV9 adopts a fresh trim nomenclature with Wind and Land, complemented by the GT-Line package. The GT-Line offers a striking ensemble, featuring 21-inch lightweight alloy wheels, bridge-type roof rail, dual sunroof, head-up display, and second-row relaxation seats.

Defying expectations, the EV9 surpasses the size of Kia's flagship gas-powered Telluride. The flat-floor architecture creates a spacious cabin with three rows of seating and ample storage. The 2024 Kia EV9 stands out not just in size but also in its remarkably agile driving experience.

The EV9 emerges as a mid-size, three-row, all-electric SUV, marking Kia's second entry into the next-gen EV family. With plans to expand to 14 EVs by 2027, the EV9 offers dual-motor AWD and single-motor RWD models, showcasing remarkable vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality.

Powered by a 99.8 kWh battery, the EV9 boasts impressive range figures. The rear-drive Wind model achieves a driving range of 489 km, emphasizing its efficiency. The Land AWD models, delivering 379 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque, maintain a competitive driving range of 451 km. Efficiency remains commendable across all models, making the all-wheel-drive option more appealing in the Canadian market.

The EV9's 800V electrical architecture facilitates rapid charging, with a 76.1-kWh battery reaching 80% charge in 20 minutes on a 350-kW DC fast charger. At home, a Level 2 charger accomplishes a full charge in 6 hours and 45 minutes. The larger 99.8-kWh battery takes 24 minutes (350-kW DC), 83 minutes (50-kW DC), and 8 hours and 45 minutes (Level 2).

With a cargo volume of 572 liters behind the third row, expandable to 2,313 liters, the EV9 offers impressive storage. Pricing starts at $59,995 for the base model, making it a competitive option in the Canadian electric SUV market.

The EV9's driving experience is characterized by its effortless handling, linear acceleration, and confident steering. Equipped with four drive modes, including sport and eco, the EV9 adapts to diverse driving conditions, promising both performance and efficiency. Despite its substantial weight, the EV9's aerodynamic design minimizes wind noise, providing a smooth ride at high speeds.

Offering a choice between a six-passenger and seven-passenger layout, the EV9 accommodates adults comfortably even in the third row. Massage seats in the top-tier model enhance the luxurious driving experience.

Can’t wait to see these on Canadian road and hopefully I’ll have an opportunity to see one up close and personal!

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

Gaspésie–Îles-de-la-Madeleine Embraces Green Transit with $1.75M Funding for Electric Buses.

In a significant move towards sustainability, a rural transit authority in eastern Quebec secures $1.75 million from the Green Municipal Fund to introduce 21 fully electric buses in the Gaspésie–Îles-de-la-Madeleine region. This transformative initiative aims to reduce emissions by an impressive 98%.

The Régie intermunicipale de transport Gaspésie-Îles-de-la-Madeleine (RÉGÎM), serving five regional county municipalities and the Îles-de-la-Madeleine, plans to electrify its public bus fleet covering 18 routes spanning 15 to 105 kilometers.

Funded by the federal government and administered by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM), the Green Municipal Fund (GMF) plays a crucial role in this eco-friendly initiative. With a total value of $1.6 billion, GMF provides grants, loans, and strategic support to accelerate the transformation of communities towards resilience and net-zero emissions.

With the $1.75 million funding, RÉGÎM intends to procure 21 electric buses, including 10 paratransit shuttles, and install 12 charging stations throughout the service area. The anticipated outcomes include a remarkable 98% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, a 72% decrease in energy use, and a 64% cut in energy costs.

Initiated in 2018 with an initial estimated cost of $7 million, RÉGÎM faced challenges as its fleet did not qualify for Quebec's funding covering up to 95% of electric bus costs due to the subcontracted nature of the buses from six private companies. The project's current reduced cost of $1.75 million and the timeline for completion remain undisclosed.

As Gaspésie–Îles-de-la-Madeleine paves the way for greener transit, the electrification of its public bus fleet stands as a model for other regions. The environmental and economic benefits, coupled with the support from the Green Municipal Fund, position this initiative as a noteworthy step towards a more sustainable and eco-friendly future.

Yadea Kemper - an electric motorcycle that can charge to 80% in 10 minutes.

EV Around the World 🌏

The Karma Kaveya Coupe: A Flagship of Power and Elegance.

The Kaveya, set to hit the market in Q4 2025, is poised to become Karma's flagship vehicle. Described as an 'EV super coupe GT,' it boasts a low-slung body with butterfly doors, a sleek curved glasshouse, and a deployable rear spoiler. With an aluminum spaceframe and carbon fiber body panels, the Kaveya combines strength with sophistication, weighing in at approximately 5,300 pounds.

The Kaveya will be available in two versions, both offering over 250 miles of range. The rear-wheel-drive variant, with 536 horsepower, is expected to debut in Q4 2025, while the all-wheel-drive variant, packing a staggering 1,180 horsepower, is slated for a Q4 2026 release. Accelerating from 0-60 mph in under 3 seconds and reaching a top speed of over 180 mph, the Kaveya is a powerhouse fueled by a 120-kilowatt-hour battery pack, ensuring a 45-minute charging time from 10 to 80 percent state of charge.

Karma Gyesera Sedan: A Tour de Force in Electric Luxury

The Gyesera, Karma's inaugural all-electric touring sedan, is set to debut in Q4 2024. With a design language reminiscent of the Kaveya, the Gyesera is equipped with a rear-wheel-drive electric powertrain generating 590 horsepower and 693 pound-feet of torque. Boasting a 120-kWh battery pack and a range exceeding 250 miles, the Gyesera accelerates from 0-60 mph in under 4.2 seconds, reaching a top speed of over 135 mph.

The unveiling of these EV wonders marks a significant shift in Karma's trajectory. From its roots as Fisker Automotive, through the challenges of the Revero era, Karma Automotive has undergone a complete overhaul. The company's commitment to a new design vocabulary, led by industry veteran Michelle Christensen, reflects a dedication to creating timeless, beautiful vehicles.

Despite the exciting developments, Karma Automotive faces a daunting task. With a complex history and amidst the challenges of the evolving EV market, the brand aims to become an aspirational name in the automotive industry. As Karma plans to debut new products and concepts every six months starting in Q3 2024, the question remains: Can Karma navigate the competitive landscape and emerge as a true force in the world of electric vehicles?

ExxonMobil's Lithium Production Venture: Transforming the Landscape of Battery-grade Lithium.

In a strategic move, ExxonMobil is set to redefine itself as a key player in the lithium production sector. The company recently unveiled plans to extract and produce battery-grade lithium from the Smackover Formation in Arkansas, marking its entry into the lithium market.

ExxonMobil announced its foray into lithium production by initiating its first drilling operation in southern Arkansas. With the growing demand for lithium, a crucial component in rechargeable batteries for electric vehicles, phones, and laptops, ExxonMobil aims to position itself as a "leading producer of lithium."

Earlier this year, ExxonMobil acquired 120,000 acres of lithium-rich land in the Smackover Formation in Arkansas. The company plans to commence lithium production in 2027, projecting the capacity to supply lithium for over 1 million electric vehicles annually by 2030. The extraction process involves drilling 10,000 feet below the surface using gas and oil machinery, followed by direct lithium extraction (DLE) to separate lithium from saltwater. The environmentally conscious approach of injecting the treated saltwater back into the ground sets ExxonMobil's project apart.

ExxonMobil's DLE process boasts reduced carbon emissions compared to traditional hard rock mining, emphasizing its commitment to sustainability. The company will produce battery-grade lithium on-site, branding it as Mobil Lithium. Notably, this isn't ExxonMobil's first foray into the battery sector, as it was part of pioneering the manufacturing of the first lithium-ion battery in the 1970s.

ExxonMobil's venture aligns with the broader trend of bringing lithium extraction stateside. Standard Lithium, based in Canada, is also eyeing the Smackover Formation for lithium extraction. As other companies explore sites like Thacker Pass in Nevada and California's Salton Sea, ExxonMobil's contribution could significantly impact US-based electric vehicle manufacturers. This move addresses the current reliance on foreign sources, positioning the US as a potential hub for battery production.

As ExxonMobil ventures into lithium production, it not only marks a significant shift in the company's focus but also contributes to reshaping the landscape of lithium sourcing and production in the United States.

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Tesla Introduces Resale Restrictions for Cybertruck Buyers.

As the eagerly anticipated launch of the Tesla Cybertruck approaches on Nov. 30, potential buyers received a surprising update over the weekend. Tesla has added an anti-flipping clause to its Motor Vehicle Order Agreement Terms & Conditions for the U.S. market, imposing strict regulations on the resale of the Cybertruck.

Buyers of the Cybertruck are now required to refrain from selling the vehicle within the first year following its delivery date. The updated document reads:

"For Cybertruck Only: You understand and acknowledge that the Cybertruck will first be released in limited quantity. You agree that you will not sell or otherwise attempt to sell the Vehicle within the first year following your Vehicle’s delivery date."

In the event that a buyer needs to sell the vehicle within the first year due to unforeseen circumstances, Tesla reserves the right to decide whether an exception is warranted. If Tesla agrees, the buyer must notify Tesla in writing, allowing Tesla the option to purchase the vehicle at its discretion. If Tesla declines, the buyer can then proceed to sell the vehicle to a third party, but only with written consent from Tesla.

However, breaching this provision could result in severe consequences. Tesla has the authority to seek injunctive relief to prevent the transfer of title or demand liquidated damages amounting to $50,000 or the value received for the sale or transfer, whichever is greater. Furthermore, Tesla may refuse to sell any future vehicles to the breaching party.

While such resale restrictions may seem stringent, they are not uncommon in the automotive industry, particularly for low-volume vehicles with high early demand. Ford implemented similar rules for its GT supercar, and instances of restrictions were observed with early F-150 Lightnings.

With the Cybertruck's immense popularity and a significant number of reservations, these measures aim to control the potential for immediate resale profits. As Tesla continues to dominate the electric vehicle market, these strategies become essential in managing demand and ensuring a fair distribution of limited production.

Canoo Unveils Cutting-Edge American Bulldog Electric Pickup.

Mobility innovator, Canoo, has unveiled its latest creation – the American Bulldog electric quad-cab truck. This groundbreaking vehicle is an evolution of the Screaming Eagle, rigorously tested by the U.S. Army in 2022. With a foundation rooted in Canoo's swift product development and real-world testing, the American Bulldog is poised to redefine the electric pickup landscape.

While Canoo is keeping some details under wraps, it has disclosed that the American Bulldog will boast a robust yet lightweight honeycomb design, along with state-of-the-art steer-by-wire and brake-by-wire systems, mirroring those featured in the company's cargo van.

Canoo is positioning the American Bulldog as more than just a vehicle; it's a testament to Canoo's commitment to passenger comfort and ergonomics. Tailored for optimal body motion and height considerations, this electric pickup incorporates multi-tasker components for a seamless driving experience.

Driven by Canoo's relentless pursuit of advanced technologies, the American Bulldog is a high-tech marvel that redefines both its interior and exterior. In a bold statement, Canoo emphasized, "Most engineers wouldn't believe what Canoo has achieved: this vehicle is a masterclass in form and function."

With the American Bulldog, Canoo not only introduces a groundbreaking electric pickup but also solidifies its dedication to pushing the boundaries of innovation. Stay tuned as Canoo continues to shape the future of electric mobility.

QuickEV

• The Polestar 5 Looks Gorgeous, Doesn't Have A Rear Window.

• Rivian software update bricks infotainment system, fix not obvious.

• [VIDEO] Richard Hammond drives a Rimac for the 1st time since crash.

• Volvo Group acquires Proterra’s battery business for $210m.

• [VIDEO] Can the NEW Tesla Model 3 Overtake its Predecessors?

• Rivian Gets Final Approval For $5 Billion EV Plant In Georgia.

• ChargePoint EV Charging Network: 1-Million Quarterly Active Drivers.

• [VIDEO] Electric balance bike for kids - just in time for Christmas!

  
  

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