Hello! Little late this week but better late than never!

I’ve been battling a cold and it’s been kicking my butt! At least it is happening now and not over the Holiday Season (which will be here before we know it!)

In this issue:

1. The Shift from Time-Based to kWh Billing for Electric Vehicles.
   Explore the evolving landscape of electric vehicle billing as the industry shifts from time-based to kWh billing. Understand the implications for consumers and the electric vehicle ecosystem as billing models adapt to new standards.

2. Cape Breton Secures $54 Million Investment for Electric Buses and Transit Infrastructure Overhaul.
   Dive into the sustainable future of Cape Breton as it secures a substantial $54 million investment for electric buses and a comprehensive overhaul of transit infrastructure. Witness the positive impact on public transportation and environmental initiatives.

3. AutoTrader Canada’s Top 5 EVs Worth Waiting For.
   Stay ahead of the curve with AutoTrader Canada's curated list of the top 5 electric vehicles worth waiting for. Get insights into the latest and most anticipated EV models that are set to make waves in the Canadian automotive market.

4. Volvo and Polestar Join Forces with NIO for Revolutionary EV Battery Swapping.
   Witness a groundbreaking collaboration as Volvo and Polestar team up with NIO for a revolutionary EV battery swapping initiative. Explore how this partnership aims to redefine the electric vehicle charging experience and enhance convenience.

5. Skyworth Unveils Skyhome: A Revolutionary AI-Powered EV Sedan with Unique Features.
   Immerse yourself in the future of electric sedans with Skyworth's unveiling of Skyhome. Discover the revolutionary AI-powered features that set this electric vehicle apart, offering a unique and advanced driving experience.

Canada

The Shift from Time-Based to kWh Billing.

EV enthusiasts are grappling with unexpected changes in charging costs as more charging networks transition to kilowatt-hour (kWh) based billing. Some EV owners have been taken aback when their usual charging station tripled its rates seemingly overnight, challenging the perceived cost advantages of EV ownership.

This shift from time-based to kWh billing is not universal, with only a few Canadian networks, including Couche-Tard, Tesla Superchargers, and Ivy Charge & Go, having adopted this model. However, recent draft regulations in Quebec indicate a broader trend, with DC fast chargers set to implement kWh billing in early 2024. The motivation behind this change stems from a February decision by Measurement Canada, allowing charging networks to bill based on energy consumption to address disparities favoring faster-charging EVs under time-based billing.

The Fairness of kWh Billing

Advocates for kWh billing, argue that it is a fairer option. By charging users based on the energy consumed, akin to the traditional gas station model, it eliminates discrepancies favoring faster-charging EVs. However, the transition has left some EV drivers, particularly those with faster-charging vehicles, facing unexpected and, in some cases, significantly higher costs.

Variability in Charging Rates

One key issue arising from the shift to kWh billing is the lack of rate consistency among charging stations. Different networks and even individual Tesla Superchargers have varying rates, creating a sense of unpredictability for users accustomed to uniform pricing under time-based billing. The lack of regulation in this space has led to what some describe as a "wild west" scenario.

Factors Influencing Charging Rates

Several factors contribute to the fluidity in charging rates. The first is the push for EVs to charge at night, incentivized by lower electricity rates during off-peak hours. Second, charging network operators aim to turn a profit, and the costs associated with installing and maintaining chargers may impact rates. Third, demand charges, a significant hurdle for charging network expansion, remain a consideration, although efforts are underway to address this challenge.

Future Outlook and Communication

Industry experts anticipate that charging station rates will eventually stabilize as the market matures. However, effective communication about rate changes is crucial to prevent user dissatisfaction. The recent transition to kWh billing caught many users off guard, prompting calls for better communication practices from charging network operators.

The evolving landscape of EV charging costs reflects a complex interplay of factors, from regulatory changes to network operators' financial considerations. As the industry navigates these shifts, clear communication and a commitment to fair pricing will be essential to maintain consumer trust and encourage the widespread adoption of electric vehicles.

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Cape Breton Secures $54 Million Investment for Electric Buses and Transit Infrastructure Overhaul.

Cape Breton, celebrated for its captivating landscapes, is embarking on an eco-friendly transformation with a substantial $54 million funding deal. Transit Cape Breton, serving the vicinity of Sydney, Nova Scotia, will deploy these funds to acquire six electric buses, develop charging infrastructure, and undertake a comprehensive renovation of its bus maintenance depot.

The funding distribution reflects a collaborative effort, with the federal government allocating $21.6 million, the province contributing $18 million, and Cape Breton Regional Municipality investing $14.4 million. This significant financial support underscores a collective commitment to advancing sustainable transportation solutions.

The initial procurement of six electric buses signifies the commencement of a broader initiative. Transit Cape Breton envisions a phased adoption strategy, ultimately aiming to transition its fleet to 44 electric buses, with the overarching goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2030.

Recognizing transportation as Nova Scotia's second-largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, this funding initiative aims to pioneer a shift towards a greener and more sustainable future. The emphasis is placed on collaborative efforts between various government levels to address environmental challenges and promote eco-friendly transit practices.

As part of the comprehensive funding package, Transit Cape Breton's bus maintenance depot will undergo refurbishment. This enhancement aligns with the final phase of the transition, ensuring that the entire transit infrastructure is conducive to supporting environmentally conscious operations.

Despite the positive strides in adopting electric buses, questions persist about the source of electricity to power them. Nova Scotia's current dependence on fossil fuels for 60% of its power raises valid concerns. The province's withdrawal from the Atlantic Loop scheme earlier this year highlights the necessity for a clear plan for transitioning to cleaner energy sources.

As Cape Breton embraces electric buses and commits to sustainable transit upgrades, the region faces the challenge of transforming its power generation landscape. The focus on wind and solar energy supplies signals a potential shift, but a comprehensive plan for Nova Scotia's energy decarbonization journey is yet to be outlined.

This funding initiative marks a significant step toward creating a cleaner and more environmentally conscious transportation system in Cape Breton. Stay tuned for updates as the region progresses towards its goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2030 and furthering its commitment to a sustainable future.

AutoTrader Canada’s Top 5 EVs Worth Waiting For.

EV Around the World 🌏

Volvo and Polestar Join Forces with NIO for Revolutionary EV Battery Swapping.

In a newly announced collaboration, Volvo and Polestar, part of the Geely family, have partnered with NIO with the goal of creating innovative battery swapping technology. This strategic alliance aims to set new standards in EV battery systems, swapping efficiency, and network expansion, fostering a seamless experience for EV drivers.

1. Swift Battery Swapping: NIO's cutting-edge technology enables EV drivers to replace a depleted battery pack with a fully charged one in as little as 3 minutes, significantly faster than traditional fast charging methods, which can take anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour.

2. Comprehensive Collaboration: Geely and NIO plan to collaborate extensively, focusing on co-investment, co-construction, and a shared cooperative model. The partnership aims to develop two standardized battery-swapping protocols and advance the technology for enhanced convenience and safety.

3. Interoperable EV Models: Both companies commit to manufacturing electric vehicles compatible with each other's battery swap systems, promoting interoperability and flexibility for EV users.

4. Network Expansion: Geely, with approximately 300 operational stations, has ambitious plans to expand its battery-swapping network. The company has set a target to establish 5,000 swap stations by 2025, contributing to the widespread adoption of battery swapping technology.

This is not NIO's first strategic partnership to harness their technology to grow.

1. Previous Collaboration: Geely is the second major partner to join forces with NIO, following a recent collaboration with Changan Auto. These partnerships highlight NIO's commitment to expanding its network and enhancing profitability amid intense competition in the Chinese EV market.

2. Market Dynamics: NIO, like other players in the Chinese EV sector, faces heightened competition, with industry leaders like Tesla and BYD aggressively reducing prices. To stay competitive, NIO implemented a price reduction of $4,200 USD (30,000 yuan) in June, illustrating the challenges posed by evolving market dynamics.

3. Financial Strengthening: NIO's recent $1 billion convertible debt offering in September aimed at fortifying its financial position. The capital injection will be utilized to strengthen the balance sheet, with NIO holding around $1.9 billion in cash and equivalents as of June.

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Skyworth Unveils Skyhome: A Revolutionary AI-Powered EV Sedan with Unique Features.

The Chinese electric vehicle industry is witnessing unprecedented growth, and now Skyworth, the automotive subsidiary of Chinese electronics giant Skywell, is entering the scene with its avant-garde creation, the Skyhome. Set to roll off production lines next year, this sleek sedan brings together cutting-edge design, AI technology, and innovative features that set it apart in the competitive EV market.

Here are some key features:

1. Distinctive Design Inspired by Tradition: Drawing inspiration from traditional Chinese architectural aesthetics, the Skyhome introduces a unique design ethos reminiscent of classical pavilions. A standout feature is its cornice wings, designed to slide backward during driving, reducing wind resistance by an impressive three percent. In adverse conditions, they tilt up, enhancing control with a five percent increase in resistance.

2. Ten Smart Butlers Technology: Beyond aesthetics, the Skyhome incorporates what Skyworth calls the "Ten Smart Butlers." This AI-based technology offers a suite of functions ranging from entrepreneurial guidance to emotional support, showcasing a holistic approach to user experience.

3. Intelligent Voice Capabilities: The vehicle boasts advanced voice capabilities, described as the ability to "listen, speak, see, recognize, understand, and think." Enabled by multi-intent voice interaction technology, it goes beyond the ordinary to provide a comprehensive and intuitive interface for users.

4. Non-Contact Vital Signs Monitoring: The Skyhome integrates an intelligent non-contact vital signs monitoring system, aiming to identify health risks at an early stage. This feature underscores the vehicle's commitment to user well-being.

5. Entertainment and Connectivity: Rear passengers are in for a treat with a retractable giant TV that descends from the ceiling. While the size remains undisclosed, visuals suggest it surpasses the 31.1-inch screen in the new BMW 7 Series.

6. Advanced Suspension Technology: Skyworth has heavily invested in suspension technology, claiming the Skyhome features one of the industry's most advanced air suspensions. With a double-wishbone front setup, rear aluminum alloy five-link layout, and a balanced front and rear axle load ratio of 50:50, the sedan promises a superior driving experience.

7. Innovative Chassis Design: The overall chassis design integrates the battery pack, serving as the body floor. This approach reduces the number of parts by 127 compared to conventional EVs, resulting in a remarkable 24 percent weight reduction.

While details about the powertrain remain undisclosed, the Skyhome's blend of aesthetics, AI capabilities, and technological advancements positions it as a formidable player in the evolving landscape of electric vehicles. Stay tuned for updates as this innovative sedan prepares to hit the roads in the near future.

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