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

Thank you for checking us out! Here is what you’ll find in this issue:

• Refreshed Tesla Model 3 (Highland) Now Available via Tesla Canada Website.

• Halifax, Nova Scotia, Set to Receive 56 New EV Chargers with Federal Investment of $980,000.

• Potential and CFMOTO USA Partner To Revolutionize Off-Road Vehicles with AI Integration.

• Hertz to Sell 20,000 EVs Amidst Challenges, Paving the Way for Affordable Used Electric Vehicles.

• Biden Administration Boosts EV Charging Infrastructure with $623 Million USD Investment.

• Rivian Unveils Ambitious Plan to Drastically Reduce Carbon Footprint in Next-Gen EVs.

• Experience Luxury Off-Grid Living with Pininfarina's eTH Electric RV.

As always, if you have any questions, thoughts or feedback, get in touch via email or X (formerly Twitter) or reply to this email.

Canada

Refreshed Tesla Model 3 (Highland) now available via Tesla Canada website.

Checking out the Tesla website, you can now order the “refreshed” Tesla Model 3.

The differences between the least expensive option vs the most expensive can be viewed in the graphics below:

The rear-wheel drive (RWD) version, starting at $55,980CAD without incentives.
With the Ultra Red colour option ($2,600) and Full Self Driving (FSD) capabilities ($16,000), has a price of $74,588CAD without incentives. Are the extras worth it?

The all-wheel drive (AWD) version starts at $65,988CAD without incentives.
Similarly, with the Ultra Red colour option ($2,600) and Full Self Driving (FSD) capabilities ($16,000), has a price of $84,588CAD.

With incentives that could total up to $8,000CAD in savings, makes the price of the RWD drop to $47,980 which is still quite higher than an ICE vehicle in initial cost. Of course, looking at the cost of ownership over many years, the savings are in favour of electric vehicles, but the savings reduces drastically with the FSD add-on. Looking at the AWD version, the price with $8,000 in savings totals to $76,588. Again, total cost of ownership could be argued to be less than a luxurious performance vehicle but without the FSD add-on, it’s an even better deal.

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

Halifax, Nova Scotia, Set to Receive 56 New EV Chargers with Federal Investment of $980,000.

The Government of Canada is boosting its commitment to electric vehicles with an investment of $980,000 CAD to install 56 new EV chargers in key locations across the Halifax region. The initiative aims to make EV adoption more accessible and convenient, supporting the nationwide effort to build a comprehensive network of charging stations. The funding, provided through Natural Resources Canada’s Zero Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program, aligns with the Electric Vehicle Availability Standard, reinforcing the goal of achieving all vehicle sales as zero-emission by 2035. The deployment of 46 Level 2 and 10 Level 3 fast chargers is anticipated to commence in spring 2024, enhancing EV drivers' confidence and accessibility.

The initiative aligns with the Electric Vehicle Availability Standard, reinforcing the commitment to accelerate zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) production. On-road transportation accounts for 18 percent of Canada's total greenhouse gas emissions, making the transition to EVs a crucial step in reducing emissions. The deployment of charging infrastructure is part of the government's plan to achieve 100 percent new electric vehicle sales by 2035, aiming to reduce over 360 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

The Zero Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program supports the installation of EV chargers in various locations, including residential buildings, workplaces, streets, public places, and for EV fleets. The Canada Infrastructure Bank's Charging and Hydrogen Refuelling Infrastructure initiative is contributing to large-scale ZEV charging infrastructure projects across the country, with funding already allocated for 4,000 fast chargers.

The iZEV program has incentivized over 300,000 drivers to make the switch to EVs, providing incentives of up to $5,000, complemented by provincial incentive programs. Over 50 EV models qualify for the federal iZEV purchase incentive in 2023, representing an 80 percent increase from 2019.

Potential and CFMOTO USA Partner To Revolutionize Off-Road Vehicles with AI Integration.

Potential Motors Inc and CFMOTO Powersports Inc have unveiled a strategic partnership to introduce cutting-edge advanced driver-assist systems (ADAS) into recreational off-road vehicles, marking an industry-first integration of terrain perception technology.

Key Highlights:

Innovative Integration: Potential and CFMOTO USA are set to pioneer the integration of Potential's AI-trained Terrain Intelligence technology and Off-Road OS control system into recreational off-road vehicles. This innovation program aims to elevate vehicle performance, efficiency, and driver confidence to unprecedented levels.

Real-World Testing: Extensive real-world testing will take place at Potential's purpose-built off-road proving ground in Fredericton, Canada, and CFMOTO USA facilities. This collaboration signifies a significant step forward in the development and application of ADAS in the recreational off-road vehicle segment.

Cutting-Edge Technologies: CFMOTO USA is evaluating Potential's suite of groundbreaking technologies, including Terrain Intelligence, which employs forward-facing sensors to understand terrain shape, surface type, obstacle height, and incline gradient in real time. The Off-Road OS control system uses this data to self-select vehicle control modes, enhancing performance in various terrains.

In-Cab Features and AI Exploration: The partnership includes research and development into in-cab features, exploring how AI and computer vision can assist users during off-road adventures. This demonstrates a commitment to not only performance but also enhancing the overall user experience.

Over-the-Air Updates: Potential's over-the-air updates will allow its self-learning products to continuously improve over time, particularly in challenging off-road environments. This adaptive learning approach aims to solve complex edge-cases, ensuring optimal performance both on and off the road.

Global Compatibility: Potential has designed its technologies to be compatible with commonly-used hardware across automotive and powersports sectors. This design choice facilitates quicker, easier, and cost-effective vehicle integrations. The products are anticipated to find applications in various sectors, including automotive, powersports, defense, mining, off-road logistics, and agriculture.

Future Innovations: While the collaboration with CFMOTO USA is a significant milestone, Potential is actively engaged in similar innovation programs with global leaders in automotive, mining, and defense sectors. Details about these projects remain confidential at this time.

EV Around the World 🌏

Hertz to Sell 20,000 EVs Amidst Challenges, Paving the Way for Affordable Used Electric Vehicles.

Hertz has announced plans to sell 20,000 electric vehicles, reducing its global EV fleet by one-third. The rental car giant cites higher-than-expected depreciation and damage costs, totaling $245 million USD, as the reason behind the decision. Additionally, Hertz aims to strike a balance in its vehicle supply against the perceived demand for EVs.

As a result of this decision, Hertz is expected to use the proceeds from the EV sales to acquire traditional internal combustion engine vehicles, aligning with the company's goal to balance its fleet composition. The regulatory filing revealed challenges in finding enough customers for its EVs, leading to the decision to adjust the fleet mix.

For consumers in the US (I haven’t seen any available in Canada) interested in purchasing a used EV, this presents an opportune moment, with Hertz likely offering competitive prices. Tesla Model 3s are reportedly available for as low as $20,000 USD, used Chevy Bolts for $21,000 USD, and a BMW i3 listed for under $17,000 USD. While some models like Polestar 2 and Ford Mustang Mach-E may not be available immediately, they could potentially appear in Hertz's listings soon.

This move marks a notable turnaround for Hertz, which initially positioned itself as a major player in the EV market. The company had entered agreements with Tesla and Polestar to procure nearly 200,000 EVs, causing Tesla's valuation to surpass $1 trillion. However, challenges related to charging infrastructure, maintenance, and softer demand for EVs have led to this unexpected shift in strategy.

Also, with Tesla’s price cuts to the Model 3 since their agreement with Hertz, I wouldn’t be surprised if they felt “hert”. Their fleet of Tesla Model 3’s had their total values cut with each price reduction from Tesla. Although the value of Hertz’s fleet when demand was extremely high and supply very low looked good initially - now that EV prices are more/less regulating to some degree, Hertz’s fleet value is being diminished. On top of maintenance issues - selling off some of the vehicles makes sense.

Hopefully the sale of Hertz's EVs creates an affordable entry point for individuals seeking used electric vehicles, offering a range of models at potentially attractive prices. Fingers crossed there are some that become available in Canada.

Biden Administration Boosts EV Charging Infrastructure with $623 Million USD Investment.

Continuing in advancing clean transportation and bolstering the EV ecosystem, the Biden-Harris Administration has unveiled a monumental $623 million USD funding initiative for EV charging infrastructure. This strategic investment aims to expand the EV charging network across the United States, fostering job creation and enhancing accessibility for drivers to charge their electric vehicles conveniently at residential, commercial, and retail locations.

This announcement aligns with the Biden Administration's ambitious goal of establishing an affordable, reliable, and domestically produced national network of EV chargers. The plan outlines a target of at least 500,000 publicly available chargers by 2030, ensuring that EVs are not only made in America but also supported by American workers.

The funding, made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law's Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) Discretionary Grant Program, will support 47 projects in 22 states and Puerto Rico. This initiative includes the construction of approximately 7,500 EV charging ports, contributing significantly to the creation of a robust charging network.

Crucially, the CFI Program complements the $5 billion National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) formula program, designed to establish a high-speed EV charger "backbone" along the nation's highways. Recent successes of the NEVI program include the opening of new charging stations in Ohio and New York, with groundbreaking activities underway in states like Pennsylvania and Maine.

As part of this initiative, the Federal Highway Administration is allocating $311 million USD to 36 community projects, benefiting urban and rural areas, schools, parks, libraries, and more. An additional $312 million UDS will support 11 projects with the goal of filling critical gaps in the national charging and alternative-fueling network.

This funding aligns with President Biden's Justice40 Initiative, aiming for 40% of overall benefits to flow into disadvantaged communities. Over 70% of the CFI funding announced will support project sites in these marginalized areas.

Highlighted project selections include:

• New Jersey: $10 million USD for EV charging stations in multi-family housing, focusing on disadvantaged communities.

• Maryland: $15 million USD for 87 EV charging stations in urban, suburban, and low-income communities, including HBCUs.

• Texas: $70 million USD for up to five hydrogen fueling stations for medium- and heavy-duty freight trucks.

• California: $15 million USD for 52 fast chargers and 60 Level 2 chargers at county library locations.

• Washington State: $15 million USD for 40 fast chargers and 12 Level 2 chargers in rural and disadvantaged communities.

• Arizona: $12 million USD for 48 EV chargers, charging docks for e-bikes and e-scooters, and solar canopies.

• Alaska: $1.4 million USD for an EV charging station in a rural and disadvantaged community.

To ensure a consistent and user-friendly charging experience, chargers constructed with CFI funds must adhere to the same high standards established for NEVI-funded chargers. This includes the requirement that CFI-funded chargers are made in America and installed and maintained in accordance with robust workforce standards. The Federal Highway Administration is actively collaborating with the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation to provide technical assistance for the planning and implementation of this national network of EV chargers and zero-emission fueling infrastructure.

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:

Rivian Unveils Ambitious Plan to Drastically Reduce Carbon Footprint in Next-Gen EVs.

In a continued effort to increase environmental sustainability, Rivian has released its inaugural environmental and social impact report, outlining a commitment to developing a new generation of electric vehicles with significantly reduced carbon footprints compared to its current lineup. The report emphasizes Rivian's goal to launch a product by 2030 with a "lifecycle carbon footprint" that is half that of its 2022 R1 vehicles, including the R1T pickup truck and R1S SUV.

Here’s a quick video produced by Rivian as they look back at their accomplishments of 2023 and look forward towards more successes with their EV production and environmental sustainability goals for 2024.

Environmental Commitments:
Rivian plans to achieve this ambitious goal by increasing the use of recycled materials in its vehicles. By 2030, the company aims to incorporate a minimum of 70 percent recycled content in steel and aluminum parts and at least 40 percent recycled and bio-based content in polymer materials. This strategic approach covers the entire lifecycle of the electric vehicles, encompassing production, operation, and charging, with a focus on minimizing greenhouse gas emissions.

Renewable Energy Integration:
To further mitigate its carbon output, Rivian is set to dramatically escalate its use of renewable energy. The company pledges that its Normal, Illinois factory and all other facilities will operate on 100 percent renewables by 2030. Rivian's charging network, currently boasting 64 stations and 385 chargers nationwide, is already powered by renewable energy sources.

Virtual Power Purchase Agreements:
Rivian employs innovative strategies, including virtual power purchase agreements, to achieve its environmental objectives. The company funds renewable power projects, such as an 800 MW solar field built on a former coal mine in Kentucky and another solar project in Paris, Tenn. Despite being "virtual," these agreements play a crucial role in supporting the transition to clean energy.

Decarbonization Goals:
In its impact report, Rivian expresses its commitment to supporting the creation of 2 GW of renewable energy projects, aiming to decarbonize all customer charging. This ambitious initiative is projected to provide enough power for an impressive 7 billion miles of driving, showcasing Rivian's dedication to pushing the boundaries of sustainable transportation.

Leadership and Inclusion:
Notably, Rivian addresses the need for increased diversity and inclusion within its organization. The company pledges to boost the representation of "underrepresented groups" in leadership positions and across the company by 50 percent by 2028.

Challenges and Outlook:
Rivian's recent struggle to meet vehicle delivery targets in the fourth quarter of 2023 has impacted its share price. However, the company remains resolute in its commitment to advancing sustainable EV technology and addressing climate change concerns within the automotive industry. As Rivian prepares to unveil its next-generation R2 vehicles in the coming year, anticipation builds around the potential transformative impact on the future of electric mobility.

Clean Energy and Mobility

Experience Luxury Off-Grid Living with Pininfarina's eTH Electric RV.

Unveiling the future of travel and living, Pininfarina, the renowned Italian car design firm, has joined forces with AC Future to introduce the Electric Transformer House (eTH). This innovative electric RV redefines the traditional concept of recreational vehicles, presenting a cutting-edge expandable luxury mini-home designed for off-grid adventures.

Check out the video below, which was shown at CES this year. This looks absolutely stunning in the renders. It is nicer than most homes and looking forward to hearing more details about the eTH as information becomes available.

Key Features of the eTH Electric RV:

Modern Design and Expandable Living:
The eTH, showcased at CES 2024 by AC Future, boasts a luxurious interior, smart technology, and eco-friendly features. Designed by Pininfarina, this mobile living solution offers a chance to experience a homey atmosphere on the go. With the push of a button, the RV's expandable walls unlock up to 400 square feet of living space, providing ample room for a comfortable stay.

Solar Power and Clean Energy:
Harnessing the power of the sun, the eTH features a retractable solar panel roof capable of generating over 25kWh. This clean energy solution ensures a sustainable and eco-friendly off-grid experience, allowing travelers to enjoy up to 7 days of self-sufficient living.

Innovative Water Generation:
Equipped with an Atmospheric Water Generator, the eTH converts moisture from the air into up to 50 liters of clean water daily. This innovative feature enhances the RV's self-sufficiency and minimizes the need for external resources during extended off-grid stays.

Luxurious Interior and Smart Tech:
Once expanded, the electric RV transforms into a luxury mini-home, surpassing the amenities offered by many Airbnbs. It includes a gourmet kitchen, spacious living and dining room, a private bedroom, and more. The advanced cockpit is designed for driving, work, or play, featuring a flexible dashboard/office desk, integrated entertainment, and driver assist tech. Connectivity is ensured with Starlink, keeping travelers linked to the world wherever their journey takes them.

Size and Comfort:
Measuring 20' in length from bumper to bumper, the eTH expands to 29' in House Mode. The living and dining room widens an additional 8', providing ample space for a comfortable stay. Designed to sleep four comfortably, the eTH offers a total of 400 square feet of well-designed living space.

Anticipation and Pricing:
Despite its clean and modern design, detailed powertrain specs and pricing are yet to be revealed by the company. With the potential for a significant battery pack, the eTH promises up to 7 days of off-grid capabilities. As we await further information on the all-electric powertrain and pricing details, it's clear that the eTH is more than just an electric RV—it represents a sustainable living platform, ushering in a new era of eco-friendly and luxurious mobile living experiences. Stay tuned for updates as the eTH approaches its launch date.

QuickEV

• Report: Rivian R1S/R1T & Hyundai Ioniq 6 Are Most Satisfying EVs To Own.

• Tesla Megapack battery turns on to replace Hawaii’s last coal plant.

• [VIDEO] Mercedes G-Class EV Do Synchronized 360°s On The Vegas Strip.

• BYD’s unveils its first sedan, the sleek U7, with over 1,000 hp.

• GM is giving a $7,500 incentive on EV models that lost tax credit eligibility.

• [VIDEO] Parts of Your Future Ford Could Be Made From Olive Trees.

• Kia to offer ride hailing PBVs to drivers on the Uber platform.

• Tesla (TSLA) increases workers’ wages amid union push.

EV Tweet of the Week

Now here is a cringe video of a couple cleaning off their Tesla from our friend Jaan over at the EV Universe.