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Welcome to The EV North - a weekly newsletter that brings together some of the biggest EV news stories and delivers them to your inbox. There is a focus on Canada & North America but you’ll also find EV news from around the world!

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In this issue:

• Tesla Introduces 0% Interest Financing for Model 3 and Model Y in Canada with FSD Purchase.

• Canada Unveils World’s Largest Electric Vehicle Charging Parkade in Burnaby, BC.

• Mercedes-Benz Previews the Future of the CLA: A Blend of Sportiness, Innovation, and Efficiency.

• Suzuki Unveils e VITARA, Its First Electric SUV, in Collaboration with Toyota.

• Rivian Reintroduces $3K Discount for Buyers Switching from Gas Cars — Here’s What You Need to Know.

• + more!

Canada

Tesla Introduces 0% Interest Financing for Model 3 and Model Y in Canada with FSD Purchase.

Tesla has expanded its 0% interest financing offer for the Model 3 and Model Y to Canadian buyers, following a similar initiative in the United States last month. However, as with the original U.S. promotion, there’s a notable condition: customers must purchase Full Self-Driving (FSD) to qualify and take delivery by January 1, 2025.

The details posted on Tesla’s website reveal that the 0% interest rate is available for loan terms up to 48 months and applies only to new purchases for customers with excellent credit. For those opting for longer terms, competitive interest rates are still available: 0.99% for 60- or 72-month terms, and 1.99% to 2.99% for 84- and 96-month terms.

The FSD package offers advanced features, including Autopilot on city streets, highway driving, automated lane changes, and more comprehensive driver assistance compared to Tesla’s standard Autopilot.

In the U.S., Tesla initially required the FSD purchase for the 0% financing, but updated the offer within two weeks to remove that condition. While there’s no assurance, a similar adjustment could potentially occur in Canada if market demand mirrors that of the U.S.

No Down Payment Requirement in Canada One advantage of the Canadian offer is the absence of a mandatory down payment, unlike in the U.S., where a 15% down payment is required.

This marks Tesla’s second promotional interest rate offer in Canada this year. The previous offer in August 2024 featured 1.99% financing, but was limited exclusively to the Model Y.

Check out Tesla’s website to find out more.

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Canada Unveils World’s Largest Electric Vehicle Charging Parkade in Burnaby, BC.

Concord Pacific Developments has launched the world’s largest electric vehicle (EV) charging parkade in the Concord Brentwood community in Burnaby, British Columbia, setting a benchmark in sustainable infrastructure. This project highlights the company’s commitment to supporting the rapidly growing demand for EVs and promoting eco-friendly living.

Key Highlights of the EV Parkade:

• Capacity: Capable of simultaneously charging nearly 2,000 EVs.

• Parking Spaces: 1,974 underground spaces equipped with 24/7 charging access.

• Robust Infrastructure: Advanced electrical systems ensuring all charging points can operate concurrently.

• Strategic Location: Less than half a kilometer from the Brentwood SkyTrain station.

• Sustainability: Part of Concord Pacific’s broader commitment to green energy projects across five Canadian provinces.

The EV parkade is a central feature of the four-tower Hillside project, showcasing Concord Pacific’s dedication to exceeding municipal EV parking standards. Each space is fully outfitted with EV charging capabilities, guaranteeing uninterrupted access for residents. The infrastructure supports simultaneous charging across all units, enhancing convenience and reliability for EV owners.

The facility is split into two distinct zones, each with dual entrance and exit points for efficient traffic flow. Additionally, charging stations at Hillside West and East are monitored individually, allowing residents to be billed only for the power they consume, ensuring transparency and efficient energy usage.

The Hillside project’s proximity to the Brentwood SkyTrain station and the future bicycle network seamlessly integrates the community with the broader Burnaby and Vancouver area. Notably, 90% of Concord Pacific properties, including Concord Brentwood, are within walking distance of rapid transit services, promoting sustainable, connected living.

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Mercedes-Benz Previews the Future of the CLA: A Blend of Sportiness, Innovation, and Efficiency.

Mercedes-Benz is finally stepping deeper into the EV space with a new chapter in luxury electric vehicles with its upcoming next-generation CLA, striving for top marks when it comes to efficiency, technology, and design. CEO Ola Källenius provided an exclusive first look at the company’s test facility in Immendingen, Germany, revealing fresh details that highlight Mercedes’ commitment to innovation and sustainability.

The new CLA aims to elevate the standards of performance and sustainability, integrating advanced technology from the acclaimed EQXX concept into a full production model. The electric version promises an impressive balance of sporty performance and efficiency, thanks to its in-house developed drivetrain and two-speed transmission.

For drivers seeking a combustion option, the CLA will also offer a hybrid model equipped with 48V technology and an all-new electrified transmission. This addition ensures a powerful, yet eco-friendly, driving experience that aligns with modern demands.

Marking a milestone for the brand, the new CLA will be the first vehicle to debut the Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS). This system includes the new MBUX Virtual Assistant, powered by AI to provide a more natural and intuitive driving experience. From voice interaction to proactive support, MB.OS aims to strengthen the car-driver relationship, creating a smarter, more personalized journey.

The CLA’s design is set to capture attention, incorporating elements from the Concept CLA Class while introducing fresh, standout features like its distinctive headlight design. The result is a sleek, sporty aesthetic that’s modern yet unmistakably Mercedes-Benz. While details remain under wraps, the prototype hints at a vehicle designed to turn heads and deliver on performance.

The upcoming CLA embodies Mercedes-Benz’s strategy to marry cutting-edge technology with sustainability. The modular platform ensures that the car meets various consumer preferences, offering options that cater to both fully electric and hybrid needs. As more details unfold, the next-gen CLA is positioned to premiere in 2025.

Suzuki Unveils e VITARA, Its First Electric SUV, in Collaboration with Toyota.

Suzuki has unveiled its first battery electric vehicle (BEV), the e VITARA, in Milan, Italy. This compact urban SUV, developed in partnership with Toyota, finally helps Suzuki break into the electric vehicle market, with production slated to begin at Suzuki Motor Gujarat in India by spring 2025. The e VITARA will be available in Europe, India, and Japan starting summer 2025.

The collaboration with Toyota highlights a strategic partnership aimed at combining expertise to create a robust, 4WD-capable electric SUV. This partnership follows Toyota’s practice of sharing EV technology, as seen with the bZ4X, which is rebadged by Subaru as the Solterra EV. The e VITARA, akin to Toyota’s Urban SUV Concept unveiled in 2023, represents a shared approach to entering the competitive EV market.

The e VITARA will feature a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery and offered in two battery capacities: 49kWh and 61kWh, both available with 2WD drivetrains. The 4WD version, branded as ALLGRIP-e, will come exclusively with the larger 61kWh battery. Suzuki has indicated that the e VITARA’s maximum range could reach up to 400 km (approximately 248 miles) on a single charge, although official figures are yet to be confirmed.

At its peak, the electric motor is capable of producing 135 kW of power, making it slightly less powerful than similar models such as the Chevy Bolt, which has an output of 150 kW. The e VITARA’s total length is 4,275 mm, which positions it as a compact SUV ideal for urban driving.

Both Suzuki and Toyota have been cautious in their approach to EVs, with Toyota continuing to invest heavily in hybrids and planning a three-row electric SUV for the U.S. market. Suzuki, meanwhile, has shifted gears from its previously stated goal of launching multiple EVs by 2030. According to President Toshihiro Suzuki, the company is currently taking a “wait and see” approach due to fluctuating EV demand.

Building on the design language of the eVX concept showcased at the Auto Expo in India and the JAPAN MOBILITY SHOW, the e VITARA embodies the theme of “Emotional Versatile Cruiser.” This SUV has a bold exterior with large-diameter tires, a long wheelbase, and a rugged stance. The interior features advanced integrated displays and a robust center console, aligning with the High-Tech & Adventure theme that Suzuki aims to project.

The ALLGRIP-e 4WD system showcases Suzuki’s expertise in four-wheel-drive technology. Utilizing independent eAxles at the front and rear, this system provides exceptional control and performance with rapid response times. A unique Trail mode helps drivers navigate challenging terrains by applying brakes to spinning tires and redistributing torque to the opposite side, incorporating an LSD (Limited Slip Differential) function for better traction.

The e VITARA is built on the HEARTECT-e platform, specifically designed for BEVs. This platform offers a lightweight structure, robust high-voltage protection, and a spacious cabin due to minimized overhangs and an underfloor that maximizes battery space.

While no pricing has been announced for the e VITARA, it is clear that this model will not be part of Suzuki’s U.S. lineup, similar to Hyundai’s Inster. The e VITARA represents a major step for Suzuki and Toyota in their gradual embrace of electrification, with the potential to carve out a competitive spot in the European, Indian, and Japanese markets.

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Rivian Reintroduces $3K Discount for Buyers Switching from Gas Cars — Here’s What You Need to Know.

Rivian has relaunched its popular “All-Electric Upgrade Offer”, providing a $3,000 discount for customers transitioning from gas-powered vehicles. The offer, which runs from October 31 to November 30, comes with a few notable changes compared to the version earlier this year.

Earlier in 2024, Rivian offered discounts ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 for customers who traded in gas cars, valid from April to June. The discount varied based on the model purchased. This time, Rivian has simplified the program:

• The current discount is a flat $3,000 ($4,100 CAD) regardless of the model chosen, making the process more straightforward.

• To qualify, buyers must own or lease a gas or hybrid vehicle and provide proof of ownership or leasing (e.g., registration or insurance documentation).

• Unlike the previous version, customers do not need to trade in their existing gas vehicle, nor are they restricted by a specific list of eligible vehicles.

While the new offer is simpler in many respects, it comes with certain restrictions:

• The discount is valid only for new inventory vehicles purchased from the R1 Shop.

• It excludes demo vehicles, pre-owned vehicles, and custom build orders.

• The offer does not apply to Rivian’s base Dual Standard models, but it covers all other vehicle configurations.

To take advantage of the $3,000 discount, buyers must place an order between October 31 and November 30 and take delivery of their new vehicle by December 31.

QuickEV

• What does Trump’s election mean for EVs, Tesla, and Elon Musk?

• GM faces yet another recall of its Chevy Bolt EV.

• [VIDEO] 1,914 HP Rimac Nevera vs Tesla Plaid vs Lucid Sapphire 1/2 Mile Race.

• First US-made Polestar 3 Delivered To North American Customer.

• Ford pausing F-150 Lightning production for six weeks.

• Rolls-Royce Spectre review: the ultimate electric experience.

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