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BYD’s workforce nearly doubles Toyota’s amid China’s booming EV market

Hey there, have you heard about the Eli ZERO? It's an electric vehicle the size of two motorcycles, and it's making waves in the world of urban transportation. Priced at just US $11,900, the Eli ZERO offers an affordable and compact alternative to traditional cars. It's perfect for city dwellers looking for a convenient and cost-effective mode of transportation. Despite its size, the Eli ZERO doesn't skimp on features. With amenities like heat and air-conditioning, reverse camera, parking radar sensors, and keyless unlocking/starting, it offers a car-like experience tailored for urban environments. Not only is the Eli ZERO cheaper to buy outright, but it's also much cheaper to own. With reduced insurance costs and minimal electricity expenses, it's a practical and economical choice for daily commuting. So, if you're considering an affordable and convenient electric vehicle for city living, the Eli ZERO might just be the perfect fit for you. Check it out and see if it's the right choice for your urban lifestyle.

Introducing Cadillac's Optiq: The New Entry-Level Luxury EV Cadillac unveiled its most affordable luxury EV so far, the 2025 Optiq, on Wednesday. The new 2025 Optiq will join Cadillac’s growing lineup of electric cars, including the Lyriq, Escalade IQ, Celestiq, and Vistiq launching next year. The Optiq is powered by an 85 kWh battery pack with standard dual-motor AWD, offering up to 300 miles of range. It also features a vented rear spoiler, diffuser, and other elements to boost aerodynamics, as well as a high-tech interior with advanced LED display and Super Cruise driver assist as standard. With a starting price around $54,000, the Optiq will rival Tesla’s Model Y and other luxury electric SUVs in the segment. Can Cadillac’s new Optiq compete with top-selling luxury rivals like Tesla, BMW, or Mercedes-Benz? Cadillac promises its new entry-level EV will feature “several segment-leading features” and remain true to the Cadillac brand as it looks to stand out in a sea of luxury SUV rivals. Can the Optiq help revamp the brand and compete with luxury EV rivals? Let us know your thoughts.

The Mexican state of Nuevo León is still optimistic about the arrival of the Tesla Gigafactory, despite recent changes in plans. Back in March 2023, Tesla officially announced the Gigafactory Mexico, expressing a desire to move quickly with production. However, the project faced delays due to concerns about the global economy. Nuevo León's secretary of economy, Iván Rivas, remains confident about the factory's arrival, stating that all necessary permits for construction have been secured, along with significant incentives. Rivas emphasized ongoing communication with Tesla, expressing certainty that the factory is still on its way, despite uncertainties about the start date. The state is actively investing in infrastructure to support the Gigafactory, including expanding highways and water treatment facilities. Despite challenges such as global economic concerns and potential tariffs, Nuevo León remains committed to preparing for the arrival of the Tesla Gigafactory.

Hey there, Tesla shareholders! Tesla is offering an exclusive opportunity for shareholders to win a factory tour with none other than Elon Musk and Franz von Holzhausen. To participate, shareholders simply need to provide proof of voting their shares. It's not about how you vote, just that you do. The lucky winners will tour the Tesla Gigafactory in Austin, Texas, on June 12th, followed by a reserved seat at the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting on June 13th. Don't miss out on this chance to tour the Cybertruck and Model Y manufacturing lines with Elon Musk and other Tesla executives. Get your votes in and secure your entry!

Hey there, let's talk about Tesla's latest milestone! In May, Cybertruck sales gave Tesla's 2024 average transaction prices (ATPs) a significant boost, increasing by more than 10%. The average transaction price for the Cybertruck itself is $108,667. As a major player in the electric vehicle market, Tesla's influence is substantial. With nearly 50% share of total EV sales, the overall EV transaction prices also saw an increase in May, with the average cost for an EV reaching $56,648. In May, the average incentive package for an electric vehicle was 12.4% of the ATP, significantly higher than the industry average. This makes EV incentives much better than those for gas vehicles. Tesla's Cybertruck sales have not only impacted its own ATPs but have also contributed to the overall growth of the EV market. Exciting times ahead for electric vehicles!

Tesla Pays for Boring Company Tunnel Under Giga Texas Tesla paid for a multi-million-dollar tunnel under Giga Texas, connecting the Cybertruck end-of-the-line to the other side of the 130 toll road. The tunnel is purely to funnel Cybertrucks out of the end-of-line to the other side of the road. Under commercial agreements, Tesla incurred expenses of approximately $0.2 million in 2023 and approximately $1 million through February 2024. The tunnel, initially planned before the final Cybertruck end-of-line plans, has become less useful due to the presence of two underpasses connecting Gigafactory Texas to the other side of the highway. A top comment on Electrek suggests that the tunnel may be a way for Tesla to benefit The Boring Company, which is exclusively using Tesla to supply vehicles. The comment also questions the necessity of the tunnel and its timing, implying that it may be a way for Elon Musk to channel money from Tesla to his privately owned venture, The Boring Company. For more details, visit the source.

Rare discount on Tesla's Universal Level 2 EV Charger & More Green Deals Best Buy is offering the Tesla Universal Wall Connector Level 2 Hardwired EV Charger for $580 shipped, down from its usual $620. This is a rare opportunity to save money on this universally compatible device. The charger boasts a customizable output of up to 48A of power and is compatible with most other EV brands/models outside the Tesla boundaries. Plus, it offers up to 44 miles of travel range per hour of charging when set at its maximum amperage. LG is offering its 7.8 cubic-foot Smart Front Load Electric Dryer with a ventless heat pump for $1,099 shipped, down from its $1,799 price tag. This deal gives you a total $700 in savings and a great opportunity to upgrade your laundry room with a more energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly option. Best Buy is offering the NIU KQi Air Carbon Fiber Foldable Electric Kick Scooter for $1,049 shipped, down from its usual $1,399. This newer scooter has seen relatively few discounts, and today's deal marks a 25% markdown off the going rate, saving you $350.

Elon Musk’s Boring Company has unveiled its new tunnel at Giga Texas, showcasing innovative infrastructure developments in the heart of the Lone Star State. Exciting news for job seekers - Tesla is ramping up hiring efforts once again, offering opportunities to be a part of the cutting-edge advancements in sustainable transportation and energy. While Germany secures the number 2 spot, GM faces setbacks in its pursuit to claim the top position, revealing the dynamic landscape of the automotive industry. Discover QMerit's comprehensive approach to electrifying homes, providing a holistic solution for embracing sustainable energy right at your doorstep. All this and more on today’s episode of Quick Charge! For additional content, check out our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms. Share your thoughts with us at tips@electrek.co and help more people discover the show by rating and recommending us.

FLO's new Ultra DC fast chargers are revolutionizing EV charging with their impressive speed and innovative features. The 320 kW FLO Ultra DC fast chargers can charge most EVs to 80% in just 15 minutes, making them incredibly efficient for quick charging needs. These chargers feature a dual-port power configuration and comply with the federal government’s National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program (NEVI) standards and the Buy America Act, ensuring 98% uptime. Additionally, the new FLO motorized cable management system and EZLift system make the cables feel lighter and easier to maneuver, providing extended reach for convenient charging. Martine St-Onge, FLO’s chief manufacturing operations officer, expressed excitement about making the FLO Ultra charger more accessible across North America, aiming to bring the benefits of EV ownership to more locations. A new Pew Research Center analysis revealed that 64% of US adults now live within two miles of a public EV charger, and over 95% of Americans live in a county with at least one public EV charging station.

The United Auto Worker (UAW) is making progress at Tesla after the automaker's recent layoffs. The UAW is using the layoffs to increase support for unionization at Tesla Gigafactory Texas. A flyer spotted in a Gigafactory Texas bathroom encourages workers to share how the layoffs are affecting them and to sign an authorization card to form a union at Tesla. A top comment points out that being in a union does not prevent layoffs, but emphasizes other reasons for unionizing. The UAW's efforts at Tesla come amid a backdrop of recent battles against automakers in the US, while Tesla's relationship with employees has been strained by layoffs and compensation reductions.

Hey there, have you heard the latest from Tesla? The company claims to have two Optimus humanoid robots working autonomously in a factory, marking a significant milestone in robotics and automation. Tesla has been on a roll, achieving several milestones under Elon Musk's leadership, including hitting 5k Model 3/week, Giga Nevada reaching an annual battery production rate of 20 GWh, and launching Navigate on Autopilot. But the most exciting news is the deployment of two Optimus bots performing tasks in the factory autonomously. This achievement represents a major leap forward in the development of autonomous robotics. CEO Elon Musk hinted at the possibility of Tesla Optimus robots being available for sale as soon as next year, with an expected price tag of "less than half of a car" – around $25,000. Stay tuned for more updates on Tesla's groundbreaking advancements in robotics and automation. Exciting times lie ahead!

Looking for an electric vehicle lease under $300 a month? Here are five options that might just fit the bill. The Hyundai Kona Electric SEL is now leasing for an average monthly cost that’s 35% less than when the second-generation models first reached our shores earlier this year. The 2023 Solterra seems to be completely sold out, but there are some incredible dealer discounts on 2024 models that could drive the average monthly lease cost well below $300/month. The Hyundai Ioniq 6 SE in rear-wheel-drive configuration offers an incredible 361-mile range, making it a great value for the price. The Toyota bZ4X offers great lease terms, but you may have to wait due to high demand and low inventory. The Nissan LEAF S is now leasing for just under $300/month, making it a more affordable option for those looking to make the switch to electric. Ready to make the switch to an electric vehicle? Check out these great lease options and start your electric transition with minimal financial commitment.

Elon Musk leaks results from Tesla’s shareholder vote as messy week begins

Hey there, it's time for an update on Tesla's DMV self-driving false advertising case. A California judge has ruled that the case will go to trial, despite Tesla's attempts to have it thrown out. The case revolves around Tesla's statements about full self-driving technology, which were different to the public and the DMV. This isn't the first time Tesla has faced legal action over its FSD claims. In May, a federal judge ruled that Tesla must face a class action over failure to deliver on automation claims. Stay tuned for more updates on this ongoing legal battle.

Hey there, Tesla fans! Exciting news - Tesla is ramping up its hiring efforts beyond AI and robotics in a big way. After a significant hiring freeze and waves of layoffs, Tesla is now fully restarting its hiring efforts. Elon Musk made a bold move earlier this quarter, resulting in a substantial reduction of staff, including top executives. The hiring freeze is officially over in the US, with hundreds of new positions posted across various departments, particularly in service and sales. This move comes after Tesla's service, sales, and delivery departments were affected by the layoffs, impacting morale and increasing workloads. In addition to service and sales roles, Tesla has also posted several new positions at its lithium refinery under construction in Robstown, Texas. Exciting times ahead for Tesla as it expands its workforce and continues to make waves in the automotive industry! Stay tuned for more updates.

Toyota, Japanese rivals promise more efficient next-gen ICE engines amid the shift to EVs Despite the market's shift towards electric vehicles, Toyota, Subaru, and Mazda are committed to developing next-generation ICE engines tailored to electrification. The new engines are designed with integrated EV components, such as motors, batteries, and other electric drive units, to align with the pursuit of carbon neutrality. These next-gen ICE engines are expected to be smaller and more compact, fitting Toyota's new body styles for its next-gen EVs, enabling improved aerodynamics for better performance and fuel efficiency. The companies share a dedication to a "multi-pathway approach" to achieving carbon neutrality, including e-fuel, biofuels, and liquid hydrogen. Despite the global shift towards all-electric vehicles, Toyota and its Japanese counterparts are investing in ICE engines, aiming to provide diverse options for achieving carbon neutrality. What are your thoughts on this approach? Let us know in the comments below.

Introducing the Tesla Cybertruck as a Police Vehicle Tesla tuner Unplugged Performance has unveiled its new Cybertruck police vehicle under its new Upfit division. Unplugged Performance has emerged as the premier Tesla vehicle tuner, known for its performance and aerodynamic upgrades to Tesla vehicles. The company has launched its Up.Fit division to convert Tesla vehicles into police vehicles. The Cybertruck police vehicle boasts over 300 miles of range, off-roading capabilities, a 48-volt system, and more, making it a compelling option for police patrol. This Next-Gen Patrol vehicle expands the capability of the Cybertruck platform for tactical response, patrol, and fire response. While some express concerns about the Cybertruck's starting price, others see it as a step towards more affordable electric options for police departments. The unveiling of the Cybertruck police vehicle is seen as good publicity to encourage more police departments to consider going electric. For more information on the Cybertruck police vehicle and affordable electric options, police departments can reach out to Unplugged’s UpFit division.

The Tesla Cybertruck is turning heads everywhere. It's a novel vehicle that's getting a lot of attention, but it's not all positive. People are driving erratically to take pictures, and it's becoming a safety concern. But as production ramps up, the fascination will likely die down. Even those who don't drive are fascinated by the Cybertruck. My girlfriend, who's never driven, loves the design. She thinks it's the perfect car and believes it represents the future of vehicles. The Cybertruck's design is polarizing. It's a departure from traditional vehicle designs, and it's a product engineered from its design. The stainless steel body is a cool feature, but it does have some downsides. The frunk is smaller than competitors', and the windshield wiper and door design are not ideal. Despite some drawbacks, the driving experience is impressive. The steering is incredibly responsive, and the electric powertrain makes the 6,000 lbs vehicle feel much lighter. Plus, the cabin is extremely quiet, adding to the luxurious feel.

Get ready for the latest on Hyundai's new electric SUV, the IONIQ 9. The Hyundai IONIQ 9, a three-row electric SUV, is gearing up for its US debut. Caught testing in the US, the IONIQ 9 appears even bigger and bolder in person, with signature pixelated LED headlights and stacked LED rear taillights. Hyundai is making waves in the US EV market, with a lineup including the IONIQ 5, IONIQ 6, and Kona Electric, and plans for the IONIQ 9. The IONIQ 9 will compete with the likes of Rivian R1S, Kia EV9, and Volvo EX90, and is expected to qualify for the $7,500 federal tax credit, boosting Hyundai's competitiveness. Excited for the IONIQ 9? Share your thoughts in the comments and stay tuned for more updates on Hyundai's electrifying lineup.

Hey there, it's time for an update on the battle over Elon Musk's Tesla compensation package. The battle is heating up as a major advisory firm is recommending shareholders vote against it, and Musk fans are resorting to scare tactics. The two main proposals that the board is trying to get through are a new vote on Musk’s 2018 CEO compensation package and moving Tesla’s state of incorporation to Texas. Now Glass Lewis, a major shareholder advisory firm, has announced that they are recommending to vote against it, which they also did in 2018, and shareholders still approved the move. Musk’s army of fans are resorting to scare tactics to push the vote in his direction, suggesting that shareholders should fold to Musk’s threat. The battle is intensifying, and the stakes are high. Stay tuned for more updates as the shareholder battle continues to unfold.

Hey there, Tesla fans! Today, I'm sharing my recent experience swapping a Tesla Model 3 for a Model Y, and how Elon Musk's layoffs impacted the process. I encountered major challenges at the South Burlington, Vermont, Tesla Center, which wasn't handling lease returns or new car deliveries yet. The uncertainty and lack of information made the process frustrating. The leasing process through the Tesla app was far from smooth. From unattended phone calls to unapproved finance applications, the experience was marred by staffing issues and overwhelming workloads. The Tesla staff I interacted with were professional and knowledgeable, but the impact of the layoffs was evident. The morale was low, and the customer service quality suffered. Despite the challenges, I decided to stick with Tesla. However, the experience left me feeling exhausted and disappointed. The impact of the layoffs on both employees and customers cannot be underestimated. Have you had a similar experience? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Hey there, Tesla fans! Elon Musk is back with some exciting news about the long-awaited Tesla FSD v12.4 update. Elon Musk claims that this update will drive for over a year between interventions, a significant improvement from the previous versions. But, there's a catch. Musk mentions that this will happen "once known bugs are fixed," leaving some skepticism about the actual timeline. Despite the anticipation, the release of the update has been delayed, with Musk now stating that it will be available to a limited number of external customers this weekend. So, while the promise of a year without interventions is enticing, the actual delivery and bug fixes remain to be seen. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting development!

Hey there, Tesla fans! Exciting news for those eyeing the Model S and Model X. Tesla has just unveiled a stunning new paint option for these vehicles, and it's a game-changer. Say hello to Lunar Grey - a rare and luxurious paint color that's now available as a $2,500 option for the Model S and Model X. This new addition is a breath of fresh air for those who have been craving more variety in Tesla's color options. According to Tesla, Lunar Grey offers "lighter, brighter highlights—deeper, darker shadows" and is described as a clean silver color with a pronounced metallic effect and subtle blue tint. The use of new pigments gives the paint a technical and dynamic feel, accentuating the sleek form of the Model S and Model X from every angle. So, if you're in the market for a Tesla Model S or Model X, the Lunar Grey paint option might just be the perfect way to make your vehicle stand out. Don't miss the chance to add this stunning new color to your Tesla collection!

Elon Musk's Request Emails circulating at Nvidia reveal that Elon Musk asked them to prioritize processor shipments to X over Tesla. The CEO told NVIDIA to divert a shipment of GPUs meant for Tesla to X instead. Concerns and Conflicts Amid concerns about fulfilling fiduciary duties to Tesla shareholders, a report from CNBC highlighted the conflict of interest. Musk's request conflicted with bookings and forecasts, raising questions about market manipulation and breach of fiduciary duty. Tesla's Readiness Elon Musk responded, stating that Tesla was not ready to take delivery of the Nvidia chips, as the south extension of Giga Texas, where the chips would be housed, was almost complete. Governance and Oversight The situation underscores the need for proper governance and oversight of Tesla's CEO, as the conflicts of interest are real and significant. The delay in Tesla's project at Gigafactory Texas may have contributed to the situation, but the conflicts of interest remain a concern.