Weekly News

Stellantis Unveils Latest EV Platform

Stellantis is making significant strides in its EV transition with the launch of its STLA Large Platform, designed to power a new generation of EVs, including the eagerly anticipated Dodge Charger EV and Jeep Recon EV. This platform boasts a remarkable driving range of up to 500 miles on a single charge, supported by a robust 118 kWh energy capacity and promising rapid acceleration capabilities. STLA Large is engineered to underpin a diverse array of vehicle categories, from SUVs to luxury sedans, across Stellantis's brand portfolio.

Central to Stellantis’s electrification strategy, the STLA Large Platform is one of four BEV platforms, including Small, Medium, and Frame, each tailored to optimize performance and customer satisfaction across different vehicle segments. This platform integrates Stellantis's advanced vehicle software technologies such as STLA Brain, STLA SmartCockpit, and STLA AutoDrive, enhancing the overall driving experience. STLA Large's design focuses on energy efficiency, particularly in minimizing the energy consumed by cabin heating and cooling systems, thereby maximizing the vehicle's range. 

As Stellantis moves towards its ambitious goal of delivering 100% BEVs in Europe and 50% in North America by 2030, the introduction of the STLA Large Platform marks a pivotal step in the company's commitment to electrification.

Toyota’s $1.3B Kentucky EV Plant

Toyota pledged $1.3 billion towards its Kentucky manufacturing plant, earmarking this investment for the production of EVs, including a three-row electric SUV specifically for the U.S. market. This infusion is set to enhance Toyota's capabilities, notably through the addition of a battery pack assembly line, complemented by batteries sourced from Toyota’s plant in North Carolina.

Despite Toyota's significant financial commitments to electrification, the company's approach has often been met with criticism for its cautious pace and mixed messaging regarding EV technology and hydrogen fuel alternatives. The move still emphasizes Toyota's broader commitment to electrification and the bolstering of its operations within the United States even through its cautious rhetoric and lack of real commitments. 

The investment follows an announcement in October 2023 when Toyota expanded its electrification efforts with an $8 billion investment in its North Carolina EV battery plant.

Rivian Adds Battery Options

Rivian is enhancing its R1T and R1S lineup by introducing the Standard battery pack as an option for customers, alongside a new, more economical Standard+ pack that offers additional range. This update comes as Rivian gears up for the launch of its R2 EV line (unveiling expected on March 7). The Standard pack is now available specifically for Dual Motor AWD configurations, broadening the customization options for the R1T pickup and R1S SUV.

The introduction of the Standard+ pack, positioned between the Standard and Large options, is designed to offer a middle ground for customers seeking more range without the higher cost associated with the larger battery packs. This new pack is compatible with both the Dual Motor and Dual Motor Performance versions of Rivian's vehicles, offering up to 315 miles of range, compared to the Standard pack's 270 miles. Pricing for these new configurations starts at $69,900 for the R1T Dual Standard.

Rivian's announcement not only provides customers with more flexibility in configuring their EVs but also highlights potential eligibility for federal tax credits.

Porsche Taycan Revamped

Porsche is introducing an upgraded Taycan, boasting an extended driving range of up to 365 miles and enhanced fast-charging capabilities. In recent tests, the revamped Taycan outperformed its predecessor model by over 100 miles. 

This development is part of Porsche's "fast travel" strategy, aimed at reducing charging times and extending the real-world range of its EVs. During testing in California, the Taycan demonstrated its fast-charging ability at an Electrify America station, achieving over 300 kW of charging power and reaching 80% battery capacity in under 20 minutes. The new model is expected to be revealed soon. Since 2019, nearly 150,000 Taycans have been produced. The Taycan Turbo GT recently set a new record at the Nurburgring, which was previously held by the Tesla Model S Plaid.

In addition to the Taycan, Porsche has also launched the all-electric Macan SUV, offering up to 381 miles of range. The Macan comes with a starting price of $78,800 and a Turbo variant at $105,300.

Stay on the look out for EV commercials during the Super Bowl tonight!