Rivian Hit a Home Run with this Second Generation Update. Continue this wonderful reporting you & the whole team, do weekly, appreciate it. Much Respect.
We greatly appreciate your having taken the time to leave an encouraging comment. If you would consider sharing a link to this episode online, that could help a great deal. We'll be able to continue making this series if viewership is at least 15k/week. We are well below the breakeven point at the moment. If the audience helps to spread the word, there is a chance we can keep it up beyond August 2024. -Producer Tim
Great show. Been watching for many episodes now and enjoy the dense content. I'd like you to add comparisons more often, for instance when talking about solid state capacity for Factor's batteries, maybe mention current battery capacity (with simple graphic). I like to see the numbers on the screen as well:)
We will do our best to add value with graphics and synthesized information. As viewership grows, so will the available resources. If viewers help spread the word, we will be able to take this to the next level. At the moment, it is unsustainable. Thank you for joining us and for sharing your advice to make The Current stronger 💪 -Producer Tim
whoa that's the first time i've heard of factorial out of mass! thanks for that news .... hopefully solid state batteries in jeeps by 2030... they'll need it!
We are happy to report about meaningful battery technology which has graduated from the lab and has a real chance of mass production. For every one like it, there are 100 hyped experiments or fundraising schemes. Last week we reported that Jeep has a $25,000 model coming "soon" according to the CEO. ua-cam.com/video/lk0DLtKTE4o/v-deo.html China has shown us that inexpensive and long-range EVs are possible without solid state battery technology. That said, NIO started producing semi-solid state batteries in April and they'll be in vehicles on the road (overseas) in a couple of months. electrek.co/2024/04/05/nio-begins-mass-production-semi-solid-state-batteriesev-use-q2/ -Producer Tim
High five to Hyundai with the Ioniq 6 deals! The R1 refresh is truly re-freshing. Good news from Volvo; hope the EX30 will also roll off the assembly lines in SC soon. Looks like solid-state batteries are about to take off. Hmmm. So once again the can of CAFE standards is getting kicked down the road?
We think the (also fabulous) EX30 will be made in China for the foreseeable future but the EX90 coming from SC will help the brand stay competitive here. Thank you for tuning in and sharing your thoughts! -Producer Tim
If the can wasn't "getting kicked down the road", it would be the end of the American auto industry along with millions of jobs directly and several millions tertiarily. With American labor and materials costs, they can't get the price low enough, quick enough to hit the previous standards without the profit they make from ICE vehicles. Although, once China figures out a way to bypass tariffs, the entire electric market will go to them and ICEs will become toys for rich people which means the end for American car companies. The nameplates will remain as China buys them, but none will be built in the US. Europe builds more high-end stuff so they may survive. It might even mean the end for Tesla, who only survived their growing years by selling carbon credits to the other manufactures. The recently started making a profit on the vehicles, but who knows how long that will last once China floods the market. Cars will all become "Made in China" like TVs, cell phones and solar panels.
We are very happy to learn that The Current has become part of your weekly routine! We hope you'll share a link to this video with others. Maybe they'll GoElectric with one of the deals. -Producer Tim
Great work. Hopefully the CAFE standards will become stricter faster. We're tired of getting cancer, cardiac and respiratory diseases from vehicle pollution.
I really liked hearing about those lease options at the start. What gets me is how affordable they are compared to some of the "buy" costs later on in the video. Obviously the brands were different but still. I hate to see the credits go and fear they might go altogether in the future. Good video.
In previous episodes we have reported about how the Tesla Model Y is now less expensive to *purchase* than the average gas powered vehicle in the the US. They are far ahead of most automakers which sell in the USA in terms of cost of production, but we expect purchase prices of most EVs to be lower than ICE versions in two or three years. Thank you for watching and commenting. -Producer Tim www.canarymedia.com/articles/electric-vehicles/teslas-are-now-cheaper-than-the-average-new-gas-powered-car
We agree that most OEM leaders are wise to avoid alienating buyers. An expression of personal political perspectives polarizes audiences and motivates some buyers to boycott products. That is not ideal behavior. -Producer Tim
@@MissGoElectric Yes. too many issues have become red/blue issues when there is no need. Those lease deals seemed really impressive. That should stand on its own.
I have had the opportunity to speak to Rivian and powered by Rivian Amazon drivers. They love the vehicles. The truck drivers love the air conditioning. The Amazon trucks get 150 miles and the routes are 24 to 30 miles long, with plenty of power left over. No range anxiety there Good to hear the battery technology is better. I tell people that have misgivings about EV adoption to wait a bit. So far I have had nothing go wrong with my Leaf, that I couldn't fix by removing the battery cables for a few minutes. Nice to have a site that just puts the information out there.
Miss GoElectric owns a Rivian R1T and likes it very much, as well. instagram.com/p/CyeAb4mu6yy/?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== Thank you for watching and commenting. We hope you'll share the link to our video online and join us again next week. -Producer Tim
We are located in the US market and so is over 90% of our viewership. General Motor's involvement in the Wuling Hongguang Mini EV and its large sales figures in China have been covered in a previous episode of the current. We have also covered Chinese EVs on many episodes in the context of policy, technological advancements, and models from Geely brands which are available in the US. We will not go into granular product detail on products from the ~100 automakers in China which do not sell in the USA. That would step beyond our expertise and beyond relevance to our audience. That said, we'd like to have the Microlino here in the US :) -Producer Tim microlino-car.com/en-ch/microlino
Internet is global. I watch your amazing channel from almost the end of the world down south. The obsession with monster trucks only applies to the US. The future is Archimoto and Aptera. And going metric is a must. 99% of the world is metric. 👍🏻
@andreschapero3615 A & A are good options for some, but they are not practical for many people who carry more than 2 people or large amounts of cargo regularly. Many people will buy these as "toys" to use along with their regular vehicles.
The "protein" content of this episode is fantastic! Some points: 1) the "down payment" for a lease is to simply mitigate risks (for the lessor) and reduce monthly lease payments. And, in this case, to use the Government's loop-hole for tax credits. 2) Rivian's upgrades and internal cost reductions may help them sell more vehicles...but the simple math of losses per vehicle will only accelerate total operating losses. Their goal, of course, is to increase production to scale-up and benefit from lower per vehicle costs. Unfortunately, even if Rivian's sales were to double in the next 2 years (unlikely) from these improvements, there would still be well over $10k loss per vehicle. In other words, the more they sell, the faster they run out of money. 3) MB has always been interested in pushing new technology and they can afford it, since they are usually the world's most profitable vehicle company. This is merely a relatively inexpensive test to see if they can make "solid state" batteries work in real products. Decades ago, they put a lot of resources and time into Wankel engines, only to abandon it after realizing that it isn't a workable technology.
We rarely see leases for an automobile without some kind of deposit, regardless of power train. If course, it offsets overall costs and results in lower monthly payments. Rivian CEO stated on national television that they intend to reach gross profit by the end of this year. It is a publicly traded company. It would be fraudulent to say that if your assumptions were fact. Profit per vehicle is not only related to direct vehicle inputs, but organizational operation costs and other capital expenditures as well. We think they are on the road to profitability. Mercedes Benz income was surpassed by Tesla last year. We are happy to see them pushing for technological advantages. That kind of competition benefits consumers. I'm shocked there was no mic placement content this week ;) -Producer Tim
@@MissGoElectric MissGoElectric has a clear voice, enunciation, and elocution, but the mic placement attenuates some mid (~1-2 kHz) and higher (~4-5 kHz) frequencies. I use a Chrome Browser Extension called AudioEqualizer - EQ, where I can mostly correct for that. It is also invaluable for the much worse muffled & mumbling voices elsewhere on YT. You can correct for that in the EQ settings during post-production, as any "audio engineer" from musical theater (or opera) can attest, since they often bury microphones in clothing and hair. MB has painfully found out that their valuation of perfumed air and massaging seats is not shared by buyers. Their main concern with Electric Cars initially was supply chain availability. Now its excess inventory and slowing production output. As for CEO statements, they are always couched ("intend", "see a path", "pave the way", etc., BS, etc....) and in-line with SEC guidelines with the tiny print asterisk note: "...Forward Looking Statement..." to keep out of "Regulatory Jail". Otherwise, Mary Barra and Elon, and every CEO would be in jail.
Bonus for Costco members who want to lease a Polestar. You can get a $2,000 certificate and use it towards your down payment. I just did this with a base model Polestar 2. Sweet car for the money.
Please review the Lithium-Air battery from Argonne National Labs, who reported 1,000 Wh/kg and 1,000 cycles in Feb. 2023. The polymeric ceramic electrolyte does the trick and it's being adapted to Li-S too similar to the Monash Univ. Li-S that sports a 550 Wh/kg energy density.
We are grateful for the work being done at universities and laboratories all over the world to improve battery technology. On this ten minute show, we will cover the stories which we think are highly likely to directly impact our viewers and electrification in a meaningful way. We receive press releases and read articles about battery chemistry research and lab trials regularly. We do not report on them because most have some fatal flaw in categories like thermal tolerance, cycle life, degradation rates, discharge stability, expansion/contraction, materials rarity, and manufacturability. We reported on the Factorial development not only because the density improvement is meaningful and a major OEM is testing it. Factorial has a facility and backing from very large automakers. Even with all of those favorable characteristics, we debated internally about covering this at all because volume production is not guaranteed. -Producer Tim
@@MissGoElectric So which fatal flaw are you alleging that ANL is concealing or is it all of them? Please check because Monash U. is also developing their polymeric ceramic electrolyte in a Li-S battery at 550 Wh/kg and these specs could revolutionize air and land vehicle transport. Please help accelerate their patent leasing or their debunking with your investigative reporting
If they get to b-series testing with a major OEM, it will make sense for us to cover them. We will leave it to market buyers and other news outlets to investigate hundreds of lab experiments and battery startups with no factory or major backing. That task is beyond our capabilities as a two person operation. -Producer Tim
Maybe from another angle, it might be worth mentioning the funding that is going to Argonne and the kind of work they do there, in general. It's something I haven't heard enough about. Battery technology could be a whole channel, or a whole group of channels.
@@MissGoElectric Your position is valid up to the point of an energy density more than twice any other startup and it's from a reputable gov't lab, so...
Rivian and any new updates should have the NACS connector in the vehicle at the driver rear or front of the vehicle or both. Any brand that does not have the NACS connector in June 2024 will hurt its sales. All new AC and DC fast chargers should only have the NACS connector. The adaptors will fill the need for CCS1 vehicles.
So far, there are no automakers (aside from Tesla) who have announced a plan to include NACS connectors built into 2024 model year EVs. Ford and GM are the first onboard and they are slowly shipping adapters to their users. GM, Volvo, and Polestar are scheduled to gain Supercharger V3/V4 access later this year with adapters as well. We reserved our Rivian R1T in 2019, but we still charge it via CCS when traveling because the NACS adapter has not yet shipped to us. Like most EV drivers, we do not frequently pay the premium for public DC fast charging and we think the adapter is a minor inconvenience. Tesla Supercharger access will be a game changer in terms of freedom to travel. Thank you for watching and commenting! -Producer Tim
@MissGoElectric Tim, thanks for your reply. I said any NEW vehicles that are now released should have the NACS connector. Who wants to buy a new product with an OLD plug standard. Owning a Tesla DMLRY and a Bolt EV, the NACS connector for both ac and DC charging is the ONLY way to go. The cable/connector is so much easier to use for all types and sizes - strength of people. Not having the NACS on new vehicles and new Chargers will slow the use. Rivian and GM made a huge mistake, and sales will show they should have implemented the NACS connector.
@@davidws5439 IIRC Rivian and GM have announced they will ship vehicles with the NACS connector in 2025. While it would be nice to have this in 2024, it takes time to redesign, get suppliers tooled up, and validate the new connector to be sure it works properly. 2024 vehicles were likely already designed, tooled, and in validation when GM and Rivian decided to switch to NACS. Switching to a different design that late in the vehicle development program would almost certainly delay the availability of 2024 models.
Was at the Kia Dealer for EV6 updates here in So Cali. Noticed a few of the new '24 Kia EVs have more battery KW and are the dealers ever discounting them. Suspect they boosted the MSRP before the discounts and deals though. Hold that thought. Kia lots are over-flowing with cars.
Thanks for sharing your observations. Hyundai Motor Group (Kia, Genesis, Hyundai) has some big goals! -Producer Tim www.kedglobal.com/electric-vehicles/newsView/ked202306200023
You had mentioned that the 2024 Kia EV6 has been improved. We reported on that in detail in Episode 11 of the current in great detail if you'd like to dig in a bit: ua-cam.com/video/MRCsnJgS6WM/v-deo.html -Producer Tim
Wait…..they still don’t have the camp kitchen available 😂😂😂. Oh yall may be curious to know I was number 1.5 million on the reservation list for Cybertruck (I reserved dual motor) and got email inviting me to order foundation series last night. I don’t think that many people have cancelled but they must not have a lot of takers for the 100000 truck. I def can’t do that version myself either lol.
Still no camp kitchen. It looks like they are developing a version which can be hitch mounted. R2 appears to have some proprietary securing point options as well. Rivian will focus increasingly on modules and accessories. That will allow them to reach very high profit per vehicle. You are right about Cybertruck orders. We actually received an invitation to order a second CT Foundation Series. We are not interested at the price premium. We think the $80k dual motor and lower prices single motor variant version will be highly successful if it is eligible for the $7500 point of sale credit. -Producer Tim
I have been watching the transport select committee meeting talking about Electric Cars held on the 15 May 2024 in front of a parliamentary committee. To view type in parliament tv and then type in electric cars and then the date 15th May. I think you will find this a very interesting and a very informative meeting.
The batteries have to be field tested first. That will probably take a year or two. That would suggest they will be in consumer available vehicles by 2027/28 IF everything goes according to plan. If there is problems it will take longer, but should still happen by 2030.
So far, only the Cybertruck offers variable ratio steer by wire with no mechanical linkage in the US. We own an R1T and a Cybertruck and they are both super fun to drive. Thank you for viewing and commenting this morning :) -Producer Tim
Another great show. Would adding a global perspective be possible, or does that significantly increase the research overhead or detract from its US focus ? Just an idea, either way still a well produced show, hope to see lots more of it.
We try to keep the show to ten minutes. At the moment, about 95% of our viewership is from the USA. Our expertise is also with US products and policy which affects the US market. That said, we regularly cover international developments which affect US buyers. For example, Episode 2 covered Chinese competition specifically: ua-cam.com/video/59FHO1NTdts/v-deo.html Thank you for watching and commenting. We hope you'll share a link to this episode on social media or with your friends. -Producer Tim
They do not disclose the composition of the cathode. Here is the most complete diagram they've made public: factorialenergy.com/technology/ -Producer Tim
We frequently see marketing materials which mistake capacity for power output. There is still educational work to do training automakers and partners. In fact, that is actually our full time job. -Producer Tim
Miss GoElectric took delivery of her 2024 Rivian R1T Dual Motor Performance Max Pack in November of 2023. She told does not intend to upgrade. We took delivery of a Cybertruck in March as well. There is no more room in the driveway, lol. -Producer Tim
@@MissGoElectric ah nice, just get rid of the Cybertruck and then you can upgrade your Rivian. I really don't know how people can live with the looks of that truck it is obnoxious.
We started this channel in 2021 with news desk material. Miss GoElectric earned her college degree in broadcast journalism and even worked in television for a bit before moving into automotive 13 years ago. We hope our 10-minute weekly format, style of synthesis, and personality can reach new audiences. A variety of distinct voices advocating for electrification is a good thing. In order for us to continue producing this series, we will need a minimum weekly viewership of 15,000. Anytime viewers do to spread the word will be very helpful and much appreciated by our team. -Producer Tim
I don't think EV adoption is impacted (by much) with the relaxed CAFE standard. People, who were conscious enough did the switch already, those who think a vehicle needs smelly liquids to call them vehicles will never make the change, willingly.
There were 15 millions vehicles sold in the USA in 2023. The 10% relaxation of the cafe standards could result in more than a $1Billion reduction of costs for credits or civil penalties for automakers. Do you think that is enough money to cause strategic shifting by the largest automakers in terms of investing in EV technology? -Producer Tim
Our team has put in a writ demanding that the AG for the State of California subpoena Tesla and gain access to their fsd files, that way they can issue misdemeanors to wvwryone who activated it in a puic roadway in violation of two separate CA vehicle codes. We are going after gm next, then the rest of the autonomous services. Maybe you should have a video where you slam anyone who would test vehicle software on the same roads as first responders, school buses, and vital commercial traffic? You know, be responsible.
Longer range gives EV drivers more freedom and more time. For most EV buyers, it is a range is a top consideration. Miss GoElectric and I each paid a premium for EVs with over 400 miles of range. There are gas stations on every corner and it takes five minutes to pump a tank of gasoline. The same is not true of public charging. More EV range means less dependence on public infrastructure and more possible routes and activities possible. Real world range in cold conditions and driving at interstate speeds is typically much lower than stated range. That is another reason EV drivers regard the stated range highly when making a purchasing decision. -Producer Tim
Deposits are typical in the USA for auto leases. The definition of "lease" is not defied by a deposit or initial payment. www.consumerfinance.gov/ask-cfpb/what-should-i-know-about-leasing-versus-buying-a-car-en-815/ -Producer Tim
We hope you'll consider sharing this episode online. We suspect most drivers would be surprised to learn just how affordable new EVs can be. Thank you for watching and commenting. -Producer Tim
"Solid State" i.e. non-liquid electrolyte batteries are not well understood. The goal is to simplify, and thereby speed up, cell production, which in-turn would reduce costs of manufacture. All of the many different schemes focus on replacing the liquid electrolyte, which is a key element in all batteries, with a non-liquid electrolyte. Factorial plays word games @ 10:20 saying their FEST battery uses a "...quasi-solid electrolyte...". So far, all of the research has focused on replacing the liquid electrolyte with something else. In almost all cases the "something else" is more Lithium (i.e. a thicker coating), or other metallic compounds. In all cases they weigh more and are significantly more expensive.
We know there are hundreds of companies working on solutions for better energy density and lower costs. This project is further asking with more tail wins than most. Thank you for sharing your understanding. -Producer Tim
@ms go electric What percentage of range do you lose in the Winter? I luckily drive a Leaf with a heat pump but haven’t experienced a Minnesota winter in it yet.
Range loss during the winter varies wildly between the EVs we own and the EVs we drive for our automaker clients on educational programs. Our 2016 Tesla Model S 90D and 2024 Rivian R1T lose 25-30% depending on ambient temperature and speed. Neither have heat pumps. Our 2022 Model Y had a heat pump and our winter losses were 15-20%. We haven't yet had a winter with our Cybertruck, but we expect a similar outcome. The 2023 Nissan Ariya lost about 20-25% even though it has a heat pump. It has two PTC heaters, which seemed to be doing most of the work. That integration is sub optimal. We noticed 30% losses in the 2021 Mustang Mach E as well. It had no heat pump. We look forward to hearing how your new LEAF does for you! Thank you for commenting. -Producer Tim
Hi, thanks so much for all your information new subscriber here. Do you have any information on Mercedes-Benz being able to charge at Tesla stations? If I get the adapter there was talk of Tesla opening up to Mercedes-Benz and Rivian. I know Rivian is already open but there's no mention of Mercedes any information would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
Automakers are gaining Supercharger access in the order they reached terms with Tesla. Mercedes is quite far down the list. GM, Volvo, and Polestar are next in line. We didn't see Mercedes owners getting adapters before Q2 of 2025. -Producer Tim
Another great episode! I like the updates that Rivian has made to the R1 platform! I would like to see a cheaper version of R1S....the size and space of the 3-row platform but perhaps without air suspension and some of the other advanced and costly features. Some how get that cost down even further for folks who might not want or need all of those features. Even thought the features are pretty cool. The solid state battery news sounds promising! Hoping that solid state gets here sooner rather than later, for sure! And in a cost effective way so that it is not just for luxury vehicles. What do you think about Volvo these days? Are they able to function pretty much separately from the holding/parent company or does the parent company keep a tight hold on things?
Volvo, Lotus, and Polestar are dependent upon Geely platforms in the EV space. They have leeway regarding design, marketing, sales, and service. Geely wants volume from their huge collection of brands.. and they are doing a great job. Zeekr, Smart, and Galaxy are also turning out great products overseas. Geely owns more than 10% of Mercedes Benz and they recently teamed up with Renault to develop some combustion engine technology. -Producer Tim
Looking forward to more Rivian models…I’m not an expert in any way but I like the innovation I see from them and if I didn’t go with an established car manufacturer I’d be looking to them for my first EV.
Virginia is trying to build a coal powered time machine to the past - Governor Glenn Youngkin & Atty Gen Jason Miyares: Virginia Will Exit California Electric Vehicle Mandate at End of Year
We are surprised coal producing states aren't fully behind EVs, which use electricity... which is generally produced by coal in their states. Local transportation revenue seems preferable to oil from other states and countries. -Producer Tim
Realistically, we'll need to add new (hopefully renewable) plants at a rapid rate to keep up with electricity demand for AI, cloud computer, HVAC heat pumps in homes, and EVs. Demand will greatly outstrip supply which means we probably won't see the decommissioning of existing coal plants. Economies which supply coal will have utility buyers unless there is a breakthrough with electricity generation. Driving an Electric Vehicle on electricity created by American coal is still cleaner, more efficient, and better for US security than driving on gasoline, most of which still comes from foreign oil. -Producer Tim
Metric would be nice. Rivian should propose a cheap well built microcar. China is flooding the streets of the planet with the BYD Dolphin, great 400+ km range, right sized well built and affordable , are american brands blind to reality?
We covered Chinese EVs in Episode 11 of the Current. We know that our regular viewers are not blind to the reality. -Producer Tim ua-cam.com/video/MRCsnJgS6WM/v-deo.html This is the best coverage I've seen on the issue: ua-cam.com/video/MOreJAyfUUU/v-deo.html
American brands choose to create their own reality. Result: No small cars allowed in the US auto market. We'll see how long the embargo can last. It's like a fight to the death between auto buyers and auto sellers here.
Unfortunately, those discounts are offered because the car companies built too many BEVs. They were all, except Tesla, losing money on every BEV they sold before the discounts and are only being kept afloat by surviving off the profits from ICEs. ICEs have not come down in price because they are in demand.
When a brand is focused on lowering the cost of production, they must achieve high volume. Regardless of short term demand, they have to ramp and ship. Low lease prices on the Hyundai Ioniq5 6 in particular are largely enabled by IRA tax credits and a loophole for imported EVs when leased. Thanks for sharing! -Producer Tim
Range when towing varies significantly depending on the aerodynamics (physical shape) of the object being towed and the speed at which it is towed. To a lesser extent, topography, road conditions, and number of stops are also important factors. As with a gasoline vehicle energy consumption can be as much as 2x while towing. Typical range losses can be 20%-50%. -Producer Tim
Rivian Hit a Home Run with this Second Generation Update. Continue this wonderful reporting you & the whole team, do weekly, appreciate it. Much Respect.
We greatly appreciate your having taken the time to leave an encouraging comment. If you would consider sharing a link to this episode online, that could help a great deal. We'll be able to continue making this series if viewership is at least 15k/week. We are well below the breakeven point at the moment. If the audience helps to spread the word, there is a chance we can keep it up beyond August 2024. -Producer Tim
@@MissGoElectric You are welcome. It has been shared, as always
Great show. Been watching for many episodes now and enjoy the dense content. I'd like you to add comparisons more often, for instance when talking about solid state capacity for Factor's batteries, maybe mention current battery capacity (with simple graphic). I like to see the numbers on the screen as well:)
We will do our best to add value with graphics and synthesized information. As viewership grows, so will the available resources. If viewers help spread the word, we will be able to take this to the next level. At the moment, it is unsustainable.
Thank you for joining us and for sharing your advice to make The Current stronger 💪
-Producer Tim
whoa that's the first time i've heard of factorial out of mass! thanks for that news .... hopefully solid state batteries in jeeps by 2030... they'll need it!
We are happy to report about meaningful battery technology which has graduated from the lab and has a real chance of mass production. For every one like it, there are 100 hyped experiments or fundraising schemes.
Last week we reported that Jeep has a $25,000 model coming "soon" according to the CEO.
ua-cam.com/video/lk0DLtKTE4o/v-deo.html
China has shown us that inexpensive and long-range EVs are possible without solid state battery technology. That said, NIO started producing semi-solid state batteries in April and they'll be in vehicles on the road (overseas) in a couple of months. electrek.co/2024/04/05/nio-begins-mass-production-semi-solid-state-batteriesev-use-q2/
-Producer Tim
@@MissGoElectric 🤯 wow amazing response! thank you Producer Tim! 💪💪
Isn't the $25k Jeep basically a Fiat econobox with raised suspension?
High five to Hyundai with the Ioniq 6 deals! The R1 refresh is truly re-freshing. Good news from Volvo; hope the EX30 will also roll off the assembly lines in SC soon. Looks like solid-state batteries are about to take off. Hmmm. So once again the can of CAFE standards is getting kicked down the road?
We think the (also fabulous) EX30 will be made in China for the foreseeable future but the EX90 coming from SC will help the brand stay competitive here.
Thank you for tuning in and sharing your thoughts! -Producer Tim
If the can wasn't "getting kicked down the road", it would be the end of the American auto industry along with millions of jobs directly and several millions tertiarily. With American labor and materials costs, they can't get the price low enough, quick enough to hit the previous standards without the profit they make from ICE vehicles. Although, once China figures out a way to bypass tariffs, the entire electric market will go to them and ICEs will become toys for rich people which means the end for American car companies. The nameplates will remain as China buys them, but none will be built in the US. Europe builds more high-end stuff so they may survive. It might even mean the end for Tesla, who only survived their growing years by selling carbon credits to the other manufactures. The recently started making a profit on the vehicles, but who knows how long that will last once China floods the market. Cars will all become "Made in China" like TVs, cell phones and solar panels.
Good review! I look forward to the Current every week. I have to say some of those lease deals sound pretty attractive.
We are very happy to learn that The Current has become part of your weekly routine! We hope you'll share a link to this video with others. Maybe they'll GoElectric with one of the deals. -Producer Tim
Great work. Hopefully the CAFE standards will become stricter faster. We're tired of getting cancer, cardiac and respiratory diseases from vehicle pollution.
We agree that the health and geopolitical benefits of burning less oil/gas should be major motivators for our government. -Producer Tim
I really liked hearing about those lease options at the start. What gets me is how affordable they are compared to some of the "buy" costs later on in the video. Obviously the brands were different but still. I hate to see the credits go and fear they might go altogether in the future. Good video.
In previous episodes we have reported about how the Tesla Model Y is now less expensive to *purchase* than the average gas powered vehicle in the the US. They are far ahead of most automakers which sell in the USA in terms of cost of production, but we expect purchase prices of most EVs to be lower than ICE versions in two or three years. Thank you for watching and commenting. -Producer Tim
www.canarymedia.com/articles/electric-vehicles/teslas-are-now-cheaper-than-the-average-new-gas-powered-car
@@MissGoElectric Yeah but I won't support Tesla while Elon Musk uses his massive fortune to push a conspiracy theory laden political agenda.
We agree that most OEM leaders are wise to avoid alienating buyers. An expression of personal political perspectives polarizes audiences and motivates some buyers to boycott products. That is not ideal behavior. -Producer Tim
@@MissGoElectric Yes. too many issues have become red/blue issues when there is no need. Those lease deals seemed really impressive. That should stand on its own.
I have had the opportunity to speak to Rivian and powered by Rivian Amazon drivers. They love the vehicles. The truck drivers love the air conditioning. The Amazon trucks get 150 miles and the routes are 24 to 30 miles long, with plenty of power left over. No range anxiety there
Good to hear the battery technology is better. I tell people that have misgivings about EV adoption to wait a bit.
So far I have had nothing go wrong with my Leaf, that I couldn't fix by removing the battery cables for a few minutes.
Nice to have a site that just puts the information out there.
Miss GoElectric owns a Rivian R1T and likes it very much, as well.
instagram.com/p/CyeAb4mu6yy/?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
Thank you for watching and commenting. We hope you'll share the link to our video online and join us again next week. -Producer Tim
Wonderful presentation! Thank you.
Thank you for watching and for your compliment. We hope you'll consider sharing the link to this video online. -Producer Tim
I love this channel. Wished you covered micro cars like the Wuling brand. The real future of micromobility. 🇨🇱
We are located in the US market and so is over 90% of our viewership. General Motor's involvement in the Wuling Hongguang Mini EV and its large sales figures in China have been covered in a previous episode of the current. We have also covered Chinese EVs on many episodes in the context of policy, technological advancements, and models from Geely brands which are available in the US.
We will not go into granular product detail on products from the ~100 automakers in China which do not sell in the USA. That would step beyond our expertise and beyond relevance to our audience.
That said, we'd like to have the Microlino here in the US :)
-Producer Tim
microlino-car.com/en-ch/microlino
Internet is global. I watch your amazing channel from almost the end of the world down south. The obsession with monster trucks only applies to the US. The future is Archimoto and Aptera. And going metric is a must. 99% of the world is metric. 👍🏻
@andreschapero3615 A & A are good options for some, but they are not practical for many people who carry more than 2 people or large amounts of cargo regularly. Many people will buy these as "toys" to use along with their regular vehicles.
We will stay within our expertise to protect our credibility. -Producer Tim
@@MissGoElectric that sounds like a sound plan, Tim. The Chinese and European markets are rapidly changing and extensive research would be required.
The "protein" content of this episode is fantastic! Some points: 1) the "down payment" for a lease is to simply mitigate risks (for the lessor) and reduce monthly lease payments. And, in this case, to use the Government's loop-hole for tax credits. 2) Rivian's upgrades and internal cost reductions may help them sell more vehicles...but the simple math of losses per vehicle will only accelerate total operating losses. Their goal, of course, is to increase production to scale-up and benefit from lower per vehicle costs. Unfortunately, even if Rivian's sales were to double in the next 2 years (unlikely) from these improvements, there would still be well over $10k loss per vehicle. In other words, the more they sell, the faster they run out of money. 3) MB has always been interested in pushing new technology and they can afford it, since they are usually the world's most profitable vehicle company. This is merely a relatively inexpensive test to see if they can make "solid state" batteries work in real products. Decades ago, they put a lot of resources and time into Wankel engines, only to abandon it after realizing that it isn't a workable technology.
We rarely see leases for an automobile without some kind of deposit, regardless of power train. If course, it offsets overall costs and results in lower monthly payments.
Rivian CEO stated on national television that they intend to reach gross profit by the end of this year. It is a publicly traded company. It would be fraudulent to say that if your assumptions were fact.
Profit per vehicle is not only related to direct vehicle inputs, but organizational operation costs and other capital expenditures as well. We think they are on the road to profitability.
Mercedes Benz income was surpassed by Tesla last year. We are happy to see them pushing for technological advantages. That kind of competition benefits consumers.
I'm shocked there was no mic placement content this week ;)
-Producer Tim
@@MissGoElectric MissGoElectric has a clear voice, enunciation, and elocution, but the mic placement attenuates some mid (~1-2 kHz) and higher (~4-5 kHz) frequencies. I use a Chrome Browser Extension called AudioEqualizer - EQ, where I can mostly correct for that. It is also invaluable for the much worse muffled & mumbling voices elsewhere on YT. You can correct for that in the EQ settings during post-production, as any "audio engineer" from musical theater (or opera) can attest, since they often bury microphones in clothing and hair.
MB has painfully found out that their valuation of perfumed air and massaging seats is not shared by buyers. Their main concern with Electric Cars initially was supply chain availability. Now its excess inventory and slowing production output.
As for CEO statements, they are always couched ("intend", "see a path", "pave the way", etc., BS, etc....) and in-line with SEC guidelines with the tiny print asterisk note: "...Forward Looking Statement..." to keep out of "Regulatory Jail". Otherwise, Mary Barra and Elon, and every CEO would be in jail.
Bonus for Costco members who want to lease a Polestar. You can get a $2,000 certificate and use it towards your down payment. I just did this with a base model Polestar 2. Sweet car for the money.
Please review the Lithium-Air battery from Argonne National Labs, who reported 1,000 Wh/kg and 1,000 cycles in Feb. 2023. The polymeric ceramic electrolyte does the trick and it's being adapted to Li-S too similar to the Monash Univ. Li-S that sports a 550 Wh/kg energy density.
We are grateful for the work being done at universities and laboratories all over the world to improve battery technology. On this ten minute show, we will cover the stories which we think are highly likely to directly impact our viewers and electrification in a meaningful way.
We receive press releases and read articles about battery chemistry research and lab trials regularly. We do not report on them because most have some fatal flaw in categories like thermal tolerance, cycle life, degradation rates, discharge stability, expansion/contraction, materials rarity, and manufacturability. We reported on the Factorial development not only because the density improvement is meaningful and a major OEM is testing it. Factorial has a facility and backing from very large automakers. Even with all of those favorable characteristics, we debated internally about covering this at all because volume production is not guaranteed.
-Producer Tim
@@MissGoElectric So which fatal flaw are you alleging that ANL is concealing or is it all of them? Please check because Monash U. is also developing their polymeric ceramic electrolyte in a Li-S battery at 550 Wh/kg and these specs could revolutionize air and land vehicle transport. Please help accelerate their patent leasing or their debunking with your investigative reporting
If they get to b-series testing with a major OEM, it will make sense for us to cover them. We will leave it to market buyers and other news outlets to investigate hundreds of lab experiments and battery startups with no factory or major backing. That task is beyond our capabilities as a two person operation.
-Producer Tim
Maybe from another angle, it might be worth mentioning the funding that is going to Argonne and the kind of work they do there, in general. It's something I haven't heard enough about.
Battery technology could be a whole channel, or a whole group of channels.
@@MissGoElectric Your position is valid up to the point of an energy density more than twice any other startup and it's from a reputable gov't lab, so...
Rivian and any new updates should have the NACS connector in the vehicle at the driver rear or front of the vehicle or both. Any brand that does not have the NACS connector in June 2024 will hurt its sales. All new AC and DC fast chargers should only have the NACS connector. The adaptors will fill the need for CCS1 vehicles.
So far, there are no automakers (aside from Tesla) who have announced a plan to include NACS connectors built into 2024 model year EVs.
Ford and GM are the first onboard and they are slowly shipping adapters to their users. GM, Volvo, and Polestar are scheduled to gain Supercharger V3/V4 access later this year with adapters as well. We reserved our Rivian R1T in 2019, but we still charge it via CCS when traveling because the NACS adapter has not yet shipped to us. Like most EV drivers, we do not frequently pay the premium for public DC fast charging and we think the adapter is a minor inconvenience. Tesla Supercharger access will be a game changer in terms of freedom to travel.
Thank you for watching and commenting!
-Producer Tim
@MissGoElectric Tim, thanks for your reply. I said any NEW vehicles that are now released should have the NACS connector. Who wants to buy a new product with an OLD plug standard. Owning a Tesla DMLRY and a Bolt EV, the NACS connector for both ac and DC charging is the ONLY way to go. The cable/connector is so much easier to use for all types and sizes - strength of people. Not having the NACS on new vehicles and new Chargers will slow the use. Rivian and GM made a huge mistake, and sales will show they should have implemented the NACS connector.
@@davidws5439 IIRC Rivian and GM have announced they will ship vehicles with the NACS connector in 2025. While it would be nice to have this in 2024, it takes time to redesign, get suppliers tooled up, and validate the new connector to be sure it works properly. 2024 vehicles were likely already designed, tooled, and in validation when GM and Rivian decided to switch to NACS. Switching to a different design that late in the vehicle development program would almost certainly delay the availability of 2024 models.
Several automakers said 2025 models will feature native NACS. That kind of implementation takes time. -Producer Tim
Was at the Kia Dealer for EV6 updates here in So Cali. Noticed a few of the new '24 Kia EVs have more battery KW and are the dealers ever discounting them. Suspect they boosted the MSRP before the discounts and deals though. Hold that thought. Kia lots are over-flowing with cars.
Thanks for sharing your observations. Hyundai Motor Group (Kia, Genesis, Hyundai) has some big goals! -Producer Tim
www.kedglobal.com/electric-vehicles/newsView/ked202306200023
You had mentioned that the 2024 Kia EV6 has been improved. We reported on that in detail in Episode 11 of the current in great detail if you'd like to dig in a bit: ua-cam.com/video/MRCsnJgS6WM/v-deo.html
-Producer Tim
@@MissGoElectric
Yes I saw that - they are now arriving at dealers.
Super!
Wait…..they still don’t have the camp kitchen available 😂😂😂. Oh yall may be curious to know I was number 1.5 million on the reservation list for Cybertruck (I reserved dual motor) and got email inviting me to order foundation series last night. I don’t think that many people have cancelled but they must not have a lot of takers for the 100000 truck. I def can’t do that version myself either lol.
Still no camp kitchen. It looks like they are developing a version which can be hitch mounted. R2 appears to have some proprietary securing point options as well. Rivian will focus increasingly on modules and accessories. That will allow them to reach very high profit per vehicle.
You are right about Cybertruck orders. We actually received an invitation to order a second CT Foundation Series. We are not interested at the price premium. We think the $80k dual motor and lower prices single motor variant version will be highly successful if it is eligible for the $7500 point of sale credit.
-Producer Tim
I have been watching the transport select committee meeting talking about Electric Cars held on the 15 May 2024 in front of a parliamentary committee.
To view type in parliament tv and then type in electric cars and then the date 15th May. I think you will find this a very interesting and a very informative meeting.
Thank you for sharing your tips about learning EV moves outside of the US. -Producer Tim
@@MissGoElectric Thank you for your reply. That’s no problem.
Could MB put the Factorial battery in 2026 models or is this solid state tech many years into the future? I would buy it.
The batteries have to be field tested first.
That will probably take a year or two.
That would suggest they will be in consumer available vehicles by 2027/28
IF everything goes according to plan.
If there is problems it will take longer, but should still happen by 2030.
Big changes have to come and they eventually will. MB seems willing to move forward with EV tech.
It is possible, but that would seem to be a best case scenario. -Producer Tim
@@jimthain8777 Yes Jim, your time line makes sense.
Rivian needs high tech steering like cybertuck
So far, only the Cybertruck offers variable ratio steer by wire with no mechanical linkage in the US. We own an R1T and a Cybertruck and they are both super fun to drive.
Thank you for viewing and commenting this morning :)
-Producer Tim
Yes. Solid State battery is the next gen battery
It could be. Affordable manufacturability and cell longevity are tough nuts to crack. -Producer Tim
Another great show.
Would adding a global perspective be possible, or does that significantly increase the research overhead or detract from its US focus ? Just an idea, either way still a well produced show, hope to see lots more of it.
We try to keep the show to ten minutes. At the moment, about 95% of our viewership is from the USA. Our expertise is also with US products and policy which affects the US market. That said, we regularly cover international developments which affect US buyers. For example, Episode 2 covered Chinese competition specifically: ua-cam.com/video/59FHO1NTdts/v-deo.html
Thank you for watching and commenting. We hope you'll share a link to this episode on social media or with your friends.
-Producer Tim
Are factorial cell a nickel cathode?
They do not disclose the composition of the cathode. Here is the most complete diagram they've made public:
factorialenergy.com/technology/
-Producer Tim
Thanks for great show. Seems like Volvo need to learn the difference between kWh and kW. 8:14
We frequently see marketing materials which mistake capacity for power output. There is still educational work to do training automakers and partners. In fact, that is actually our full time job.
-Producer Tim
Resistance heating is very efficient , almost 1 to 1. 😂 A heat pump could be 'more' efficient, 1 battery electric kW to 3 or 4 in heat.
It is important to have a system which scavenges and salvages heat which might have been wasted to the exterior. -Producer Tim
Do you see yourself upgrading to the new Dual Max?
Miss GoElectric took delivery of her 2024 Rivian R1T Dual Motor Performance Max Pack in November of 2023. She told does not intend to upgrade. We took delivery of a Cybertruck in March as well. There is no more room in the driveway, lol. -Producer Tim
@@MissGoElectric ah nice, just get rid of the Cybertruck and then you can upgrade your Rivian. I really don't know how people can live with the looks of that truck it is obnoxious.
I like The Current much better than Transport Evolved. It's EV news without the politics.
We started this channel in 2021 with news desk material. Miss GoElectric earned her college degree in broadcast journalism and even worked in television for a bit before moving into automotive 13 years ago. We hope our 10-minute weekly format, style of synthesis, and personality can reach new audiences.
A variety of distinct voices advocating for electrification is a good thing.
In order for us to continue producing this series, we will need a minimum weekly viewership of 15,000. Anytime viewers do to spread the word will be very helpful and much appreciated by our team.
-Producer Tim
I don't think EV adoption is impacted (by much) with the relaxed CAFE standard. People, who were conscious enough did the switch already, those who think a vehicle needs smelly liquids to call them vehicles will never make the change, willingly.
There were 15 millions vehicles sold in the USA in 2023. The 10% relaxation of the cafe standards could result in more than a $1Billion reduction of costs for credits or civil penalties for automakers. Do you think that is enough money to cause strategic shifting by the largest automakers in terms of investing in EV technology? -Producer Tim
Our team has put in a writ demanding that the AG for the State of California subpoena Tesla and gain access to their fsd files, that way they can issue misdemeanors to wvwryone who activated it in a puic roadway in violation of two separate CA vehicle codes. We are going after gm next, then the rest of the autonomous services.
Maybe you should have a video where you slam anyone who would test vehicle software on the same roads as first responders, school buses, and vital commercial traffic? You know, be responsible.
We are not aligned with you on this issue.
-Producer Tim
Comparing EVs by range is like comparing fossil fuels cars by gas tank size, almost irrellivent.
Longer range gives EV drivers more freedom and more time. For most EV buyers, it is a range is a top consideration. Miss GoElectric and I each paid a premium for EVs with over 400 miles of range.
There are gas stations on every corner and it takes five minutes to pump a tank of gasoline. The same is not true of public charging.
More EV range means less dependence on public infrastructure and more possible routes and activities possible. Real world range in cold conditions and driving at interstate speeds is typically much lower than stated range. That is another reason EV drivers regard the stated range highly when making a purchasing decision. -Producer Tim
A lease with a down payment is not a lease.
Deposits are typical in the USA for auto leases. The definition of "lease" is not defied by a deposit or initial payment.
www.consumerfinance.gov/ask-cfpb/what-should-i-know-about-leasing-versus-buying-a-car-en-815/
-Producer Tim
👍
Thanks! -Producer Tim
Thank you for info on Lease deals. Love hearing about them.
We hope you'll consider sharing this episode online. We suspect most drivers would be surprised to learn just how affordable new EVs can be. Thank you for watching and commenting. -Producer Tim
"Solid State" i.e. non-liquid electrolyte batteries are not well understood. The goal is to simplify, and thereby speed up, cell production, which in-turn would reduce costs of manufacture. All of the many different schemes focus on replacing the liquid electrolyte, which is a key element in all batteries, with a non-liquid electrolyte. Factorial plays word games @ 10:20 saying their FEST battery uses a "...quasi-solid electrolyte...". So far, all of the research has focused on replacing the liquid electrolyte with something else. In almost all cases the "something else" is more Lithium (i.e. a thicker coating), or other metallic compounds. In all cases they weigh more and are significantly more expensive.
We know there are hundreds of companies working on solutions for better energy density and lower costs. This project is further asking with more tail wins than most.
Thank you for sharing your understanding. -Producer Tim
@ms go electric What percentage of range do you lose in the Winter? I luckily drive a Leaf with a heat pump but haven’t experienced a Minnesota winter in it yet.
Range loss during the winter varies wildly between the EVs we own and the EVs we drive for our automaker clients on educational programs.
Our 2016 Tesla Model S 90D and 2024 Rivian R1T lose 25-30% depending on ambient temperature and speed. Neither have heat pumps.
Our 2022 Model Y had a heat pump and our winter losses were 15-20%. We haven't yet had a winter with our Cybertruck, but we expect a similar outcome.
The 2023 Nissan Ariya lost about 20-25% even though it has a heat pump. It has two PTC heaters, which seemed to be doing most of the work. That integration is sub optimal.
We noticed 30% losses in the 2021 Mustang Mach E as well. It had no heat pump.
We look forward to hearing how your new LEAF does for you! Thank you for commenting.
-Producer Tim
Great informative video.
Thank you for watching this week and commenting! 🙌🏼
I like the Rivian updates. Volvo focus on safety is a no brainer when buying a new ev
Thank you for joining us and for contributing your perspective. -Producer Tim
EVs have reached parity with their ICE counterparts.
Thank you for watching our leading story and commenting. We hope you'll subscribe and join us again next week! -Producer Tim
Hi, thanks so much for all your information new subscriber here. Do you have any information on Mercedes-Benz being able to charge at Tesla stations? If I get the adapter there was talk of Tesla opening up to Mercedes-Benz and Rivian. I know Rivian is already open but there's no mention of Mercedes any information would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
Automakers are gaining Supercharger access in the order they reached terms with Tesla. Mercedes is quite far down the list. GM, Volvo, and Polestar are next in line. We didn't see Mercedes owners getting adapters before Q2 of 2025. -Producer Tim
@@MissGoElectric OK, thank you so much for your quick reply. Keep up the good work.👍🏻👌🏻🙏🏻
Another great episode!
I like the updates that Rivian has made to the R1 platform! I would like to see a cheaper version of R1S....the size and space of the 3-row platform but perhaps without air suspension and some of the other advanced and costly features. Some how get that cost down even further for folks who might not want or need all of those features. Even thought the features are pretty cool.
The solid state battery news sounds promising! Hoping that solid state gets here sooner rather than later, for sure! And in a cost effective way so that it is not just for luxury vehicles.
What do you think about Volvo these days? Are they able to function pretty much separately from the holding/parent company or does the parent company keep a tight hold on things?
Volvo, Lotus, and Polestar are dependent upon Geely platforms in the EV space. They have leeway regarding design, marketing, sales, and service. Geely wants volume from their huge collection of brands.. and they are doing a great job. Zeekr, Smart, and Galaxy are also turning out great products overseas.
Geely owns more than 10% of Mercedes Benz and they recently teamed up with Renault to develop some combustion engine technology.
-Producer Tim
@@MissGoElectric That’s more about Geely than I knew, thanks! Interesting group of companies and ownership.
I have no use for a truck or adventure vehicle. But, I would buy a Rivian if they offered a hatchback or some other style premium vehicle.
I couldn't get up in the morning and face that front grill.
We reported on the R3X hatchback in March. It might fit the bill for you when it arrives. -Producer Tim
ua-cam.com/video/y7ToTtl1Utc/v-deo.html
Looking forward to more Rivian models…I’m not an expert in any way but I like the innovation I see from them and if I didn’t go with an established car manufacturer I’d be looking to them for my first EV.
Virginia is trying to build a coal powered time machine to the past -
Governor Glenn Youngkin & Atty Gen Jason Miyares: Virginia Will Exit California Electric Vehicle Mandate at End of Year
We are surprised coal producing states aren't fully behind EVs, which use electricity... which is generally produced by coal in their states. Local transportation revenue seems preferable to oil from other states and countries. -Producer Tim
True, coal power plants powering EVS is the next greenest thing to leaving the cold in the ground, it would be a win
Realistically, we'll need to add new (hopefully renewable) plants at a rapid rate to keep up with electricity demand for AI, cloud computer, HVAC heat pumps in homes, and EVs.
Demand will greatly outstrip supply which means we probably won't see the decommissioning of existing coal plants. Economies which supply coal will have utility buyers unless there is a breakthrough with electricity generation.
Driving an Electric Vehicle on electricity created by American coal is still cleaner, more efficient, and better for US security than driving on gasoline, most of which still comes from foreign oil.
-Producer Tim
Metric would be nice. Rivian should propose a cheap well built microcar. China is flooding the streets of the planet with the BYD Dolphin, great 400+ km range, right sized well built and affordable , are american brands blind to reality?
We covered Chinese EVs in Episode 11 of the Current. We know that our regular viewers are not blind to the reality.
-Producer Tim
ua-cam.com/video/MRCsnJgS6WM/v-deo.html
This is the best coverage I've seen on the issue: ua-cam.com/video/MOreJAyfUUU/v-deo.html
American brands choose to create their own reality.
Result: No small cars allowed in the US auto market.
We'll see how long the embargo can last. It's like a fight to the death between auto buyers and auto sellers here.
Small cars don't sell in usa, even youngs have weird ideas about them
Most people don't grasp the density of Chinese cities. Small cars are necessary there.
Unfortunately, those discounts are offered because the car companies built too many BEVs. They were all, except Tesla, losing money on every BEV they sold before the discounts and are only being kept afloat by surviving off the profits from ICEs. ICEs have not come down in price because they are in demand.
When a brand is focused on lowering the cost of production, they must achieve high volume. Regardless of short term demand, they have to ramp and ship.
Low lease prices on the Hyundai Ioniq5 6 in particular are largely enabled by IRA tax credits and a loophole for imported EVs when leased.
Thanks for sharing! -Producer Tim
What is the range when towing a cargo load?
Range when towing varies significantly depending on the aerodynamics (physical shape) of the object being towed and the speed at which it is towed.
To a lesser extent, topography, road conditions, and number of stops are also important factors.
As with a gasoline vehicle energy consumption can be as much as 2x while towing. Typical range losses can be 20%-50%.
-Producer Tim