Author: john@provenroi.com
Electric vehicles (EVs) have become increasingly popular in recent years, but one major concern for potential buyers is the time it takes to charge these vehicles. The fear of long charging times, coupled with the lack of charging infrastructure, can deter many people from making the switch to an EV. While fast Level 2 chargers are a popular choice for many EV owners, slow Level 1 charging from a standard wall outlet is often overlooked. However, my recent road trip in a 2025 Rivian R1T taught me just how valuable Level 1 charging can be when used strategically. During my…
Xiaomi has made a significant splash in the electric vehicle industry with the release of the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra. This powerhouse of a car boasts an impressive 1,526 horsepower and comes with a price tag of $72,750. The brand has set an ambitious goal of selling 10,000 units of the SU7 Ultra in 2025, showcasing their commitment to making a mark in the competitive EV market. The performance of the SU7 Ultra speaks for itself, as it recently outperformed a Porsche Taycan Turbo GT around the Shanghai International Circuit by approximately 1.5 seconds. This victory solidifies Xiaomi’s position as a…
Tesla has recently addressed a common complaint from Cybertruck owners regarding streaks left on the massive front glass by the windshield wipers. The automaker has released a software update to rectify this issue, ensuring a clearer and streak-free view for drivers. The Cybertruck’s unique design features an eye-catching massive windshield wiper that spans the width of the front glass. While this design element adds to the vehicle’s futuristic appeal, some owners have raised concerns about the wipers leaving streaks on the windshield, obstructing visibility and impacting the driving experience. In response to these complaints, Tesla has rolled out a software…
SpaceX’s Starlink satellite network, known for delivering high-speed, low-latency internet worldwide, is currently in the process of deorbiting older satellites as part of its commitment to space safety and sustainability. This initiative aims to ensure that satellites burn up completely upon reentry into Earth’s atmosphere, leaving no hazardous debris behind. The decision to deorbit these older satellites was made in 2024 when SpaceX identified a potential hardware issue in some of its early V1 Starlink satellites. To prevent any potential failures in the future, the company chose to proactively remove these satellites from orbit. By the end of 2025, SpaceX…
Hyundai and Kia continue to dominate the electrified vehicle market with impressive sales numbers in February. Hyundai saw a 3% increase in overall car sales, with 62,032 units sold, setting a new record. Kia also had its best-ever February with 63,303 units sold, a 7.2% year-over-year growth. The Ioniq 5, Ioniq 6, Santa Fe HEV, and the Kia EV9 were among the best-selling electric and hybrid models for both brands. The Ioniq 5, in particular, continued to be Hyundai’s dominant EV with 2,442 units sold, a 22% year-over-year increase. Hyundai’s electrified vehicle sales grew by an impressive 35%. Kia also…
Tesla’s Plan for Autonomous Ride-Hailing Service in California Tesla, the electric vehicle giant, is making moves to enter the autonomous ride-hailing market in California. The company has applied for a permit with the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) to launch its own transportation charter-party carrier service. This permit would allow Tesla to own and operate its fleet, setting it apart from other ride-hailing services in the state. While this development is significant, it does not mean that Tesla’s futuristic Cybercab will be hitting the streets anytime soon. Discussions with California regulators indicate that Tesla’s ride-hailing service may initially involve drivers,…
Costco members can now enjoy the biggest discount ever offered by the retailer’s auto program when leasing a 2025 Volvo EX90 electric SUV. According to CarsDirect, Costco members who are current Volvo customers can save up to $10,000 when leasing a new EX90 by Apr. 30. 2025 Volvo EX90 Costco Executive members can get $2,000 off, while Gold Star and Business members can enjoy $1,500 in savings. Additionally, there are discounts available for several General Motors EVs for Costco members. Models include the Chevrolet Blazer EV, Equinox EV, Silverado EV, GMC Hummer EV, and Sierra EV. Combine the Costco discount…
The latest episode of Tom Moloughney’s Recharge Rescue series on his State of Charge YouTube channel serves as a stark reminder of the importance of proper home electric vehicle charging installations. In this particular episode, Moloughney visits an Ohio-based Mustang Mach-E owner who experienced a frightening incident with a melted NEMA 14-50 outlet. The video opens with Moloughney emphasizing the crucial fact that not all outlets advertised as industrial grade are equipped to handle the continuous high-power demands of EV charging. He contrasts a standard Leviton 279-S00 plug, which typically costs around $10 and is marketed as industrial grade, with…
Winches play a crucial role as off-road accessories, traditionally powered by a vehicle’s 12-volt electrical system. However, Stellantis is exploring a new power source for winches in hybrids and electric vehicles. In a recent patent filing published by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) on January 21, 2025, Stellantis revealed plans to operate a winch using a gearbox connected to one of the vehicle’s electric drive motors. Stellantis patent image of a winch geared to an electric motor The innovative approach involves mounting the winch on the vehicle’s front bumper in a traditional manner. Instead of utilizing its…
Polestar, the electric vehicle manufacturer, is making a bold move to attract Tesla defectors. In a strategic move to lure Tesla owners away, Polestar launched a special $5,000 discount for Tesla drivers who choose to lease the new Polestar 3 crossover. This offer, combined with an additional $15,000 in incentives for lessees, provides a substantial $20,000 lease discount for Tesla owners looking to make the switch to Polestar. The response to this offer has been overwhelming, with Polestar reporting a significant increase in Polestar 3 orders during the week that the deal ran. The brand’s head of U.S. sales took…