Electric Vehicles
Kia was showing off the sporty crossover at the LA Auto Show. The hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions are currently available and the full-electric version will be available in 2019. Kia has changed their DC Fast-charging protocol from CHAdeMO to the Combined Charging System (CCS) and can now charge at 100kW. The upgraded range makes it a competitor of the Chevy Bolt if the price is right, which hasn't been announced yet.
According to British Autocar magazine, Mazda will introduce a new electric model and will also offer a range-extended version that has a small rotary engine in 2020. Mazda has received criticism for its resistance to embracing electric and will likely only sell its all-electric car in a few regions, including China and California.
Infrastructure
Chinese battery company Envision Energy’s CEO claims they will produce batteries for $100 per kilowatt hour by 2020. He also is predicting the price will drop to $50 only five years later, spelling the demise of the internal combustion engine much sooner than previously forecasted.
What do pot (cannabis cultivation), electric vehicles and data centers have in common? According to one firm, these three emerging industries will make up almost 6% of total U.S. electricity demand by 2030.
Policy
Threats to end the $7,500 Federal Tax Credit for EVs have spurred the formation of a new coalition. The EV Drive Coalition is working to urge Congress to reform the federal electric vehicle (EV) tax credit so automakers can continue producing, workers can continue building, and consumers can continue buying vehicles that produce zero emissions.
The Florida Keys and EVs, these are a few of our favorite things! The Freebee electric vehicle will begin transporting people in Upper Matecumbe Key with the aim to offer a green alternative and reduce cars on the road. It’s part of a six-month trial to gauge interest and popularity.
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