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GM just made a big behind-the-scenes move to boost robot cars – Detroit Free Press

CLOSE General Motors announced plans to close three assembly plants, one each in Michigan, Ohio and Ontario before the end of 2019. Wochit Cruise Automation’s Dan Kan and Kyle Vogt pose for a photo with General Motors’ Dan Ammann at Cruise Automation offices in San Francisco, Calif. on Nov. 20, 2018. (Photo: Noah Berger, General… Continue reading GM just made a big behind-the-scenes move to boost robot cars – Detroit Free Press

Conversations From Tesla Cybertruck Test Rides (2 Videos)

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Published on December 3rd, 2019 |

by Cynthia Shahan

Conversations From Tesla Cybertruck Test Rides (2 Videos)

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December 3rd, 2019 by Cynthia Shahan

This interior video from one of the original test drives of the dramatic Cybertruck revealed the answer to my one pressing question about the Cybertruck — whether it has a glass roof. It has a large one. “Wow, it’s all glass up top,” a rider notes.

The driver, meanwhile, is explaining that the rearview mirror camera gives much greater visibility out the back, especially when the tonneau is up or something else loaded in the back obstructs the driver’s direct view a bit. “We thought it would be a great idea, when the top is rolled up, because you can’t see out of the back, this basically augments your vision, so that you can see behind you.”

Perhaps this will satisfy those concerned about vision, whether the the truck bed cover is closed or open.

In both videos below, the new, angular, mega, incredibly utilitarian, 100% electric vehicle from Tesla sounds like a quiet jet taking off while showing off its instant torque. MacTechGenius films as the driver easily makes a smooth complete turn back to where the came from and also explains that different settings offer very different ride experiences. “So, we were just in the mode where we were basically soaking up all the bumps. But since we have air suspension and we have adaptive dampers, we can cater the ride and handling to whatever you want. He also explains that hearing the compressor gong is due to adjusting the air suspension on the fly.”

The steering wheel is unusual, and when asked if it will make it all the way to production, the driver answers, “I think we’ll announce more details of what the production design exactly is. But for us, we only get better when we go to production.”

The second video, by Tom Sjötun, talks space — just how much space there is. One of the passengers has a Toyota Tundra TRD Off Road and emphasizes, “This feels B-I-G-G-E-R.”

“Way more spacious.”

The conversation covers the material on the seats, which is different than anything that’s been in production. (If its Tesla, its innovation every week.) The test drive took place without side rearview mirrors, but that will probably change due to legalities in the US. The driver notes, however, that in Europe you are now allowed to have camera systems instead of mirrors. They can be absent if replaced with cameras and essentially the rearview mirror showing a camera feed.

In both videos, the driver points out the increased size of the center touchscreen of the Cybertruck — 17 inches. That is 2 inches wider than the one that comes in a Tesla Model 3. The more substantial Cybertruck demands a bit of a larger screen for the generous cabin space.

Tom Sjötun reports under his video that he ordered the Tri Motor version, which we find out in the video is so top secret still that the driver can’t even talk about it!

Take a look at both videos, especially if you are wondering about the visibility and room of the emissions-free, dynamic, innovative design, for which the word truck now falls short.

And for those small EV lovers, like me, we can love the Cybertruck as well. Instead of covering our face when a large truck rolls by and blows out smoke, we’ll see the Cybertruck and smile. Our Cyber friend won’t blow dirty air into our face, or anyone else’s.

And, on another safety note:

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About the Author

Cynthia Shahan Cynthia Shahan started writing by doing research as a social cultural and sometimes medical anthropology thinker. She studied and practiced both Waldorf education, and Montessori education. Eventually becoming an organic farmer, licensed AP, and mother of four unconditionally loving spirits, teachers, and environmentally conscious beings born with spiritual insights and ethics beyond this world. (She was able to advance more in this way led by her children.)

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@Hyundai: Hyundai Motor Unveils ‘Strategy 2025’ Roadmap to Transition into ‘Smart Mobility Solution Provider’

– Hyundai to transition into Smart Mobility Solution Provider by 2025 with two pillars · Smart Mobility Device will expand beyond automobiles to include Personal Air Vehicle (PAV), robotics, last-mile mobility · Smart Mobility Service will offer personalized services and contents on integrated platform– Hyundai announces a set of strategic goals · achieve balanced and… Continue reading @Hyundai: Hyundai Motor Unveils ‘Strategy 2025’ Roadmap to Transition into ‘Smart Mobility Solution Provider’

Ford GoRide Health shifts to autonomy and shuts down in five cities

Sponsored Links Ford It seemed like things were going well for Ford’s GoRide Health, a service that offered non-emergency transportation to hospitals and other health care facilities. This spring, it outlined a plan to expand into 40 cities over the course of four years. Instead, Ford is shutting the service down in the five cities… Continue reading Ford GoRide Health shifts to autonomy and shuts down in five cities

Intel: Mobileye is Mapping 28,000 Miles of Barcelona’s Roads Daily to Improve Safety

Mobileye’s Gil Ayalon (right) speaks during the launch event for the Spanish Ministry of Transportation and the City of Barcelona’s Autonomous Ready initiative. (Credit: Mobileye)» Click for full image What’s New: On Monday, Dec. 2, Spain’s road safety authority, the Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT), and the City of Barcelona with Mobileye presented data from the first… Continue reading Intel: Mobileye is Mapping 28,000 Miles of Barcelona’s Roads Daily to Improve Safety

ABT and Schaeffler establish strategic collaboration to electrify light commercial vehicles

2019-12-03 | Herzogenaurach Strategic collaboration between ABT and Schaeffler will begin with the electrification of light commercial vehicles from Volkswagen ABT to contribute its implementation expertise and flexibility in vehicle retrofitting – Schaeffler to contribute its expertise in technology and manufacturing as well as its financial strength High level of worldwide market potential for the… Continue reading ABT and Schaeffler establish strategic collaboration to electrify light commercial vehicles

Ford to shut down GoRide Health service and pivot to AV research

Six months ago, Ford laid out an ambitious plan to expand its GoRide Health transportation service with an aim at delivering thousands of rides every day to hospitals, doctor offices and other health care facilities by the end of the year. In a few weeks, the service, which provided transportation for non-emergency care, will no… Continue reading Ford to shut down GoRide Health service and pivot to AV research

Tesla Raj Debunks Common Electric Vehicle Misconceptions Head On

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Published on December 2nd, 2019 |

by Kyle Field

Tesla Raj Debunks Common Electric Vehicle Misconceptions Head On

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December 2nd, 2019 by Kyle Field

Anyone who has driven an electric vehicle like a Tesla knows about the barrage of incoming questions from uninformed members of the public. YouTuber and friend of CleanTechnica Tesla Raj took to the ‘Tube to address a few common misconceptions about electric vehicles and, more specifically, Teslas.

I’ll unpack a sampling of the myths he debunked to help those who are new to electric vehicles. Consider this part of our broader quest to share the truth about electric vehicles to the uninitiated masses.

Grayson plugging in our Tesla Model 3 at a Supercharger. Image credit: Kyle Field | CleanTechnica

How do you charge your EV?
Charging an electric vehicle is perhaps the greatest mystery to the uninitiated, but also perhaps the simplest. Like your average cell phone, electric vehicles can be charged by plugging them into any wall outlet with the charger included with the vehicle. In the US, these are the standard 110 volt outlets that are sprinkled around every residential, commercial, and industrial facility in the country. Just plug in and play for the easiest of charging around.

For those looking for a faster charge at home or on the go, charging from a 220 volt outlet or public charger will deliver more power to the vehicle. These 220 volt outlets are commonly used for electric dryers, or a dedicated circuit can be installed for a faster “Level 2” EV charger.

When you’re on the go, the Tesla Supercharging network has Tesla owners covered for high-speed charging. The growing network of Ionity, EVgo, ChargePoint, and Electrify America chargers, among others, have the rest of EV drivers covered with high-speed DC fast charging. These chargers can deliver speeds of up to 1,000 miles of range per hour of charging, depending on the vehicle and the station being utilized.

Image credit: Dagmara Niedzielski | CleanTechnica

Are Teslas expensive to purchase?
Generally speaking, electric vehicles are still more expensive to purchase than comparable gasmobiles, but that is quickly changing. For example, the Tesla Model 3 starts at $35,000, which is lower than the average purchase price of a new vehicle in the US. That says a lot about how far electric vehicle pricing has come in the last few years.

More importantly, the cost of electric vehicles is heavily weighted towards the initial purchase, so once you have made it past that hurdle, the ongoing cost of operating an electric vehicle is far lower than the cost operating a comparable internal combustion vehicle. That single realization makes the initial purchase price a bit easier to swallow. Even then, there are many electric vehicles — including the Tesla Model 3, the Hyundai Ioniq, the Nissan LEAF, and more — that are already cost competitive on the upfront purchase price with comparable non-electric vehicles, which makes digging a bit deeper into the cost savings that much more compelling.

Is driving an electric vehicle more expensive than my current gasmobile?
Delivering an accurate answer to this one requires a closer look at the efficiency of the gasmobile currently being driven around, the electric vehicle being considered, the cost of petrol, and of course, the cost of electricity.

Younger Grayson “driving” a Tesla Model S in the Santa Barbara Tesla location. Image credit: Kyle Field | CleanTechnica

Generally speaking, it is far cheaper to drive vehicles powered by electricity, but the specifics will vary by region based on the above. EV drivers in Raj’s area will pay around 9 bucks per fill-up of electrons, while internal combustion drivers get a double penalty, as their vehicles pollute with every mile and cost nearly 4 times more to fuel up.

In summary, electric vehicles almost always cost less to fill up and drive per mile, and for those looking for extra credit, they can get even cheaper when charged off of a rooftop solar system.

What does maintenance cost on an EV?
Very little! Replace tires, replace windshield wipers, refill wiper fluid, and do the infrequent battery coolant swap every 4 years or so. Compared to ICE (internal combustion engine) vehicles, the cost of maintaining an electric vehicle is very low. This is largely a function of the number of moving parts in an electric vehicle compared to an internal combustion vehicle.

Battery electric vehicles use power from a chemical storage tank (a battery pack) to provide electrical power to an electric motor comprised of little more than the rotor, stator, armature, commutator, windings, and bearings. Internal combustion engines, on the other hand, have hundreds of moving parts that wear out gradually with each use. That translates to more maintenance and more cash flowing out of your pocket into the hands of mechanics and auto dealerships.

EVs don’t have enough range for normal driving
The first generation of electric vehicles came to the market with 80-something miles of range per charge. That was enough for most drivers to handle their daily commutes, but left many drivers wanting more range. The average commute of the average motorist, according to US-based AAA is 29.2 miles, but peace of mind requires more than simple math.

Thankfully, a number of modern affordable electric vehicles are available with more than 200 miles of range per charge, including the Tesla Model 3, the Hyundai Kona EV, and the Nissan LEAF Plus, among others.

This base range combined with the ability of electric vehicles to regenerate power from braking activities further extends the range of the vehicle and increases efficiency along the way. It was one of the things that driving through the Rocky Mountains in the Western United States taught me all too well. Going uphill was painful to watch, but recovering mile after mile of range going downhill made it all worthwhile.

“Awed by Rocky Mountain National Park,” by Arthur Dreissen. More on that story here.

Additionally, electric vehicles have the ability to start every day with full range. Compared to gasmobiles, this is a game changer! Leaving the garage with a full tank every night means eliminating the necessary stop at the gas station to fill up every week or every few days. Not only is it a time savings, but it effectively extends the range of the vehicle compared to the paradigm of internal combustion vehicles. Beautiful.

Raj also dispatches a few other common myths, including the ones below, but you’re going to have to check out his efficient ~7 minute video to get some closure on those.

What does battery degradation look like for EVs?
EVs are slow
Myth: Autopilot is dangerous
Tesla is going bankwupt!

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About the Author

Kyle Field I'm a tech geek passionately in search of actionable ways to reduce the negative impact my life has on the planet, save money and reduce stress. Live intentionally, make conscious decisions, love more, act responsibly, play. The more you know, the less you need. TSLA investor.

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Press Releases – Automated driving: EU auto makers publish ‘check-list’ for policy makers

Brussels, 3 December 2019 – As part of its vision to make road transport smarter and more convenient, the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) has drawn up a check-list of rules and regulations that need to be put in place to make automated driving a reality in the EU. “Automated driving is a paradigm shift… Continue reading Press Releases – Automated driving: EU auto makers publish ‘check-list’ for policy makers

Ford CEO Jim Hackett’s remedy for sticker shock – Automotive News

DETROIT — Cryptic. Enigmatic. Man of mumbo-jumbo. A lot of what’s written about Ford CEO Jim Hackett, now in his role for 30 months, is as much about the challenge of understanding him as what he says. But one thought stood out at the tail end of an interview on the 12th floor of Ford… Continue reading Ford CEO Jim Hackett’s remedy for sticker shock – Automotive News