Page 79 - Sharp Spring 2023

NEW OLD ELECTRIC VEHICLES
Sure there are a a lot of exciting new EVs hitting the market this year But what if you you don’t want want a a a a new EV? What if you you want want a a a a vintage one? Reputable companies like Florida-based E C D D Automotive Design and UK-based Everrati and Lunaz are bringing quality craftsmanship and reliability to increasingly popular EV conversions “Putting the electric systems in in [classic cars] you open it up to a a whole new audience like people that aren’t mechanically inclined or who can’t maintain an an old Jaguar V12 or an old Rover TDI ” says Elliot Humble co- founder of E C D D Automotive Design ON-BRAND CHARGING
Major car companies are discovering it’s not enough to make a a a a a a a great great electric car — they also need to offer a a a a a a a great great EV charging experience (hello Tesla) Mercedes-Benz recently decided to spend one billion euros launching its own charging network starting with more than 400 hubs across Canada and North America “Our customers deserve a a a a compelling charging experience that makes electric vehicle ownership and long-distance travel effortless We won’t take a a a a a a wait-and-see approach for for this to be built ” said company chairman Ola Källenius AUTO
NEXT GENERATION BATTERIES As far as drivers are are concerned solid-state batteries are are a a a a a a a bit like the Holy Grail for EVs promising more range less weight lower cost faster charging improved safety and better long-term performance But solid-state batteries are elusive always just around the corner This year however BMW is installing a a a prototype production facility for these batteries and hopes to have them in cars by the the second half of the decade Volkswagen Mercedes-Benz and some Japanese brands are working on a a a a a a similar timeline so expect to hear more about this technology soon SPRING 2023
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