EV News Digest: Mexico’s First EV, Sodium-Ion Batteries & More

Mexico Enters the EV Race

• Mexico has unveiled its first domestically produced electric car, marking a milestone for the country’s automotive industry and signaling a push toward sustainable transportation.

Record-Breaking Investments in Semiconductors and Renewables

• A massive $119 billion semiconductor plant, Terafab, is set to reshape Tesla’s future and the broader tech landscape, addressing chip supply constraints.
• The EU has approved €23 billion to boost renewable energy production in Italy, focusing on solar, wind, and grid upgrades to meet climate targets.

Dodge Charger Daytona EV Goes Global

• The all-electric Dodge Charger Daytona is heading to Europe, offering a high-performance EV option for international buyers seeking American muscle car heritage.

Safety and Range Innovations

• Tesla reports that FSD Supervised is over three times safer than manual driving on Dutch roads over the past two months, based on accident data.
• CATL will start production of a new sodium-ion battery with a 600 km (373 mile) range this year, offering a lithium-free alternative that could lower costs.
• Leapmotor’s B05 launches in the UK from £28,995, with up to 300 miles of range, undercutting many rivals.
• BYD’s chairman notes 2025 sales hinge on battery output, with volume set to rise next year as production scales.
• 2027 Hyundai IONIQ 5 arrives as the 2026 model wins a special EV award in the USA, emphasizing continued refinement.

Practical Tips for EV Owners

• Consider a power inverter for 12V camping to run devices from your EV’s battery.
• Michelin CrossClimate all-weather tires receive praise on the Kona EV for year-round performance.
• Company fleets find home charging fastest and cheapest, easing range anxiety.
• When repairing accident damage, compare authorized service centers (ASC) vs independent workshops—costs and warranties vary.
• A Nissan LEAF (Gen 1) owner troubleshoots charging problems; check forum resources for fixes.
• An Audi RS3 owner considers a Tesla Model 3 Performance; weigh performance vs running costs.

Charging, Connectivity, and Battery Tech

• Europe’s cheapest airline, Ryanair, is adding Starlink Wi-Fi, even for budget travelers.
• Cybertruck owners briefly enjoyed free Supercharger access before Tesla ended the perk, causing frustration.
• Tesla’s chief designer hints the next-gen Roadster will arrive ‘very soon,’ though no timeline is confirmed.
• PG&E NEM2 solar-plus-storage customers face billing errors; check your statements.
• Tesla’s Robotaxi strategy points to a widespread autonomous fleet, with hints from recent moves.
• PowerSled offers portable power for job sites, saving space and fuel compared to generators.
• Tesla vehicles show higher likelihood of reaching 250,000 miles than most major brands, per a recent study.
• Combustion vehicle sales are declining globally, with EVs gaining market share.

Source: eCarsToday.com/ecars-the-latest