EV Daily | GM Adopts Tesla NACS, Hyundai and Kia Expand EV Offerings Amid Global Challenges

【Tesla】

GM EV customers can now purchase a Tesla NACS adapter for $225, allowing access to Tesla’s extensive charging network. This move follows GM’s transition to the NACS plug, with future BEV models featuring it natively. The adapter enables access to 232,000 public chargers, including 17,800 Tesla Superchargers. GM’s initiative is part of broader efforts by automakers to adopt NACS. Tesla is facing challenges with its Supercharger extension cords, addressing charge port location issues for non-Tesla vehicles. While V4 stalls with longer cables are a solution, most Superchargers remain V3, causing logistical issues. Tesla's engineer has expressed concerns over using third-party extension cables due to safety risks. PepsiCo reports positive deployment of Tesla Semi electric trucks, using them across three fleets in California. Tesla Semi trucks are said to replace diesel trucks in terms of capacity and cost, with a focus on Total Cost of Ownership due to efficiency and fuel savings. The electric truck is achieving 1.6 kWh per mile, surpassing expectations.

【BYD】

BYD's Seagull EV is a leading low-cost model in China, with nearly 41,000 units sold in August. The Seagull, starting under $10,000, offers multiple battery options and is impacting both domestic and international markets. BYD aims to compete with ICE vehicles, emphasizing cost-effective electric solutions. The Seagull is also available overseas as the Dolphin Mini, priced around $19,000 in Mexico and Brazil.

【NIO】

NIO begins deliveries of its EL8 SUV in Europe, a refreshed model based on the NT 2.0 platform. The EL8, known as the ES8 in China, is NIO's sixth model in Europe, available in markets like Germany and Norway. Despite facing a 20.8% tariff in the EU, NIO continues its expansion, including battery swap stations across the region.

【Others】

Hyundai introduces the rugged XRT variant of its Casper Electric, with pre-orders starting at $22,800 in Korea. The Casper Electric aims to popularize EVs with a 49 kWh battery offering up to 195 miles range. Hyundai's IONIQ 5 with NACS port will access Tesla's Supercharger network. Kia's EV5 SUV is bolstering its sales in China, with 22,498 units sold in August. Priced at $21,000, it competes with Tesla's Model Y. Kia plans to expand the EV5 to new markets, aiding its growth globally. Volkswagen faces potential plant closures in China due to declining demand and competition from local EV makers. The ID.4 production is temporarily halted in Tennessee following a recall affecting nearly 100,000 models. Range Energy's electric trailer, now utilized by Petaluma Egg Farm, offers an efficient hybrid solution for diesel fleets, improving efficiency by 50-70%. The trailer's battery aids in propulsion, reducing the diesel engine's load, and can act as a range extender for electric trucks.