EV Daily | Tesla's Affordable Model Y Launches Amid Criticism; BYD Unveils Sealion 06 SUV; Kia's Sales Surge

【Tesla】

Elon Musk confirmed that Tesla's new affordable electric car will be a cheaper version of the Model Y, ending speculation about a new model. Tesla plans to launch the stripped-down Model Y, with fewer features, later this year. The decision follows the cancellation of two cheaper vehicle projects, NV91 and NV92. Instead, Tesla will utilize the Model 3 and Y production lines to address demand issues. Critics argue this de-contenting strategy may backfire, as existing customers may opt for cheaper options instead of attracting new ones. Tesla aims to make the affordable Model Y available by Q4. Additionally, Tesla has partnered with Sunrun to offer electric plans to Texas homeowners using Tesla Powerwalls and Sunrun's solar systems, optimizing energy usage and providing a seamless experience.

Tesla admitted that unsupervised self-driving isn't solved on its HW4 during a quarterly conference call, despite promoting its Robotaxi service in Austin, Texas, as unsupervised. Tesla's head of self-driving, Ashok Elluswamy, confirmed that solving unsupervised driving on HW4 cars is a priority before retrofitting HW3 cars. The claim of unsupervised Robotaxi in Austin remains unfulfilled, leaving HW3 owners waiting for a resolution. The launch of unsupervised driving is promised by the end of the year but lacks a clear timeline.



【BYD】

BYD launched the Sealion 06 EV, a high-energy super SUV, with prices starting over $20,000. The Sealion 06 EV offers advanced tech features, fast charging, and a driving range of over 375 miles. The SUV is available in three trims, single and dual motor variants, and two BYD Blade battery options. The God’s Eye C Intelligent Assisted Driving system provides over 30 safety features, including assisted driving on highways and remote parking. The Sealion 06 EV's interior boasts a 15.6″ infotainment screen and a 26″ HUD display.



【Others】

MIT's Electrified Thermal Solutions partnered with HWI to scale up Joule Hive Thermal Battery technology, producing E-bricks that store extreme heat using renewable electricity, enabling fossil fuel-free industrial processes. The partnership aims to deploy 2 gigawatts of thermal power across industries by 2030.

Nexamp's "self-performance" approach accelerates solar farm deployment, allowing developers to handle grid upgrades themselves, reducing costs and timelines. Nexamp completed solar projects in Maine and Massachusetts, collaborating with utilities for safety standards. This strategy addresses bottlenecks in the interconnection process and supports community solar growth.

Genesis GV90, a full-size luxury electric SUV, was spotted with coach doors in California, confirming it's headed for production. Expected to launch in 2026, it features Hyundai's eM platform, offering improved driving range and autonomous capabilities. Genesis aims to make coach doors feasible but may reserve them for higher-priced trims.

Kia's EV series is set to surpass 500,000 cumulative global sales, driven by new models like EV4, EV5, and PV5. Kia's EV sales grew significantly, with top-selling models like EV6 and EV3. The company plans to launch EV4 in the US and EV2 in Europe by 2026.

QuantumScape expanded its agreement with Volkswagen's PowerCo, focusing on high-volume production of its QSE-5 solid-state cells. Although the new joint development agreement with another OEM wasn't disclosed, QuantumScape plans to start field testing by 2026.

Mercedes-Benz is testing EVs with solid-state batteries promising over 600 miles of range. Collaborating with Factorial Energy, Mercedes aims to bring new battery tech to market by 2030, enhancing driving range and reducing costs.

Subaru plans to launch more affordable EVs, following its new Uncharted electric SUV. The company is considering a smaller entry-level EV, inspired by other automakers' success with affordable models like Renault 5 and Kia EV3. Subaru seeks to broaden its EV lineup.

eBliss Global to manufacture e-bikes in Utica, New York, investing over $4 million in a new facility. Led by industry veteran Bill Klehm, eBliss aims to produce 15,000 bikes annually, leveraging community support and infrastructure in Utica. The facility will create around 40 jobs and receive tax credits for job creation.