Electric - Ride4Watts.com https://ride4watts.com/category/type/electric/ Electrified Automotive Mon, 14 Apr 2025 23:02:23 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8 https://i0.wp.com/ride4watts.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/cropped-ride4watts-high-resolution-logo-color-on-transparent-background.png?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1 Electric - Ride4Watts.com https://ride4watts.com/category/type/electric/ 32 32 230869082 The Rise of ‘Electromods’: Converting Classic Cars to Electric https://ride4watts.com/2025/04/01/the-rise-of-electromods-converting-classic-cars-to-electric/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=the-rise-of-electromods-converting-classic-cars-to-electric https://ride4watts.com/2025/04/01/the-rise-of-electromods-converting-classic-cars-to-electric/#respond Tue, 01 Apr 2025 09:00:32 +0000 https://ride4watts.com/?p=346 What are EV electromods? These are electric conversions performed on classic cars to change them from their traditional powertrains to an electric setup. Why are these electric vehicle conversions becoming popular? Many classic cars have large, inefficient powertrains that make them hard to justify on the road today. If you want the look of a […]

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What are EV electromods? These are electric conversions performed on classic cars to change them from their traditional powertrains to an electric setup.

Why are these electric vehicle conversions becoming popular? Many classic cars have large, inefficient powertrains that make them hard to justify on the road today. If you want the look of a classic vehicle with a modern powertrain, one of the best ways to get this is to choose EV electromods. A company can remove the combustion engine and replace it with an electric vehicle powertrain to revitalize the older model.

Here are a few popular choices.

Volkswagen Camper/Microbus

Volkswagen already created an electric version of the Microbus, which is sold on the modern vehicle market as the ID.Buzz. The original VW Camper hit the market in 1949 and was popular through the 1970s. If you want to revitalize the nostalgic feeling but enjoy the zero-emissions driving of an EV, a typical EV conversion uses a 53-kWh battery offering up to 140 miles of range and 90 horsepower. The free-living feeling of this VW adds green power to the vibe, allowing you to be a modern hippy.

Mini Cooper

The original Mini Cooper came with a small combustion engine but can still be one of the best EV electromods. The small size and recognizable style makes it the perfect city car. The electric conversion uses a 19-kWh battery, providing up to 100 miles of driving range and 75 horsepower. That small driving rang means you should probably keep this car in the city. Still, an electric Mini from the 1960s is a pretty interesting way to get around.

Mazda MX-5 Miata

Another small car that works great with an electric conversion is the original Mazda Miata. This car arrived on the scene in 1989 and is a lightweight car with incredible handling. The Miata could be one of the most enjoyable EV cars you drive, especially with the instant torque offered that allows it to take off in a hurry. Some kits for this car include a 25-kWh battery that gives the car 100 miles of driving range and 120 horsepower. Adding this electric kit is a great way to have the driving prowess you want in a small electric convertible.

Porsche 911

If your classic Porsche 911 is on its last legs and you want to give it a new life, make it one of the EV electromods on the road. The Porsche 911 hit the market in 1964 and has been a top choice for drivers over the past 60 years. The traditional EV conversion gives this car a 62-kWh battery pack, 200 miles of driving range, and 320 horsepower. This allows you to give your classic car a new life while also ensuring it can be a zero-emissions vehicle.

Rolls-Royce Phantom V

Imagine this incredible car silently sneaking up on people. This Rolls-Royce could be great to drive with an electric powertrain, which is accomplished with a 120-kWh battery that delivers 300 miles of driving range and more than enough power for a glorious ride down a country lane. This might not be what you have in mind for your Phantom V, but it could be a great way to enjoy the car without rebuilding the massive V8 engine.

Land Rover Defender

The Defender has a range of powertrains, and this car dates back to 1983. This Land Rover SUV could be an excellent model for becoming one of the EV electromods for your green driving pleasure. The typical EV conversion uses an 81-kWh battery pack, which gives the SUV 180 miles of driving range and 270 horsepower. You can still enjoy off-roading and might think it’s better when you convert your 4WD SUV to an electric model with instant torque, which helps you get out of trouble more easily.

Volkswagen Beetle

The VW Beetle is the second model from the brand on this list. It was first introduced in 1938, with an incredible push for high production numbers coming after the end of World War II. More Beetles were made than any other vehicle in history, which makes a classic model perfect for an EV conversion. A typical conversion consists of a 26-kWh battery pack, giving the car 120 miles of driving range and 120 horsepower. Imagine silently driving a classic VW Beetle on the roads in your local town.

These seven cars are just a few examples of EV electromods that turn classic cars into electric vehicles, blending the old with the new for the classic style and a modernized powertrain.

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Chevrolet’s Electric Lineup: Are You Ready to Join the EV Revolution? https://ride4watts.com/2025/03/31/chevrolets-electric-lineup-are-you-ready-to-join-the-ev-revolution/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=chevrolets-electric-lineup-are-you-ready-to-join-the-ev-revolution https://ride4watts.com/2025/03/31/chevrolets-electric-lineup-are-you-ready-to-join-the-ev-revolution/#respond Mon, 31 Mar 2025 20:59:52 +0000 https://ride4watts.com/?p=339 More options exist for going green than ever at your local Chevy dealer. Find out what you need to know about the automaker’s impressive electric vehicles. More drivers are switching from conventional gas-burning cars to EVs every year, and Chevrolet is doing a great job of keeping up with their changing demands. Let’s look at […]

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More options exist for going green than ever at your local Chevy dealer. Find out what you need to know about the automaker’s impressive electric vehicles.

More drivers are switching from conventional gas-burning cars to EVs every year, and Chevrolet is doing a great job of keeping up with their changing demands. Let’s look at the top EVs found at your local Chevy dealer.

The Equinox EV Is Capable and Affordable

The Chevrolet Equinox EV is one of America’s most affordable EV SUVs. With 319 miles of range and speedy DC fast-charging times, it offers a fantastic value to drivers shopping on a budget.

The Equinox EV features GM’s innovative new battery platform, which allows it to add around 70 miles of range in just ten minutes on a fast charger. The EV SUV has 57.2 cu ft of flexible cargo space and comfortable seating for up to five people.

Drivers who don’t mind spending extra money can use an impressive range of available features, from Super Cruise to front and rear lighting animations. Customizable ambient lighting, heated front seats, and flush door handles round out your options further.

The Blazer EV Offers Top Performance and Style

Larger than the Equinox EV, the Blazer EV is a midsize SUV that offers maximum performance. With an EPA-estimated range of 324 miles, the Blazer EV can really go the distance. One Pedal Driving and Regen on Demand provides the best range for longer drives.

Inside the Blazer EV, drivers will find a standard 11-inch diagonal driver information screen, a 17.7-inch diagonal display screen, and wireless charging. Google built-in compatibility makes it easy to access apps directly from the center display.

Every Blazer EV comes standard with Chevy Safety Assist, so drivers can have the peace of mind of knowing their families will be protected. From automatic e-braking to lane keep assist, the suite of driver assistance features makes piloting this EV a breeze.

The Silverado EV Gets the Job Done Right

The Silverado EV is one of the most impressive EV pickups on the market. With a GM-estimated range of up to 460 miles and up to 12,500 lbs of max available towing, it’s more than capable of putting in a good day’s work.

Drivers looking for impressive power can enable Wide Open Watts to harness up to 760 hp and 785 lb-ft of torque. Those more interested in maneuverability often cite Sidewinder as their favorite feature of the Silverado EV, as it enables the truck to move diagonally at low speeds.
The Silverado EV is more than just an impressive EV pickup truck. Drivers who invest in a GM Energy PowerShot Charger and Vehicle-to-Home Enablement Kit can also use their trucks to power their homes during blackouts for up to 21 days of reduced energy use.

Find the Best EV for Your Lifestyle

With three excellent options for electric vehicles, drivers have no trouble finding what they need at the Chevy dealer. The Equinox EV and Blazer EV are excellent family SUVs, while the Silverado EV is one of America’s most impressive electric trucks. There’s something for everyone in Chevrolet’s electric vehicle lineup.

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Get Your EV Swag On https://ride4watts.com/2025/03/26/get-your-ev-swag-on/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=get-your-ev-swag-on https://ride4watts.com/2025/03/26/get-your-ev-swag-on/#respond Wed, 26 Mar 2025 23:37:30 +0000 https://ride4watts.com/?p=336 It’s difficult to know just when to bite the bullet and buy a new car, especially if you’re thinking about an EV. But with so much going on in the world and the economy, now is as good a time as ever. But which EV is the one for you? All the manufacturers have them, […]

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It’s difficult to know just when to bite the bullet and buy a new car, especially if you’re thinking about an EV. But with so much going on in the world and the economy, now is as good a time as ever. But which EV is the one for you? All the manufacturers have them, from Ford to, Chevy, to Kia, and Hyundai. We’ll break down some of your options, so you have an idea of where to start.

The Ford Mustang Mach-E – Ready for Fun

Ford drivers have a great option for an EV. The Mustang Mach-E is great in any form, but the Premium or the GT will take your driving to new heights. The Mach-E offers the perfect blend of power and style, but get behind the wheel of the GT, and you’ll experience up to 480 horsepower and 600 pound-feet of torque from the two electric motors.
Inside, a 15.5-inch touchscreen puts all your infotainment at your fingertips and a large panoramic glass roof lets in lots of natural light.

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 – Well Rounded Performance

The latest Ioniq 5 has the comfortable cabin you want for an everyday driver, impressive range to help alleviate any range anxiety, and it’s got the power you want. There’s something for everyone when it comes to powertrains. A single motor setup is perfect for commuting, but if you like swift acceleration the dual-motor setup with all-wheel drive makes passing other vehicles more fun and effortless.

Kia Sportage PHEV X-Line – A Combination of Style and Substance

The Kia Sportage PHEV X-Line is the plug-in hybrid for drivers who need some versatility in their vehicle but want to look good driving it. Power comes from an electric motor and a gas engine, giving you the best of both worlds. Drive up to 35 miles on pure electric power before the gas engine needs to kick in. All-wheel drive comes standard, so you always have plenty of traction.
Inside, everyone has a comfortable place to sit, and the X-Line has dual-zone automatic climate control, navigation, wireless charging, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for syncing your phone.

Chevy Blazer EV – Sharp Looks and Power to Back them Up

The Chevrolet Blazer EV has a lot to offer. It’s a sleek-looking little SUV with options galore. You can get this EV with rear-wheel drive, front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Power comes from one or two electric motors, and horsepower ranges from 225 to 615 if you want to splurge on the top-level SS. This Blazer EV comes standard with all-wheel drive and uses regenerative braking.
The RS with its dual motor will zip to 60 mph in just six seconds, but if range is your priority, take a look at the rear-wheel drive version. It can go up to 334 miles before you need to stop and charge the battery.
Is it your time to buy an electric vehicle? Now just may be the best time to get one.

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The Power of Innovation: A Look at Hyundai’s Growing Electric Car Lineup https://ride4watts.com/2025/03/21/the-power-of-innovation-a-look-at-hyundais-growing-electric-car-lineup/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=the-power-of-innovation-a-look-at-hyundais-growing-electric-car-lineup https://ride4watts.com/2025/03/21/the-power-of-innovation-a-look-at-hyundais-growing-electric-car-lineup/#respond Fri, 21 Mar 2025 09:00:31 +0000 https://ride4watts.com/?p=333 Hyundai is in full electric swing and will soon have more electric vehicles in its lineup than Tesla. Let’s see what each Hyundai EV has to offer. Hyundai has done more than simply add electric powertrains to some of its traditional gas and hybrid vehicles. The brand has developed a global electric platform, which is […]

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Hyundai is in full electric swing and will soon have more electric vehicles in its lineup than Tesla. Let’s see what each Hyundai EV has to offer.

Hyundai has done more than simply add electric powertrains to some of its traditional gas and hybrid vehicles. The brand has developed a global electric platform, which is the basis for the growing electric car lineup from this Korean brand. Like Volkswagen, Hyundai shares its platform and technology with other brands, namely Kia and Genesis, which also offer electric models.

Here’s what Hyundai’s growing electric car lineup offers.

Hyundai Kona Electric

If you’re looking for a small electric SUV, the Hyundai Kona Electric is one of the top choices. This little SUV is the vehicle that launched Hyundai’s growing electric car lineup. It gives you an enjoyable drive and up to 261 miles of driving range on a full battery. The Kona Electric is great for your commute and its small enough to fit in every parking space along crowded city streets, giving you a great vehicle to drive and enjoy.

In addition to the small size and good driving range, the Kona Electric is relatively spacious, despite its small footprint. It also has an attractive interior package and excellent warranty coverage to keep you driving for a long time. There’s a new N Line trim which gives you a sportier look than the rest of the lineup.

Hyundai Ioniq 5

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 has been awarded the Best Buy Award from Kelley Blue Book, and it is one of the most incredibly useful EVs on the market. This electric SUV is easy to live with on a day-to-day basis, which is exactly what you expect out of your EV. The most popular choice in the Ioniq 5 lineup is the SEL model with AWD, which has two electric motors to send 320 horsepower and 446 lb-ft of torque to the wheels.

The battery capacities have been expanded for both batteries in the Ioniq 5 for 2025. This ensures it has up to 20 additional miles of driving range. The XRT grade is new for 2025, giving this compact electric SUV the off-road credibility desired.

Hyundai Ioniq 5 N

The Ioniq 5 N is the high-performance version of the Ioniq 5. This exciting and fun small SUV makes it easy to admire and enjoy the electric platform that makes it easy to rocket down the road. This is the most powerful production car from the brand, using two electric motors to generate 641 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque in boost mode. When the boost isn’t being used, it still makes 601 horsepower and 545 lb-ft of torque, which is sent to all four wheels. The Ioniq 5 N is fast and exciting, showing how much fun an EV can be.

Hyundai did more than add power to this EV to make it more exciting. Part of Hyundai’s growing electric car lineup includes making performance-oriented models more fun to drive. The Ioniq 5 N has wider tires and additional performance upgrades to keep the power harnessed and under control.

Hyundai Ioniq 6

The growing electric car lineup from Hyundai includes a sedan. That sedan is the Ioniq 6, which is stylish, exciting, and extremely competitive. This EV can drive for up to 361 miles on a full charge. The battery can be recharged to 80% in only 18 minutes, which is pretty quick. The most popular choice for this electric sedan is the SEL with AWD, which has two electric motors sending 320 horsepower and 446 lb-ft of torque to all four wheels, giving you the power and performance to be fun on any road.

The SE model with the RWD setup and single motor has only 149 horsepower, but it can be had with a longer-range battery, which increases the power to 225 ponies. This might be the Ioniq 6 that’s right for you, but the AWD models are much more compelling.

Hyundai Ioniq 9

The Hyundai Ioniq 9 was known for a short while as the Ioniq 7, and it enters the current model year as a new vehicle and a three-row electric SUV. You can take up to seven passengers along for the ride and enjoy the experience together. This SUV is expected to have two powertrains, one that sends power to the rear wheels using only one electric motor, and the other with two electric motors sending power to all four wheels.

The Ioniq 9 is one of the first three-row electric SUVs that comes from a mainstream brand. This means you can have the seating you need and pay a lot less than you will if you shop for a Tesla Model X, Rivian RS1, or Volvo EX90. This makes the Ioniq 9 a great choice.

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The Hyundai Ioniq 9 Makes Range Anxiety a Thing of the Past https://ride4watts.com/2025/03/10/the-hyundai-ioniq-9-makes-range-anxiety-a-thing-of-the-past/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=the-hyundai-ioniq-9-makes-range-anxiety-a-thing-of-the-past https://ride4watts.com/2025/03/10/the-hyundai-ioniq-9-makes-range-anxiety-a-thing-of-the-past/#respond Mon, 10 Mar 2025 22:41:20 +0000 https://ride4watts.com/?p=329 This is what driving can look like when you go to a Hyundai dealership and drive away in a Hyundai Ioniq 9… You have a 300-mile drive to your destination, a full cup of coffee, and a fully charged battery. If all goes well, you should make it by late afternoon without having to stop […]

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This is what driving can look like when you go to a Hyundai dealership and drive away in a Hyundai Ioniq 9… You have a 300-mile drive to your destination, a full cup of coffee, and a fully charged battery. If all goes well, you should make it by late afternoon without having to stop to charge, and still have some extra juice left to spare.

The Latest Battery Tech Helping Boost Range

The Ioniq 9 is a large SUV, but this doesn’t stop it from cruising long distances without needing to recharge the battery. Not only does it have a large battery, but it has new battery tech to give it longer driving range. The 110.3 kWh battery has an estimated range of 335 miles.
It will have the North American Charging Standard (NACS) port straight from the factory, allowing drivers to charge up at Tesla’s Supercharging network.

Choose Your Performance

It’s not surprising that the Ioniq 9 shares many of its mechanical bits with the Kia EV9. It will be available with three different motor configurations. It starts with rear-wheel drive and a long-range battery and a single motor that develops 215 horsepower.
If you want all-wheel drive, you can add another motor to the front axle and keep the long-range battery to bump horsepower to 309.
Performance all-wheel drive models switch out the standard motors for two more powerful motors. This setup is the quickest of the options. Press on the accelerator and you’ll get to 62 mph in just 5.2 seconds. You can reduce this to 4.9 seconds if you opt for the 21-inch wheels.

Let’s Take a Look Inside

Is soon as you get inside the Ioniq 9 you’ll see why this SUV is a step above any other three-row SUV on the market. The front seats are newly designed. Hyundai calls them Relaxation Seats because they feature dynamic massage.
But it’s not just the front seat passengers who get the royal treatment. The second-row passengers in the captain’s chairs can swivel to face their friends in the back, and everyone has plenty of head and legroom: even if you’re sitting in the third row.

Innovative Technology for Fun and Info

Hyundai simplifies your driving and riding experience with user-friendly technology. A panoramic curved display stretches across the dash, featuring a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a 12.3-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system. You’ll have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for syncing your phone to the touchscreen, and wireless charging to make it easy to keep your phone fully charged. When it’s time to turn up the volume, the available 14-speaker Bose stereo will turn your drive into a rolling concert.

Safety Is Still a Priority

When you shop for a vehicle at a Hyundai dealership, you know you’ll be getting a vehicle with the latest safety technology. The Ioniq 9 has the latest advanced driver aids from pedestrian detection to lane-departure warning, forward avoidance assist, and intelligent speed limit assist.

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Can the U.S. Charging Infrastructure Keep Up with EV Demand? https://ride4watts.com/2025/03/05/can-the-u-s-charging-infrastructure-keep-up-with-ev-demand/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=can-the-u-s-charging-infrastructure-keep-up-with-ev-demand https://ride4watts.com/2025/03/05/can-the-u-s-charging-infrastructure-keep-up-with-ev-demand/#respond Wed, 05 Mar 2025 09:00:05 +0000 https://ride4watts.com/?p=325 Is the U.S. electric vehicle charging infrastructure too far behind to keep up with demand? What are some of the roadblocks to building out this network? As electric vehicle adoption surges, one major concern remains—can the U.S. charging network keep pace? With more EVs hitting the road, the demand for reliable, fast, and accessible charging […]

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Is the U.S. electric vehicle charging infrastructure too far behind to keep up with demand? What are some of the roadblocks to building out this network?

As electric vehicle adoption surges, one major concern remains—can the U.S. charging network keep pace? With more EVs hitting the road, the demand for reliable, fast, and accessible charging stations is skyrocketing. While federal and state initiatives aim to expand infrastructure, challenges like slow charger deployment, inconsistent coverage, and outdated grid capacity pose serious roadblocks. This article explores whether the current charging network is enough, what improvements are needed, and how this issue could impact EV ownership in the coming years.

An EV surge

Electric vehicles have become increasingly popular and more widespread in recent years. The increased demand for EVs means a greater need for more public charging stations and a much better electric grid that can handle greater capacity. There may be some serious roadblocks that will keep the number of EV owners from growing, causing automakers to rethink their investment into electric vehicles. How could these challenges impact the need for improvements in the coming years? Could we see more reliable, fast, and accessible charging systems in the future?

A Band-Aid Fix

Tesla came to the rescue, to some degree, of the charging infrastructure. Previously, only Tesla-branded vehicles could use the company’s Supercharging network, but once a deal was struck, many vehicles could use these charging stations. This meant drivers with NACS-compatible charging plugs could pull up at a Teal Supercharger and plug in. Tesla allowed access by updating the software in most stations, but non-Tesla vehicles still charged at slower speeds than Tesla models. Still, adding these charging stations increased the number of available public charging stations significantly, but this only provides a band-aid fix at best.

The original plan thwarted

When the decade began, President Joe Biden drafted Presidential Orders to increase the number of public charging stations to 500,000. This project, funded by the federal government, was a good start, but most experts could not have predicted the demand for EVs that would grow furiously over the next few years. As emissions regulations became stricter, more drivers began to choose EVs. Automakers have dumped billions of dollars into developing electric vehicles, and the need for more than one million charging stations has become evident. Unfortunately, the growth of this network has already hit another major roadblock.

A huge roadblock

The political climate in the United States is tenuous at best. Unfortunately, when one party succeeds another in the Oval Office, the work of the previous administration can sometimes be in jeopardy. This is exactly what happened beginning on January 20 of this year. Immediate orders were put in place when the newly elected official took office, and Joe Biden’s term was over. This mean the billions that had already been spent on the EV charging infrastructure would go to waste unless plans continued, but that wasn’t the order given.

Why the stoppage of EV charger growth?

When parties fundamentally disagree and are extremely opposed to each other, the country can sometimes suffer. Despite the growing demand for EVs, which should translate immediately to the need for more public charging stations, the latest administration paused billions of dollars that were already allocated to states to build fast electric car chargers. Some states halted work on Inauguration Day, but some continued on. Many of those have since stopped building chargers due to the stoppage of federal funding coming from the most recent orders of the White House.

The power grid could be problematic

Although the current EV climate has cooled, especially since January, it’s expected that nearly half of all vehicles sold in the U.S. by 2030 will be electric. This means half the drivers will switch from using fossil fuels to renewable electricity, but there might be a serious problem. The current electric grid isn’t likely capable of keeping up with the demand required to fuel this many EVs. The electric grid is an aging system that’s built for a world that uses fossil fuels for many things.

Some automakers have produced more band-aid solutions including using EVs as battery backups for the electric grid. Part of the issue is the grid isn’t made to store energy, only supply it at an on-demand basis. This electric grid needs to be updated with storage facilities to back up the on-demand portion.

The EV charging infrastructure might be in jeopardy of failing miserably thanks to much higher demand than originally expected, the halting of federal funds, and an aging electric grid. Can anything be done to save this part of the automotive industry?

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Donut Labs Compact EV Motors Could Revolutionize Industry https://ride4watts.com/2025/02/25/donut-labs-compact-ev-motors-could-revolutionize-industry/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=donut-labs-compact-ev-motors-could-revolutionize-industry https://ride4watts.com/2025/02/25/donut-labs-compact-ev-motors-could-revolutionize-industry/#respond Tue, 25 Feb 2025 19:03:22 +0000 https://ride4watts.com/?p=321 One of the main benefits of EV models is the freedom of packaging. Electric motors are relatively small and don’t need extensive cooling. Batteries can fit wherever it makes sense in terms of safety and stability, and there’s no exhaust to fit into the vehicle. Generally, you’ll find the electric motor or motors close to […]

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One of the main benefits of EV models is the freedom of packaging. Electric motors are relatively small and don’t need extensive cooling. Batteries can fit wherever it makes sense in terms of safety and stability, and there’s no exhaust to fit into the vehicle. Generally, you’ll find the electric motor or motors close to the wheels. The Donut Labs startup may have solved the downsides of hub-mounted motors.

How Hub Motors Simplify an EV Powertrain

Donut Labs gets its name from the donut shape of the hub motor and the motors it makes are radial flux motors with more torque than average. Hub motors are a great way to simplify the powertrain of an EV model as there’s no need for gears or a driveshaft. However, previous versions of the hub motor have added unsprung weight and exposure to harsh conditions down by the wheels.

Because of this, hub motors have had reliability problems. However, Donut Labs claims this won’t be a problem with its motors. In fact, the company has dubbed them infinite motors because, when designed correctly, they should outlast the rest of the vehicle. According to the Donut Labs techs, a reliable hub motor is all about how it’s manufactured.

The goal is to achieve a repeatable and durable process with no coils or magnets getting in the way of motion. Donut Labs says its motors are difficult to destroy in any way besides a catastrophic crash.

Donut Labs Family of Five Motors

Recently, Donut Labs revealed its collection of five motors. The smallest motor is ideal for large drones, while the larger motors can be used in passenger cars and even semi-trucks. The company said each size has its own benefits. The larger motors offer more performance, while the smaller ones optimize affordability.

The revolutionary design could even unlock new industries, such as drones, which can lift shipping containers. The compact shape and lightweight design of the Donut Labs motors seem to have infinite possibilities. When might you see a Donut Labs motor at your local car dealer?

A good example is how it might work in a compact EV crossover. Donut Labs believes its motors could reduce the amount of parts in a powertrain by three-quarters. This would save weight and assembly time, and thus also reduce costs.

Golden Solution In Hub Motors

The first use of Donut Labs motors was in motorcycles. Industry experts have known for a long time that hub motors are the best solution to streamline EVs, but the weight has been a problem. Donut Labs appears to have the solution to make hub motors viable. A lot can change during the period when parts are tested and the motors are placed in vehicles.

However, if everything works out the way the company expects, it’s possible that EV models with Donut Lab motors might be available in a few years. The company has also fielded interest from other industries, including using the motors in washing machines and wind turbines.

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Top 5 Longest-Range EVs You Can Buy in 2025 https://ride4watts.com/2025/02/13/top-5-longest-range-evs-you-can-buy-in-2025/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=top-5-longest-range-evs-you-can-buy-in-2025 https://ride4watts.com/2025/02/13/top-5-longest-range-evs-you-can-buy-in-2025/#respond Thu, 13 Feb 2025 09:00:36 +0000 https://ride4watts.com/?p=317 Are there any EVs that won’t give you range anxiety? Eventually you’ll run out of fuel, but the longest-range EVs can go longer than others. The challenge drivers face when using electric vehicles is the time spent recharging the batteries. Many EVs can now drive longer than ever before, but that doesn’t reduce the charging […]

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Are there any EVs that won’t give you range anxiety? Eventually you’ll run out of fuel, but the longest-range EVs can go longer than others.

The challenge drivers face when using electric vehicles is the time spent recharging the batteries. Many EVs can now drive longer than ever before, but that doesn’t reduce the charging time. Despite the improvements in charging, when drivers want to take long road trips, it’s more time-consuming in electric vehicles because of the time it takes to recharge. Thankfully, the top five longest-range EVs give you the driving range to avoid charging for longer than other vehicles.

Tesla Model S: 402 Miles

The Tesla Model S is the original long-range EV, proving electric cars could drive for several miles without recharging. This amazing car has been a leader in the luxury electric car industry for many years, giving the world several high-powered models, including the Plaid edition.

The electrified powertrain of the Model S makes it an instant hit on the road, ensuring it can sprint to 60 mph in a hurry. The base powertrain hits the top levels of the driving range, ensuring you have up to 402 miles of range on a full charge. If you choose the high-performance Plaid trim, you’ll still have 348 miles of driving range.

Rivian R1S: 410 Miles

Rivian is a relatively new company, but this EV startup is proving to be a top performer in the industry. Rivian vehicles are made for adventure, with both the R1S and R1 T ready to hit the trails for some fun. The R1S is one of the longest-range EVs available, and it’s made for some fun on the trails, ensuring you can have the driving experience desired.

You’ll find up to 104.7 cubic feet of cargo space in this electric SUV, but it also delivers up to 410 miles of driving range on a full charge with the Max pack and dual-motor powertrain. The 14.9 inches of maximum ground clearance and standard AWD help check off more boxes for your driving adventures.

Rivian R1T: 420 Miles

When the SUV from Rivian doesn’t have everything you want, the truck can give you more for your adventures. The R1T is impressive and capable, giving you the versatility desired in a truck that can haul and carry what you want and go anywhere. This truck is an outstanding off-roader with impressive ground clearance and the ability to wade through three feet of water.

The R1T delivers the desired driving range, offering up to 420 miles wen you have the Max pack. This means you’ll have a truck that can go all day and take you everywhere you want to go, even when you’re several miles from the nearest charging station.

Chevrolet Silverado EV: 492 Miles

Chevrolet promised an impressive driving range in its electric truck, and the bowtie brand delivered. The Chevrolet Silverado EV is one of the longest-range EVs available, and it’s one of the most capable electric trucks you’ll find. This Chevy can tow up to 12,500 pounds and carry up to 1,800 pounds in the bed.

The 2025 Silverado EV received a generous price cut, making it more accessible than ever. The model with the most driving range gives you 492 miles, and the battery can be recharged at 100 miles per ten minutes using a DC fast charging port. This makes the electric Silverado one of the most useful and capable electric trucks available.

Lucid Air: 512 Miles

The Lucid Air continues to be the top choice when you want the best driving range. Since it arrived on the market, the Lucid Air has been the longest-range EV available, ensuring drivers don’t need to stop to recharge the batteries very often. The Lucid brand didn’t waste any time becoming the leader in the luxury EV market, offering the Air in several configurations.

This incredible car can give you up to 512 miles of driving range on a full charge, but it can also be exciting to drive. Some versions can sprint to 60 mph in 1.89 seconds, which is lightning-fast and only limited by the tires used.

The longest-range EVs remove most of the range anxiety you might feel when you drive an electric vehicle. These five models hit the top spots and offer various vehicle types for your driving needs. Will you drive one of these EVs and let them keep you happy and on the road for more miles than other EVs?

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Real World Driving is Better for EV Batteries https://ride4watts.com/2025/02/12/real-world-driving-is-better-for-ev-batteries/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=real-world-driving-is-better-for-ev-batteries https://ride4watts.com/2025/02/12/real-world-driving-is-better-for-ev-batteries/#respond Wed, 12 Feb 2025 22:20:58 +0000 https://ride4watts.com/?p=314 Lab testing of products is usually fairly accurate, and often when you get a product into the real world, it doesn’t perform as well as it did in the lab. But, this is not the case for the batteries you have in your electric SUVs. Surprise! Real-world driving is better for EV batteries! Under the […]

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Lab testing of products is usually fairly accurate, and often when you get a product into the real world, it doesn’t perform as well as it did in the lab. But, this is not the case for the batteries you have in your electric SUVs. Surprise! Real-world driving is better for EV batteries!

Under the Hood of the New EV Battery Study

A new study was recently done by scientists in the SLAC-Stanford Battery Center. This center is a joint venture between Stanford University’s Precourt Institute for Energy and the SLAC National Accelerator Lab.
They found that batteries used real-world conditions such as heavy traffic, short trips in the city, and even long highway trips lasted longer than the batteries that were originally tested in the lab. In the lab, they simulated use by creating a constant rate of discharge and then recharging.

What Did the SLAC-Stanford Battery Center Do?

The SLAC-Standford Battery Center conducted their test differently than the previous battery tests. They replicated real-world conditions and driving patterns by designing different discharge patterns based on real data. They tested 92 lithium-ion batteries for over two years using a variety of different scenarios such as electronic starting and stopping, to mimic real conditions.

What Did They Find?

Once batteries were being used out in real driving conditions, including long periods of being parked, they realized that the way they were testing the batteries in the lab was not a good way to predict the life expectancy. Other driving habits such as frequent acceleration, braking the charges the battery, and letting the battery rest for several hours such as overnight, helps them last up to 40 percent longer.

So What Does This Mean for EV Drivers?

What does this pleasant surprise mean for people who already drive electric vehicles or are looking into buying electric SUVs? It means that EV drivers could save a significant amount of money in the long run.
One of the things that was holding some car buyers back from choosing an EV over a gas vehicle was the idea that they would have to replace the battery, Now, they can feel more comfortable with the idea of an EV, knowing that the replacement is many years down the road. Batteries that last longer help reduce the overall cost of owning an EV.

What Affects Battery Life

EV batteries can last 10 or 20 years, but there are many things that can have an effect on how long they last. One of the biggest factors is battery chemistry. There are two main types of batteries found in EVs: lithium-ion and nickel-metal hydride. Most EVs have lithium-ion batteries.
In addition to the type of battery, the environmental conditions can impact its lifespan. Extreme heat and cold can affect the chemical process. DC fast charging is another factor that can affect battery life. Frequent use is linked to faster degradation.

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What Are the Most Affordable EVs Available? https://ride4watts.com/2025/02/04/what-are-the-most-affordable-evs-available/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=what-are-the-most-affordable-evs-available https://ride4watts.com/2025/02/04/what-are-the-most-affordable-evs-available/#respond Tue, 04 Feb 2025 23:03:31 +0000 https://ride4watts.com/?p=342 Currently, the most affordable EVs on the market include the Nissan Leaf, the Hyundai Kona Electric, and the Chevrolet Bolt EV. Although these are the EVs with the most affordable new prices, there are several other options for around or under $40,000, including the Chevrolet Equinox EV, the Mini Cooper SE, and the Volkswagen ID […]

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Currently, the most affordable EVs on the market include the Nissan Leaf, the Hyundai Kona Electric, and the Chevrolet Bolt EV. Although these are the EVs with the most affordable new prices, there are several other options for around or under $40,000, including the Chevrolet Equinox EV, the Mini Cooper SE, and the Volkswagen ID 4.

How To Choose An Affordable EV

If you’re hoping to get into the EV game for a budget price, you do have a few options. You might just need an efficient secondary vehicle for driving around town and don’t want to spend a fortune on a replacement for your ICE vehicle. With this in mind, it’s usually adequate to have around 200 miles of range.

The prices for affordable EVs generally do not include any state or federal credits. It’s possible that if you qualify for any of these credits that you can reduce any new prices. Also, it’s worth considering a used EV as they depreciate faster than ICE vehicles in most cases.

Affordable EV Options Around $30,000

Although it’s no secret that EV models are still quite a bit more expensive than gas-powered models, there are still some fairly affordable EVs available. The target price range for affordable EVs is usually around or under $30,000. One of the lowest priced EVs available is the Chevy Bolt EV and EUV. The starting price is around $27,000. The EUV has a range of 247 miles and has more space than the EV.

Another top option for an affordable EV is the Nissan Leaf. It starts at around $29,280 and has a range between 149 and 212 miles, depending on the model. The Leaf has long been one of the most affordable EVs out there despite having a lower range than some rivals. It’s a good choice for those who need something economical to drive around town or as a secondary vehicle.

The Hyundai Kona Electric costs a bit more than the above two options at around $34,000. However, it does offer a good range, between 200 and 261 miles. The Kona Electric delivers a nice balance of range, features, and an affordable price tag.

Mid-Range EV Options Around $40,000

If you can move into the $40,000 range for EVs, you’ll have even more options to choose from. The Chevrolet Equinox EV is the electric version of Chevy’s popular compact crossover. It’s roomy with plenty of features, and starts at around $35,000. If you need something bigger, the VW ID 4 is a more spacious option for families, with a starting price of around $40,000.

Hyundai and Kia both have options in the $40,000 range with the Hyundai Ioniq 6 and the Kia Niro EV. Both models are stylish and efficient, with plenty of features for the price. Tesla’s Model 3 checks in at around $40,000 for the base RWD model. At the higher end of the range is the Volvo EX30, with a starting price just under $45,000. This is Volvo’s cheapest EV.

It’s likely that EV prices will eventually get lower in the future, so it makes sense not to break the bank on something unduly expensive.

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