Will cold affect EVs? Tesla claims "No"!

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Good morning!

In today’s edition:

• Mercedes’ new micro-converters could revolutionize EV battery packs

• The EV price tag war heats up and automakers battle for affordability

• Porsche Macan’s quick review & more!

Ready, set, go…

What’s new?

The price war in EVs: A battle for survival, not just market share

The ongoing price war in the electric vehicle sector has grown beyond a battle for market dominance into a fight for survival. For flagship manufacturers like BYD and Tesla, the race is not only about the latest technologies but also about which ones can survive and emerge stronger due to the fierce competition and harsh market conditions. Ultimately, success may depend not on having the best cars, but on the resilience to navigate a rapidly changing landscape.

Audi’s 2025 E-Tron GT arrives with higher price tag

For 2025, Audi gives the E-Tron GT a substantial update. That means the starting price increases by $18,800 to $126,795. With more oomph, the S E-Tron GT produces 670 horsepower and will do the 0-60 mph dash in 3.3 seconds. The RS E-Tron GT Performance, meanwhile, will now crank out 912 horsepower and launch from 0-60 mph in 2.4 seconds. An optional bigger 105-kWh battery pack extends the range to 300 miles, and faster charging times further boost convenience. These updates further solidify the E-Tron GT's place among the ranks of luxury EVs.

Ford UK calls for government incentives to support EV adoption

Ford UK has called on the government to incentivise EV take-up as the industry faces increasing pressure to meet tough sales targets. Lisa Brankin, Ford UK's chair, has warned that it will be difficult to phase out the sale of petrol and diesel cars without sufficient demand as Ford and Stellantis cut jobs amid the race to zero-emission vehicles. Despite investing heavily in electrification, Ford stresses that government-backed incentives are crucial for the transition to be viable. The UK government remains committed to its 2030 target but faces a delicate balance between climate goals and job preservation.

Lamborghini reaffirms EV strategy with Lanzador SUV by 2030

Lamborghini keeps their electrification plans going: reaffirming the idea to launch the fully-electric Lanzador SUV until the end of this decade. According to its chief Stephan Winkelmann, with regards to the Lanzador that will join their currently leading hybrid lineup, there needs to be an additive perspective and not a replacing perspective. While some take re-evaluation of electrified plans, Lamborghini puts their focus on upscales without losing performance attributes in the process. Its measured approach to electrification positions the brand as a truly forward-thinking leader in the luxury EV market, true to its performance roots.

Tesla improves winter charging with new charge port heater update

Tesla has introduced a new charge port heating feature to keep charging cables from freezing in cold climates. This update enables drivers to activate the heater of the charge port manually without turning on other systems, further improving efficiency and convenience for the user. Previously, the heater was connected with other functions of the vehicle; now it is independent. This update will be available for select 2024 Model X and 2023 Model Y vehicles; this will likely grow to include more models. This proactive step once again shows how Tesla wants to keep improving the EV ownership experience.