Hyperloop, hydrogen-powered trains, and air-taxis. As the 21st century progresses, the way people get from A to B is on the cusp of a significant shift driven by design and innovation.
While the above technologies may be a few years off from widespread adoption, that’s not to say change isn’t already afoot.
Around the world, national and municipal governments are attempting to slash emissions and boost urban air quality, with many putting their faith in a growing sector: battery electric vehicles.
There’s undoubtedly momentum behind the industry. A recent report from the International Energy Agency stated roughly 3 million new electric cars were registered last year, a record amount and a 41% rise compared to 2019.
Looking ahead, the IEA says the number of electric cars, buses, vans and heavy trucks on roads — its projection does not include two- and three-wheeled electric vehicles — is expected to hit 145 million by 2030.
If governments ramp up efforts to meet international energy and climate goals, the global fleet could increase further still, expanding to 230 million by the end of the decade.
A changing world
As the number of electric vehicles on the planet’s roads increases, society will need to adapt.
Extensive charging networks, for example, will need to be rolled out to meet increased demand and dispel lingering concerns around “range anxiety” — the idea that electric vehicles aren’t able to undertake long journeys without losing power and getting stranded.
Another area where we will notice change relates to noise: As well as boasting zero tailpipe emissions, electric vehicles are far quieter than their diesel and gasoline cousins.
This means less noise pollution in urban areas — clearly a good thing — but also throws up a potential challenge for other road users, especially those with sight problems.
“For people who are blind or partially sighted, judging traffic can be really difficult,” Zoe Courtney-Bodgener, policy and campaigns officer at the U.K.-based Royal National Institute of Blind People, told CNBC in a phone interview.
Courtney-Bodgener explained that an increasing number of “quiet” modes of transport were now being used, giving the example of bicycles and larger electric and hybrid vehicles.
“If you can’t always or reliably use vision to detect those vehicles, then sound is even more important,” she went on to state.
“And when the sound is not there, or is not loud enough to be able to reliably detect those vehicles, obviously that presents danger because … you’re not reliably able to know when a vehicle is approaching you.”
The law of the land
It should be noted that, around the world, legislation and technology have already been introduced in a bid tackle this issue.
In the European Union and U.K., for example, all new electric and hybrid vehicles will have to use an acoustic vehicle alerting system, or AVAS, from July 1. This will build upon and broaden previous regulations which came into force in 2019.
Under the rules, the AVAS is supposed to kick in and make noise when a vehicle’s speed is under 20 kilometers per hour (around 12 miles per hour) and when it’s in reverse.
According to a statement from the U.K. government in 2019, the sound “can be temporarily deactivated by the driver if judged necessary.”
The EU’s regulation says the noise made by the AVAS “shall be a continuous sound that provides information to the pedestrians and other road users of a vehicle in operation.”
“The sound should be easily indicative of vehicle behaviour,” it adds, “and should sound similar to the sound of a vehicle of the same category equipped with an internal combustion engine.”
The RNIB’s Courtney-Bodgener told CNBC that while her organization was “happy” the AVAS directive had been translated into U.K. law, it did not “do all of the things that we want it to do.”
She went on to explain how the speed at which the AVAS cuts in perhaps needed to be increased to 20 or 30 miles per hour.
“We’re not convinced that if … a vehicle is travelling at, say 13 miles per hour, it would generate, on its own, enough noise for it to be reliably detectable by sound.”
Another area of concern relates to older vehicles. “There are already lots and lots of electric and hybrid vehicles that were produced before this legislation came into force and do not have the sound technology on them,” she said.
There was currently no provision to retrofit these, she added. “That is a concern because there are already thousands of vehicles on roads around the U.K. that do not have the AVAS technology.”
From the industry’s point of view, it seems to be content with the regulations already in place. In a statement sent to CNBC via email, AVERE, The European Association for Electromobility, told CNBC it supported the “current legislative status quo.”
“The limit of 20 km/h is sufficient, since at this level other noises — notably rolling tyre resistance — take over and are sufficient for pedestrians and cyclists to hear EVs and hybrids approaching,” the Brussels-based organization added.
“In fact, mandating additional noise beyond 20 km/h would rob European citizens of one of the primary benefits of electrification: reduced noise levels at city speeds.”
Noise pollution can indeed be a serious issue. According to the European Environment Agency, over 100 million people in Europe “are exposed to harmful levels of environmental noise pollution.” The agency singles out road traffic noise as being “a particular public health problem across many urban areas.”
On the subject of older cars needing to be updated, AVERE said: “Only a very small share of EVs on European roads would be subject to retrofitting requirements, given the fact that many existing vehicles have already been fitted with AVAS in anticipation of the new requirements, and that the rules have been put in place in time to support the expected mass uptake of EVs in coming years.”
If “additional requirements” were found to be necessary, AVERE said it stood ready to engage with policymakers.
The future
Discussions and debate surrounding this topic look set to continue for a good while yet and it’s clear that a balance will need to be struck going forward.
Regardless of whether one thinks the current legislation goes far enough or not, the fact remains these types of systems are set to become an increasingly important feature of urban transport in the years ahead.
Robert Fisher is head of EV technologies at research and consultancy firm SBD Automotive.
He told CNBC via email that testing conducted by the company had “found AVAS to be quite effective” but went on to add that if a pedestrian wasn’t familiar with the noise, “they may not automatically associate it with the presence of an approaching vehicle.”
“Currently, AVAS is mostly hindered by inconsistent legislation and a lack of innovation,” he said, before going on to strike a positive tone regarding the future.
“As we move away from the internal combustion engine, this technology has the potential to become a key part of a car’s character, a point of brand differentiation, and has the ability to save lives.”
Can-Am, a subsidiary of BRP, has officially entered the electric age. After bringing their electric motorcycle to market, they electrified another segment of their line-up: ATVs, starting with the Outlander Electric.
Last month, I visited Jackson Hole, Wyoming, to test out the electric ATV, and I came away impressed by the experience.
Can-Am Outlander Electric
The new Outlander Electric is built for work, and its specs back that up. The electric motor delivers 47 hp and 53 lb-ft of torque, providing instant and silent power. But the headline feature is its impressive 1,830 lb towing capacity, which surpasses even high-end gasoline-powered ATVs from competitors and Can-Am’s own lineup.
The ATV is powered by an 8.9 kWh battery, which is relatively small, offering a range of up to 50 miles (80 km).
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While this might not seem like a massive range for recreational users, it’s more than enough for a day’s work on the farm or for hunters and park rangers who need to move quietly through natural environments, which is the intended use of this ATV. It’s not a trail vehicle.
When it comes to charging, the Outlander Electric supports Level 2 charging, which can replenish the battery from 20% to 80% in just 50 minutes. You can also recharge the ATV on a regular 120-volt outlet overnight.
Can-Am has also included several features tailored to the needs of its customers. The Outlander Electric has three selectable ride modes: Normal, Sport, and Work, allowing the rider to adjust the power delivery to the task at hand. It also comes equipped with a 5-inch color display, XPS Recon Force tires, and a full skid plate for protection.
Priced at US $12,999, the Can-Am Outlander Electric ATV is now available on Can-Am’s site and from its dealers.
Outlander Electric First Drive
I’ve been pushing for electric ATVs for years. They make so much sense. Suppose you are using a vehicle to experience nature. In that case, it makes sense that the vehicle doesn’t pollute the nature you are trying to experience, whether this pollution is from emissions or noise.
The near-silent operation of the electric motor is a game-changer for many applications. The lack of engine noise is a significant advantage for farmers working around livestock, hunters who don’t want to scare away game, and anyone who wants to enjoy the outdoors without the disruptive roar of a gas engine.
Speaking of the lack of noise, Can-Am did its homework in this regard. Just like legacy automakers making electric cars for the first time, they realize that the vehicles are noisier than expected, as their internal combustion engines bury some of the quieter clicks and rustles.
At lower speeds, I couldn’t hear a thing coming from the Outlander Electric. Only at higher speeds can you start to hear the winding of the electric motors and the tires throwing back dirt.
Here I was just having fun on the trails near the Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming:
It is the level of polish and refinement that you’d expect from Can-Am – it just happens to be electric.
The Outland Electric is also very capable. With the electric torque and the speed limiter, you find yourself easily pulling heavy loads without even feeling it.
Here I was pulling heavy tree trunks, and I had to look back to make sure they were still attached:
Electrek’s Take
This is a significant move from a major player in the off-road vehicle market. For years, we’ve seen smaller startups and conversions in the electric ATV space, but a full-fledged electric model from a brand like Can-Am signals a real shift in the industry.
The focus on utility and work is a smart one, as Can-Am limited itself to the same powertrain as on its electric motorcycles.
While the 50-mile range might be a sticking point for some recreational riders who want to spend all day on the trails, it’s more than adequate for the target audience of this vehicle: ranchers, farmers, and small farm owners.
The high towing capacity and quiet operation are killer features for anyone who needs to get work done, and the instant torque of the electric motor will be a welcome advantage on the farm or in the field.
The starting price of $17,799 is certainly a premium, but it’s not out of line with high-end gas-powered utility ATVs. When you factor in the reduced maintenance (no oil changes, filters, or spark plugs) and the lower cost of electricity compared to gasoline, the total cost of ownership could be very competitive.
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Jeep’s flagship SUV will be the first range-extended electric vehicle (REEV) in the US. The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer is more powerful, more electric, and more stylish than ever.
Jeep Grand Wagoneer becomes first extended-range EV
The Grand Wagoneer, Jeep’s biggest SUV, has undergone a significant overhaul for the 2026 model year. Jeep updated the SUV with more than just a stylish new design.
The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer will arrive next year as America’s first range-extended EV (REEV), bringing a few changes to the lineup.
For one, Jeep is dropping the smaller Wagoneer name with all 2026 models unifying under one name: The Jeep Grand Wagoneer. Previously, Jeep offered Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer models, each with different trims, which made things too confusing for buyers.
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Every Grand Cherokee will now wear the Jeep badge up front as part of its refreshed design. Jeep updated the front face with a slimmer grille and full-length LED lights.
The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer REEV (Source: Stellantis)
The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer will be available in two powertrains, an REEV or a 3.0 Hurricane Twin Turbo engine.
Jeep said the REEV version will draw power from a liquid-cooled 92 kWh battery pack that lies flat on the floor, helping to preserve interior space.
Power is transferred from a 3.6-liter V6 engine to a 130 kW generator. When the battery gets low, the gas engine acts as a generator, extending the driving range to upwards of 500 miles in total.
Jeep said the Grand Wagoneer “sets a new benchmark in flagship performance.” With an estimated 647 horsepower and 620 lb-ft of torque, the big body SUV can move from 0 to 60 mph in five seconds, making it the most powerful Grand Wagoneer yet.
The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer will be offered with three trims: an entry-level, Limited, and Summit, starting at $62,145.
2025 Jeep Grand Wagoneer Trim
4X2
4X4
LWB 4X2
LWB 4X4
Grand Wagoneer
$62,145
$65,145
$65,145
$68,145
Limited Altitude
NA
$71,140
NA
$74,140
Summit Obsidian
NA
$93,390
NA
$96,390
2025 Jeep Grand Wagoneer prices by trim (*Excludes $2,595 destination and options)
The Limited trim starts at $71,140, while the Summit will cost at least $93,390. Upgrading to the long wheelbase (LWB) version costs an extra $3,000.
Jeep will begin production later this year of the 2026 Grand Cherokee with the 3.0 Hurricane engine. The extended-range EV version will be built at the Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Michigan alongside its ICE counterparts.
Meanwhile, Jeep has yet to reveal prices or when it will begin production on the REEV version. We should find out soon.
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Here’s how to score $1,000 savings on EcoFlow’s upcoming DELTA Pro Ultra X power station
Right alongside its ongoing Prime Day Sale that has been extended through October 15, EcoFlow has launched the super early-bird savings promotion for its upcoming DELTA Pro Ultra X Whole-Home Power Station (1 inverter and 2x batteries) ahead of its release on November 3, 2025. At this time, pricing information is surprisingly limited, with the brand simply offering the deal of a $500 deposit made between now and November 2, scoring you a $1,000 discount upon its launch from November 3 to November 30. The predecessor model carries a $6,098 tag at full price, with it regularly keeping under $5,000 most of the time, so it’s safe to say that this new model’s MSRP will land somewhere around those rates. Along with the initial discount, the brand is also promising up to $1,000 in installation subsidies when grabbing the station bundled with the brand’s new Smart Home Panel 3. Head below to learn more about this all-new backup power solution.
If you thought EcoFlow couldn’t get more expansive with its whole-home backup solutions, think again, as the new DELTA Pro Ultra X station starts with the same 6,144Wh LiFePO4 capacity (though it seems the base model may be a 2x battery setup starting at 12,288Wh) that you can scale upwards with future investments as high as 180kWh (over the standard DELTA Pro Ultra’s max 90kWh capacity). Like the older model, this one also boasts an expanding output rate from 12,000W to 36,000W, and provides a wide array of output ports to cover devices, appliances, your RV, and so much more – especially if you plan to utilize it to cover your at-home breakers with the new Smart Home Panel 3.
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That new Smart Home Panel 3 comes as a 200A hub that can be installed to cover up to 32 circuits in your home, allowing you to easily turn off non-essential loads when the grid fails. Recharging information for the DELTA Pro Ultra X so far shows inputs for an AC outlet, as well as gas generators, solar panels, and even EV chargers – plus, it supports Time-of-Use to automatically charge and discharge the battery based on your regions real-time pricing and electrical forecasts. We will update you with more information as it becomes available to us, and in the meantime, be sure to check out EcoFlow’s introductory video for its DELTA Pro Ultra X station here:
Save up to 56% on EcoFlow DELTA 2 and 3 Pro expansion batteries or a home hub starting from a $349 low for 48 hours
As part of its soon-to-end extended Prime Day Sale, EcoFlow has launched a 48-hour flash sale on three different units to either expand or upgrade your backup support, with prices starting lowest on the DELTA 2 Smart Extra Battery for $349 shipped, which beats out Amazon’s pricing by $60. This add-on unit normally carries a $799 MSRP direct from the brand, though it can often be found down around $599 on average, with discounts having usually dropped the costs further between $449 and $409, save for the one-time fall to this rate we spotted during the 2-day Prime event last week. Now, EcoFlow is bringing that low price back for the remaining days of its extended promotions, giving you a second-ever opportunity at $250 off its going rate ($450 off the MSRP) for the lowest price we have tracked. Head below for more on this and the other two units in this flash sale.
Popping in on its official Amazon storefront, Aiper is offering its IrriSense Smart Sprinkler Irrigation System at $499.98 shipped. Since releasing in May with a $700 full price, discounts started by dropping the costs to $600, with things going further to this rate for the first time mid-August. After spending Prime Day last week down at this low, it’s sticking around for prolonged savings, cutting $200 from the going rate and keeping it down at the all-time lowest price we have tracked.
The savings this week are also continuing to a collection of other markdowns. To the same tune as the offers above, these all help you take a more energy-conscious approach to your routine. Winter means you can lock in even better off-season price cuts on electric tools for the lawn while saving on EVs and tons of other gear.
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