Regularly readers of my Awesomely Weird Alibaba Electric Vehicle of the Week column will know that I usually dig around Chinese shopping sites to find the wackiest and coolest little EVs in the world. That’s resulted in finding everything from electric submarines to mini electric Jeeps. But this time I’d say that today’s vehicles are less weird and more awesome, especially if you’ve been looking for your own electrically-powered construction equipment for your property or work site. These little electric mini loaders could be the perfect size for hobby farms and small ranches. And they’re pretty darn affordable, too!
I’ve looked into electric loaders before, and even covered another one over a year ago. But electric mini loaders from China have come a long way, as you can see by the latest models.
I stumbled upon this company Aolite, which manufacturers a pile of construction equipment from pint-sized to massive. They’ve expanded into electrically-powered construction equipment lately and two of their loaders have caught my eye.
Their first model, which seems to be produced by a number of sources, is the Aolite 604. It’s a 1,120 kg (2,470 lb) mini loader that can lift up to 400 kg (880 lb) in its front bucket. It zips around at between 10-18 km/h (6-11 mph) depending on what gear you keep it in, and gets powered by a pair of 1800W motors for the four-wheel-drive system. A third 3,000W motor runs the hydraulic system, which includes a third circuit (in addition to the lifting and dumping circuit) to create a quick hitch system or power hydraulic accessories like gripper buckets, digger attachments, etc.
The lead acid batteries aren’t fancy, but they help add to the ballast weight and give the electric loader a run time of 6-7 hours. And of course the lack of a diesel engine has a long list of advantages. You don’t spend hours on end breathing in a toxic cloud of carcinogens, you don’t have to wear ear protection to avoid slowly going deaf, the entire vehicle isn’t vibrating the entire time, and it can even be used indoors for interior demolitions and reconstruction!
For those that want something even bigger, the Aolite 606 loader is nearly twice the size, weighing in at 2,050 kg (4,520 lb). It has a more powerful lifting capacity of up to 700 kg (1,540 lb) from a larger bucket. The two drive motors are each 3,500W, with a larger 5,000W motor powering the hydraulic system.
And check out how affordable these little loaders are. The smaller electric mini loader model is priced at US $4,900 for a single unit, though the price drops to US $4,500 if you buy ten of them.
The 606 loader is a bit pricer, coming in at US $8,300 for a single unit. Just like the 604 model, the price drops as you buy more. Pick up eight of these bad boys and they’re a modest US $7,500 a piece. For comparison, a similarly spec’d diesel-powered Bobcat L23 articulated loader is priced at around US $40,000.
Both of these loaders come with a ton of optional accessories (that each cost several hundred dollars) and that can be swapped in place of the traditional loader bucket. Unfortunately they are’t compatible with each other due to the 606’s larger size.
The company even has an articulating electric fork lift built on a similar chassis, though I’m not sure I can find as many uses for a fork lift.
Since the loaders can come with a pallet fork for an extra couple hundred bucks, you can easily turn them into small fork lifts, even if they don’t have the same lifting height as the real fork lift offered by Aolite.
Now here’s the thing: as my regular readings will again already know, most of the time I just enjoy finding fun EVs on Alibaba by window shopping, but I’ve been known to actually buy the ones that really strike my fancy. That how I would up with an electric mini truck and a 5-seater electric boat, among other odd purchases.
And now I’m seriously considering getting an electric mini loader. For context: my parents own a small ranch with 10 acres of land, which is where my mini-truck lives out its days as a work truck (which is good since it’s not technically street-legal). An electric loader that does overtime as a small tractor would be useful to have on the property, and these might fit the bill.
So I’ve inquired about what goes into buying one of these, which led me down a road to realize I’m probably getting in over my head — but that’s fine, I’ll just buy a snorkel too.
The company’s sales rep “Alison” has been helping me, and she’s a peach. I didn’t even tell her I’m internet famous for buying questionable stuff on Alibaba or that I write this column, but she’s been helping me figure out all the options for models, accessories, packing and shipping to the US.
You see, you can’t just buy one of these since most freight companies won’t let you do LCL (less than container load) shipping, which is where the cargo is just tossed in a shared container and you only pay for the space you take up. That’s how I shipped my boat from China, but that only weighed 400-something-pounds.
So basically, I’d need to import an entire container of these electric mini loaders if I wanted one. A full 40ft container would fit 10 of the smaller loaders or 8 of the bigger loaders. That’s a bit much for me, but it turns out you can get a half-sized 20ft container that will fit four of either model.
The only problem is I don’t need four. I need one. Or maybe two, if I want one of the big ones and one of the little ones. I don’t know what I’d do with four electric mini loaders. Maybe buy a 6-ft beach ball and play 2-on-2 loader soccer with them?
That’s a bridge I’m still trying to figure out how to cross. If anyone lives within trucking range of South Florida and wants to buy a mini loader, talk to me.
I’m not sure how far I plan to go down this rabbit hole, but the more I look at these things, and the more I watch videos like the one below, the more I start to wonder how I’ve made it this far in life without my own backyard electric mini loader. There’s a decent chance you’ll see me in another month or so with a follow up article: Oops, I bought a container load of Chinese construction equipment.
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In a bid to get it above the $1.00/share NASDAQ-required minimum, fledgling EV brand Polestar ($PSNY) is rumored to be considering a 1:30 reverse stock split that could see the per-share price rocket up to nearly $16.
Geely-owned Volvo spinoff Polestar is working as hard as Tesla to prove that stock prices have little or nothing to do with traditional business fundamentals in 2025.
That’s because Polestar posted a 36.5% increase in retail sales and a heady 48.8% increase in revenue (to $2.17 billion) over the year before, Polestar’s share price has plummeted more than 35% in a matter of a few weeks – culminating in an unwelcome nastygram from NASDAQ threatening to delist the company’s shares from the NASDAQ if they didn’t climb back up above $1.
In a reverse stock split, each share of the company is converted into a fraction of a share – so, if a company announces a one for ten reverse stock split (1:10), every ten shares that you own will be converted into a single share. In a 1:30 reverse split like the one rumored here, every thirty shares in Polestar would become a single share.
The reverse split increases share price, but it’s not without risk:
A company may declare a reverse stock split in an effort to increase the trading price of its shares – for example, when it believes the trading price is too low to attract investors to purchase shares, or in an attempt to regain compliance with minimum bid price requirements of an exchange on which its shares trade … investors may lose money as a result of fluctuations in trading prices following reverse stock splits.
That’s especially relevant because, despite the increased sales and revenue, the company is also posting increased losses. Through September, the brand posted a $1.56 billion net loss compared to an $867 million loss in the first nine months of 2024. The company is also getting hit hard by Trump-imposed tariffs in the US and increased downward pressure on pricing coming from aggressive post-tax credit discounts from rival brands like BMW and Kia.
If the split does happen, here’s hoping Polestar can make the most of their borrowed time and they don’t end up like Lordstown Motors or Faraday Future – two brands that have pulled similar reverse stock splits with dubious results.
You can find out more about Polestar’s killer EV deals on the full range of Polestar models, from the 2 to the 4, below, then let us know what you think of the three-pointed star’s latest discount dash in the comments section at the bottom of the page.
SOURCE: CarScoops; images via Polestar.
If you’re considering going solar, it’s always a good idea to get quotes from a few installers. To make sure you find a trusted, reliable solar installer near you that offers competitive pricing, check out EnergySage, a free service that makes it easy for you to go solar. It has hundreds of pre-vetted solar installers competing for your business, ensuring you get high-quality solutions and save 20-30% compared to going it alone. Plus, it’s free to use, and you won’t get sales calls until you select an installer and share your phone number with them.
Your personalized solar quotes are easy to compare online and you’ll get access to unbiased Energy Advisors to help you every step of the way. Get started here.
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With its sleek, uncluttered styling and more than 100 miles of battery-electric range before the extended range electric sedan’s gas engine kicks on, maybe the new Nissan N6 really should have been the next Maxima!
Struggling Japanese carmaker Nissan is dealing with an aging lineup and a brand identity driven more by subprime financing than any suggestion of reliability or sportiness here in the US – but overseas? The brand is rolling out hit after hit, and the latest Nissan N6 plug-in sedan promises exactly the sort of entry-level panache that could change its American fortunes.
“Under our Re:Nissan plan, we are redefining what Nissan delivers today and beyond,” explains Nissan President and CEO Ivan Espinosa. “It’s about strengthening our core, reigniting Nissan’s heartbeat, and creating products that inspire excitement and trust. It is about a sharper, more focused product strategy, a stronger brand, and a renewed commitment to our customers. Integral to this transformation is China — an essential market whose speed, technological leadership, and customer insights are setting the pace for the global auto industry.”
Developed by the Nissan Dongfeng JV in China, the new N6 is more compact that the well-received N7 BEV. In fact, the new Nissan N6, at 190.1″ long, compares nicely to the 192.8″ length of the most recent (and largest-ever) US Maxima, discontinued in 2023. Like the Maxima, the top-shelf version features modern, near-luxe features like soft, leather-like surfaces, LED mood lighting, multi-way adjustable seats, and mimosas or something.
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Mimosas or something
Mimosas; via Nissan.
The four or five passengers inside the N6 are propelled down the road exclusively by the car’s 208 hp electric motor, which is efficient enough to take you 112 miles on a full charge of its 21.1 kWh LFP battery. Once that charge is depleted, a 1.5L gas engine kicks on as a high-efficiency generator to keep the good times rolling.
Nissan says the N6′ exterior design, “features a V-Motion signature grille and expressive LED lighting at the front and rear.” And says that the car’s crisp lines give it, “a confident, dynamic presence.”
All of which sounds good on its own, but sounds absolutely miraculous when you consider the car’s Chinese price: ¥106,900 – or about $15,000 US for the base Nissan N6 180 Pro, as I type this.
Even with a nearly 100% markup to give it a $29,990 price tag in the US, I think the N6 would be a huge hit in the North American market. And – good news! – thanks to Canada’s apparent willingness to give Chinese carmakers a shot, we might find out if I’m right somewhat sooner than later.
Check out the Nissan N6 image gallery, below, then let us know what you think of the car’s US and Canadian appeal in the comments.
If you’re considering going solar, it’s always a good idea to get quotes from a few installers. To make sure you find a trusted, reliable solar installer near you that offers competitive pricing, check out EnergySage, a free service that makes it easy for you to go solar. It has hundreds of pre-vetted solar installers competing for your business, ensuring you get high-quality solutions and save 20-30% compared to going it alone. Plus, it’s free to use, and you won’t get sales calls until you select an installer and share your phone number with them.
Your personalized solar quotes are easy to compare online and you’ll get access to unbiased Energy Advisors to help you every step of the way. Get started here.
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Whether you’re prepping for winter power outages, loading up the RV for a long-haul trip, or want clean, reliable power anywhere you go, BLUETTI has a portable power option for every need. And right now, the clean energy experts are offering up to 65% off their most popular products for Black Friday – plus they’ve just dropped two major new releases: the Elite 400 and B500K expansion battery.
Here’s a complete guide to what’s new, what’s on sale, and how to pick the model that fits your lifestyle best. There are also some special deals just for Electrek readers, so don’t miss out!
For home backup + outdoor adventures: Elite 200 V2 and all-new Elite 400
Elite 200 V2 – Best value for backup, camping, and van life
BLUETTI’s Elite 200 V2 is designed for power users who need versatility. It’s nicknamed the “Swiss Army Knife” of portable power stations because it powers everything from your fridge to your laptop — whether you’re off the grid or just want to keep the lights on during a storm.
Key specs:
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Battery capacity: 2,073.6Wh
Continuous power output: 2,600W (3,900W surge)
9 output ports: AC, DC, USB-C, and more
Recharges to 80% in just over one hour
Ultra-quiet 16 dB operation
LiFePO₄ battery with a 17-year lifespan (3,500+ cycles)
Who it’s for:
RVers, weekend campers, off-grid explorers, small cabin owners
Homeowners looking for dependable backup power
Commonly powered devices: Mini-fridges, coffee makers, power tools, microwaves, kettles, electric blankets, laptops, LED lights, wifi routers
Its compact profile makes it easy to tuck away in an RV cabinet, trunk, or apartment closet.
Elite 200 V2 Portable Power Station is regularly priced at $1,699, and it’s on sale for the record-low price of $699 – that’s a 59% discount for Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
Elite 400 Rolling Power Station — New and optimized for home
Launching November 15, the Elite 400 is a powerful 3.8kWh portable station designed with mobility and backup readiness in mind. With built-in wheels, a telescoping handle, and side grips, you can roll it anywhere – even if you’re flying solo.
Key specs:
Battery capacity: 3,840Wh
Continuous power output: 2,600W (3,900W lifting power)
9 output ports for simultaneous device charging
15ms UPS switchover during power outages
Recharges to 80% in 70 minutes using AC + solar
Low standby energy use (3W) with app-control wakeup and timers
Commonly powered devices: Full-size refrigerators, sump pumps, CPAP machines, space heaters, power tools, projectors, outdoor cooking appliances, large TVs
Whether you’re powering your home in a blackout or running a campsite movie night, the Elite 400 delivers enough capacity to handle just about anything.
The new Elite 400 Portable Power Station is regularly priced at $2,999, and it’s making its debut on November 15 for $1,499 – that’s a 50% discount for Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
For whole-home power and off-grid living: Meet the new B500K expansion battery
If you’re looking for a system that grows with your energy needs, the B500K expansion battery delivers massive storage potential at a competitive cost of around $0.33/Wh – making it an excellent choice for users seeking higher capacity than the well-acclaimed B300K. Paired with the Apex 300, it also qualifies for the soon-to-end 30% Federal Tax Credit. Designed to integrate seamlessly into BLUETTI’s modular ecosystem, it’s ideal for home battery backup or off-grid setups.
Key specs:
Supports up to 100 kWh storage (paired with Apex 300 system)
Compatible with BLUETTI’s SolarX 4K, B300K, Hub D1, and more
Acts as both standalone power or an expansion battery
Future-proof with long-term ecosystem integration
The new B500K expansion battery is regularly priced at $2,999, and it’s making its debut on November 15 for $1,699 – that’s a 43% discount for Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
Ideal bundles:
Apex 300 + B500K: Best for large homes, off-grid living, and whole-home backup. With a larger individual capacity, the B500K enables a plug-and-play power system that can be expanded to a massive 100 kWh with the Apex 300. It provides 3.8 kW of power output and 7,884.8 Wh of capacity in total. The Apex 300 + B500K Home Battery Backup is priced at $4,998, and it’s on sale for Black Friday for $3,098 – that’s a 38% discount.
Apex 300 + B300K: The Apex 300, paired with the B300K, provides 5.5 kWh of capacity and up to 3.8kW of power output, offering smaller households or remote cabins reliable off-grid energy with room to scale. It’s an ideal way to support essential loads, such as refrigerators, lights, fans, and wifi routers, without the need to invest in a larger setup. The Apex 300 + B300K is normally priced at $4,098, and it’s on sale for Black Friday for $2,299 –that’s a 44% discount.
Plus! Both bundles are fully eligible for the 30% federal Residential Clean Energy Credit through December 2025.
For everyday portability: Elite 30 V2 and the new Elite 10
Elite 30 V2 – now in EcoTide colors
If you need lightweight, flexible power for camping, car trips, desk-side charging, or college dorm use, the Elite 30 V2 is the sweet spot. Weighing just 4.3 kg, it’s a portable backup that fits in your backpack or on a small shelf. Plus, it comes in six fun colors.
Key specs:
Battery capacity: 288Wh
Continuous power output: 600W (1,500W surge)
9 output ports including 140W USB-C PD
Charges to 80% in 45 minutes
Quiet operation under 30 dB
10-year LiFePO₄ battery lifespan, with a 5-year warranty
Ideal for powering: Laptops, DSLR cameras, portable fans, smartphones, drones, modems, LED lighting, external hard drives
It’s perfect for digital nomads, travelers, or anyone who needs reliable backup power without adding bulk.
Elite 30 V2 Portable Power Station is regularly priced at $304, and it’s on sale for $199 – that’s a 35% discount for Black Friday and Cyber Monday. You can buy it on BLUETTI’s website here and on Amazon here.
Sneak preview: The new Elite 10 – pocket-sized power
Launching on November 20, the palm-sized Elite 10 is BLUETTI’s most compact power station yet. It’s the perfect in-between if a power bank won’t cut it, but you don’t want a full-sized power station.
Key specs:
Battery capacity: 128Wh
Power output: 200W AC (300W peak, 400W surge)
5 DC outlets + 200W AC outlet
Fully recharges in 70 minutes
LED light modes: reading, warm, SOS
Perfect for powering: Bluetooth speakers, portable fans, DSLR cameras, tablets, Chromebooks, routers, handheld consoles, mini-fridges
Small enough to slip into a tote, train bag, or glovebox, the Elite 10 is built for everyday carry and quick power access.
The Elite 10 launches next week and is said to be the best budget-friendly option yet – available for under $150, and rumored to go even lower. You’ll be able to grab it on BLUETTI’s website and on Amazon here starting November 20.
Electrek exclusive discounts
In addition to the fantastic Black Friday Cyber Monday sale prices, up to 65% off, BLUETTI is offering a special discount code just for Electrek readers!
95% of BLUETTI products qualify for an extra 5% off with code: ELECTREK5OFF
The new Elite 400 and all Apex 300 series products qualify for 6% off with code: ELECTREK6OFF
Now is the best time to invest in a power system that’s quiet, clean, and ready whenever you need it – at home or beyond the grid.
The trusted name offers a full lineup of portable power stations to keep you charged – whether a winter storm hits or you’re enjoying outdoor adventures – and stay charged, no matter where life takes you.