Boutique luxury sports car maker Wiesmann has announced that the EV roadster representing the marque’s renaissance has already sold out its entire first year of production before it commences in Germany next year. Starting at an MSRP over $320,000, Wiesmann is promising its “Project Thunderball” EV will have ultra-fast charging, acceleration, and power – all packed into a “sticky” and dynamic two-seat configuration.
Wiesmann GmbH is a custom, hand-built automaker that specializes in luxury convertibles and coupes. The company was founded in 1988 by Wiesmann brothers Friedhelm and Martin focused on quality cars that stick to the road – part of the reasoning behind the automaker’s gecko logo.
During its pre-EV era in the early ’90s, Wiesmann delivered a custom “MF” line of models powered by BMW engines and transmissions. By the early 2000s, the automaker was releasing GT versions of the MF series with intentions to export them to the US.
Those plans fell through, however, due to high exchange rates and costs to modify Wiesmann vehicles to become street legal stateside. By 2014, the company had been “temporarily closed” due to the inability to pay its debts. Current CEO Roheen Berry purchased what remained of the boutique marque and Wiesmann was born again during the pandemic.
Eight years felt like a lot more than a “temporary closure,” but Wiesmann returned to the market in mid-2022 with a stylish new roadster EV called “Project Thunderball.” With production scheduled to begin next year, Wiesmann has shared that the first batch scheduled for year one is completely sold out… we’re just trying to figure out how many EVs that actually entails.
Wiesmann’s new EV sold out through 2024, but how many?
Per a release from the reborn German automaker this morning, its order book for the Project Thunderball EVs opened last September and has since been filled. Wiesmann states that production of the roadster EVs will begin in 2024 at its “Gecko” facility in Dülmen, Germany, where, “cutting-edge manufacturing technology and skilled craftsmanship come together to deliver the brand’s unique blend of precision engineering and bespoke coach-building expertise.”
However, one thing that remains unclear is the production capacity Wiesmann’s Gecko facility is capable of, and how many orders a sold out first year of EV production actually entails. We’ve asked the automaker for clarification and are waiting to hear back. Since EV will be hand built, we aren’t expecting massive output numbers, especially in its first year, but it would be nice to know what the automakers target are and how many have been spoken for.
As a relatively boutique marque looking to rebound from previous business follies, Wiesmann 2.0 is asking big bucks for its first EV to the tune of 300,000 euros (~$321k). But if it can deliver the specs its Project Thunderball EV is promising, Wiesmann should make a select group of affluent customers very happy with their purchase.
The two-seat roadster will come equipped with a dual motor RWD configuration, capable of 680 hp, 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft) of torque, 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 2.9 seconds, and a targeted range of 500 km (311 mi) (WLTP). It will also be capable of 300 kW DC fast charging and offer “near perfect weight distribution.” Wiesmann owner and CEO Roheen Berry spoke to the demand for the upcoming EV:
We are all extremely proud that Project Thunderball – the car which heralds the return of the storied Wiesmann brand – should resonate so strongly with driving enthusiasts from around the world. We knew that combining the timeless design, luxury, and hand-crafted finish that Wiesmann is renowned for, together with a state-of-the-art electric powertrain that delivers exceptional performance, range and charging and our own technology, including the innovative regenerative braking system, would result in a truly captivating and iconic car. To have already sold out the first year of production proves the unique appeal of Project Thunderball and represents a phenomenal start to a Wiesmann’s new, electrified era.
Production and deliveries of Wiesmann’s Project Thunderball EVs are expected to begin in 2024. In the meantime, you can check out the roadster EV prototype in action below.
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In the Electrek Podcast, we discuss the most popular news in the world of sustainable transport and energy. In this week’s episode, we discuss the official unveiling of the new Tesla Model Y, Mazda 6e, Aptera solar car production-intent, and more.
As a reminder, we’ll have an accompanying post, like this one, on the site with an embedded link to the live stream. Head to the YouTube channel to get your questions and comments in.
After the show ends at around 5 p.m. ET, the video will be archived on YouTube and the audio on all your favorite podcast apps:
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Here are a few of the articles that we will discuss during the podcast:
Here’s the live stream for today’s episode starting at 4:00 p.m. ET (or the video after 5 p.m. ET):
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The Chinese EV leader is launching a new flagship electric sedan. BYD’s new Han L EV leaked in China on Friday, revealing a potential Tesla Model S Plaid challenger.
What we know about the BYD Han L EV so far
We knew it was coming soon after BYD teased the Han L on social media a few days ago. Now, we are learning more about what to expect.
BYD’s new electric sedan appeared in China’s latest Ministry of Industry and Information Tech (MIIT) filing, a catalog of new vehicles that will soon be sold.
The filing revealed four versions, including two EV and two PHEV models. The Han L EV will be available in single- and dual-motor configurations. With a peak power of 580 kW (777 hp), the single-motor model packs more power than expected.
BYD’s dual-motor Han L gains an additional 230 kW (308 hp) front-mounted motor. As CnEVPost pointed out, the vehicle’s back has a “2.7S” badge, which suggests a 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) sprint time of just 2.7 seconds.
To put that into perspective, the Tesla Model S Plaid can accelerate from 0 to 100 km in 2.1 seconds. In China, the Model S Plaid starts at RBM 814,900, or over $110,000. Speaking of Tesla, the EV leader just unveiled its highly anticipated Model Y “Juniper” refresh in China on Thursday. It starts at RMB 263,500 ($36,000).
BYD already sells the Han EV in China, starting at around RMB 200,000. However, the single front motor, with a peak power of 180 kW, is much less potent than the “L” model. The Han EV can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds.
At 5,050 mm long, 1,960 mm wide, and 1,505 mm tall with a wheelbase of 2,970 mm, BYD’s new Han L is roughly the size of the Model Y (4,970 mm long, 1,964 mm wide, 1,445 mm tall, wheelbase of 2,960 mm).
Other than that it will use a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) pack from BYD’s FinDreams unit, no other battery specs were revealed. Check back soon for the full rundown.
Today’s Green Deals are closing out the week by headlining Tenways’ new 8-speed CGO600 Pro e-bike that is getting $118 in free gear while down at its $1,399 low during the brand’s New Year sale, with the other models seeing similar offers. We also have New Year savings from ALLPOWERS across a collection of power stations and bundle packages, with bonus gifts and extra 10% off promotions – all starting from $89. For folks struggling to enjoy shower time, Camplux’s 18kW and 27kW Electric Tankless Water Heaters sitting at their lowest rates from $240 for the time being. We also spotted a further drop in price on Anker’s SOLIX C200 DC 60,000mAh Power Bank Station to its all-time low of $100 too. Plus, all the other hangover Green Deals can be found in the links at the bottom of the page, like yesterday’s phase 2 of EcoFlow’s New Year sale, the $1,000 in savings on LG’s all-in-one washer/dryer combo, and more.
Tenways returns new 8-speed CGO600 Pro e-bike with free gear to $1,399 low in New Year sale ($500 off)
Tenways is wishing folks a happy 2025 by launching a New Year flash sale that is bringing back some Black Friday pricing while the month is still fresh, complete with price cuts and extra savings in promo code form. The most notable model benefitting from this sale is the new CGO600 Pro 8-speed chain-drive e-bike for $1,399 shipped, after using the promo code HAPPY2025TW at checkout to save the extra $200. This new model was released back in October carrying a $1,899 price tag, which cut down costs in the brand’s Black Friday and Christmas sales – first to the $1,399 low, next to $1,599. That same low price is returning again today for the second time, saving you $500. Tenways’ more veteran belt-drive CGO600 Pro e-bike is also down at $1,399 shipped, after using the promo code, its second-lowest rate sitting $100 above its Black Friday low. There are also extra savings for medical providers, military members, first responders, and teachers, with verification slashing an additional $150 off your purchase.
Ideal for folks who enjoy active cycling but also want the option for electric support, Tenways’ CGO600 Pro e-bike weighs in at just 37 pounds, making it very manageable in urban environments. You won’t find any throttle on this model, as the cut-down weight partly comes from the smaller 350W rear hub motor and 360Wh battery, which still provide significant support via four PAS levels (activated with a torque sensor) that cover your efforts for up to 53 miles on one charge, topping out at 20 MPH speeds.
As stated before, Tenways offers two drivetrain options for the CGO600 Pro e-bikes – either the Gates carbon belt drive for quieter operations or the new 8-speed Shimano drivetrain (which also gets the brand’s newest motor too). Aside from those big differences, you’ll enjoy the same features elsewhere on the bikes, with internally routed cables for a streamlined look, LED lighting, puncture-proof tires, Tektro dual-piston hydraulic brakes, and a compact OLED display for controls. You’ll also be getting $118 in free gear in the form of lightweight mudguards and a kickstand.
***Note: The prices below have had the additional $200 promo code factored in – but be sure to use it (HAPPY2025TW) at checkout to maximize savings!
ALLPOWERS is helping folks prep for the rest of the year with its New Year sale through January 26 that is taking up to 48% off its backup power units, with orders also getting an additional 10% struck from the price thanks to the promo code AF2025 being used at checkout, as well as some bonus gifts. One of the brand’s best-selling solar generator packages, the R2500 Portable Power Station paired with a 200W solar panel has been dropped to $1,043.10 shipped, after using the promo code AF2025 at checkout for the additional 10% in savings. This combination would normally cost you $1,599 at full price, with this sale dropping it lower than we’ve ever seen direct from ALLPOWERS. While we have seen it go lower at third-party dealers over on Amazon, this is still a solid $556 in savings, dropping it amongst the lowest tracked rates there.
As we’ve seen with similar sales, aside from the 10% off promo code for your total order, ALLPOWERS is also giving away free gifts at certain thresholds while its New Year sale continues. You’ll receive a free 100W solar panel on orders over $1,800 or a free 200W solar panel on orders over $2,800.
Ready to cover your trips out of the home or even support appliances through blackouts, ALLPOWERS’ R2500 power station offers a 2,016Wh LiFePO4 capacity housed within a streamlined formfactor. It’s capable of power output up to 2,500W regularly through its 14 port options, able to peak up to 4,000W for larger appliance needs. There are four ways to recharge the unit’s own battery, with an AC wall outlet taking 1.3 hours to refill its capacity, or you can solar charge in 2 hours with its maximum 1,000W solar input connected. That timeframe can be cut down further to just one hour if you take advantage of its dual AC and solar capabilities, or you can hook it up to your car when you’re in a bind to fill it by the other means.
***Note: The additional 10% in savings has not been factored into the prices below, as the discount takes the percentage off your cart’s entire order– don’t forget to use the code AF2025 for the best prices!
ALLPOWERS best-selling New Year sale bundles:
ALLPOWERS best New Year sale power bank/station deals:
ALLPOWERS best New Year sale expansion power deals:
ALLPOWERS best New Year sale solar generator bundles:
ALLPOWERS New Year sale add-on deals:
Keep it steamy with Camplux’s 18kW and 27kW electric tankless water heaters at lowest prices from $240
Through its official Amazon storefront, Camplux is offering its 18kW Electric Tankless Water Heater at $239.99 shipped. This unit would normally cost you $350 at full price, with discounts often keeping prices above $280, aside from the one previous drop to the $240 low at the end of summer. Today’s deal is cutting $110 off the going rate, giving you a second chance at the lowest price we have tracked.
Nothing beats a nice hot shower, especially in the middle of winter. Camplux’s 18kW unit not only ensures things stay steamy, but its compact form factor ensures far less space is taken up compared to traditional water heaters. Once installed, according to Camplux, you won’t have to “wait more than 3 seconds to get plenty of hot water,” with the fast-heating low-consumption heating rods boasting “efficiency up to 99.8% and saving 60% water heating costs for your home.” There are plenty of safety protections built right in, like against overheating, anti-dry heating, water-electricity separation, and more. Do keep in mind though that it requires a minimum 0.66GPM water flow to activate, as well as two double-pole 40A breakers, a wire gauge of 2 x 8 AWG, and a 3/4-inch NPT connection.
Of course, depending on your home’s size and the number of people expected to use the shower, or even how many water sources will be supplied from the unit, you may want to consider something bigger. Right now, you can instead grab the Camplux 27kW model down at a new low of $259.99, a drop from its usual $450. Not only does it promise round the clock hot water delivery, but it’s also rated for multiple points of use over small models.
Anker’s new SOLIX C200 DC 60,000mAh power bank station falls to $100 low
Anker’s official Amazon storefront is offering a return to the best rate on its latest SOLIX C200 DC 60,000mAh Power Bank Station going for $99.99 shipped. Normally this newer model would run you $170 at its full rate, which has seen a few discounts since releasing a few months ago, the biggest of which saw a drop to the $100 low with Cyber Monday savings. With this deal coming in today, you’re getting another shot at its Cyber Monday pricing, saving you $70 as it returns to the lowest price we have tracked. It even beats out Anker’s direct website right now, where it is priced at $110.
Anker’s SOLIX C200 DC power bank station is a smaller and more compact version of the brand’s new C300 DC and AC models, coming in with a slightly smaller 60,000mAh/192Wh LiFePO4 capacity. It delivers up to 300W of output power to your devices through its five port options (two USB-As, one 140W USB-C, one 15W USB-C, one car port). You can refill the units own battery via three ways, with its 140W USB-C port giving you an 80% charge in 1.3 hours through a wall outlet, or you can utilize up to 100W of solar input or the car port for 80% in 1.6 hours.
You’ll also find the larger 90,000mAh C300 DC and C300 AC models matching their direct Anker discounts at Amazon for $180 and $200 at the moment. Not only are you getting the expanded 90,000mAh LiFePO4 capacity here, but they also come sporting different variations of built-in lights for camping trips. You can get the full rundown on its other capabilities in our launch coverage here.
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.