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This morning, Polestar began rolling out over-the-air software update P2.9 to Polestar 2 drivers around the globe. The update features the addition of YouTube integration, plus enhancements to both Range Assist and Apple CarPlay functions.

Although Polestar has several EV models in its current pipeline, the Polestar 2 will go down as its first BEV that started it all. Since debuting as a 2020 model, the Polestar 2 has seen c couple refreshes already and has consistently been updated over-the-air (OTA) to ensure owners get the latest features in UX, range efficiency, and safety.

Today marks the Polestar 2’s fifteenth OTA update to date and is delivering some added display features as well as the integration of YouTube for added entertainment while charging or parked.

The deeper details of the Range Assist app / Credit: Polestar

Details of Polestar 2 OTA update P2.9

According to Polestar, OTA update P2.9 will roll out to current 2 owners today and come equipped on new models by default going forward. The biggest update is the integration of the YouTube app on the EV’s center display. We’re surprised this isn’t already a thing but better late than never, right? Polestar CEO Thomas Ingenlath broke it down further:

We know how much our customers look forward to over-the-air upgrades and I am convinced this one will be well received, with notable new features and enhancements. YouTube is great for entertainment while charging, and our updated Range Assistant app delivers more accurate predictions and supports an improved driving style. Bringing Apple Maps to the driver display is one of many important updates to Apple CarPlay in Polestar 2.

The first additional feature in the Polestar 2 update Ingenlath is referring to is an upgrade to the automaker’s Range Assistant app, which now enables drivers to see more granular energy-consumption details in real time (see above). They can now monitor the previous 20, 40, or 100 miles of their journey to adjust their driving style and improve overall range efficiency.

Range Assistant also gains a revised algorithm for the Polestar 2’s projected range, now taking into account changes in environmental and other outside factors that affect efficiency. Lastly, Polestar 2 drivers can now see their real-world related range right in front of them on the driver display – an update from the default range projection based upon standard certified data.

Polestar 2 update
Apple Maps can now be viewed on the driver display when using Apple CarPlay

Last but certainly not least, the Polestar’s latest OTA update includes extended views of Apple CarPlay. Additional phone and media information can now be viewed on the EV’s home screen. This includes “play/pause” and “next/previous” buttons, as well as “now playing” details.

Phone call information will now be shown on home screen and driver display and drivers can mange calls directly from their steering wheel buttons. When navigating in Apple Maps, CarPlay can now feature the navigational route on the driver display in addition to the center screen (see image above).

Polestar 2 owners, keep and eye out for OTA software update P2.9 coming your way soon.

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Podcast: new Tesla Model Y launches in NA/EU, Rivian is popular, Trump’s effect on EVs, and more

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Podcast: new Tesla Model Y launches in NA/EU, Rivian is popular, Trump's effect on EVs, and more

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 new Tesla Model Y launching in NA/EU, Rivian getting popular with OEMs, Trump’s effect on EVs, and more.

The show is live every Friday at 4 p.m. ET on Electrek’s YouTube channel.

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:

We now have a Patreon if you want to help us avoid more ads and invest more in our content. We have some awesome gifts for our Patreons and more coming.

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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Tenways Valentine’s sale takes up to $700 off e-bikes, Autel 40A level 2 EV charger $391, Hoverfly, Jackery, Lectric, more

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Tenways Valentine's sale takes up to 0 off e-bikes, Autel 40A level 2 EV charger 1, Hoverfly, Jackery, Lectric, more

Closing out this week’s Green Deals is Tenways’ Valentine’s Day sale, which is taking up to $500 off its e-bikes with an additional $200 in savings taken off the order for two models together – and their getting up to $307 in free gear on top of it all. The standout for the sale is the brand’s CGO600 Pro e-bikes, with both the 8-speed chain drive and its belt drive counterpart at $1,499. Next, we have Autel’s MaxiCharger Home AC Elite 40A Level 2 EV Charger that’s been given an in-body holster down at $391, as well as a new low price on Hoverfly’s H3 16-inch Folding e-bike for $400. Running alongside Jackery’s direct sale that ends tonight, we spotted the Explorer 3000 Pro Solar Generator Combo with two 220W solar panels at $2,199 over at Amazon, among some smaller units too. Lastly, we wanted to shine a little spotlight on Lectric’s XP Trike that comes with $419 in free gear at $1,499. Plus, all the other hangover Green Deals are in the links at the bottom of the page, like yesterday’s EcoFlow Game Day Power sale launch, Rad Power’s two e-bike weekend flash sale lows, and more.

Head below for other New Green Deals we’ve found today and, of course, Electrek’s best EV buying and leasing deals. Also, check out the new Electrek Tesla Shop for the best deals on Tesla accessories.

Tenways’ latest sale that is taking up $500 off its e-bike lineup has a bonus Valentine’s Day deal taking an additional $200 off the total price when buying any two e-bikes together. We’re seeing the popular CGO600 Pro e-bike with either an 8-speed chain or belt drive starting at $1,499 shipped when buying one, but when grabbing two for you and your Valentine the additional savings drop things to $1,399 shipped a piece. This e-bike normally fetches $1,899 at full price, with the initial $400 markdown dropping things to the second-lowest rate we have tracked. Taking advantage of the Valentine’s Day deal then cuts the price down to they’re lowest rates – plus, each bike comes with free mudguards and a kickstand worth $118. Medical providers, military, first responders, and teachers can also score a further $150 cut on orders.

The Tenways CGO600 Pro e-bike weighs in at just 37 pounds, making it a manageable model for urban residents and beyond who enjoy active cycling but also want the option for PAS support. There’s no throttle for pure electric riding here, with the bike also sporting a smaller 350W rear hub motor and 360Wh battery combination to cut down on weight. It still provides an impressive 53-mile max travel distance on a single charge through its four-pedal assistance levels (activated via a torque sensor) with a top speed of up to 20 MPH.

The CGO600 pro e-bike comes with two drivetrain options – either the Gates carbon belt drive for quieter operations or the new 8-speed Shimano drivetrain (which also gets the brand’s newest motor). 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.

***Note. These are the initial sale prices below. Remember that buying two e-bikes of any model (including two different models) cuts an additional $200 off your total order.

More Tenways Valentine’s Day sale e-bike deals:

  • CGO800S Step-Thru Commuter e-bike: $1,599 (Reg. $1,999)
    • 20 MPH for up to 53 miles
    • Turn-signaling and color display
    • comes with $227 in free gear
  • AGO X Step-Over Urban e-bike: $1,999 (Reg. $2,499)
    • 20 MPH for up to 62 miles
    • Shimano 10-speed drivetrain
    • comes with $307 in free gear
  • AGO T Step-Thru Premium e-bike: $2,699 (No initial price cut)
    • 20 MPH for up to 62 miles
    • Enviolo stepless shifting hub
    • comes with $178 in free gear

Autel’s MaxiCharger Home AC Elite 40A level 2 EV charger with an in-body holster at $391

Coming through its official Amazon storefront, Autel is offering a great new rate on its MaxiCharger Home AC Elite 40A Level 2 EV Charger with in-body holster for $391 shipped – and both options for either a NEMA 14-50 plug or a NEMA 6-50 plug are feeling the savings. Normally priced at $559, costs have kept above $439 with discounts since its release, which were first beaten by the short-term $363 Lightning deal that popped up at the end of December. Today’s deal is the second-lowest price we have tracked (and also a first-time appearance) and saves you $168 on a more affordable means to juice up your EV.

Outside of Tesla models (which I recommend the Universal Wall Charger for), the ENERGY STAR-certified Autel MaxiCharger Home AC Elite comes compatible with all J1227 EVs or hybrids, delivering “up to 7X faster than a Level 1 (120 Volt) regular outlet charger.” It dishes out power for your ride within a range of 6A all the way to 40A, helping you to find the level that fits your needs while avoiding costly electrical upgrades. It comes boasting remote smart controls through its app, with more efficient connectivity across Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or Ethernet – plus, there’s an optional RFID card to start and stop it, preventing unauthorized use. Head below for more.

If you’re a Tesla driver who wants to invest in an Autel model but need an adapter, you’ll find the popular Rexing J1772 to Tesla EV Charger Adapter at Best Buy for $50 at the moment, down from $80. This device arrives rated for a maximum 80A input and a 240V output, allowing Tesla drivers to gain wider access to level 1 and 2 EV chargers by using home and portable setups.

If you want to go even further, you’ll find the brand’s MaxiCharger Home AC Lite 50A Level 2 EV charger also benefitting from discounts to its $455 low right now.

Solving commute problems doesn’t break banks with Hoverfly’s H3 16-inch folding e-bike at a new $400 low

We just spotted Hoverfly’s H3 16-inch Folding e-bike dropping to $399.99 shipped for its black and white colorways over at Amazon, and folks looking for an affordable means to upgrade their commutes won’t want to miss it. This model normally goes for $500 at full price here, with a higher $560+ MSRP direct from the brand and elsewhere. We last covered it falling to its former $423 low during Christmas sales, which is getting beaten out here to crown a new low price, saving you $100 and equipping you with a great starter bike that won’t break the bank. It’s also beating out Hoverfly’s direct pricing where it currently is down at $425.

Great for newbie riders, or anyone looking for a inexpensive commuting solution regardless of experience (especially at this low of a rate), Hoverfly’s H3 e-bike gives you the means to travel up to 25 miles on a single charge when utilizing its PAS mode thanks to the removable 280.8Wh battery – plus, there’s also a traditional bike mode to get in some cardio and an electric mode. The 350W brushless hub motor provides top speeds up to 15.5 MPH, and it comes with a nice array of features like the adjustable handlebars and saddle to accommodate a wider range of rider heights, as well as front absorbers, an integrated rear cargo rack, a headlight and taillight, 16-inch wheels, and a foldable bike frame.

Grab Jackery’s Explorer 3000 Pro solar generator bundle with two 220W panels at $2,199

Jackery’s official Amazon storefront is offering its Explorer 3000 Pro Solar Generator Combo with two 220W solar panels at $2,199 shipped. Normally you’d be pressed for $3,999 with this bundle at full price, with discounts only going lower to $1,999 during Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales. You’ll be getting the second-best price we have seen here today, saving you $1,800 on one of the best solar generator packages that the brand offers – with it also matching Jackery’s direct pricing right now too.

One of the most comprehensive backup packages from under Jackery’s flag, the flagship Explorer 3000 Pro covers camping needs, at-home backup, and even RV support. The 3,024Wh capacity provides plenty of juice for devices and appliances, with power output up to 3,000W normally that surges to 6,000W through its 10 port options, including the TT30 RV port. Recharging its own battery takes just 2.4 hours when plugged into a wall outlet, or you can hook up its full 1,200W of solar input to hit 100% in three to four hours (time increased for the included 440W input here). If you want to be able to hook it directly to your home’s breaker to cover up to 6 circuits, check out its other bundle with the manual transfer switch included while it is $1,500 off.

Other notable Jackery Amazon discounts:

Enjoy leisurely cruises on Lectric’s XP e-Trike that comes with $419 in free add-on gear at $1,499

Among Lectric’s current New Year offerings, which saw many of its e-bike bundles shrink in size after the previous flash sale’s end, we’re seeing a continued $419 in free gear accompanying the brand’s XP Trike at $1,499 shipped. This bundle would normally run you $1,918, but as is the case with Lectric, the savings come in the form of the additional free gear over price cuts, which are rare. Your package with this model includes steel-encased front and rear cargo baskets, an upgraded wide saddle with a backrest, a suspension seat post, a bell, and an Elite 850 lux headlight.

Lectric’s XP e-Trike is great option for folks who enjoy leisurely cruises around the neighborhood, but would also like some added versatility to carry cargo along while on errands and the like. The 500W planetary geared brushless motor (peaking at 1,092Wh) joins the removable 48V 13Ah battery to top out at 14 MPH speeds for up to 50 miles with its five PAS levels activated. It features a default mode for less experienced riders, limiting the acceleration and speed until some comfort has been gained, helping teens and elderly individuals rather well.

There’s also an array of add-on features outside of the free gear, like hydraulic brakes, parking brakes, integrated rear lights, brake lights on both back-wheel fenders, slim tires for sharper turns, a foldable frame for easier storage options, an ergonomic twist throttle for electric-only riding, and a backlit LCD display with an IP65 water-and-dust-resistant rating.

Best New Year EV deals!

Best new Green Deals landing this week

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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Kia sold over 200,000 EVs last year, but 2025 could be even bigger: Here’s why

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Kia sold over 200,000 EVs last year, but 2025 could be even bigger: Here's why

As new models like the three-row EV9 and low-cost EV3 roll out, Kia’s EV sales are surging. Although it sold over 200,000 EVs last year, Kia expects to sell even more electric cars in 2025 as it builds a “full lineup of popular EVs.” Here’s what to expect this year.

After announcing Q4 2024 results on Friday, Kia said it expects to see even more growth in 2025 with new low-cost EVs launching.

Kia sold nearly 770,000 vehicles globally in the fourth quarter, up 5% from the year before. The biggest growth driver was eco-friendly cars, including electric and hybrid vehicles. Kia’s eco-friendly car sales rose 14.5% in Q4 to around 164,000.

Hybrid sales reached roughly 100,000 in the quarter, an increase of 31.7% from Q4 2023. The new Carnival Hybrid in the US and the K8 Hybrid in Korea led the way.

Kia’s electric and hybrid vehicles accounted for 21.5% of sales in the final three months of 2024, up from 19.9% in Q4 2023.

The company sold about 638,000 eco-friendly cars in total in 2024. This included 367,000 hybrids (+20% YOY), 71,000 plug-in hybrids (-19.5% YOY), and 201,000 EVs (+10.2% YOY).

Kia-EVs-2025
Kia’s EV and hybrid sales in 2024 by region (Source: Kia)

Kia says new EVs will boost sales growth in 2025

Kia expects annual sales to grow another 4% in 2025 to 3.216 million units, up from 3.089 million last year. The confidence is due to higher expected sales in Europe and North America with new hybrids and EVs launching.

After launching the compact EV3 SUV last year, the first of its new low-cost electric car lineup, Kia will follow it up with the EV4. Kia confirmed it will launch the EV4 “sequentially around the world. The EV4 is Kia’s take on a mass-market electric sedan.

Kia-EVs-2025
Kia EV4 (back) showcased alongside EV9 (left) EV3 (middle), and EV5 (right) (Source: Kia)

The EV3 and EV4 were concepts showcased next to its EV5 SUV during Kia’s first EV Day in October 2023. Kia said the new lower-cost models reaffirmed “its ambitious global strategy to lead and accelerate the EV revolution.”

Kia launched the EV5 in China in late 2023, starting at around $20,000. According to a report from Korea’s Newsis earlier this month, the EV5 is already making a massive impact in the world’s largest EV market.

Kia-EVs-2025
Kia EV5 (Source: Kia)

Weda Kia, the company’s Chinese joint venture, sold over 248,000 vehicles last year, nearly 50% more than in 2023. Last year was the first time Kia crossed the 200,000 sales mark in China since 2020. Kia plans to launch the EV5 in Korea this year, followed by other overseas markets.

Kia’s EV3 starts at around $30,000 in Korea (KRW 42.08 million). In November, Kia launched the smaller electric SUV in Europe, starting at around $38,000 (36,000 euros) with up to 375 miles WLTP range.

Kia-EVs-2025
Kia EV3 (Source: Kia)

The EV4 is expected to start at around $30,000 to $40,000, depending on the market. It will join the updated EV6, three-row EV9, smaller EV3 and EV5 SUVs to complete its “full lineup of popular EVs.” Ahead of its arrival, the EV4 was recently spotted testing in the US for the first time. A hatchback version was also caught out in public, likely aimed at European buyers.

Adding to the mix, Kia will launch its first electric van (Purpose-Built Vehicle) in 2025. The Kia PV5 is a mid-size electric people mover that will come in different setups: basic (for passengers), van (for deliveries), and chassis Cab (like a pickup truck bed). As Kia expands into commercial electric vans, it will be joined by the bigger PV9 and smaller PV1.

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