Connect with us

Published

2 years ago

on

In a world where electric vehicles are rapidly entering the norm, Nissan is catching up to the pack with the Ariya crossover. Nissan is setting their sights on impressing the newcomer to the market, and I think they will.

Although the car came out some time ago, we’re spending a proper week with the Ariya. It’s safe to say that Nissan has made a decent electric competitor, and for the city-bound crossover, the Ariya is a compelling offer. Alone, it’s not enough to convince me that Nissan is ahead in the EV race, but they are still in the game.

As par for the course, Nissan sent us the highest trim level, the Platinum+ e-4ORCE to see their grand vision. MSRP for the high end trim starts at $60,190. Be sure to check out the gallery and walk-around photos below the article.

A class above in interior quality

Let’s start with the interior, since that’s what stood out as the best feature; what truly sets the Ariya apart is the attention to detail in its interior design. The velvety dashboard material, adorned with a uniform stitch pattern that seamlessly flows from the front doors to the rear passengers, faux wood accents add a touch of sophistication, and the copper-colored lines and accents inject a pinch of classy color into the mix. Delicate accent lights, inspired by Japanese Edo period lanterns, add depth and warmth to the interior ambiance, creating an atmosphere that’s both inviting and calming. The plush seats are comfortable and functional, having both heated and ventilated features for the front, and heat up for the rear passengers. The Ariya’s interior is a visual delight, creating an environment that could easily be mistaken for a luxury vehicle.

With one omission (covered later) the Ariya does have some practicality to flaunt. The center console offers creative adjustability, accommodating the needs of both the driver and the passenger. The center console itself has a motorized slider that will shift from forward to back at the press of a button. This is the only car that I know of where the shifter, or drive selector, can be moved. A clever storage compartment that extends from the middle of the dashboard keeps clutter out of sight, making for a clean and organized cabin. Furthermore, the absence of a transmission tunnel enhances the spaciousness of the rear seats, making it comfortable even for the dreaded middle seat occupant. USB access, and a panoramic sunroof complete the package, make long journeys an absolute pleasure.

On-road 4WD

When it comes to the driving experience, the Ariya is a unique performer. Its four-wheel-drive system, known as e-4ORCE, doesn’t aim to tackle off-road challenges but instead focuses on delivering a smooth and secure on-road experience. The Ariya’s acceleration and deceleration curves are tuned for a relaxing and controlled ride, with a goal of mitigating the lurching feeling when coming to a stop.

Does it work? Kind of? Nissan initially showed off this tech with seemingly magical marketing, showing a tiny car deliver ramen bowls without spilling a drop. I tried to replicate this experience last year driving a test mule with e-4ORCE, and I can’t say I was impressed. I brought my own bowl of water, and indeed spilled the contents while carefully using e-4ORCE.

Fast forward to today, and the Ariya feels incredibly smooth, but it’s hard to pinpoint the reason why. It very well could be from the e-4ORCE being properly applied to a finished vehicle, but maybe it’s just the total package that is swaying my opinion. In either case, the e-4ORCE is more subtle, until it’s used in wet terrain. It was clear skies here in Utah, but on that test last year, it was great.

The Ariya’s slightly narrow wheelbase, moderately high stance, and wide shoulders give it a noticeably nimble and agile feeling, despite the luxury feel inside. While it may not match the sportiness of a Mustang Mach-E, it offers a tighter driving experience than the Ioniq 5 or the ID.4. The true strength of the Ariya shines in urban settings and on open highways. 

Nissan ProPILOT 2.0

Using Nissan’s ADAS system (called ProPILOT) wasn’t life changing. The system is more on the side of cruise control than autonomous driving. It can follow a lead car, stop behind a lead car, maintain a lane, change a lane, and maintain speed. On designated roadways, and using a pre-defined route, Nissan says that ProPILOT 2.0 can change from one freeway to another, though my shallow attempts at testing this feature didn’t produce much. Nissan says the strength of ProPILOT is single lane freeway cruising, with hands off the wheel.

Ariya charging

Nissan offers the Ariya with two battery options – 63 kWh and 87 kWh. Range estimates between 216 and 305 miles are split between the many trim levels, largely effected by the 4WD option or FWD. This is a good amount of range for the segment it’s in, and there are no caveats. 

The Ariya is stated for a max charge rate of 150kw, however, an independent test online shows the Ariya charges at a stable rate of 130kw until 50%, then tapering down to 70kw at 90%. While this might seem like a let-down, this is actually good news. Other EV makers out there state only the highest possible charge, failing to mention how the rate plummets through the cycle. The Mustang Mach-E charges at 150kw, but only between 2-5%; after that, it’s down to 100kw, then down to 75kw for awhile, then the usual trickle for the end of the pack.

The takeaway is that Nissan may be overstating their peak charge rate, but not lying about it. With the right source, the Ariya will charge at a usable rate, and there are no surprises.

There are other irksome charging issues out there. The Toyota BZ4X can only fast charge 2x a day, and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 supposedly charges at 350kw, but I’ve never got that feature to work.

Not without its flaws

As impressive as the Ariya is, it’s not without its drawbacks. Some may find the exterior design a tad bland, with wide empty spaces on the grille, doors, and trunk. The infotainment system, with its somewhat distracting menu images, might require a learning curve.

While it has introductory off-road capabilities (higher ground clearance than a car, taller tires, 4WD) the Ariya is more tailored for staying on the beaten path. For those who want to embark on distant adventures, and pack in all the gear, the Ariya isn’t the right crossover for you.

The biggest drawback that I saw was the lack of storage space. The sliding center console houses so many other components, that the storage capacity is completely minimal; only enough for two cup holders and two phones. As a result, backpacks or purses will have to go in the back. The Ariya has no frunk, and the trunk storage is on par with many other crossovers, which isn’t stellar.

Electrek’s Take

I really like the Nissan Ariya, and if it came out just a year earlier, I probably would have bought one. The amazing interior is a joy to spend time in, the road tailored e-4ORCE is inspiring and comfortable, and there are no glaring omissions or problems. It’s a solid EV crossover that is in step with the competition.

I actually really like the bland exterior of the Nissan Ariya. Not all EVs have to be weird looking, like the Nissan LEAF, and they certainly don’t need to be eye-grabbing like the Hyundai Ioniq 5. The Nissan Ariya is like Clark Kent having super powers thinly veiled by glasses and a tie. Well… Superman might be a bit much. Maybe it’s more like Hawkeye.

I think the Ariya is a safe choice for those looking to go electric for the first time. Indeed, Nissan has made a safe bet in designing this crossover, and put some great attention where it can make an impact. Audi E-Tron or Jaguar I-Pace owners won’t be trading in anytime soon, but Nissan LEAF owners with 30 miles of range left on their pre-maturely degraded battery packs really should.

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

Related Topics:
Continue Reading

Environment

Lectric XPress 750 e-bikes get free $557 bundle at $1,399 in April sale, Jackery units up to $1,900 off in flash savings, Kärcher, more

Published

2 hours ago

on

April 3, 2025

By

Lectric XPress 750 e-bikes get free 7 bundle at ,399 in April sale, Jackery units up to ,900 off in flash savings, Kärcher, more

Today’s Green Deals are led by Lectric’s newly launched April Showers Sale which has up to $654 in free add-on gear accompanying e-bikes, with the models aside from the XP 3.0 e-bikes retaining their earlier price cuts. Among the lineup though, the Lectric XPress 750 Commuter e-bikes are getting the largest bundle to date with $557 in free gear at $1,399. Right behind it is the latest collection of Jackery flash offers through April 6, like the Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station at $499, among others. You can also score the popular Kärcher K1700 Electric Pressure Washer right now for one of its best prices ever at $105, as well as the Greenworks 3-tool combo that bundles a 80V 21-inch Lawn Mower, 13-inch String Trimmer, and 730 CFM Leaf Blower – all at a new $560 low, but only for the rest of the day. Plus, all the other hangover Green Deals are in the links at the bottom of the page, like yesterday’s Segway Ninebot F3 eKickScooter preorder savings, Anker’s SOLIX weekend flash sale, 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.

Lectric’s April sale offers largest bundle ever on XPress 750 Commuter e-bikes at $1,399 (Up to $654 in FREE add-ons)

After the exciting April Fool’s Day flash sale, Lectric has switched gears to its longer-lasting April Showers Sale that is offering up to $654 in free gear along with e-bike purchases. Of course, the XP 3.0 e-bikes are prominently featured once again, this time with $500 bundles, and we’re seeing the other models retain the price cuts from previous sales, but I wanted to take the time to shine a spotlight on the XPress 750 Commuter e-bike for $1,399 shipped that is getting $557 in free gear. This bundle would normally run you $1,956 in all, with this being the largest package to accompany the e-bike that we have seen to date. Along with your purchase, you’ll be getting a rear cargo rack, a suspension seat post, fenders to go over both wheels, an Elite headlight, adjustable rear mirrors, an accordion-style folding bike lock, a wide saddle, a phone mount, and a 1.5L top tube bag.

Coming with the option for a high-step or step-through frame, the XPress 750 e-bike is a solid choice for commuters who are looking for significant travel support, with my own regularly getting me across Brooklyn, never once having me concerned about running out of battery. It’s been given a 750W rear hub motor (that peaks at 1,310W), a removable 48V 14Ah battery, and comes supported by five levels of PAS that themselves are supported by a torque sensor – all to provide you with up to 60 miles of travel at 20 MPH speeds, which can go to 28 MPH should you live in a state that allows it. Of course, for those wanting to ride on pure electricity, there is a throttle here, though keep in mind it will lessen your mileage.

Advertisement – scroll for more content

There’s plenty of features that deserve some praise, like the hydraulic mineral oil brakes, the front suspension, and the puncture-resistant tires – all of which provide a heightened riding experience. But that’s not all, as there’s also the 7-geared freewheel alongside the Shimano derailleur, the integrated headlight and taillight, a thru-axle wheel attachment system for tool-free installations, the hidden cable routing system, removable pedals (which have helped more than you can guess), and a full-color display that has a USB-A port to charge your devices as you ride. Considering the sizeable package of additional gear, you’ll be loaded up and ready to cruise on through the seasons ahead.

Lectric April Shower Sale XPedition 2.0 bundles:

Lectric April Shower Sale XP 3.0 e-bike offers with $500 bundles:

Lectric April Shower Sale ONE LR e-bike with $467 bundle

Lectric April Shower Sale XP Trike with $420 bundle

Lectric April Shower Sale XPeak 2.0 bundles:

Lectric April Shower Sale XP Lite 2.0 bundles:

Jackery power station flash sale

Jackery takes up to $1,900 off a selection of home and outdoor backup power solutions starting from $90

Jackery is having a short-term flash sale through April 6 on a selection of power stations that can have you geared up for spring travels alongside any unexpected emergencies. Among the pool of offers, a solid choice for outdoor ventures is the brand’s Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station for $499 shipped. It would normally cost you $799 to grab it at full price, but you’ll be getting a 38% markdown here while the savings last, with things matching over at Amazon, just be sure to clip the on-page coupon. While we have seen it go as low as $399, which was last seen during Black Friday sales, you’ll be getting $300 in savings at one of the lowest prices we have tracked. Head below to see all the other deals during this sale.

One of three newer v2 models, Jackery’s Explorer 1000 v2 delivers serious power output considering its more compact design, with up to 1,500W being sent to your devices/appliances normally while being able to surge to 3,000W for larger backup needs. All this is coming from its 1,070Wh LiFePO4 capacity through its seven port options: one USB-A, two USB-Cs, and three ACs, as well as a car port.

Plugging it into a wall outlet will give you back a full capacity in about 1.6 hours, or you could reach it in just on hour by activating its emergency charging feature through the smart controls on its companion app. There’s also the 600W maximum solar input that you can utilize to recharge from the sun’s rays. It comes rated for a minimum of 4,000 life cycles, meaning that you can charge and discharge it every day for nearly 11 years of backup support.

Jackery’s other power station flash sale offers:

Jackery’s accessory flash sale offers:

Karcher K1700 electric pressure washer

Kärcher’s K1700 2,125 PSI electric pressure washer hits one of its best prices ever at $105

Amazon is now offering the Kärcher K1700 Electric Pressure Washer for $104.99 shipped. Coming down off its more recent $170 rate, which is down from its $200 price tag, discounts over the last year have mainly been keeping things above $120, though we did spy it dropping to $106 at the end of February. Today though, you’re looking at one of the best rates ever, with the 38% markdown here (48% off its $200 pricing) giving you back $65 at the third-lowest overall price we have tracked – $2 and $5 above the lowest prices.

There’s always plenty of grime left over after winter that calls for some spring cleaning, and this pressure washer from Kärcher is ready to power you through it all with up to a maximum 2,125 PSI and 1.46 max GPM flow rate. It features an on/off foot switch for easier operations, as well as an onboard 0.5-gallon detergent tank for soap application needs. There’s even a detachable storage container that you can use to keep the 20-foot hose, wand, and three included nozzles organized.

Greenworks 3-tool combo

Tackle lawn duties with Greenworks’ 80V mower, trimmer, and blower combo at a new $560 low (Today only)

As part of its Deals of the Day, Best Buy is starting off April with the best rate yet on the Greenworks 80V 21-inch Lawn Mower, 13-inch String Trimmer, and 730 CFM Leaf Blower Combo that is down at $559.99 shipped through the rest of the day. This 3-tool package typically carries a $1,100 price tag outside of discounts, which we saw fall as low as $600 over 2024 and has come down to $570 so far in 2025 – until today. You’re looking at a 49% markdown through the rest of the day, saving you $540 at a new all-time low price. It’d be difficult to find this exact combo elsewhere, including Amazon, where a less advanced 3-tool combo is the closest match at $550.

With spring finally here, this 3-tool bundle is a solid choice for folks who need to tackle various jobs outside your home. The mower comes with an 80V brushless motor for more efficient operation that is powered by the included 4.0Ah battery for up to a 1/2 acre of runtime on one full charge, as well as offering seven cutting height levels for your grass. The string trimmer cuts in a 13-inch swath and sports the brand’s dual bump feed head for easier line replacement in the middle of work, which can go on for up to 80 minutes with the battery. You’ll get up to 730 CFM of air flow (about 170 MPH) from the leaf blower, which does have a variable speed control for easier handling. And what’s always nice about ecosystems like Greenworks’ is that you can also swap out the battery for any others you may have, not to mention losing the noise and fumes from gas-guzzling models.

We also spotted a bunch of Greenworks’ electric pressure washers down at some of their lowest prices too, with the GPW2003 2,000 PSI model, especially, hitting a new $135 low. You can also get your lawn’s soil back to proper health for the coming months with the brand’s 13A 14-inch Corded Dethatcher and Scarifier at $128.

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.

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

Continue Reading

Environment

Ford’s new strategy includes big discounts, employee pricing for all, and free EV chargers

Published

3 hours ago

on

April 3, 2025

By

Ford's new strategy includes big discounts, employee pricing for all, and free EV chargers

Ford-discounts

Ford’s vehicles are about to get a whole lot cheaper. With its new “From America, For America” campaign, launched Thursday, Ford is rolling out steep discounts, including employee pricing for all, and a free home charger for EV buyers.

The new campaign promotes Ford’s “American-made” vehicles with some pretty sweet deals. Ford is offering employee pricing on most 2024 and 2025 model vehicles.

All Ford and Lincoln models except the F-150 Raptors, 2025 Super Duty pickups, and Expedition are included. The Lincoln Navigator and Ford’s fleet vehicles are also excluded.

Ford is also extending its “Power Promise” promo, which offers EV shoppers a free Level 2 home charger (plus standard installation), 24/7 live electric vehicle support, roadside assistance, and an 8-year, 100,000-battery warranty.

Advertisement – scroll for more content

The program was initially launched in October, but Ford extended it through the end of March after seeing an uptick in EV sales.

Ford’s Power Promise now runs through June 30 and is available for any new EV purchase or lease, including the Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning pickup.

Ford-discounts
Ford Mustang Mach-E (left) and F-150 Lightning (right) (Source: Ford)

According to Rob Kaffl, Ford’s director of US sales, the company is able to offer steep discounts because it has the inventory. Kaffl told The Detroit Free Press, “We’re in a very competitive position in our stock.”

With “a lot of uncertainty in the market right now” amid Trump’s new tariffs taking effect, Kaffl said Ford’s new “From America, For America” will provide some security.

Ford-Mach-E-top-selling-EV
2025 Ford Mustang Mach-E (Source: Ford)

How significant are the discounts? Well, it will depend on the vehicle’s cost. A Ford dealer (who asked to remain anonymous) said an F-150 XLT hybrid with an MSARP of $65,000 would cost $55,000 under the employee pricing plan. The price of an Escape ST SUV, with an MSRP of $36,300, would be cut to $33,000.

2025-Ford-F-150-Lightning-interior
2025-Ford-F-150-Lightning

Ford introduced the 2025 F-150 Lightning last week, with a new “Dark Elements” package and improved charging features. It still starts at $62,995.

The 2025 Ford Mustang Mach-E starts at $36,495 and is available in RWD (260-mile range) or eAWD (240-mile range). Upgrading to the extended battery will cost an extra $5,500 (eAWD only).

Electrek’s Take

The new promo comes after Ford reported on Tuesday that US sales fell by 1.3% in the first quarter. Despite limited inventory, the Mustang Mach-E is off to a record start in 2025, with over 11,600 units sold, outpacing the Chevy Equinox EV and Honda Prologue.

GM reported US sales growth of nearly 17% in the first three months of 2025. After EV sales doubled to 31,887, GM remained the number two seller of EVs in the US behind Tesla, topping Ford’s 22,550.

Although Ford has the largest manufacturing footprint in the US of any legacy automaker, CEO Jim Farley says it’s still not immune to the tariffs.

Ford imports about 21% of the vehicles it sells in the US. GM imports around 46%. Both are looking to get ahead of any potential impacts.

Ready to snag the savings on Ford’s electric vehicles while they are still here? You can use our links below to find deals on the Ford F-150 Lightning and Mustang Mach-E models in your area.

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

Continue Reading

Environment

Tesla’s only growing business was just kneecapped by Trump’s tariffs

Published

4 hours ago

on

April 3, 2025

By

Tesla's only growing business was just kneecapped by Trump's tariffs

Tesla Megapack project pillswood UK

Trump’s new tariffs on China have just kneecapped Tesla’s only growing business: energy storage, which uses battery cells from China.

Tesla released its delivery results for Q1 2025 yesterday, which were quite disastrous. At 336,000 electric vehicle deliveries, they were 40,000 units below the consensus and about 20,000 units below what even the most pessimistic analysts expected.

But there was one silver lining: Tesla reported having deployed 10 GWh of energy storage – a new record for a first quarter.

While Tesla’s electric vehicle business entered a downturn in 2024, which is now accelerating in 2025, Tesla’s energy business, which primarily consists of selling Megapacks and Powerwalls, has been consistently growing.

Advertisement – scroll for more content

The bulk of this growth can be attributed to Tesla’s production ramp at its Lathrop Megafactory, where it produces the Megapack, and in the launch and production ramp of the Powerwall 3 with LFP battery cells.

Tesla now uses LFP battery cells from China to build these energy storage systems in California and Nevada.

According to the latest information, President Trump’s new tariffs announced yesterday are resulting in 54% tariffs on importing Chinese battery cells into the US.

This will significantly increase the prices of Tesla’s Powerwall and Megapack products, which should reduce the market.

The Biden administration had already announced an increase to 25% tariffs on Chinese battery cells meant for energy storage, coming in 2026.

Tesla was already bracing for the new tariff, but the Trump administration has dramatically accelerated the timeline and increased the tariffs. The administration has confirmed that the tariffs are stacking up on top of each other, which would mean 54% for goods coming from China.

The company is believed to almost exclusively use LFP battery cells from China’s CATL in its stationary energy storage products.

With the upcoming changes in 2026, Tesla was likely preparing for the change. Last year, there were rumors that Tesla was looking to establish a LFP battery plant in the US in partnership with CATL, but the plans have yet to materialize.

Tesla has also recently started production at a new Megafactory in Shanghai to produce the Megapack. The battery systems coming out of that plant are expected to be shipped to markets outside of the US and should enable Tesla to stay competitive outside the US.

Although, as we previously reported, Tesla is starting to face intense competition from its own battery suppliers for these products, CATL and BYD, which have both recently unveiled products to compete with the Megapack.

Tesla has also recently announced plans to build a second Megafactory in the US to build more Megapacks, but it’s not clear how those plans are going to be affected by the new tariffs.

Electrek’s Take

Since last year, stationary energy storage has been Tesla’s only growing business unit, and I was already worried about it because of increased competition. BYD and CATL already have a hold on LFP cells going into the Megapack, and now they are making their own Megapack products with their own cells.

On the consumer side, we recently reported that Tesla’s brand issues also extend to the Powerwall.

Now, Tesla has to worry about tariffs significantly increasing the price of its Megapacks and Powerwalls in its biggest market: the US.

There’s a chance that Tesla has accumulated some inventory in anticipation of the tariffs, but unless they are removed, which is not impossible considering how volatile the administration has been about implementing its promised tariffs, it will result in massive Megapack and Powerwall price increases.

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

Continue Reading

Trending