Specialized Creo 2 launched as more powerful, lightweight electric gravel bike
Specialized has just upped its game with the launch of the new Specialized Creo 2, a lightweight electric gravel bike that pushes the boundaries even in a super-svelte package.
The bike fits nicely with Specialized’s Turbo e-bike division’s mantra of “It’s you, only faster.”
At the heart of the Specialized Creo 2 is the SL1.2 mid-drive motor, specifically designed by the company’s engineers to deliver more power in a smaller and lighter package.
The small and compact motor can propel the e-bike up to speeds of 28 mph (45 km/h), where legally permitted.
For those living in areas that don’t permit class 3 or speed pedelec performance, the bike can be limited to Class 1 or Euro-style speeds of 15.5 mph (25 km/h). Riders can (and will) of course pedal the bike faster, but the motor assist cuts out at those modifiable pre-programmed limits in accordance with local regulations.
The bike also comes limited to 80% power out of the box, likely in an effort to help with efficiency, but can be unlocked to 100% power either using the onboard controls or via Specialized’s smartphone app.
The company describes the SL 1.2 drive system as “the most efficient e-bike system out there,” saying that it maximizes the range-to-weight ratio. It delivers 33% more power (320 watts) than its predecessor, while its 43% higher torque (50 Nm) makes quick work of steep hills. The company also notes that it is the “quietest e-bike system in the world.”
As many competing electric bike motors have become increasingly quieter over the years, that’s a bold claim that is sure to lead to a near whisper-quiet motor. On long rides, the joy of hearing nothing but the whistle of the wind and the crunch of your tires can not be overstated.
And long rides are just what the Creo 2 was designed for. The bike’s 320 Wh internal battery is rated for up to 80 miles (128 km) of range, indicating a super-efficient low-power Eco mode. For longer rides, an auxiliary 160 Wh range extender battery can be added, bringing the total range up to 120 miles (193 km).
Range varies greatly depending on speed and power level, so Specialized shared detailed data showing various range estimates under different operating conditions.
Ostensibly a gravel e-bike, Specialized designed the Creo 2 to blur the lines between categories by giving the bike a more progressive geometry.
Compared to its predecessor, Creo SL Gen 2 has a slacker head tube angle, a lower bottom bracket, a shorter stem, and is tuned specifically for high-volume tires that work well on both pavement and rough terrain.
Wide tire options are a key feature of the Creo 2, which comes with 47c Tracers but can support tires up to 2.2 inches for a wide range of gravel tire compatibility.
The Creo 2 features Specialized’s Future Shock 3 hardware that offers 20mm of hydraulically damped travel and claims to reduce impacts by 53%.
That Future Shock is designed to keep hands and bars steady for a smoother ride with more control. The Future Shock 3 system works with those high-volume tires to allow the Creo 2 to feel smoother and more compliant even with the added frame rigidity that comes with an electric bike.
As far as pricing goes, it fits with Specialized’s previous sticker shock. The Creo 2 Comp Carbon starts at US $6,500, with the Creo 2 Expert Carbon priced at US $9,000, and the S-Works Creo 2 rounding out the ultra-premium end at US $14,000.
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Environment
Hyundai vehicles are about to get more expensive with price hikes expected across its lineup
Another automaker is preparing to raise vehicle prices in the US. As soon as next week, Hyundai is expected to hike prices across its entire lineup.
Is Hyundai raising vehicle prices in the US?
Hyundai is coming off its seventh straight month with record sales in the US, led by its growing lineup of electrified vehicles.
In April, the company launched its Customer Assurance program, locking in vehicle prices until June 2, 2025. Hyundai promised that those who bought or leased a new Hyundai vehicle during the protection period would not see prices increase.
With the window closing next week, Hyundai is expected to raise vehicle prices across its entire lineup. Sources familiar with the matter told Bloomberg that Hyundai is considering a 1% price hike on every model.
The higher prices would be reflected in the suggested retail price and only apply to newly built models. Vehicles already sitting at dealership lots will be unaffected by the price hikes.
Hyundai is also expected to raise prices on optional features, such as added roof rails and other imported parts, to avoid further hikes on base models.
The move comes as part of “our regular annual pricing review, guided by market dynamics and consumer demand, independent of tariffs, Hyundai said in a statement.
Hyundai will “continue to adapt to shifts in supply and demand, and regulations, with a flexible pricing strategy and targeted incentive programs.”
What’s next
Although no specifics were mentioned, the expected price hikes will add “several hundred dollars,” at least, on every Hyundai vehicle.
Hyundai has not confirmed its intention to raise prices, and plans could still change. The sources said talks are still ongoing.
If true, the Korean automaker will follow several others, including Ford, that are expected to raise vehicle prices in response to Trump’s auto tariffs.
Although Hyundai could raise prices, it will still likely be in a better position than most. The company celebrated the grand opening of its massive new Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA) manufacturing plant in Georgia earlier this year, where the upgraded IONIQ 5 and three-row IONIQ 9 are being made.
Hyundai’s electric vehicles (EVs) are currently among the most affordable on the market. The 2025 IONIQ 5 now boasts a range of up to 318 miles, an NACS port to access Tesla Superchargers, and a revamped style both inside and out.
| 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 Trim | Driving Range | Starting Price* |
| IONIQ 5 SE RWD Standard Range | 245 miles | $42,500 |
| IONIQ 5 SE RWD | 318 miles | $46,550 |
| IONIQ 5 SEL RWD | 318 miles | $49,500 |
| IONIQ 5 Limited RWD | 318 miles | $54,200 |
| IONIQ 5 SE Dual Motor AWD | 290 miles | $50,050 |
| IONIQ 5 SEL Dual Motor AWD | 290 miles | $53,000 |
| IONIQ 5 XRT Dual Motor AWD | 259 miles | $55,400 |
| IONIQ 5 Limited Dual Motor AWD | 269 miles | $58,100 |
The Standard Range model starts at just $42,500, with a 245-mile driving range. The longer-range trim, with up to 318 miles of range, starts at $46,550. With the potential $7,500 federal tax credit, prices could drop to under $36,500.
Hyundai’s three-row IONIQ 9 starts at $60,555 with a range of up to 335 miles. Like the IONIQ 5, it also features a native NACS port.
To sweeten the deal, Hyundai is offering a complimentary ChargePoint Home Flex Level 2 charger to those who purchase or lease the 2025 IONIQ 5 or the 2026 IONIQ 9.
Ready to take advantage of the savings while they last? Hyundai is currently offering significant discounts, with 2025 IONIQ 5 leases starting as low as $209 per month. Check out our links below to find 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 and 2026 IONIQ 9 models near you.
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For years, Tesla Powerwall has been the go-to recommendation for “normals” looking for a painless, low-effort experience from their first home solar and battery backup solutions. Its CEO’s recent involvement in controversial politics, however, means that people are now distancing themselves from the once-trailblazing company.
It begs the question: what other home solar battery solutions are there?
Electricians and contractors often praise the sleek, energy-dense Tesla Powerwall, for good reasons. But the Powerwall isn’t the only top-shelf home battery on the market, but long wait times, Elon’s antics, and the proliferation of really good integrated alternatives from legacy EV brands might have you shopping for Tesla alternatives already. If that’s you, the next logical step is to re-think the brand’s solar battery offerings as well – here are some of the best options out there.
As I was putting this list together, I realized there were plenty of ways for me to present this information. “Best batteries ..?” Too opinion-based. “Cheapest batteries ..?” Too much research and a quick descent into Temu-grade nonsense. In the end, I went with the same solution I’ve been using on my 0% EV financing lists: alphabetical order, by brand. Enjoy!
EG4 14.3 kWh PowerPro
Two of the home solar installers I talked to in preparing this post mentioned the EG4 14.3kWh batteries, and its specs (on paper, at least) compare nicely with the Powerwall 3.
| Battery | Usable capacity (kWh) | Continuous power output (kW) | Roundtrip efficiency | Average price per kWh* | Coupling |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tesla Powerwall 3 | 13.5 | 11.5 | 97.5% | $926 | DC or AC |
| EG4 14.3kWh PowerPro | 11.44 | 10.24 | 99% | $786 | DC |
“The EG4 PowerPro solar battery from EG4 Electronics is the strongest alternative to the Tesla Powerwall,” writes Kristina Zagame, from the home solar experts at EnergySage. “(The EG4) has a similar capacity, meaning it’ll last a similar amount of time, and a slightly lower power output, which means it won’t be able to power quite as many devices at the same time. And, based on quotes through EnergySage, EG4 batteries tend to be a bit more affordable compared to Tesla.”
Enphase IQ Battery 10
If you’re looking for a one-brand solution for EV charging and whole-home battery backup but don’t want to be “locked in” to GM or Tesla’s ecosystem, Enphase offers a full line of Made-in-the-USA solutions that could be right for you.
“Energy systems developer Enphase Energy is providing an even more holistic approach to managing home power usage with the introduction of new EV charger technology called the IQ line,” wrote Scooter doll, when the brand first introduced its EV charging solutions back in 2023. “The Enphase IQ is Wi-Fi enabled and integrates seamlessly into a customer’s existing home system that can be controlled with your phone.”
Franklin WH aPower 2
If you love the sleek, minimalistic styling of the Tesla Powerwall 3 but still prefer to spend your money elsewhere, the Franklin WH aPower 2 offers similarly sleek styling and beats the Tesla offering on usable energy storage capacity by 1.5 kWh. That’s nearly a full day of keeping a modern refrigerator running.
The Franklin is also designed to be easily retrofit into an existing solar system, but it loses out to the Powerwall on price per kWh, at $1,176 (vs. $926 for the Tesla unit).
GM Energy Home System
Arguably the most fully integrated EV + battery backup + solar option out there outside of Tesla, the GM Energy Home System promises to do everything a conventional home solar battery does, plus work seamlessly with your GM EV to provide even more flexibility – whether that means using the electric fuel stored in your EV to hold out that much longer in an emergency, or using the energy stored in your home’s solar battery to power an escape in your EV is up to you.
GM Energy and GM’s car dealers list Qmerit as their installation partner, and they’re great, but if you “already have a guy,” you can order the Home System directly from GM Energy’s website for $12,700 (as I type this).
The GM Energy Home System system includes:
- GM Energy PowerBank
- GM Energy PowerShift Charger
- GM Energy Home Hub & Inverter
So, remember how I started this off saying that I wouldn’t turn this into a “best batteries” post? That’s partly driven by the fact that I’m neither an electrician, a chemical engineer, or someone who’s researched thousands of end-user experience surveys to come up with whatever metrics I’d need to confidently and correctly call one battery “the best.”
Our friends and solar industry experts at EnergySage, though? They’ve got all three of those things on staff, and they really, really like the Villara VillaGrid+.
“The Villara VillaGrid+ stands out as the best battery on the market, scoring highest in EnergySage’s rigorous Equipment Rating System, explains EnergySage’s Kristina Zagame. “That said, (the Villara VillaGrid+) is not necessarily the best Tesla Powerwall alternative. It’s a very different (and much pricier) battery.”
What puts the VillaGrid+ on top? According to Zagame, it all comes down to the battery’s lithium-titanium-oxide, or LTO chemistry. “Unlike more traditional lithium-ion batteries, LTO has better recharge capabilities for longer life cycles, and doesn’t contain any carbon, which makes it extra safe. The only downside is you’ll definitely shell out more money upfront for the VillaGrid+.”
That extra money will also buy some additional peace of mind, as Villara backs its LTO batteries with a 20-year warranty compared to Tesla Powerwall and its (and just about everyone else’s) 10-year deal. I couldn’t find a price, but Villara’s other products, like VillaGrid 5.75 kWh battery, come in at nearly double Powerwall’s per kWh cost. Check out the specs, below, then let us know if you think the novel chemistry and additional warranty are worth it in the comments.
| Battery | Usable capacity (kWh) | Continuous power output (kW) | Roundtrip efficiency | Average price per kWh* | Coupling |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tesla Powerwall 3 | 13.5 | 11.5 | 97.5% | $926 | DC or AC |
| Villara VillaGrid+ | 11.5 | 10 | 98.5% | Get quote | DC or AC |
Original content from Electrek.
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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Volkswagen is planning to begin production of an EREV pickup truck and SUV under the Scout brand name starting in 2027.
Volkswagen
Major automakers are set to resurrect a type of hybrid vehicle that seemed dead in the U.S. just a few years ago to meet a changing consumer demand landscape.
Extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs) are a form of plug-in hybrid that falls midway between traditional hybrids and full EVs. EREV cars and trucks rely on battery powered motors for propulsion (like an EV) but also have a relatively small gas engine to use as a generator to keep the batteries charged up (like a typical hybrid). A key difference between EREVs and other hybrids is the relative size of their batteries and gas engines.
Mainstream hybrids and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) like the Toyota Prius still rely on combustion engines as their main means of propulsion. Thus, they have proportionately smaller batteries, but substantial gas engines that are directly connected to their drivetrains to help move the car. EREVs are much more focused on the electric side of the equation, so they tend to have bigger batteries than other hybrids, but comparatively small gas engines that solely function as generators to top off the batteries when needed.
Earlier examples of this type of vehicle – the Chevy Volt and Fisker Karma – were introduced to the U.S market in 2011. These were followed by the BMW i3 and Cadillac ELR in 2014. But EREVs (also known as Range Extended Electric Vehicles, or REEVs), never attracted much interest from American consumers. The Volt was the most popular EREV by far, with GM selling 157,000 over nine years, until it ended production in 2019. That may seem impressive, but it’s a blip in the overall U.S. new vehicle market, which saw about 16 million sales each year in that timeframe.
The last EREV sold domestically was the i3, which BMW discontinued in 2022. While there are no new EREVs for sale in the U.S., several are in the pipeline.
This includes an upcoming version of the Ram 1500 pickup truck, set to come to market in early 2026. A Ram spokesman noted that it will have the longest driving range the company has ever offered in a light-duty truck, up to 690 total miles between its gas engine and battery power. An EREV version of the Jeep Grand Wagoneer is also under development, according to the company. Volkswagen is planning to begin production of an EREV pickup truck and SUV under the Scout brand name starting in 2027.
Ram 1500 extended range hybrid pickup, set to come to market in early 2026, will have the longest driving range the company has ever offered in a light-duty truck, up to 690 total miles between its gas engine and battery power.
Ram | Stellantis
Hyundai Motors plans to introduce EREV versions of its mid-sized SUVs by the end of 2026, according to a spokesman. The vehicles are expected to have more than 560 miles of range, and be sold under the Hyundai and Genesis brands. In addition, a Nissan spokesman confirmed that the company is considering offering EREV options in its mid-size and larger SUVs. “They do offer advantages versus 100% EVs when it comes to hauling and towing,” he said, “allowing greater driving range without the need for a large capacity battery, as well as faster refueling.”
James Martin, the director of consulting services at S&P Global Mobility, says one reason manufacturers are turning to EREVs is lower production costs. EREV use of smaller and less expensive batteries than full EVs allows manufacturers to keep their expenses down. EREVs are also less complex than plug-in hybrids, Martin said. PHEVs have two functioning propulsion systems and sophisticated controls to allow them to communicate with each other. Most EREVs, by contrast, are solely propelled by their electric motors.
Range anxiety, and cost, still big factors in EV adoption
But one of the biggest advantages of EREVs is range. In China, where EREVs are gaining in popularity, the manufacturer BYD offers mid-sized sedans with more than 1,300 miles of claimed range. EREVs also alleviate range anxiety due to the ubiquity of gas stations. Consumers can just fill up with gasoline to charge the battery if a charging port is unavailable. The new EREVs can travel more than 100 miles on batteries alone, then hundreds more using gasoline.
“Range anxiety is still a factor when it comes to choosing an electric vehicle over an internal combustion vehicle,” said K. Venkatesh Prasad, senior vice president of research and chief innovation officer at the Center for Automotive Research. “EREVs, allay the range anxiety concern,” he said.
These hybrids may especially appeal to consumers who frequently travel long distances, and getting more consumers used to plugging in their vehicles might also appeal to manufacturers. “The actual charging experience of EREVs is very similar to that of BEVs,” Prasad said. “So, the market adoption of EREVs is likely to be seen as a good ramp to future BEV purchase considerations,” he added.
Charging infrastructure is still lagging in many areas of the U.S., according to iSeeCars.com executive analyst Karl Brauer, which can make a full EV impractical for consumers. EREVs avoid that issue and may also be attractive to consumers who live in apartments or houses that lack charging stations.
A recent report from McKinsey noted that EREVs could also combat cost concerns among consumers, noting that the smaller batteries can shave off as much as $6,000 in powertrain production costs, compared to BEVs. Another factor, according to McKinsey, is that both domestic and European manufacturers have seen how EREVs have gained sales momentum in China, a sign the technology may help to increase electrification adoption in their own marketplaces.
“We expect all levels of hybridization to increase production in North America throughout the decade,” said Eric Anderson, the associate director of Americas light vehicle powertrain forecasting for S&P Global Mobility. Hybrids, including EREVs, are a “relatively affordable way for consumers to move up the electrification ladder without a significant monthly payment increase, he said.
While the EV vehicle market continued to grow last year, the pace of growth has slowed considerably. “The BEV market is in the process of shifting from early adopters to a more price-conscious buyer,” Anderson said.
Domestic sales of hybrids grew from 1,175,456 in 2023 to 1,609,035 in 2024, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation, a 37% increase. Plug-in hybrids grew 10% in the same period — from 293,578 to 321,774. By comparison, fully electric EVs saw 7% growth, from 1,164,638 to 1,247,656. While overall sales of traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles continues to dominate, its market share has fallen every year since 2015, according to Edmunds. Last year, ICE vehicle sales fell to 80.8% of total U.S. sales, down from 84% in 2023.
Another attribute that might make EREVs popular with consumers is resale value. Hybrids – which includes EREVs and more common plug-in hybrids – depreciate less than EVs or traditional gas vehicles. Since depreciation is the most expensive part of car ownership, finding a vehicle that better retains its value can provide consumers with significant savings. By contrast, electric cars and trucks lose value faster than any other vehicle type – dropping by 58.8% after five years, compared to the overall vehicle depreciation average of 45.6% and only 40.7% for hybrids, according to research from iSeeCars.
“Electric vehicle sales have been slowing on both the new and used market, with EVs sitting on dealer lots longer despite falling prices,” Brauer said. “Consumers are showing increasing appreciation for hybrid vehicles, creating a friendly environment for automakers to introduce more plug-in hybrids as an intermediate step toward full electric vehicles.”
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