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ExxonMobil lithium

The evil empire of ExxonMobil is taking a slight reprieve from birthing oil barons to invest its time and money into a promising new venture – lithium. The carbon-clad gasoline company has begun drilling for a different earth material in the US, with an aim to become a leading supplier of lithium vital to current EV battery chemistry by the end of the decade. Do you think they’re using zero-emissions equipment yet?

ExxonMobil is the current multinational iteration of a gas company whose history dates back to John D. Rockefeller’s Standard Oil in the late 1800s. Ever since then, the company has been helping the world get around in combustion vehicles, much at the expense of Mother Earth and the future of humankind.

It pains us to even cover a company like ExxonMobil, as its history in environmentalism is as filthy as the oil it drums up. Despite being one of the top polluters in the US, the oil company has contributed mere peanuts to the research and development of cleaner and more sustainable fuel alternatives. There’s also evidence the company had clear knowledge of the effects of fossil fuels on global warming as early as the 1970s yet purposefully worked to paint a different narrative to the public.

It’s very tough to deny climate change these days (although a staggering amount of people still do), but automakers like Tesla have kicked the door in on a dinosaur of an industry (pun intended), showing the world that electric vehicles are not only viable modes of transportation, but they can also be cool as hell compared to traditional gas cars.

Nearly every legacy automaker today has vowed to inevitably expel combustion vehicle sales over the next decade or two, setting an expiry on new gas vehicles and a certain reduction in fossil fuel demand. As such, we’ve seen oil conglomerates like Shell begin venturing into EV charging infrastructure, looking to replace its current footprint of fuel pumps with EV charging piles.

ExxonMobil is taking a similar, yet different approach – using its know-how in oil drilling to begin sourcing lithium – a precious rare earth material vital to EV batteries – in the US. While this is welcomed news to an extent, it’s not difficult to see the motive behind ExxonMobil’s expansion into lithium and it sure as hell isn’t about saving the planet.

  • ExxonMobil lithium
    Credit: ExxonMobil
  • ExxonMobil lithium

ExxonMobil looks to capitalize off huge lithium demand

The company announced it has officially begun the first phase of its North America lithium production project in southwest Arkansas, under a new sub-brand Mobil Lithium. ExxonMobil purchased the 120,000 gross acres of the Smackover formation in Arkansas earlier this year – an area considered to be one of the most largest lithium resources in North America.

By beginning to drill in precious lithium-rich brine reservoirs about 10,000 feet underground, ExxonMobil fancies itself as a leader in EV material supplies, or at least intends to become one by 2030. Per ExxonMobil’s president of low carbon solutions, Dan Ammann:

Lithium is essential to the energy transition, and ExxonMobil has a leading role to play in paving the way for electrification. This landmark project applies decades of ExxonMobil expertise to unlock vast supplies of North American lithium with far fewer environmental impacts than traditional mining operations.

This project is a win-win-win. It’s a perfect example of how ExxonMobil can enhance North American energy security, expand supplies of a critical industrial material, and enable the continued reduction of emissions associated with transportation, which is essential to meeting society’s net-zero goals.

As you can see from ExxonMobil’s graphic above, the company intends to use direct lithium extraction (DLE) technology to separate lithium from the saltwater using conventional oil and gas drilling methods rather than mining. According to the company, this produces fewer carbon emissions and requires less land. After the lithium is separated from the brine and converted on-site into EV battery-grade material, the remaining saltwater is then injected back into the earth.

Virtually all lithium extraction is currently taking place outside of North America, but ExxonMobil is not the only company vying for a piece of the rare earth pie. We’ve covered the Snow Lake Lithium reservoir developing in Canada, as well as California’s Lithium Valley project also in the works out west. We’ve also seen OEMs like GM invest in companies like EnergyX to tap into the lithium supply in North America in order to help limit supply chains and dependencies on other nations like China.

With phase one now underway, ExxonMobil expects to begin lithium production in 2027, while it simultaneously explores other opportunities to source EV-centric materials globally. By 2030, ExxonMobil says it hopes to be producing enough lithium to supply the builds of over one million EVs per year.

Electrek’s take

This news is noteworthy from an EV supply chain standpoint, as there is no denying the growing demand for lithium as EVs become more prevalent in the US and around the globe. Tapping into dormant material supplies on our home turf limits supply chains and can help drive down vehicle costs for consumers – especially since price remains a huge hurdle for wider EV adoption.

Please forgive me if I’m reluctant to give ExxonMobil a big pat on the back, as its intentions to source lithium are crystal clear. It’s all about the Benjamins, baby. ExxonMobil has the resources and drilling expertise to obtain North American lithium, so why not capitalize?

Not for the good of EVs or for less oil sales (you know the company is going to push that agenda until the well runs dry), but for pure profit. While we don’t necessarily condone the reasoning, it is refreshing to see a company with such a well-documented source of environmental tyranny pivot to a slightly less harmful process of drilling.

Don’t get it twisted, ExxonMobil is still the enemy, but seeing companies like it and Shell start venturing into other fuel alternatives and earth materials to support EV production should tell you that even they know the days of fossil fuels are numbered, even if it is a couple decades from now.

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ENGWE Engine Pro 2.0 e-bike at exclusive new $750 low, Anker eufy S220 solar cam $65, Linkind smart solar spotlights from $23, more

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July 31, 2025

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ENGWE Engine Pro 2.0 e-bike at exclusive new 0 low, Anker eufy S220 solar cam , Linkind smart solar spotlights from , more

Leading today’s pack of Green Deals is an exclusive 50% discount for our readers on the ENGWE Engine Pro 2.0 Folding e-bike at a new $749.50 low. Right behind it we have Anker’s eufy SoloCam S220 Solar Security Camera starting at $65, with some multi-pack discounts also available, as well as multi-packs of Linkind’s Smart Solar Spotlights starting from $23. From there we have a 3-in-1 tool bundle with replacement parts from Worx, a 60V 610 CFM cordless leaf blower from Greenworks, and more waiting for you below. Plus, all the hangover savings at the bottom of the page, like yesterday’s ECOVACS Goat RTK robot lawn mower low price, Rad Power’s RadWagon 4 cargo e-bike discount, 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.

Commute up to 68 miles with exclusive 50% savings on ENGWE’s Engine Pro 2.0 folding e-bike at a new $749.50 low

We’ve secured an exclusive and budget-friendly deal from Wellbots for our readers on the ENGWE Engine PRO 2.0 Folding e-bike at $749.50 shipped, after using the exclusive promo code 9TO5ENGWE50 at checkout for 50% off. This model would normally run you $1,499 here, which we’ve seen discounted as low as $1,149 from the brand over the last year. That price is getting strong-armed out of the way with this exclusive deal that gives you a 50% markdown, putting nearly $750 back into your pocket at the best new price we have tracked.

A great alternative option for riders who want a reliable means to get through their commutes without shelling out $1,000 or more on other brands, the ENGWE Engine Pro 2.0 e-bike is a folding model that saves on space while also providing some significant travel support. The 750W rear hub motor peaks at 1,200W and comes paired with a removable 16Ah battery for up to 68 miles of pedal-assisted travel (five levels supported by a torque sensor) at up to 20 to 28 MPH top speeds, depending on what your local laws allow. Of course, you’ll have the option for pure electric travel via the throttle, though keep in mind this reduces the mileage to around 30 miles on one full charge.

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For the low price you’re getting on ENGWE’s Engine Pro 2.0, you’ll be scoring some solid features, including hydraulic disc brakes for greater stopping power, puncture-resistant all-terrain fat tires so you don’t have to fear what you may ride over, and an 8-speed Shimano derailleur for versatile pedaling options. That’s not all, as you’ll also be getting a rear cargo rack, a full suspension system, and a smart LCD screen for performance data and setting adjustments – plus, the whole thing weighs in at 70 pounds, so it’s manageable regardless of your rural/suburban/urban environment.

rain falling onto Anker eufy SoloCam S220 solar security camera

Upgrade your home security with Anker’s solar-powered eufy SoloCam S220 camera at $65

Anker is offering its eufy SoloCam S220 Solar Security Camera at $64.99 shipped, after using the on-page promo code at checkout for $35 off the price, which is beating out Amazon’s pricing by $5. Coming down off its $100 full price tag while the savings last, this model has been regularly seen dropping to $70 and more recently going lower to $65 over the last handful of months, only beaten out by the $62 low we first saw appearing during Prime Day at the top of the month. You’re looking at 35% markdown while the savings last, giving you the second-best price we have tracked if you missed out on the one-time Prime Day low. You’ll also find the camera’s multi-pack options starting from $129.99 shipped here.

If you want to learn more about this solar-powered security device, be sure to check out our original coverage of this deal here.

Daytime and Nighttime differences with Linkind's smart solar spotlights lining walkway

Save up to 34% on multi-packs of Linkind’s Smart Solar Spotlights starting from $23

By way of its official Amazon storefront, Linkind is offering its Smart Solar Spotlights starting at $22.99 shipped for a 2-pack. The price is coming down from its $35 tag, with them having spent a significant portion of recent months at $24, with some falls to $23 (including during Prime Day) and one earlier drop to the $21 low back in April. You’re looking at a 34% markdown here that cuts $12 off the tag for the second-best price we have tracked, landing just $2 above the all-time low. You’ll also find its larger bundles benefitting from discounts, with the 4-pack down at its second-best price of $48.99 shipped, after clipping the on-page 30% off coupon, while its 8-pack is down at a $90.98 low.

If you want to learn more about this outdoor lighting device, be sure to check out our original coverage of this deal here.

man trimming around tree trunk with Worx GT revolution 3-in-1 string trimmer/edger/mini-mower

Pick up the Worx GT Revolution 20V 12-inch string trimmer/edger/mini-mower with spare parts at $83 (2025 low)

Amazon is offering the Worx GT Revolution 20V 12-inch String Trimmer/Edger/Mini-Mower kit that comes with a 2.0Ah battery, 2A charger, three replacement spools, a spool holder, and replacement edger wheels for $82.99 shipped. The combination of the tool and battery alone goes for $130 at full price directly from the brand’s website, where it’s currently priced, but we’ve been seeing this larger bundle package keep down to $100 for much of the time since late March. While we have seen it drop lower in the past, the additional $17 savings from its recent going rate is the best price we have tracked over the last 12 months, even beating out its Prime Day pricing by $2.

If you want to learn more about this 3-in-1 tool, be sure to check out our original coverage of the deal here.

man clearing large pile of leaves in yard with greenworks 60V 610 CFM cordless leaf blower

Clear out your yard with up to 610 CFM air flow through this 60V Greenworks cordless leaf blower at $142

Amazon is offering the Greenworks 60V 610 CFM Cordless Leaf Blower at $142.49 shipped. Normally fetching $200 directly from the brand’s website, where this model is priced $8 higher, we’ve been seeing it keep to $180 in full at Amazon since March, with discounts dropping costs lower between $160 and $140 on average. The lowest we’ve seen this model fall was to a $135 rate on the last of Prime Day’s 4-day event, with the deal today matching the event’s first three days of pricing. You’re looking at the third-lowest price we have tracked, saving you $58 off the MSRP and landing just $7 above the all-time low.

If you want to learn more about this 60V blower, be sure to check out our original coverage of this deal here.

Best Summer 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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BYD cuts Yuan Up EV prices to just $10,500 with a new ‘Pilot’ model

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1 hour ago

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July 31, 2025

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BYD cuts Yuan Up EV prices to just ,500 with a new 'Pilot' model

BYD-Yuan-Up-prices

To celebrate 1.5 million in sales, BYD launched a new Yuan Up “Pilot” EV edition on Thursday with prices now starting at under $10,500.

BYD launches new Yuan Up Pilot with lower prices

The new base model is priced at 74,800 yuan ($11,500), which is about 25% cheaper than the current Yuan Up lineup. Previously, Yuan Up prices ranged from 99,800 yuan ($14,000) to 119,800 yuan ($16,700).

Powered by a 32 kWh BYD Blade battery pack, the new Yuan Up Pilot edition has a CLTC driving range of up to 301 km (187 miles). The other three trims have a range of 401 km (249 miles) from a 45.12 kWh battery.

Given the lower prices, BYD had to cut back somewhere. And it’s not just in range. The lower-priced Yuan Up does not include BYD’s “God’s Eye” smart driving system.

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Earlier this year, BYD upgraded most of its vehicles with the smart driving tech at no extra charge. The other three trims include the “C” version, or the lowest level of autonomy.

BYD-Yuan-Up-prices
BYD launches new lower-priced Yuan Up Pilot edition (Source: BYD)

More expensive vehicles, like those in the BYD Denza and Yangwang series, are equipped with more advanced “A” and “B” systems.

Inside, the cabin appears similar to other models, featuring a 10.1″ floating central infotainment screen and an 8.8″ driver display screen. It still features BYD’s DiLink 50 smart cockpit system, which includes voice control and connectivity support.

BYD-Yuan-Up-interior
BYD Yuan Up EV interior (Source: BYD)

Measuring 4,310 mm in length, 1,830 mm in width, and 1,675 mm in height, the Pilot edition is the same size as other BYD Yuan Up models. That’s about the size of a Hyundai Kona.

BYD-Yuan-Up-prices
BYD launches new lower-priced Yuan Up Pilot edition (Source: BYD)

According to data from CnEVPost, sales of BYD’s Yuan series fell 21% in May (31,711 units) and 29% in June (25,727 units) compared to the same period last year.

Given BYD’s aggressive push for smart tech, the new base Yuan Up could hint that a change in the Chinese automaker’s playbook is in the works. In overseas markets, the Yuan Up is sold as the Atto 2.

Last week, BYD launched its “high-energy super SUV,” the Sealion 06 EV, priced from 139,800 yuan ($21,000).

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Tesla’s new Model Y Performance spotted testing

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3 hours ago

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July 31, 2025

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Tesla's new Model Y Performance spotted testing

Tesla Model Y Performance Juniper prototype hero

A Tesla Model Y Performance prototype was spotted testing in California ahead of its launch in the US, which is expected soon.

Tesla launched the refreshed Model Y, often referred to as ‘Juniper’, in January 2025.

However, as it often does with design refreshes, Tesla didn’t launch the performance version of the best-selling electric SUV with the broader refresh.

The automaker stopped taking orders for Model Y Performance, but we have been expecting the variant to make a comeback under the Juniper design by the end of the year.

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While cycling near Tesla’s Palo Alto engineering headquarters, an Electrek reader spotted a Tesla Model Y prototype in camouflage, which we quickly identified as a Model Y Performance with the Juniper design refresh:

What makes us think this is a Model Y Performance? The wheels look like Plaid 20″ wheels, which are generally reserved for performance versions.

If we zoom in, we can also see that the Model Y appears to feature bigger red brake calipers – another feature that Tesla only offers on performance versions of its vehicles.

Before the refresh, the Model Y Performance achieved an EPA-estimated range of 277–285 miles (446-459 km), depending on the wheel configuration.

It accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds.

The new Model Y Performance with the Juniper refresh is expected to slightly improve on those metrics while also bringing some of the other changes introduced in the design refresh, such as a light bar, ambient interior lighting, a rear screen, and more.

Tesla previously sold the Model Y Performance for a base price of $51,500 in the US.

The new version of the vehicle is expected to launch in the coming months.

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