The president of the upcoming COP28 climate change Sultan Ahmed al-Jaber speaks during the Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition at ADNEC Exhibition Center October 2, 2023. Jaber told an Abu Dhabi oil conference on October 2, 2023, that the fossil fuel industry would play an essential role in addressing the climate crisis. (Photo by Ryan LIM / AFP) (Photo by RYAN LIM/AFP via Getty Images)
Ryan Lim | Afp | Getty Images
The United Arab Emirates planned to use its role as the host of the biggest and most important annual climate conference as a platform to lobby foreign government officials for oil and gas deals, according to a cache of internal documents obtained by a not-for-profit investigative journalism organization.
The leaked records show that Sultan Al-Jaber, who controversially serves as both COP28 president designate and chief executive of state oil giant ADNOC (the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company), planned to discuss fossil fuel deals with 15 countries during the forthcoming climate conference. Al-Jaber was the founding CEO of Abu Dhabi state-owned renewable energy firm Masdar.
A spokesperson for the UAE’s COP28 team and ADNOC were not immediately available for comment when contacted by CNBC. Abu Dhabi-based renewables giant Masdar declined to comment.
The UAE team did not deny using COP28 meetings for business purposes, the BBC reported Monday, citing a spokesperson as saying that “private meetings are private.”
The documents were published by the Centre for Climate Reporting (CCR), who worked in collaboration with the BBC. CCR, which has received funding from the likes of Greenpeace and Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors, said it was able to verify the accuracy of the leaked documents via an unnamed whistleblower.
The documents purportedly show briefing notes prepared by the UAE’s COP28 team for meetings with almost 30 foreign governments ahead of the summit, which starts Thursday and is scheduled to run through to Dec. 12.
Among some of the proposed talking points for Al-Jaber were the UAE’s hope to get off the Brazilian “tax haven” list to help facilitate new investments from Masdar, its desire to consider a possible deal with China over liquified natural gas projects and its position that ADNOC “stands ready to support the supply of petrochemicals to Egypt.”
COP28 is the United Nations’ upcoming round of global climate talks. The two-week long summit will be held in Dubai, with scores of world leaders and government ministers from nearly 200 countries expected to attend — alongside an estimated 70,000 delegates.
It is regarded as a pivotal opportunity to accelerate action to address the climate crisis at a time when global temperatures are hitting record highs and extreme weather events are affecting people worldwide.
The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change did not immediately respond to a CNBC request for comment on the leaked documents. The Conference of the Parties (COP) is the supreme decision-making body of the UNFCCC.
‘A fox is guarding the hen house’
Human rights group Amnesty International repeated its call for Al-Jaber to stand down from his role at ADNOC to ensure the success of the COP28 summit.
“Sultan Al Jaber claims his inside knowledge of the fossil fuel industry qualifies him to lead a crucial climate summit but it looks ever more like a fox is guarding the hen house,” Amnesty International’s climate advisor Ann Harrison said in reaction to the leaked documents.
“Our calls on Sultan Al Jaber to step down from his role at ADNOC if he wishes to lead a successful summit remain valid,” Harrison said.
“Documents suggesting he was briefed to advance business interests in COP meetings only fuel our concerns that COP28 has been comprehensively captured by the fossil fuel lobby to serve its vested interests that put the whole of humanity at risk.”
In a statement confirming his appointment as COP28 boss at the start of the year, Al-Jaber said, “The UAE is approaching COP28 with a strong sense of responsibility and the highest possible level of ambition.”
“Pragmatism and constructive dialogue must be at the forefront of our progress,” he added.
Al-Jaber’s office said at the time that the minister had played a “proactive participatory role” at more than 10 COP summits and brings to his role two decades of business and leadership experience in government, climate policy and across the renewable and energy sectors.
ADNOC, which recently became the first among its peers to bring forward its net-zero ambition to 2045, said in January this year that it would allocate $15 billion for investment in “low-carbon solutions” by 2030, including investments in clean power, carbon capture and storage and electrification projects.
Masdar, meanwhile, works in more than 40 countries worldwide and has invested in or committed to invest in renewable energy projects with a total value of over $30 billion.
Green Deals for Dads are in full swing, as today’s savings are led by Jackery’s Father’s Day Sale that is taking up to $3,300 off power stations alongside three tiers of bonus savings and reward point benefits for members for even more discounts, free gear, and more. Among the lineup we’re seeing, the brand’s upgraded Explorer 2000 v2 Solar Generator bundle with a 500W panel is back at $1,424, which can cover most of your off-grid backup power needs this summer and beyond. There’s also the Father’s Day savings from Ride1Up, which is taking $400 off e-bikes and offering up to $300 in extra savings when buying two together – all from $995. EcoFlow has also launched a 48-hour flash sale on three offers, giving you either the RIVER 3 Plus power station, an expanded DELTA Pro setup, or a 500W solar panel add-on starting from $239. Lastly, we spotted the first savings on Greenworks’ 24V 12-inch Cordless String Trimmer/Edger with a brush cutter bundle for $100. Plus, there’s all the rest of the hangover Green Deals in the links at the bottom of the page, like yesterday’s Heybike Father’s Day e-bike sale, the six (now extended) Bluetti flash offers, and more.
Jackery Father’s Day Sale returns Explorer 2000 v2 bundle with 500W panel to $1,424
Jackery has launched its Father’s Day Sale running through June 18 with up to $3,300 in savings on power stations, solar generator bundles, and accessories – plus, there are three different tiers of extra savings, and members can use reward point benefits to score additional savings, gear, and more. Among the many solid backup options we’re seeing, one of the best middle-ground options is the Explorer 2000 v2 Solar Generator bundle with a 500W panel for $1,424.05 shipped, after using the code DAD5 at checkout for an additional 5% off. At full price, you’d have to shell out $2,499 for this newer package, which we’ve only seen beaten out once before during the brand’s Earth Day Sale when it was offered for $25 less. This is otherwise the best deal we have tracked, giving you a $1,075 price cut and beating out Amazon’s current pricing by $175.
Jackery’s Father’s Day Sale is offering a nice array of extra savings opportunities, starting with the three bonus discount tiers. You can use the code DAD5 at checkout for an extra 5% off orders over $1,300, while the code DAD7 takes an extra 7% off orders over $2,500 and the code DAD10 takes 10% off orders over $3,000. On top of these, those who are registered members (free signup) can trade in collected points to get up to $450 off coupons, Jackery gift cards, third-party gift cards, or free gear.
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Jackery’s Explorer 2000 v2 was redesigned last year with LiFePO4 battery cells and comes as a well-rounded option to cover outdoor leisure, off-grid living, jobsite needs, emergency backup during power outages, and more. It has a 2,042Wh capacity and delivers up to 2,200W of steady output through the seven port options, able to go as high as 4,400W. The battery can be recharged to 80% in around 66+ minutes through a wall outlet, with a supercharge feature that can boost speeds to reach a full battery in 102+ minutes. You can even plug it into your car’s auxiliary port for a 24-hour charge, or invest in solar panels (max 400W input) to utilize the sun’s rays to refill the battery.
Thanks to Jackery’s honeycomb design paired alongside exclusive CBT tech, it comes in a much smaller and lighter form factor than you may expect, complete with 62 different forms of charging protections and a silent mode for when you plug it in while you sleep.
***Note: The following prices have not had any of the extra savings factored in, so be sure to use the three promo codes DAD5, DAD7, or DAD10 where eligible to score the biggest savings during this event.
Jackery’s Father’s Day Sale compact travel backup deals:
Jackery’s Father’s Day Sale appliance backup deals:
Two Explorer 5000 Plus (20kWh) with two extra batteries and smart TS: $9,499 (Reg. $10,499)
Jackery’s Father’s Day Sale add-on accessory deals:
You can browse Jackery’s entire Father’s Day Sale lineup of deals by heading to the landing page here.
Ride1Up’s Portola folding e-bike makes a great budget-friendly and space-saving commuter for Dad at $995
Ride1Up has some Father’s Day savings that are carrying over the e-bike deals we saw during its Memorial Day Sale, with the added bonus of select extra savings at up to $300 off when buying two models together. The most budget-friendly model amongst the bunch is the Portola Compact Folding e-bike that starts from $995 shipped for its 10.4Ah model, while the upgraded 13.4Ah model is down at $1,095 shipped. Going for $1,095 and $1,195 normally, it doesn’t often see price cuts, with most of the discounts we have spotted being these $100 markdowns, aside from the $200 markdown we last saw during Black Friday. You’re looking at the second-lowest price we have tracked, which will get an additional $100 in savings when two are bought together.
A well known option among the brand’s models, the Portola Folding e-bike brings budget-friendly pricing along with space-saving capabilities. As I previously mentioned, there are two battery configurations to choose from, with the standard 10.4Ah battery giving you up to a 40-mile travel range, while the 13.4Ah battery increases that to 45+ miles – achieving the best mileage when its PAS levels are activated. Speaking of the PAS, when its turned on you’ll gain assistance up to its max 28 MPH speeds, while using the throttle for pure-electric riding only reaches 20 MPH.
There’s plenty of solid features here for the low prices, with both models sporting 3-inch wide cross-country tires with fenders over each, a suspension travel fork, dual piston hydraulic brakes, Shimano Altus 8-speed derailleur, front and rear LED lights (with brake lighting), an integrated rear cargo rack (which is compatible with the brand’s passenger kit), the folding frame, and a 2.2-inch LCD display for setting adjustments and real-time performance data. You can learn more in our hands-on review.
EcoFlow 48-hour flash sale offers up to 46% off two power station setups and a solar panel option starting from $239
As part of its ongoing Father’s Day Sale, EcoFlow has launched its one scheduled 48-hour flash sale that will run through June 12, with up to 46% off three offers. Things start with the new RIVER 3 Plus Portable Power Station for $239 shipped. It released back in February at a $299 full price, which we’ve seen discounted a few times already and which is seeing a 20% markdown here during this flash event. While we have seen it go as low as $189 in the past, you’re still looking at a solid $60 price cut at the best rate we can find, with Amazon currently offering it for $269.
If you’d prefer to travel or go camping with a more compact means to get backup power for your devices and small appliances, EcoFlow’s RIVER 3 Plus is the latest model to serve that need at 10 pounds. It starts with a 286Wh LiFePO4 capacity that can be invested in and expanded as high as 840Wh with either the EB300 or EB600 expansion batteries (sold separately). With six output options to connect to (three ACs, two USB-As, and a high-speed USB-C), it dishes out a steady stream of power at up to 600W, surging to 1,200W when necessary, thanks to the equipped X-Boost tech.
Plugging it into a standard wall outlet goes much faster with its X-Stream charging tech, taking just an hour to get the battery back to full. There’s also the 220W max solar input that can do the same in 1.5 hours with ideal conditions. You’ll also have a nice array of protection from any surging that may happen when it’s connected to an outlet, with the unit also giving you both LED and app-based notifications should it ever occur, keeping you in the know while ensuring nothing gets fried.
The second of these offers takes the backup power game to much larger levels, as you can get the DELTA Pro Portable Power Station bundled with a Smart Extra Battery for $3,499 shipped, coming down from $6,498. You’ll be getting a 3,600Wh starting LiFePO4 capacity that is doubled to 7,200Wh with the expansion battery, and which can go as high as 25kWh with more. Through its 14 port options you’ll get up to 3,600W of steady power and as much as 7,200W when it surges for larger needs, covering home appliances in emergency cases. It recharges either through a wall outlet, with a max 1,600W solar input, or with a car’s auxiliary port. Of course, you can take advantage of the last of these flash offers to grab it with solar capabilities while the brand’s 500W Bifacial Modular Solar Panel (125W x 4) is at $549 shipped from $899, which normally only gets discounted to $600 to $649 during sales.
First savings on Greenworks’ 24V 12-inch cordless string trimmer/edger with brush cutter attachment bundle at $100
Amazon is now offering the first chance at savings on an all-new bundle that gives you the 24V 12-inch Cordless String Trimmer/Edger with a 4.0Ah battery, brush cutter attachment, and 20 replacement blades for $99.99 shipped. It landed at Amazon back in April carrying a $130 price tag in full, which is where it’s kept at until now. This is the first deal we’ve spotted, giving you a solid $30 in savings – plus, it’s not available directly from Greenworks’ website at the moment either, only the tool with a lesser 2.0Ah battery for $4 more.
This 24V cordless string trimmer/edger from Greenworks makes a great option for first-time homeowners or just beginners taking care of uneven lawns and/or tight fence lines. It provides a 12-inch cutting swath, and can easily switch between trimming and edging with the press of a button. The included 4.0Ah battery delivers enough juice for up to 45 minutes of continuous use, with the whole thing weighing just over five pounds, making it easily manageable.
There’s a single-line auto-feed head that stands up to jamming, along with a push-button start, a safety lock switch to prevent accidental starts, a seven-position pivoting head, and a telescoping shaft to match users’ varying heights/postures. What’s more, it comes with the brush cutter attachment and 20 replacement blades so you can mow through tougher terrain and thicker buildups.
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.
Kia’s three-row electric SUV sold out faster than expected. The 2025 Kia EV9 is already sold out in the US, just as the 2026 model begins arriving at dealerships.
The 2025 Kia EV9 is sold out in the US
After setting its second consecutive US sales record last year, Kia boasted that it had “solidified its position within the EV market.”
Sean Yoon, CEO of Kia North America, credited the successful launch of its flagship EV9 for the company’s growing share of the EV market.
Kia sold over 22,000 EV9 models in the US in 2024. However, sales have slowed recently, with only 37 units sold in May. Now, we may know why.
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According to national inventory data (via CarsDirect), the 2025 Kia EV9 sold out sooner than expected. Although the 2026 models are starting to arrive at dealerships, they are still pretty hard to come by right now.
Up until last week, Kia was offering some pretty significant discounts on 2025 EV9 models, including a $10,000 customer cash rebate or 0% APR.
2025 Kia EV9 GT-Line (Source: Kia)
Kia is offering a few discounts on the 2026 EV9, but not as substantial as those on the outgoing model. The 2026 EV9 is available with up to $5,000 in savings, including a $4,000 rebate and a $1,000 EV (or PHEV) conquest bonus. Or, you can opt for 3.49% APR financing for 72 months.
Since Kia is now building all EV9 models in Georgia, outside of the GT, it qualifies for the $7,500 federal EV tax credit. At least, for now.
2026 Kia EV9 (Source: Kia)
Including the EV tax credit, you can potentially score up to $12,500 off MSRP, which is even more than the $10,000 on the outgoing model.
Kia improved the 2026 model year with a few upgrades, including more range and features at no extra cost. The base 2026 Kia EV9 Light Standard Range model starts at $54,900 with up to 230 miles of range.
Kia EV9 trim
2025MY price
2026MY price
EV9 Light Standard Range
$54,900
$54,900
EV9 Light Long Range
$59,900
$57,900
EV9 Wind
$63,900
$63,900
EV9 Land
$69,900
$68,900
EV9 GT-Line
$73,900
$71,900
2025 and 2026 Kia EV9 price by trim
For $57,900, you can upgrade to the Long Range variant, which offers a range of 305 miles. All AWD models now come with Terrain Mode, offering various drive modes, including Snow, Mud, and Sand. This replaces the 4WD on the outgoing model.
With leases starting at $399 per month, the EV9 remains a relatively good deal for a three-row electric SUV, considering its MSRP of $54,900.
Move over, Rimac. There’s a new all-electric speed leader at the famed Nürburgring track. Veteran smartphone manufacturer and young automotive arm Xiaomi recently achieved the fastest time for a production EV at the Nürburgring Nordschleife.
If you’re trying to prove to the world that you have the fastest EV, the Nürburgring is likely the proving ground. The world-renowned German track has seen an immeasurable number of hot laps in its nearly 100 years of existence.
As BEVs have emerged as not only the future of passenger mobility, but as a significantly faster and more powerful option to combustion vehicles, Nürburgring has seen some of the fastest laps of the past decade.
EVs like the Tesla Model S Plaid and Porsche Taycan Turbo GT have garnered blistering times at the Nürburgring Nordschleife (North Loop). Until today, the previous record for a production model BEV was 7:05.298, achieved by Martin Kodrić behind the wheel of a Rimac Nevera in 2023.
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Now, a new champion has emerged as the world’s fastest production EV at Nürburgring, and you may recognize its logo on Curve 12 of the track’s Grand Prix Circuit. The SU7 Ultra – the only model on the market from young EV automaker Xiaomi- has achieved the fastest time of 7:04.957 at the Nürburgring Nordschleife.
Source: Xiaomi Automobile/Weibo
Xiaomi delivers the fastest EV model at Nürburgring
Today’s record-setting news is part of a young but blossoming relationship between the automotive arm of Xiaomi Inc. and the renowned German race track.
In July 2024, Xiaomi founder, chairman, and CEO Lei Jun confirmed a production version of the SU7 Ultra was in the works and would arrive in the first half of 2025. At the time, Xiaomi shared plans to take a prototype version of the tri-motor BEV to Nürburgring that October, chasing records of some of the fastest models on the planet.
That version snagged its own record for a four-door vehicle, completing its lap around the Nordschleife in 6:46.874. After Xiaomi’s record-breaking drive on the Nordschleife last fall, the Chinese automaker was invited to join Nürburgring’s “Industriepool” – a members-only program where automakers and suppliers test and develop new vehicles and their components at Nürburgring sixteen weeks each year.
That invite was also part of a “far-reaching partnership” announced in May that included advertising around the site, including “Xiaomi Curve” on the Grand Prix Circuit. As an Industriepool member, the Xiaomi team recently took a production version of the SU7 Ultra around the Nürburgring Nordschleife before garnering a fresh title as the fastest. Per the company’s Weibo post:
7 minutes 04 seconds 957, the fastest mass-produced electric car in the history of the Nürburgring Nordschleife! The mass-produced version of the #SU7Ultra first lapped the Nürburgring Nordschleife, breaking the lap record of mass-produced electric cars on the Nürburgring Nordschleife.
With its official track time of 7:04.957, Xiaomi has usurped Rimac as the fastest lap for production BEV at Nürburgring Nordschleife. Some may argue that the Nevera is not a mass-produced BEV, so in that case, the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra also beat out the Porsche Taycan Turbo GT’s 2024 lap time of 7:07.55.
Either way, Xiaomi is the new speed leader for production EVs at Nürburgring, although it may not be for long. When announcing the new record on Weibo, Xiaomi founder Lei Jun said, “I believe this record will be broken again in the near future.”
Will that record be broken by Xiaomi or another BEV manufacturer? Time will tell. For now, you can check out Xiaomi’s unedited lap video here.
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