Connect with us

Published

on

Segway has taken to the Consumer Electronics Expo (CES) in Las Vegas to unveil a pair of new electric two-wheelers. The first is an electric bicycle called the Xafari, while the latter is a borderline electric motorcycle known as the Xyber.

Both bikes are ostensibly categorized as electric bicycles in the US, fitting within the legal definition of the category. The Xafari even feels like it fits nicely under the e-bike classification, though the Xyber seems to carry a bit more Sur Ron vibes than Schwinn vibes, if you get the idea.

Any way you slice them, both bikes mark a major push deeper into the industry for Segway as the company continues to expand in the micromobility category.

“We’re thrilled to introduce the launch of our Segway Xafari and Segway Xyber, representing a significant leap forward in electric bike innovation,” said Alan Zhao, Segway E-Bike Division General Manager. “These e-bikes embody Segway’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge technology and unparalleled performance to our riders. With adjustable features, remarkable stability and advanced connectivity, these bikes redefine what’s possible for off-road adventures.”

segway xyber bike

Both bikes show off several smart features including “active scene perception” that allows the bike to automatically take certain actions based on its surroundings, such as turning on and off the headlights, locking the bike, and adjusting the power level on the fly.

The bikes also integrate with mobile phone apps and allow data monitoring in real-time. They come with anti-theft measures such as hidden rear wheel hub locks, mobile alarms, GPS anti-theft functionality, and location-based alarms.

From there, things start to differ between the two models.

The Segway Xafari takes the form of a wide-tire adventure e-bike. It includes a step-through frame design with a frame-integrated yet still removable 913 Wh battery. Built with 21700-format battery cells, that capacity rating makes it one of the largest batteries available on this type of adventure-style electric bicycle.

For power, a rear 750W motor offers up to 80 Nm of torque, providing good climbing power and quick acceleration. There’s no word on top speed yet or whether the bike is a Class 2 (up to 20 mph) or Class 3 (up to 28 mph) model, though we expect to learn more performance parameters soon.

The frame of the Xafari hides more than just a large battery. There’s also hidden rear suspension just above the rear swingarm. That creates a full-suspension setup in a design that looks similar to most hard-tail adventure-style electric bikes on the market today. With 70mm of front suspension and 80mm of rear suspension, as well as 3-inch balloon tires, the Segway Xafari is well-equipped for trails and other off-road riding.

segway xyber bike

On the larger end of the e-bike spectrum is the Segway Xyber.

By including functional pedals, the Xyber technically checks the boxes for import and sale as an electric bicycle in the US, though it looks a bit more like a dedicated trail bike such as a Sur Ron or Talaria.

The motor is much torquier on the Xyber than the Xafari, providing up to 175 Nm of torque. Again, we don’t have any top speed figures to share, but we do have a clue found in the acceleration spec. Segway says the motor is powerful enough to offer a 0-20 mph acceleration time of 2.5 seconds. The top speed is likely higher, though we at least know it can hit 20 mph.

The base battery of 1,440 Wh can be paired up with a second battery to provide a total of 2,880 Wh. Segway says that’s enough for 95 miles (150 km) of range, though most riders likely won’t see that figure in real-world riding unless they stick to the lowest pedal assist level.

The dual suspension setup sees 120 mm of travel in both the front and rear, giving plenty of cushion for rougher riding.

segway xyber bike

In addition to a lack of complete performance specs for these two models, we’re also missing pricing details.

Hopefully, we’ll have more to share with you soon on both fronts. Until then, let’s hear your thoughts on the new Segway Xafari and Xyber in the comment section below!

via: Segway

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

Continue Reading

Environment

Puerto Rico just got $1.2B in DOE financing to boost its grid with solar + storage

Published

on

By

Puerto Rico just got .2B in DOE financing to boost its grid with solar + storage

The US Department of Energy (DOE) today announced $1.2 billion in financing to replace Puerto Rico’s fossil fuel plants with solar and battery storage through 2032.

The DOE’s Loan Programs Office announced two conditional commitments and one loan closing to power producers in Puerto Rico. Each supports a project contracted with the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority. The announcements include:

  • The closing of a $584.5 million loan guarantee to subsidiaries of Convergent Energy to finance a 100 MW solar farm with a 55 MW (55 MWh) battery energy storage system (BESS) in the municipality of Coamo and BESS installations in the municipalities of Caguas (25MW/100MWh), Peñuelas (100MW/400MWh), and Ponce (up to 100MW/400MWh)
  • A conditional commitment for a loan guarantee of up to $133.6 million to a subsidiary of Infinigen for a 32.1 MW solar farm with an integrated 14.45 MW (4.76 MWh) BESS, and a co-located standalone 50 MW (200 MWh) BESS expansion in the municipality of Yabucoa
  • A conditional commitment for a loan guarantee of up to $489.4 million to a subsidiary of Pattern Energy for three stand-alone BESS in the municipalities of Arecibo (50 MW/200 MWh), and Santa Isabel (50 MW /200 MWh and 80 MW/320 MW), and a 70 MW solar farm with an integrated BESS in the municipality of Arecibo.

If all are finalized, these projects would more than double LPO’s support for utility-scale solar generation and battery energy storage in Puerto Rico.

LPO provides low-cost financing and a rigorous due diligence process, making it a valuable resource for Puerto Rico as it works to rebuild an affordable, reliable, and clean energy system. As a result of reliance on imported fuel, the persistent threat of tropical storms, and underinvested infrastructure, Puerto Ricans today face average energy costs that are twice the US average – all while consuming only one-quarter of the energy of the US per capita.

LPO’s initial loan to a power producer in Puerto Rico, Project Marahu, closed in October 2024, and when complete will add more than 200 MW of solar and up to 285 MW of stand-alone energy storage to Puerto Rico’s grid.

Through its September 2023 partial loan guarantee to Project Hestia, LPO also supports virtual power plant (VPP)-ready rooftop solar and battery storage installations in Puerto Rico. As a nationwide project, Hestia’s sponsor is committed to at least 20% of installations under Project Hestia going to homeowners in Puerto Rico.

As part of its procurement plan, Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority seeks to install 1,500 MW of battery storage and requires a minimum capacity of storage to be co-located with each utility-scale solar project. Energy storage systems currently online in Puerto Rico are being dispatched every day.

When including Marahu, LPO’s closed and conditionally committed financing supports over 100% of the capacity Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority aimed to procure under its initial request for energy storage project proposals, the first of six.

Read more: Cleantech investments to top fossil fuels for the first time in 2025


If you live in an area that has frequent natural disaster events, and are interested in making your home more resilient to power outages, consider going solar and adding a battery storage system. 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. They have 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 Advisers to help you every step of the way. Get started here. –trusted affiliate link*

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

Continue Reading

Environment

Chevy launches sweet new Equinox and Blazer EV deals that can slash prices by $5,000

Published

on

By

Chevy launches sweet new Equinox and Blazer EV deals that can slash prices by ,000

Chevy just introduced new deals on the Equinox and Blazer EV models to make them even more affordable. With 0% interest and a new trade-in bonus, Chevy is offering over $5,000 in savings.

Chevy adds new Equinox and Blazer EV deals in January

Although the Chevy Equinox EV is already “the most affordable” EV in its class with over 315 miles range, it’s getting even cheaper.

Earlier this week, Chevy launched new deals on the 2024 Equinox and Blazer EV models. According to a note sent to dealers, viewed by CarsDirect, the electric SUVs are now available with 0% APR financing for 60 months. You can also choose from 0.9% AP for 72 months and 2.9% APR for 84 months.

This marks the best financing offer on Chevy’s newest EVs to date. The previous best rates were 0.9% APR for 60 months, 3.9% for 72 months, and 5.9% for the longer 84-month option.

On a 7-year $45,000 loan, online auto research firm CarsDirect estimates the new deals amount to around a $5,200 price cut. The lower APR rates are already offered on the Chevrolet Silverado EV pickup.

Chevy-Blazer-EV-deals
2024 Chevy Blazer EV RS (Source: GM)

In addition, Chevy is offering a trade-in bonus of up to $3,000 on the Silverado EV and $1,000 on the electric Equinox and Blazer models. If you choose to lease, the bonus is cut in half: $1,500 for the Silverado and $500 for the electric SUVs.

Chevy’s new EV deals started on January 14 and run through March 3, 2025. The deals come as rivals like Hyundai and Ford recently launched new EV promotions.

Chevy-Equinox-EV-deals
2024 Chevy Equinox EV LT (Source: GM)

On Thursday, Hyundai launched a new promo on the upgraded 2025 IONIQ 5, which includes monthly leases as low as $199 and a free ChargePoint home EV charger (or $400 charging credit). Meanwhile, Ford extended its “Power Promise” program earlier this month, which also includes a free home charger, among several other benefits.

The 2024 Chevy Equinox EV started at $41,900 with up to 315 miles range. Prices for the electric Chevy Blazer start at $43,690 with up to 279 miles range.

If you are ready to try out Chevy’s new electric SUVs for yourself, we’ve got you covered. You can use our links below to view offers on the Chevy Equinox, Silverado, and Blazer EV models near you.

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

Continue Reading

Environment

Podcast: non-Tesla EV Supercharger access, Cybertruck sales, Rivian $$$, and more

Published

on

By

Podcast: non-Tesla EV Supercharger access, Cybertruck sales, Rivian $$$, 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 non-Tesla EVs getting Supercharger access, Cybertruck sales in the spotlight, Rivian getting some money from Biden, 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):

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

Continue Reading

Trending