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Today’s Green Deals are being led by yet another new Lectric release, as the brand launches its XPeak 2.0 Off-Road e-bikes for pre-order with $365 in free gear – all starting from the first-generation’s $1,399 price tag. Next we have Black Friday savings on Samsung’s Bespoke AI Combo All-in-One Electric Washer and Ventless Heat Pump Dryer starting from $1,700, along with an array of other Bespoke smart appliance deals. NIU has begun its full Black Friday event on its KQi series e-scooters, with the KQi3 Max Electric Kick Scooter back at its $599 low. Lastly, we’re seeing the second-ever discount on Govee’s new Smart Electric Composter that has dropped the price down to $260. Plus, all the best hangover Green Deals from last week are in the links at the bottom of the page, like yesterday’s Black Friday savings on UGREEN’s three PowerRoam stations, Segway Ninebot e-scooters, 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 launches upgraded XPeak 2.0 off-road e-bikes with $365 in free gear starting from $1,399

Hot on the heels of last week’s new release of the XPedition 2.0 Cargo e-bikes, Lectric is back again this week with the launch of its new XPeak 2.0 Off-Road e-bikes for pre-order, with both standard and long-range models coming with $365 in free gear. What’s best, prices for these new models are starting off at the same rates as the predecessors, with the standard High-Step and Step-Thru models coming in at $1,399 shipped, while the Long-Range High-Step and Long-Range Step-Thru models are a little higher at $1,599 shipped. These new models will begin shipping the week of December 30, 2024. Head below to learn more about these new e-bikes or check out our launch coverage.

Coming in two colorways, Lectric’s four XPeak 2.0 e-bikes are cruising into view with some significant upgrades, like the new torque sensor that pairs with the brand’s PWR+ tech for even more responsive PAS, which works alongside the 750W Stealth M24 rear hub-motor (which peaks at 1,310W) to support riders up to a max speed of 28 MPH. The standard models’ 15Ah semi-integrated battery provides a travel range of up to 60 miles on a full charge, while the long-range models’ new 20Ah battery extends that range up to 80 miles.

There’s been some additional structural upgrades here too, with a new hydroformed aluminum frame, a higher-end RST Renegade front suspension fork with blacked-out fork stanchions for a much sleeker and stealthier look, as well as lock-on hand grips, a larger 203 mm front disc for the hydraulic mineral oil brakes – plus, a new color LCD display too. Continued features include the 8-speed Shimano Altus derailleur, puncture-resistant knobby tires, hidden cable routing, accessory mounting points, removable pedals, and a thumb-throttle for pure electric riding. With the included bundle packages, you’ll also have the option to add on a rear cargo rack, fenders over both wheels, an Elite 850-lux headlight, an accordion-style folding bike lock, and a suspension seat post for more comfort when heading off the beaten path.

Lectric XPeak 2.0 e-bikes come with $365 in free gear:

You can also still grab the first-generation XPeak Step-Thru Off-Road e-bike with $781 in free gear (including an extra battery for 100+ miles of travel) for as long as supplies last.

Lectric XPeak 2.0 e-bike

Save up to $1,700 on Samsung’s Bespoke all-in-one electric washer/ventless dryer from $1,700 during Black Friday sales, more

Samsung’s ongoing Black Friday event is offering some amazing chances to score the brand’s Bespoke appliances at some of their lowest rates, like the AI Combo All-in-One Electric Washer & Ventless Heat Pump Dryer for $1,899 shipped. Along with your purchase, you’ll also be getting some bonus savings with a $100 exclusive credit towards future purchases, a 2-year Samsung Care+ warranty at $1 (normally $150), and free installation (worth $25) – valued at $275 ($1,700 in total savings). Normally this washer/dryer unit would run you $3,324 at full price, with the biggest discounts we’ve seen direct from Samsung taking costs down to $1,999 in 2024. You can also save even more with open-box options at $1,519 (find the option on right side of page). We also spotted this same model at Best Buy currently discounted to $1,700 shipped, though keep in mind that this deal doesn’t give you the $275 in additional savings with the credit/Care+/free install.

Samsung’s Bespoke AI Combo arrives as an ENERGY STAR-certified all-in-one unit that is supported by powerful AI smart tech to help you manage your laundry routines with increased efficiency. The AI allows it to identify different fabric types that are placed inside and adjust its settings according to the detected soil levels. The detergent tank here sports a much larger capacity, holding up to 47 loads worth of detergent so you don’t have to regularly worry about filling and refilling in between laundry loads – plus, it also has a Flex One compartment that takes that convenience to the next level as it can be split between 25 loads of detergent and 34 loads of softener.

Of course, one of its most praised features is right in the name – the ventless heat pump design. Not only does it give you far more freedom when placing it in your home (you’ll no longer be bound to areas with a dedicated vent like with standard models), but the dual-inverter heat pump tech significantly increases its energy efficiency by working with the AI system to calculate and predict your electricity costs to “reduce energy usage by up to 19%.” It’s also been given self-cleaning and self-drying tech to keep laundry coming out fresh, smart controls via the SmartThings app (as well as hands-free voice controls too), the EPA’s seal of approval, and much more. Head below to learn about the rest of what this appliance can bring to your home.

More Samsung Black Friday Bespoke appliance deals:

  • Bespoke Jet Cordless Stick Vacuum with All-in-One Clean Station: $550 (Reg. $700)
    • Built-in All-in-One Clean Station, multi-stage filtration
  • AutoRelease Smart Dishwasher: $699 (Reg. $1,299)
    • StormWash+, Smart Dry, and 42 dBA whisper-quiet operation
  • 6.0 cubic-foot Smart Slide-In Gas Range Oven: $1,099 (Reg. $2,144)
    • Air Sous Vide, Air Fry
  • 29 cubic-foot 4-Door Flex Refrigerator: $3,299 (Reg. $4,999)
    • AI Family Hub, AI Vision Inside, Beverage Center
  • And much more…

You can check out the entire lineup of Samsung’s Bespoke Black Friday savings by following the link here. 

NIU Black Friday sale on KQi electric scooters

NIU’s full Black Friday sale increases savings on KQi series e-scooters up to 64% off with new lows – deals from $179

NIU has launched its full Black Friday sale through November 29 that is increasing discounts from its early-event sale, now taking up to 64% off its lineup of KQi-series electric scooters, like the KQi3 Max Electric Kick Scooter that is down at $599 shipped. This model is often priced at $999 most of the time, with most of the sales we’ve seen coming direct from NIU dropping the price around $750, though we did see it fall to $599 back in July in the brand’s parallel sale to Amazon’s Prime Day event. Today, you’re looking at a second chance opportunity to score this powerful commuter solution with a $400 markdown that returns costs to the all-time lowest we have tracked. You’ll also find it matching in price at Amazon.

One of NIU’s more powerful e-scooter models that offers plenty of bang-for-your-buck mileage, the KQi3 Max’s 608.4Wh battery provides an impressive 40 miles of travel range while the 450W motor hits top speeds of 23.6 MPH (when unlocked from the companion app) – plus, it comes with plenty of peak power to conquer up to 25% inclines, which beats out a large pool of popular models on the market. It sports a triple braking system with regenerative brakes that recycle energy to extend your electrically assisted journey, complete with self-healing tires should you find yourself venturing on questionable terrain. It also comes stocked with a high-powered halo headlight, brake light functionality, and a full array of smart controls that include the unlocking of its higher speeds and security locking for added peace of mind and security.

NIU’s full Black Friday sale deals:

Govee Smart Electric Composter

Save $240 while getting nutrient-rich soil with Govee’s new Smart Electric Composter at $260

Through its official Amazon storefront, Govee is offering the second-ever discount on its new Smart Electric Composter that brings the price down to $259.99 shipped, after clipping the on-page $100 off coupon and redeeming the on-page 10% off promo code SEZOUABS. Down from its $500 full price, we saw this new smart device hit the scene one month ago, with its first discount dropping immediately, bringing costs down by 50% to what is now its all-time $250 low rate. Today, you’re looking at a slightly lesser combined 48% markdown that still saves you $240 on this all-new upgrade for your kitchen and home life. As I first pointed out back in October, and continuing even now, this model still hasn’t shown up on Govee’s direct website yet either.

Composting is becoming a bigger and bigger trend we’re seeing in homes across the country as folks are trying to do their part in reducing food waste while simultaneously keeping it out of landfills, improving their own gardening soil, and more. This Smart Electric Composter from Govee helps you keep track of your disposal routines with detailed records, giving you the low-cost chance to add more nutrients to your gardening soil at home. All its settings and functions can be monitored and controlled through the companion app – plus, you can even go hands-free with voice controls by connecting it with Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri. It offers three operating modes to choose from with a bunch of safety notifications sent straight to you should something go wrong. The best part is, there are no odors to worry about thanks to the two interchangeable filters that prevent the usual decomposition smells that naturally occur during the composting cycle.

Best Black Friday e-bike 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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Caterpillar autonomous haul trucks reach one MILLION ton milestone

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July 17, 2025

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Caterpillar autonomous haul trucks reach one MILLION ton milestone

Caterpillar and Luck Stone celebrate one million tons hauled autonomously at Bull Run Quarry

Construction and mining giant Caterpillar has reached a major milestone for its autonomous haulage system (AHS), reaching one million tons (!) of aggregate hauled by the company’s massive self-driving trucks.

The milestone was reached as part of an ongoing collaboration between Cat and Luck Stone’s Bull Run Quarry in Chantilly, Virginia to help demonstrate the worth of Caterpillar’s in-house AHS solution, and goes a long way towards proving to doubters of autonomous technology that AHS has what it takes to safely and dependably operate in a working quarry.

And, crucially, that the AHS Cats can keep an existing quarry running strong, even in the face of continuous labor shortages in the mining and aggregate industries.

Reaching the one million tons hauled autonomously milestone confirms that autonomous haulage can deliver consistent, repeatable performance. It also signals how autonomous solutions will address skilled labor shortages, improve site safety, increase operational efficiency, and upskill quarry employees to run autonomy. 

CATERPILLAR

Since the initial deployment of the autonomous tech stack-equipped Cat 777 haul trucks, the collaboration has focused on validating autonomy along with the people and processes in conditions that are typical in quarry operations but distinct from mining, where the benefits of autonomous operation has seen more significant deployment.

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With the success of the Luck Stone pilot at Bull Run, however, that mining/quarry imbalance may not be the status quo for much longer.

“This milestone is a powerful demonstration of what’s possible when we collaborate with our customers to deliver solutions for their critical needs,” explains Denise Johnson, Caterpillar Group President, Resource Industries. “Reaching one million tons hauled autonomously at Bull Run shows that autonomy isn’t just for mining – it’s scalable, reliable, and ready to transform the aggregates industry. We’re proud to collaborate with Luck Stone to lead that transformation.”

Caterpillar hopes the Bull Run project sets a precedent for the broader aggregates industry, and they continue to explore opportunities to expand autonomy across additional Luck Stone sites and operations.

SOURCE | IMAGES: Caterpillar.

The 30% federal solar tax credit is ending this year. If you’ve ever considered going solar, now’s the time to act. 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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Zeem set to deploy 19 electric semi trucks on Seattle-Tacoma gateway

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July 17, 2025

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Zeem set to deploy 19 electric semi trucks on Seattle-Tacoma gateway

he Northwest Seaport Alliance Announces Inaugural Incentive Program for Zero Emission Drayage

The Northwest Seaport Alliance has announced the recipients of its inaugural incentive program for zero emission drayage trucks – and they’ve turned to the logistics experts at Zeem to deploy 19 battery electric semi trucks to serve the Seattle-Tacoma gateway.

The Northwest Seaport Alliance incentive program is funded by a $6.2 million grant from the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), and will see bring 19 zero emission Class 8 semi trucks (like the Kenworth T680, shown) and their associated charging infrastructure to the Puget Sound region.

“We are thankful to the Northwest Seaport Alliance for helping the region adopt electric trucks, and we invite truck operators to experience how well they are matched to the job of hauling drayage,” says Paul Gioupis, CEO of Zeem Solutions. “We have served truck fleets for several years, and our goal is to make it a compelling business decision for fleets, that is both economically and environmentally sustainable.”

19 trucks, hundreds of charging customers

he Northwest Seaport Alliance Announces Inaugural Incentive Program for Zero Emission Drayage
NWSA announcement event, via Zeem.

In a bid to help make electrification an even more compelling option for PNW truck fleets, the new Zeem facility won’t just serve its fleet of 19 electric semi trucks – the project also includes a charging depot that will be able to serve up to 250 electric vehicles per day, with overnight parking capacity for up to 70 vehicles, including heavy-, medium-, and light-duty vehicles.

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“Nearly 4,000 short-haul trucks serve the ports of Seattle and Tacoma, traveling to nearby distribution centers and warehouses,” reads the official press release. “… operators will be able to switch to electric trucks and charging without the large amount of upfront capital typically needed for heavy-duty EVs and charging infrastructure.”

The charging site will be located near the new I-5 exit ramp just south of SeaTac Airport, along SR-99 (International Blvd./Pacific Hwy.), convenient for nearby warehouse and distribution centers that see a large volume of truck deliveries.

Electrek’s Take

Drayage trucks are typically heavy-duty Class 8 trucks that work short haul routes from ports to warehouses or loading facilities. They frequently travel back and forth along local roadways, meaning they have a high impact on air quality in a given area. And, depending on who you believe, truck emissions represent about 6% of all seaport-related diesel pollution and about 30% of all seaport-related climate pollution in the Puget Sound region – emissions that disproportionately impact communities living near port operations and along freight corridors.

As such: more electric drayage is more good news.

We had a chance to talk to Zeem CEO, Paul Gioupis, as one of our guests on Quick Charge last summer, and a lot of that discussion is still relevant today. Give it a listen (above), then let us know what you think of all this in the comments.

SOURCE | IMAGES: Zeem Solutions.

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CA senate drops controversial contract-breaking provision of solar law

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July 16, 2025

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CA senate drops controversial contract-breaking provision of solar law

California State Capitol, Photo by Tony Webster

The California Senate dropped a controversial provision of an upcoming solar law which would have broken long-standing solar contracts with California homeowners after significant public backlash over the state’s plans to do so.

For several months now, AB 942 has been working its way through the California legislature, with big changes to the way that California treats contracts for residential solar.

The state has long allowed for “net metering,” the concept that if you sell your excess solar power to the grid, it gives you a credit that you can use to draw from the grid when your solar isn’t producing.

Some 2 million homeowners in California signed contracts with 20-year terms when they purchased their solar systems, figuring that the solar panels would pay off their significant investment over the coming decades by allowing them to sell power to the grid that they generated from their rooftops.

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But this has long been a sticking point for the state’s regulated private utilities. They are in the business of selling power, so they tend to have little interest in buying it from the people they’re supposed to be selling it to.

As a result, utilities have consistently tried to get language watering down net metering contracts inserted into bills considered by the CA legislature, and the most recent one was a bit of a doozy.

The most recent plan was asked for by the CA Public Utilities Commission, in response to an executive order by Gov. Gavin Newsom, was authored by a former utility executive, and used some questionable justifications, claiming that solar customers were responsible for high utility bills by shifting costs from solar customers to non-solar customers. Other analyses show that rooftop solar helped save $1.5 billion for ratepayers.

The most controversial point of AB 942 was that it would break rooftop solar contracts early. At first, it was going to break all existing contracts, then was limited to only break contracts if a homeowner sells their home. The ability to transfer these contracts was key to the buying decision for many homeowners who installed solar, as the ability to generate your own power and lower your electricity bills adds to a home’s value.

This brought anger from several rooftop solar owners and organizations associated with the industry. 100 organizations signed onto an effort to stop blaming consumers who are doing their best to reduce emissions and instead focus on the real causes of higher electricity, which the groups said are associated with high utility spending and profits.

It also resulted in several protests outside CA assemblymembers’ offices, opposing the bill. And California representatives received a high volume of comments opposing the plan to break solar contracts.

But, as of Tuesday, the language which would break rooftop solar contracts has been removed by the CA Senate’s Energy Committee, chaired by Senator Josh Becker, who led the effort. Language which blamed consumers for utility rate-hikes was also removed from the bill, according to the Solar Rights Alliance.

The bill is still not law, it has only moved out of the Energy Committee. But bills that advance through committee in California do not usually meet a significant amount of debate when they come to a floor vote, due to the Democratic supermajority in the state. It seems likely that if this bill advances to a vote, it will pass.

Electrek’s Take

The bill is still not perfect for solar homeowners. It disallows anyone with a yearly electricity bill of under $300 from getting the “California Climate Credit,” which is a refund to state utility customers paid for by California’s carbon fee on polluting industry.

The justification is thin for removing this credit from homeowners who are doing even more for the climate by installing solar… but it turns out that limitation probably won’t affect many customers, because most solar customers will still pay a yearly grid connection tax of around $300/year, and most solar customers still have a small electricity bill anyway at the end of the year.

Now, the question of a grid connection fee is another point of possible contention. This has been referred to as a “tax on the sun” in some jurisdictions, and it does feel like an attempt to nickel-and-dime customers who are contributing to climate reductions and should not be penalized for doing so. However, there is at least some rationality in the concept that they should pay to use infrastructure (but then… isn’t that the point of taxes, to build infrastructure for people to use?).

In short, even if it’s not perfect for every solar homeowner, we can consider this a win, and an example of how, at least with functional governments (unlike the US’ one), the public can and should be able to stop bad laws, or bad portions of laws, with enough public effort.

Now, if only we could apply that to those ridiculous EV fees…

The 30% federal solar tax credit is ending this year. If you’ve ever considered going solar, now’s the time to act. 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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