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Formula E’s 11th season starts on Saturday in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and includes the debut of the new Gen3 EVO car – which iterates on the original Gen3 car by activating the front motor, giving more grip and even faster acceleration than a Formula One car.

Formula E is the FIA’s top-level electric racing series, racing single-seater open-wheel formula cars on famous racetracks and in downtown city centers – where quieter, zero-emission cars can get away with things that noisy gassers cannot.

It’s now on its eleventh season, and there’s been plenty of excitement and unpredictability throughout. The series has remained competitive, with championship battles often coming down to the last race with multiple drivers and teams vying for the win – unlike F1, where championship battles are often decided midway through the season.

And Formula E has been iterating on its vehicles pretty rapidly, with changes every couple years adding new capabilities and making the cars faster.

Early Formula E seasons started with a much less powerful vehicle, and drivers would even swap vehicles mid-race (battery swapping was deemed too complicated, so they just swapped cars instead).

In 2018, Formula E introduced the Gen 2 car which was more powerful and no longer needed to swap mid-race. Then in 2022, the Gen 3 car started racing, with the addition of a front motor to be used for stronger regenerative braking.

On the original iteration of the Gen 3 car, the front motor wasn’t active during acceleration – but that’s changing now, as the modified Gen 3 EVO car will be able to use the front motor during qualifying, race starts, and during “attack mode,” a short boost in power that drivers can activate during the race to gain an advantage. So, technically, this means these cars are going to be all-wheel drive, at least some of the time.

All-wheel drive has been popular on road cars recently, because it enhances acceleration and drivability. And on EVs, it’s quite easy to add, because you can just slap a second motor on the other axle and run a few cables to it, rather than needing to run driveshafts and gearing mechanisms all through your car to transfer the power from a single combustion engine to two separate axles.

However, sportscar and racing enthusiasts have often preferred rear-wheel drive because it makes cars more squirrelly and difficult to control, showcasing driver skill more readily.

So this is a pretty big change – single seat open-wheel racing has historically been all rear-wheel drive with few driver aids involved. There have been a few all-wheel drive cars tried in the past, but currently other open-wheel single seaters (like F1, IndyCar and the like) are rear-wheel drive only.

Another big change for this year is in the tires, which will be grippier than last season. The Gen 3 car originally didn’t improve laptimes as much as expected, likely due to a change in tire supplier, and this year’s tires promise to be more capable of handling the car’s higher power output.

Further, we might finally see the debut of the “attack charge” mid-race charging feature. Along with the introduction of a front motor, Gen3 brought 600kW charging capability. This was mostly used for better regenerative braking, but Formula E also said it wanted to introduce a mid-race 600kW charge.

But introduction of that feature got pushed back multiple times, so now, even if Formula E says it’s ready to introduce it – we’ll believe it when it happens. It was tested at pre-season testing in Spain last month, so that’s one step done at least.

If it does get introduced this year, it will likely be at a double-header race, with one race using the mid-race charge system, and the other not.

The new season comes along with changes in drivers and teams, as they often do. Lola cars has taken over the ABT team, running a racing team for the first time since 1997 now alongside Yamaha, and last season’s ERT team has rebranded as Cupra Kiro. Maserati committed to return – and has committed to the entirety of the future Gen4 era, through 2030.

Drivers have shifted around from team to team, with two new rookie drivers joining the grid – Zane Maloney who joins the Lola team after previously racing in Formula 2, and Taylor Barnard who drove 3 races last year for McLaren but now starts the season as a full-time driver.

Tracks have changed as well, with the retirement of the Misano ePrix, meaning no more races in Italy. Saudi Arabia, which previously hosted several season openers at the Riyadh street circuit, will move its races to a new street circuit in Jeddah. The Portland ePrix (which was great the last couple years) is going away, being replaced by the Miami ePrix – which was previously held in 2015, though now will happen at the Homestead-Miami speedway NASCAR track, instead of the previous Miami street circuit along Biscayne Bay. The headline Monaco ePrix, at the world-famous Circuit de Monaco, will become a doubleheader for the first time, with two races on the same weekend. And the Jakarta ePrix is back, after being skipped in 2024.

This weekend’s race is at the Sao Paulo street circuit, which has hosted Formula E twice before. Since Formula E seasons start just before the end of the year and the Sao Paulo ePrix was scheduled from mid-season to the season opener, we’re now getting a second 2024 Sao Paulo ePrix – the last of which was won by Sam Bird. The 2023 race was won by Mitch Evans.

The circuit goes along the city’s Carnival route, with a long back straight interrupted by one chicane, and a return to the start/finish line through some side streets with tight turns. The long straights should offer good opportunities for overtaking, but also add to difficulty in energy management for the teams.

The race starts this Saturday, December 7, at 2pm local Sao Paulo time. That’s Noon Eastern time, 9am Pacific time, and 5pm UTC. You can check out how to watch the race in your area by going to Formula E’s “Ways to Watch” section. In the US, Roku should be the most reliable way to watch.

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Hyundai’s 2025 IONIQ 5 EV is cheaper than a Toyota RAV4 with up to $16,000 in discounts

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2 hours ago

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January 8, 2025

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Hyundai's 2025 IONIQ 5 EV is cheaper than a Toyota RAV4 with up to ,000 in discounts

Hyundai-2025-IONIQ-5-discounts

The upgraded electric SUV is arriving with up to $16,000 in savings. With discounts, Hyundai’s new 2025 IONIQ 5 can be bought for under $28,000, nearly half off MSRP. That’s even cheaper than a new Toyota RAV4.

Hyundai’s best-selling electric SUV is now better than ever. The 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 was introduced last September with more range, style, and features. It now even comes with an NACS port to charge up at Tesla Superchargers.

The refreshed IONIQ 5 was the first vehicle to roll off the assembly line at Hyundai’s new EV plant in Georgia. Build in the US, it now qualifies for the $7,500 federal tax credit for the first time. But that’s not all.

Hyundai is already offering massive savings opportunities as the new electric SUV rolls out to dealerships. According to auto intelligence firm CarsDirect, the 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 already has up to $16,000 in discounts.

In addition to the $7,500 EV tax credit, all trims feature a $7,500 Retail Cash Bonus. Buyers can use the tax credit up front, while the Cash Bonus is valid when buying or leasing.

Hyundai-2025-IONIQ-5-discounts
2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 (Source: Hyundai)

In addition, Hyundai offers a $1,000 conquest in most areas if you trade in a competitive vehicle. This can also be used when buying or leasing.

When added up, that’s up to $16,000 in discounts. Starting at $43,975, you could potentially buy the 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 SE Standard Range model for under $28,000.

Hyundai-2025-IONIQ-5-interior
2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 Limited interior (Source: Hyundai)

That’s even more affordable than the 2025 Toyota RAV4, which starts at $30,245. However, Toyota’s SUV does not have a factory rebate. Hyundai’s promotion ends on February 3, 2025.

With a bigger 84 kWh battery, the 2025 IONIQ 5 has a driving range of 318 miles, up from 303 miles in the outgoing model. The Standard Range model, powered by a 63 kWh battery pack, has a range of 245 miles.

2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 Trim EV Powertrain Driving Range (miles) Starting Price* 
IONIQ 5 SE RWD Standard Range 168-horsepower rear motor 245 $42,500
IONIQ 5 SE RWD 225-horsepower rear motor 318 $46,550
IONIQ 5 SEL RWD 225-horsepower rear motor 318 $49,500
IONIQ 5 Limited RWD 225-horsepower rear motor 318 $54,200
IONIQ 5 SE Dual Motor AWD 320-horsepower dual motor 290 $50,050
IONIQ 5 SEL Dual Motor AWD 320-horsepower dual motor 290 $53,000
IONIQ 5 XRT Dual Motor  AWD 320 horsepower dual motor 259 $55,400
IONIQ 5 Limited Dual Motor AWD 320-horsepower dual motor 269 $58,100
2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 prices and range by trim (*includes $1,475 destination fee)

Hyundai’s new model now comes with an NACS port as standard, unlocking access to 36,000 DC fast chargers. That’s more than double the number current drivers have access to.

The interior, updated based on customer feedback, now includes added HVAC controls, a redesigned steering wheel, and a new center console. The cockpit features a dual 12.3″ infotainment and driver display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support.

Ready to take advantage of the savings while they last? We can help you find the right model at the best price. You can use our link to view offers on 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 models at a dealer near you today.

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Tesla officially appeals judge’s decision on Elon Musk’s compensation package

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2 hours ago

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January 8, 2025

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Tesla officially appeals judge's decision on Elon Musk's compensation package

Tesla has officially filed its appeal against the Delaware judge’s decision on Elon Musk’s compensation package.

It’s heading to the state’s Supreme Court.

For a full context of the case, you can read our last article on Judge McCormick rejecting Tesla’s claim that the new shareholder would ratify the compensation package and force her to vacate her decision to void the pay package.

Last month, Judge McCormick rejected Tesla’s ratification argument, which she explained goes against settled law, and she also found other “multiple, material misstatements in the proxy statement” of the new vote.

Tesla and its CEO Elon Musk were upset at the ruling and the latter went as far as calling up “corruption” without offering any evidence.

As expected, Tesla has now appealed the ruling with the Delaware Supreme Court.

The automaker is insisting on trying to get the same $55 billion compensation package approved based on the argument that the judge is taking away shareholders’ right to decide for themselves.

However, this is based on Tesla completely rejecting all the judge’s findings regarding how Tesla is misleading shareholders about how the package was negotiated and presented to shareholders.

Electrek’s Take

As I wrote last summer, Elon Musk’s compensation package case will haunt Tesla for years. Even if you believe Musk deserves this package, Tesla’s approach to reinstating it was boneheaded and didn’t follow the law as I, and seemingly the judge and most Delaware corporate law experts, understand it.

Tesla, and more specifically Elon Musk, it’s hard to differentiate the two lately, which is part of the problem, are showing no intention to address their governance issues.

Let’s be clear: Elon could get paid somewhat easily here. Even as much or close to this amount. However, it needs to do it through the proper governance and respect the process.

Instead, Elon prefers to lie to shareholders and present the situation as politically motivated lawfare. It’s nonsense.

Now, it’s going to the Supreme Court and there’s a chance that nothing will change.

There’s an easy solution. Recognize the issues highlighted by the judge, address them, and present an updated compensation package to shareholders that takes into account the governance issue and that reduces the package proportionally to the cost of this entire mess to Tesla.

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Lectric New Year sale increases savings on XPedition 2.0 cargo e-bike bundle, Govee smart composter, Worx, Greenworks, more

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January 8, 2025

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Lectric New Year sale increases savings on XPedition 2.0 cargo e-bike bundle, Govee smart composter, Worx, Greenworks, more

Today’s Green Deals are being led by Lectric’s New Year sale that is giving folks up to $727 in free gear along with e-bike purchases, with increased savings on its new XPedition 2.0 13Ah Single-Battery Cargo e-bike that comes with $326 in free gear for $1,399. From there, we have a collection of handy devices and tools for around the home, with Govee’s Smart Electric Composter down at $300. We also have a new low price on Worx’s latest Nitro 40V Cordless Leaf Blower for $159, as well as two Greenworks deals – the 80V 12-inch Cordless Electric Snow Shovel at $234 and an 80V 3-tool lawncare combo that is back at its $570 low for today only. Plus, all the other hangover Green Deals can be found in the links at the bottom of the page, like yesterday’s Segway e-bike preorder launch, 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 New Year sale increases savings to $326 on new XPedition 2.0 13Ah cargo e-bike bundle at $1,399

It’s a New Year so Lectric is throwing a new sale with up to $727 in savings on the brand’s e-bike bundles. While prices on most of these bundles are landing at or below its Black Friday and Christmas rates, one model seeing an increase in savings is the new XPedition 2.0 13Ah Single-Battery Cargo e-bike at $1,399 shipped, which comes with $326 in free gear. Normally totaling up to $1,725, we saw this EV getting $296 in gear since releasing back in November. While savings on its two dual-battery iterations have slightly lowered, this model is benefitting from increased savings with the biggest accessory package we’ve seen to date.

Sporting two new colorways from the brand, the XPedition 2.0 Cargo e-bike has some obvious upgrades from its first-generation model, like the extended rear rack or the increased 450-pound payload. It’s been given an improved 750W M24 rear hub motor (peaking at 1,310W) that reaches 28 MPH top speeds, with increased acceleration and much more power to tackle inclines even with cargo being hauled along. This base model is powered by a 13Ah battery that provides up to 60 miles with the PAS support (the dual 13Ah model bumps this to 120 miles while the dual 17.5Ah model goes higher to 170 miles). What’s more, its charger has been improved to 5A output, “cutting down on charging speeds by 60%.”

Aside from its impressive performance capabilities for the low price, it also comes with loads a solid features, like the adjustable dual spring 50mm front suspension fork, the Shimano 8-speed drivetrain, narrower 20-inch by 2.5-inch wheels with fenders over each, more powerful hydraulic mineral oil disc brakes, the headlamp and taillights with brake lighting and turn signal functionality, the wider-stance kickstand, and a color display.

Lectric New Year sale XPedition 2.0 (26Ah) e-bike with $505 in gear

Lectric New Year sale XPedition 2.0 (35Ah) e-bike with $654 in gear

Lectric New Year sale XP Trike with $419 in gear

Lectric New Year sale XPeak 2.0 e-bikes with up to $365 in gear

Lectric New Year sale ONE Long-Range e-bike with $319 in gear

Lectric New Year sale XP Lite 2.0 long-range e-bikes with up to $365 in gear

Lectric New Year sale XPress 750 Commuter e-bikes with $128 in gear

Lectric New Year sale XP 3.0 e-bikes with $117 in gear

govee smart electric composter deals with food waste

Make use of your food waste with Govee’s Smart Electric Composter at $300

Through its official Amazon storefront, Govee is offering a lightning deal on its latest Smart Electric Composter that is down at $299.98 shipped, after clipping the on-page $50 off coupon. It’s starting off already down from its $500 MSRP, and while we have seen it go as lower twice before, you’re still looking at a solid $200 in savings here while the deal lasts. Upgrade your kitchen today with the third-lowest price we have tracked since it was released in October, landing just $50 above the all-time low from Prime Day.

Cut out food waste and its costs by recycling it for alternate uses with Govee’s Smart Electric Composter which not only gives you records of your disposal routines, but also provides low-cost nutrient-rich soil for your garden and/or potted plants. It features three modes with plenty of safety notifications sent directly to your device when problems arise, complete with in-app smart controls and even hands-free voice controls through Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri. And I’m sure you’re concerned about foul smells from the food breaking down, but don’t be! The two interchangeable filters prevent those odors from the composting cycle from filling your home.

Worx leaf blower

Clear out debris with Worx’s Nitro 40V cordless leaf blower equipped with two 4.0Ah batteries at new $159 low

Amazon has dropped the price lower than ever on the Worx Nitro 40V Cordless Leaf Blower with two 4.0Ah batteries for $158.99 shipped. This newer model usually carries a $200 price tag, which has fallen as low as $160 back in mid-December, with slightly increased savings here today. You can grab one for your tool arsenal at a 21% markdown here, saving you $41 at the lowest price we have tracked.

Whether you live in a warmer climate during winter or want to start prepping for after the snow melts away, Worx’s Nitro 40V cordless leaf blower will be ready to clear your yard’s leftover debris with 530 CFM of airflow (180 MPH) that matches up to a 27cc gas blower. The two included 4.0Ah batteries ensure you’ll get 90 minutes of runtime on one charge, with it only weighing in at 7.7 pounds, making it easy to handle no matter the age, size, or physical strength. It has 3-speed adjustments alongside a turbo mode for boosted power, even coming with a concentrator nozzle that can be equipped to reach its maximum output airspeeds.

Greenworks snow shovel

Carve a 12-inch wide path with this Greenworks 80V cordless electric snow shovel while it’s at $234

Amazon is bringing the savings to equipment perfect for snow relief, with the Greenworks 80V 12-inch Cordless Electric Snow Shovel down at $234.49 shipped. The price has been brought down from its usual $350 MSRP today, which saves you $116 off its full costs. While we have seen it go as low as $200 in the past (which hasn’t been seen since 2023 Christmas sales), it’s been spending more recent months near $300, except for occasional events like October’s Prime Day or early Black Friday sales, which is when we first saw it at this 2024 low.

Winter is well under way, and plenty of folks across the country have been battling it out with Mother Nature’s snowfall already, and this electric snow shovel from Greenworks is ready to join the fight. Its 80V brushless motor will have a 12-inch wide by 6-inch deep path cleared in no time, with snow tossed up to 25 feet out of the way. The lightweight design makes it easy to manage while in operation, not to mention the management of space, which you’ll save over larger snow blowers. The included 2.0Ah battery provides a 45-minute runtime for every 30 minute period that it charges, and the shovel also protects you via the lock-out button that prevents accidental start ups when your digits start growing too cold and stiff.

Lectric New Year sale

Through its lineup of Deals of the Day, Best Buy is offering the Greenworks 80V 21-inch Lawn Mower, 13-inch String Trimmer, and 730 CFM Leaf Blower Combo for $569.99 shipped for the rest of the day. Down from its usual $1,100 full price, we’ve mainly seen it fall between $600 and $700 over the last year, with some occasional drops lower. Today is one of the occasions as you save $530 off the going rate while stocking up on reliable equipment for your yard duties at the lowest price we have tracked. You won’t find this bundle just anywhere, as even Amazon doesn’t have the same combination of tools, with the closest we can find being this combo with a less advanced blower and trimmer as well as three batteries for $550.

Winter is always a great time to invest in lawncare equipment, especially with such a massive price cut, and this 3-tool combo kit from Greenworks will have you stocked up for spring duties once it rolls back around. The lawn mower has been given an 80V brushless motor to tackle up to 1/2 acre of land on a single charge of the included 4.0Ah battery, with seven cutting height positions and a push button start. The 13-inch trimmer sports the brand’s dual bump feed head to more easily replace broken lines, with the battery providing enough juice for an 80-minute runtime on its low power setting. The leaf blower provides up to 730 CFM of airflow (reaching up to 170 MPH) with a variable speed trigger with cruise control for more effortless handling.

Best New Year 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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