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From the ashes of Elon Musk’s decision to fire the whole Supercharger team last year, a new company has risen: Hubber, which will take its founders’ expertise at setting up Tesla Superchargers and apply that to addressing the lack of high-speed urban charging for taxis and other commercial vehicles.

Last year, Tesla CEO Elon Musk suddenly fired the entire charging department, in what is one of the more chaotic decisions he’s made yet.

In the immediate aftermath of this decision, a lot of questions were asked around the industry – and a lot of companies started snatching up talent from the best EV charging team in the world.

Or, alternately, some of that talent went to form their own companies. That’s the case for Harry Fox, Connor Selwood and Hugh Leckie, who met at Tesla and together oversaw the rollout of 100 Supercharger sites with 1,200 total chargers across the UK & Ireland. And after the shakeup of the Supercharger team, they set off to charge a new path of their own.

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The three formed Hubber, which pitches itself as a new type of EV charging company, focused on solving “the urban charging gap.”

Hubber describes itself as “the UK’s leading specialist in urban high-powered EV charging, addressing one of the most urgent constraints in the energy transition: the shortage of fast, reliable charging in major cities.”  It “acquires and develops prime urban sites into large-scale charging hubs, combining deep grid-connection know-how with a proven ability to deliver complex infrastructure at speed”.

A large amount of the traffic in UK cities is taken up by taxis and last-mile, and these vehicles tend to see higher utilization than commuter cars, so they need to charge more often. Hubber says that taxis charge five times as often as a private vehicle, which means they’ll need more access to fast EV charging.

This is further exacerbated in urban environments, where EVs might not park in a place they can charge. Lots of urban homes don’t have garages, and while there are street EV chargers available in London, they’re not everywhere yet. So convenient fast charging is essential.

And the needs for commercial drivers are different than those of other commuters. While nicely-appointed charging plazas (like Rove’s “full service” EV charger in Santa Ana, CA) are great for the average consumer, commercial EV drivers put more of a premium on speed and affordability, and don’t mind if a site is a little further off of a main thoroughfare, or not as close to food or shopping as other drivers might want.

So Hubber is looking at sites that other developers might pass over – like old warehouses or gas stations – and figuring out how to turn them into an ideal site for high-throughput charging.

With its cofounders’ experience at Tesla, Hubber will buy sites, transform them into a charger-ready location, and essentially provide the dream location that they would have liked to see during the site selection processes they went through in their previous jobs.

The charging hubs could still have some amenities, like restrooms and vending machines, of the type that would be useful for taxi or ride-hailing drivers to grab during a quick stop. But the main focus would be on getting people in and out and back on the road.

Here’s a rendering of what a potential site might look like. In this sample location, there would be room for light-duty vehicles up front, with an area for larger last-mile delivery vehicles with larger charging bays. A small covered area could provide restrooms and vending, and another portion of the site could be dedicated to transformers, batteries and the like.

Hubber is also thinking ahead to a possible autonomous future, where driverless ride-hailing vehicles like those from Waymo could have a place to charge. Although given that there aren’t currently great solutions for autonomous charging, an attendant might have to be involved for the foreseeable future.

The company would also like to expand beyond the UK and Ireland, but they’re sticking to home base for the time being. After all, things are just getting off the ground – but the £60 million (~$81m) investment that Hubber just secured is certainly a big boost towards getting the project moving.

Speaking of projects, Hubber’s first facility is opening this coming week, on August 20th. The site is at Forest Hill in South London, near Forest Hill Station. It will have 12 EV charging bays, with 3 150kW and 3 300kW dual-head chargers. The site will be operated by RAW charging, which will offer free fast charging for its first week of operation.

Electrek’s Take

As we said at the time, firing the whole Supercharger team was a dumb decision. It was immediately obvious to everyone in the industry that it was a dumb decision, and Tesla did eventually relent and rehire some of the fired workers, but the damage was done – and not just for the charging team, but morale was made low throughout the organization.

The silver lining, at least for the rest of the industry, is that it allowed this talent to be distributed around to other companies. This isn’t beneficial for Tesla and did cause chaos which has likely affected the rollout of NACS, slowed EV charging site development in the US, and so on, but it has been beneficial for other companies who managed to snatch up talent.

Or, for companies like Hubber, which were formed by that talent.

It’s an interesting idea, and I like the angle of focusing on taxis in order to increase utilization of the site. EV charging is potentially an interesting business long term, but currently a lot of chargers see low usage because it’s so easy for most of the people who own EVs to charge at home.

But we’re going to have to move beyond the market of people who can easily charge in a garage attached to a single family home, especially in cities. Getting an easy way for the cars that get used the most in a city to charge is a really important move, and we’re looking forward to seeing how Hubber can help with this. And having a leadership team consisting of people who formerly worked at the best charging team in the industry isn’t a bad start.

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Lectric XP4 750 and XP Lite2 e-bikes get up to $488 in FREE cargo bundles, EcoFlow 40A EV charger from $699 low, Segway EV Sale, more

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2 hours ago

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September 25, 2025

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Lectric XP4 750 and XP Lite2 e-bikes get up to 8 in FREE cargo bundles, EcoFlow 40A EV charger from 9 low, Segway EV Sale, more

Today’s Green Deals are all about EVs in their many forms, headlined by Lectric’s Ultimate Tailgating Flash Sale that is offering $488 and $399 FREE cargo bundles on the XP4 750 Folding Utility and XP Lite2 Folding e-bikes starting from $1,099. We also have EcoFlow’s PowerPulse Level 2 40A EV Charger (and bundles) starting from its $699 low, as well as Segway’s Roll into Fall Savings Sale with hundreds being taken off various EVs, including the Max G2 Electric Scooter at $800. We also have some add-on accessory deals for cars, SUVs, and trucks, as well as the continuing Early Prime Day Sales, and more waiting for you below. And don’t forget about all the hangover deals collected at the bottom of the page, like yesterday’s launches of Jackery’s new Explorer 240D compact power station, the Hiboy EX9 Urban Commuter e-bike, 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.

Prep for tailgating with these Lectric cargo bundles on XP4 750 + XP Lite2 e-bikes starting from $1,099 (Up to $488 in FREE gear)

Lectric has launched an Ultimate Tailgating Flash Sale that is offering up to $488 in free bundled gear along with purchases of the XP4 750 Folding Utility e-bikes at $1,399 shipped (getting $488 bundles), or the XP Lite2 Long-Range e-bikes starting from $1,099 shipped (getting $399 bundles). If it weren’t for the usual discounts on the brand’s bundled gear, you’d be paying $1,887 or up to $1,598 for these packages (the JW belt-drive model sits $100 higher than the rest), which are some of the largest we’ve seen to date. For the XP4 750 e-bike, specifically, you can get an in-depth take from our hands-on review here, or head below for information.

While it appears there has been some $100 price increase on these e-bikes, which may be in response to tariff hikes catching up with the company, these are still the largest bundle sizes we’ve tracked up until this sale, giving you a rear cargo rack, a fender set, steel-encased front and rear cargo baskets, a 35L soft cooler, and three cargo straps on the XP Lite2 e-bikes, while the XP4 750 e-bikes get these, as well as an upgraded LevelUp cargo rack, a suspension seat post, and an accordion-style folding bike lock.

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Lectric’s new XP4 750 e-bike as become one of my hands-down favorites in my fleet of EVs, sitting right next to the XPress 750 Commuter e-bike, with the folding design particularly handy in my NYC apartment. The 750 is upgraded for longer commuting over the standard XP4 e-bike, coming with a 750W Stealth M24 brushless gear hub motor (that peaks at 1,310W) alongside a 17.5Ah battery to provide 20/28 MPH top speeds, depending on state laws. The larger battery in the 750 model also boasts an impressive travel range of up to 85 pedal-assisted miles on a single charge. From there, Lectric has added in quite the array of continuing and upgraded features – many of which have been asked for by fans since its previous generations, like the repositioned non-drive side key location/charging port, the keyless riding functionality, hydraulic brakes, puncture-resistant mixed-terrain tires, the integrated taillight with both brake lighting and turn signals, and more, which you can learn in detail within our hands-on review.

On the flip side of this flash sale is the Lectric XP Lite2 Long-range e-bike, which come as the most lightweight of all the brand’s EVs, weighing just 49 pounds and also coming with a folding design for easier storage options. This is a great option for students, particularly, as the 300W rear hub motor (819Wh peak) and the 672Wh battery provide up to 80 miles of pedal-assisted travel at up to 20 MPH top speeds. Of course, you’re also getting some solid features too, including 20×2.5-inch slick tires with a 3mm Hippo Skin liner and pre-slimed tubes for anti-puncture resistance, hydraulic mineral oil brakes, a full color LCD screen with a USB-A port, and more.

Lectric XP4 750 Long-Range Folding Utility e-bikes with $488 bundle:

XP Lite2 Long-Range e-bike offers with $399 bundle:

You can browse the entire Lectric Ultimate Tailgating Flash Sale on the landing page here, which does see the other models getting some bundled savings, though none of those are tailored for tailgating needs like the above two models.

EcoFlow PowerPulse EV charger in garage charging EV while connected to Smart Home Panel 2 and DELTA Pro Ultra power station

EcoFlow’s PowerPulse level 2 40A EV charger integrates with home backup setups at a $699 low, bundles from $2,199

As part of its ongoing Early Prime Day Sale running up to the two-day event on October 7, EcoFlow is offering its PowerPulse Level 2 40A EV Charger at $699 shipped. This EV charging solution hit the market back in June and normally goes for $899 outside of sales, which we’ve consistently been seeing dropped to $699 in the time since. You’ll not only be getting another shot at $200 in savings at the best price we have tracked, but the unit connects to your power stations and home backup setups to provide support for your electric vehicle’s charging needs.

If you want to learn more about this EV charging station, as well as its bundle options also seeing discounts, be sure to check out our original coverage of these deals here.

man riding on Segway Max G2 Electric Scooter down railed walkway under an overpass

Save hundreds on Segway EVs starting from $350 during its Fall Savings Sale + members get bonus savings/rewards

Segway currently has a Roll into Fall Savings Sale running through September 30, which is offering up to $600 savings on its lineup of e-scooters, alongside some bonus savings through its Hit the Road Giveaway (more on this below). Amongst the bunch, folks looking for longer-traveling options can jump on Segway’s Max G2 Electric Scooter for $799.99 shipped, which also matches in price at Amazon. While it carries an insanely bloated  $1,400 MSRP direct from the brand, no one should ever pay that – this is a $1,000 scooter every day of the week on Amazon, and now you can score it with $200 savings.

Segway’s Hit the Road Giveaway is a member-only promotional savings event lasting through September 29 that starts by simply signing up for free, starting you with 300 miles on new accounts that can be redeemed for extra savings on orders or to score add-on accessories. From there, the brand provides you with several varying methods to gain more miles for further exclusive savings, which you can learn about on the landing page here.

If you want to learn more about Segway’s Max G2 e-scooter, as well as its other EV discounts, be sure to check out our original coverage of this sale here.

ROVE's R3 3-channel dash cam
BougeRV mountable carrier/bike rack attached to SUV
man sitting on Rad Power's RadRunner Cargo Utility e-bike

Best Fall 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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Kia is about to make charging your EV way easier

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3 hours ago

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September 25, 2025

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Kia is about to make charging your EV way easier

Kia-EV-charging-easier

Kia is making it easier than ever to charge your EV. The company is rolling out new features and more that will get you back on the road in no time.

Kia launches Plug & Charge EV charging and adds NACS

Kia is finally giving EV owners what they want: Plug & Charge capabilities. By the end of September, eligible 2025 Kia EV6 vehicles will finally gain access to the feature, and by the end of the year, the 2026 EV9 will also have access.

For those unfamiliar with Plug & Charge, the feature enables you to pay for the charging session simply by plugging in at compatible stations.

The feature eliminates the need to pull out your credit card or app to pay every time you charge. Not too bad, right?

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Eligible EV6 and EV9 owners will be able to access Plug & Charge through the Kia Connect suite of services. Kia said it will send more information to current owners when the feature is available.

Kia-EV-charging-easier
2025 Kia EV6 US-spec model (Source: Kia)

After activating the service, all you have to do is plug in at a compatible charger, which includes Tesla Superchargers and Electrify America. Your vehicle and charger will automatically recognize it’s you to initiate the charging and payment.

The billing process is secure and links your preferred payment method, enabling hands-free EV charging sessions.

Kia-EV-charging-easier
The Kia EV9 and Hyundai IONIQ 5 charging at a Tesla Supercharger (Source: Kia)

Kia is also switching to the North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, starting with the 2025 EV6 and EV9. The move unlocks access to over 21,500 Tesla Superchargers across the US.

The 2025 Kia EV6 Light RWD starts at $42,900 with up to 237 miles of EPA-estimated range. Upgrading to the Long Range RWD model costs $46,200 with a driving range of 319 miles.

Kia-EV-charging-easier
The 2026 Kia EV9 (Source: Kia)

For those looking for something bigger, the 2026 Kia EV9 Light RWD has a starting MSRP of $54,900 with an EPA-estimated range of 230 miles. The Long Range EV9 starts at $57,900, with a range of 305 miles.

With the $7,500 federal EV tax credit expiring at the end of September, Kia is offering a few deals that you might be interested in. The 2025 EV6 and 2026 EV9 are available with a $5,000 Customer Cash bonus, a $1,000 loyalty/ conquest offer, and 0% APR financing for 48 months.

Want to see for yourself? You can use our links below to find Kia EV6 and EV9 models at a dealer near you today.


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Xiaomi officially sets up shop in the EU with new R&D Design Center

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4 hours ago

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September 25, 2025

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Xiaomi officially sets up shop in the EU with new R&D Design Center

Xiaomi EU

Young Chinese EV developer Xiaomi Automobile has officially expanded its global footprint, opening a new R&D and Design Center in Germany. This is Xiaomi’s first step in its planned expansion outside China and into new markets around the EU.

Today’s news of an initial office in the EU demonstrates Xiaomi Auto’s rapid growth and success. Especially when you consider that it has only been about four years since the Chinese smartphone developer announced it would also start building BEVs.

Since then, Xiaomi’s flagship SU7 sedan has hit the market, reaching 200,000 customer deliveries in China in a blistering 119 days. While Xiaomi’s immediate focus has remained focused on meeting unprecedented demand in China, company executives have hinted at expansions to new markets, including the possibility of expansion to the EU.

The Chinese automaker is no stranger to the racing world in the EU, as it quickly made a name for itself at the renowned German tracks of Nürburgring. In fact, Xiaomi’s technology impressed the Germans so much, it was invited into the exclusive “Industriepool” to conduct R&D at the track and even signed on as a long-term partner, which includes its own “Xiaomi Curve” on the Grand Prix Circuit.

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Xiaomi’s SU7 Ultra also holds the fastest lap for a production EV at the Nürburgring Nordschleife. Following confirmed plans to sell its EVs in the EU, Xiaomi Automobile has opened its first facilities outside of China, in Munich, Germany.

Xiaomi EU
Source: Xiaomi Automobile

Xiaomi’s first entry into the EU begins in Munich

Per a release from Xiaomi Automobile this morning, the Chinese BEV developer has opened the “Xiaomi EV Europe Research and Development and Design Center” in Munich, Germany.

This development follows news from August 2025, when Xiaomi president William Lu confirmed the brand’s expansion plans for the EU, beginning in 2027. Per the release:

The establishment of the Munich R&D and Design Center underscores Xiaomi EV’s commitment to building a global innovation network. By leveraging world-class competencies and ecosystem, Xiaomi EV accelerates breakthroughs in intelligent driving and vehicle dynamics. This expansion of the R&D network strengthens the company’s ability to deliver vehicles that truly inspire and are renowned for their performance, whilst ensuring Xiaomi EV’s products align with global standards of safety and quality.

Xiaomi said it is committed to investing in the international talent pool and will look to bring in engineers, designers, and researchers from around the EU to collaborate with its global EV teams. The Chinese automaker also shared that the new Munich facility will be used to “foster collaborations with research institutions while forging  meaningful partnerships across industries to accelerate smart mobility solutions and  ecosystem integration while addressing infrastructure and ethical AI considerations.”


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