Following a successful launch in Texas last year, energy storage leader BLUETTI is expanding its Solar+ program to California, Massachusetts, and North Carolina.
BLUETTI brings its Solar+ program to these states for a reason: California ranks highest in the number of power outages, with North Carolina at No 8 and Massachusetts at No 13, according to Statista.
What’s more, solar and battery storage reduce electricity bills, and Statista data reveal that the average residential sector retail electricity prices in Massachusetts and California are among the highest in the US, at 28.02 and 26.72 cents per kilowatt-hour (KWh), respectively. That’s considerably above the national average of 17.1 cents, as of September 2023.
Francisco Brown, BLUETTI’s Texas Branch CEO, notes, “Many of our customers have reported that they’re being protected from power outages and experiencing a significant reduction in their electricity bills after joining the Solar+ program. This is made possible by harnessing free solar energy and optimizing energy usage, with peak load shifting features in Time of Use areas.”
What BLUETTI’s Solar+ program is
BLUETTI’s Solar+ program is an easy way to invest in solar and storage in order to achieve energy independence and save money on electricity bills. The modular BLUETTI battery storage system seamlessly integrates with rooftop solar panels to store and supply power to ensure uninterrupted energy during outages or nighttime usage.
For example, a household with a BLUETTI 6 kW solar and 10 kW battery system could potentially reduce their monthly electricity expenses to as low as $98, down from the typical $150 to $200, after the 30% rooftop solar tax credit is applied.
Homeowners can connect their BLUETTI power system to the grid in its Virtual Power Plant (VPP) plan, allowing excess solar power to be sold back to the utility for additional money for homeowners. That offsets initial costs and will generate income over time. Plus, it’s likely that the system will increase the property’s value.
How the whole Solar+ process works
One of the great things about the BLUETTI Solar+ program is that it simplifies the entire process of adopting solar and battery storage, end to end. Brown explains:
From equipment manufacturing to design, financing, installation, and ongoing service, we handle every aspect of the solar switch with premium care, saving both time and money for our customers. They only need to deal with one brand and use one app to control everything.
BLUETTI promises personalized support at every step in the Solar+ program. After a free consultation with the company’s energy experts, homeowners receive tailored and visualized solar system designs based on their preferences and needs.
Once a homeowner approves the design, BLUETTI manages all aspects of the process, from paperwork and permit application to installation and inspection, making the process as effortless as ordering pizza online.
And customer service doesn’t stop after the system is installed. BLUETTI’s project managers are easily reachable and provide ongoing support, maintenance, and system optimization.
BLUETTI believes that a quality solar and battery storage system with good service support doesn’t have to come at a premium price. By leveraging decades of renewable energy expertise, BLUETTI optimizes cost efficiency and ensures a competitive end price without compromises. This means that customers can secure a BLUETTI solar and battery storage system at a price comparable to what competitors charge for solar alone. Finance options are available upon request.
“BLUETTI Solar+ makes it easier to embrace solar energy, transforming you from just an energy consumer to a clean energy producer. It saves your wallet and the planet, contributing to a more sustainable future,” said Brown.
BLUETTI is offering Electrek readers an exclusive discount on the Solar+ program. If you work with a Solar + Sale rep, give them the manual discount code ElectrekSolar+ for $800 off. And if you place a website order, get 5% off with the discount code Electrek800 for the EP800 home battery backup system.
BLUETTI has been committed to promoting sustainability and providing green energy solutions since its inception. By offering eco-friendly energy storage solutions for both indoor and outdoor use, BLUETTI aims to provide exceptional experiences for our homes while also contributing to a sustainable future for our planet.
Through initiatives like the Lighting An African Family (LAAF) program, BLUETTI has empowered over 100,000 African families in off-grid regions. This commitment to sustainable energy has helped BLUETTI expand its reach to over 100 countries and gain the trust of millions of customers worldwide.
Another Cadillac EV has earned the iconic “V” badge. The 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V is a new entry-level sports electric vehicle (EV) with over 500 horsepower, sporty styling both inside and out, and additional upgrades. It’s also GM’s first vehicle with a built-in NACS port, unlocking access to Tesla Superchargers.
Cadillac unveils 2026 Optiq-V EV prices and specs
Cadillac is back! The luxury brand is coming off its best quarter since 2008, but with a full lineup of electric vehicles rolling out, Cadillac expects to gain even more traction later this year.
After introducing the Lyriq-V earlier this year, we are now getting a look at Cadillac’s second EV to earn the brand’s performance trademark.
Cadillac revealed the 2026 Optiq-V on Monday, an upgraded, sportier version of the new entry-level electric SUV. The new V model boasts 519 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque in Velocity Max mode, good for a 0 to 60 mph sprint time of 3.5 seconds.
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GM confirmed Cadillac’s new Optiq-V will be its first vehicle with a built-in NACS charging port, enabling access to Tesla’s Supercharger network.
The Optiq-V features a dual-motor AWD powertrain and 85 kWh battery pack, which Cadillac estimates will provide 275 miles range.
2026 Cadillac Optiq-V (Source: GM)
Like Cadillac’s other performance vehicles, the new EV includes added features and tech, including V-Mode, which GM promises “takes performance customization further” with variant modes and settings.
When using V-Mode, a Launch Control feature is available, designed for straight-line takeoffs. You can also take advantage of GM’s Super Cruise hands-free ADAS system as standard.
The exterior is upgraded with a new front-end design, featuring a V-pattern mesh on the lower grille, a high-gloss black front splitter, and colored trim.
2026 Cadillac Optiq-V interior (Source: GM)
For the carbon fiber fans out there, GM offers a package that adds a carbon fiber front splitter, rear diffuser, and rear mid-spoiler. Other V-Series badges are added on the rear doors, liftgate, and driver’s side grillette.
The V model will be offered in two new limited-edition colors: Magnus Metal Frost, a matte metallic grey with warm highlights, and Deep Ocean Tintcoat.
A 33″ LED infotainment system sits at the center of the interior with Google built-in. You can choose from two palette options: Noir with Santorini Blue accents, and Noir and Sky Cool Gray with Santorini Blue accents.
2026 Cadillac Optiq-V interior (Source: GM)
If you really want to get fancy, there’s an optional palette featuring a Santorini Blue seatback panel and Santorini Blue seatbelt.
The Optiq-V features a darker colored pattern with Santorini Blue accent stitching, while V-Series badging is added on the steering wheel, sill plate, and floor mats.
2025 Cadillac Optiq trim
Starting Price (including destination)
Driving Range (EPA-estimated)
Luxury 1
$54,390
302 miles
Luxury 2
$56,590
302 miles
Sport 1
$54,990
302 miles
Sport 2
$57,090
302 miles
2025 Cadillac Optiq price and range by trim
Following the 2026 Lyriq-V, the Optiq is the second Cadillac EV to earn the V-series treatment. The Optiq is Cadillac’s new entry-level electric SUV, starting at $54,390 with 302 miles range.
The new 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V model starts at $68,795, including destination. It will be sold in the US, Canada, Mexico, the Middle East, and Israel, with production set to begin in Fall 2025.
Measuring 190″ long, 75″ wide, and 65″ tall, the standard Cadillac Optiq is about the same size as the Tesla Model Y (187″ long x 76″ wide x 64″ tall).
If you can’t wait for the V-Series model, Cadillac is offering some sweet deals on the entry-level Optiq right now with leases starting at just $409 per month. Ready to check it out for yourself? We can help you get started. You can use our link to find 2025 Cadillac Optiq models at the best price at a dealer near you.
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A couple of automotive influencers appear to have gotten access to the new 2026 Rivian R1T Quad Motor and shared some images. The posts showcase the new NACS charging port, a familiar exterior color, and new teal accents, including the calipers. See more below.
Recently, much of our Rivian coverage has been on the upcoming R2 model, which CEO RJ Scaringe has consistently teased. As an R1S owner, more of my coverage has pertained to that model and my day-to-day use, but we cannot forget about the R1T pickup.
This is Rivian’s other flagship model aside from the R1S. It remains just as popular for its utility, advanced features, and top safety status (seriously, I’m thinking about getting one of these as well). This model is currently available in a Dual Standard, Dual Motor, and Tri Motor variant, the latter of which we tested in the fall and were quite impressed.
A Quad Motor version of the Rivian R1T has also been in the works to arrive this year as a 2026 model. The past couple of days, we’ve seen evidence that the Quad Motor 2026 Rivian R1T is near market entry, as some early versions have made their way out to the media, including Jon Rettinger and Marques Brownlee, aka MKBHD.
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Source: @Jon4Lakers/X
The images above were posted to X by Jon Rettinger (@Jon4Lakers) on June 8 with the following caption:
Hey @Rivian, you know what’s a great hand in poker? Quads…
We see the 2026 R1T, complete with the long-promised quad motor configuration, featured in Rivian’s Launch Green, which, according to a separate post by Marques Brownlee, will be exclusive to the Quad Motor. RivianTrackrscreenshot the images below from MKBHD’s video posted to X before he removed it shortly after posting.
Source: @MKBHD/X
In addition to the exterior color, other unique additions featured in Brownlee’s video include 22″ Ultra High Performance wheels, teal accents including the Rivian logo, the 2026 R1T Quad badge, and the brake calipers. There also appears to be some badge or decal of Rivian’s mascot, Gear Guard Gary.
Last but not least, we have a look at the NACS plug! Rivian has vowed to integrate the North American Charging Standard on all 2026 models and beyond, which appears to be the imminent beginning of that transition.
It’s unclear why MBKHD pulled his content, yet Jon Rettinger let his fly. It could be an images vs. video thing where impressions are still under embargo. Brownlee promised a full video review in the future so that we will keep an eye out for that. For now, we can enjoy these images, which at least relay that the 2026 Quad Motor Rivian R1T has reached the media and will soon be available to consumers.
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Kia’s first electric van is finally here. Although it appears to be from the future, the PV5 boasts impressive interior space, a long driving range, advanced technology, and a range of features. It’s offered in a variety of different configurations, including an upcoming refrigerated truck, a light camper, and a luxury “Prime” model. With orders opening in Korea this week, we are learning a little more about what to expect from the Kia PV5 before it rolls out globally.
Kia opens PV5 orders, reveals range and prices in Korea
The PV5 marks the launch of Kia’s “game-changing” Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) business, unveiled at CES 2024.
Based on Hyundai’s new E-GMP.S EV platform, the electric van can be custom-tailored for different uses. The first two models, the PV5 Passenger and Cargo, are designed for personal and business use. You can take it camping, use it as a daily driver, load it with cargo for delivery, and much more.
The Passenger model is available in five-seater or 2-3-0 configurations, while the Cargo is offered in three different variations, depending on the amount of space or load capacity required.
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With a wheelbase of 2,995 mm, Kia’s electric van (Passenger) is about the same size as the European-spec Volkswagen ID.Buzz (2,998 mm).
For the first time, the rear seats of the five-seater models feature a new “fold & dive” function, providing up to 2,310 liters of space.
Kia PV5 Passenger electric van (Source: Hyundai Motor Group)
Powered by a 71.2 kWh battery, Kia’s passenger electric van offers a range of up to 358 km (222 miles). The Cargo version is available with either a 51.5 kWh or 71.2 kWh battery pack, providing a range of 280 km (174 miles) and 377 km (234 miles), respectively.
Using a 350 kW charger, the PV5 (Passenger and Cargo models) can recharge from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes.
Kia PV5 Cargo electric van (Source: Hyundai Motor Group)
The interior is equipped with Hyundai’s new tech and software, including “Pleos Fleet.” The PV5 electric van will be the first to feature the new vehicle control software, promising to cut business costs while improving efficiency.
Hyundai Motor Group and 42dot have developed a new end-to-end software platform that integrates everything from the infotainment system to the vehicle’s operating system and the cloud, enabling seamless connectivity.
Kia PV5 Passenger electric van interior (Source: Hyundai Motor Group)
The new software stack will also be used in Hyundai’s upcoming “Pleos” brand, starting in Q2 2026. By 2030, Hyundai Motor, including Kia and Genesis, plans to launch over 20 million vehicles with the next-gen OS.
Kia’s electric van also features a 12.9″ navigation screen at the center with a “PBV-exclusive” Android Auto-based OS (AAOS) infotainment system.
Kia PV5 Cargo electric van interior (Source: Hyundai Motor Group)
The new split-screen display enables you to use navigation, music, and other apps simultaneously. As one of the first Hyundai Motor vehicles with an App Market, you can also now choose from a number of third-party apps to install.
Kia is opening PV5 orders in Korea on Tuesday, June 10, starting at 47.08 million won ($34,700). That’s for the Basic and Plus Models, before the electric vehicle tax credit. With the EV tax credit and government subsidies, Kia expects the Passenger van can be purchased in the “mid to late 30 million won range,” or about $25,000 to $30,000
Kia PV5 Passenger electric van interior (Source: Hyundai Motor Group)
The Standard and Basic Cargo models start at 42 million won ($31,000), while the Long Range Cargo variants cost 44.7 million won ($33,000). With subsidies, Kia expects the Cargo variant will be available for as low as the “mid to late 20 million won range,” depending on the region.
Kia plans to launch several more variants shortly, including a chassis cab, open bed, light camper, luxury “prime” passenger, refrigerated truck, and sliding truck models.
The Korean launch follows Kia opening PV5 orders in the UK on May 1, starting at £32,995 ($44,000). It’s also available in Passenger and Cargo models with various configurations.
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