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Eli Electric, the manufacturer of the popular Eli ZERO electric microcar, announced this morning the opening of reservations in the US.

Microcars, often referred to as quadricycles in Europe and Low-Speed Vehicles (LSVs) or Neighborhood Electric Vehicles (NEVs) in the US, are a niche category designed largely for urban travel. Many new automakers in the category have failed to gain traction, often selling mere dozens of units.

But the Eli ZERO has so far proven popular in the markets it has already launched in across Europe and Asia, with hundreds of models already on the streets (did I mention the ‘niche’ thing?).

Now the pint-sized EV maker is bringing the Eli ZERO to the US, opening up $200 refundable deposits to reserve the $11,900 vehicle. Deliveries are expected to begin in Q3 2024, so it looks like reservation holders won’t have to wait very long.

The model heading stateside is an upgraded version designed to meet the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s regulations for LSVs, allowing it to be street-legal at the federal level. That permits owners to operate it like a traditional vehicle, but only on roads posted up to 35 mph (56 km/h). In other words, most roads in most cities.

Eli has now boosted its production capacity to 4,000 vehicles per year and will use a dealership model to sell and distribute its ZERO vehicles in the US.

As the company’s founder and CEO Marcus Li explained:

“Our goal is to transform urban trips, empowering riders to reconnect with their communities through compact and agile EVs that allow for a better utilization of urban space, reduced congestion, ease of parking and ultimately an improved quality of life in cities. Introducing the Eli ZERO to the U.S. market, we’re not only riding the wave of an emerging mobility revolution, but also redefining personal vehicles in an innovative way that benefits both traffic and the environment.”

The two-seater vehicle features a rather large battery, at least by LSV standards. The 8 kWh LiFePO4 battery for the European model is rated for up to 60 miles (100 km) of range, but the company announced that the US model will receive an even higher range of 90 miles (145 km), presumably meaning the vehicle will feature a larger battery.

The 3.2 kW on-board charger can recharge the vehicle in under three hours on 240VAC, or under 5 hours on 120VAC.

The top speed is limited to 25 mph (40 km/h) to comply with federal regulations for the vehicle class.

In addition to two fairly traditional car seats, there’s a 160L (5.6 cubic feet) trunk for storage in the rear. That’s not exactly a huge trunk, but it’s not a huge vehicle, either.

The length of the ZERO is just 88 inches, which is actually shorter than the width of a GMC HUMMER EV. Not only could it park nose-in within the same spot a HUMMER parallel parks in, but you could fit nearly four Eli ZEROs in that same parallel parking spot. Or to translate that into something that actually matters to most people, you could park a ZERO in that corner “not a spot” at the local grocery store, daycare, yoga studio, or wherever else driving an SUV would be overkill.

While the Eli ZERO is not technically a car, it still features many car-level features such as heat and A/C, keyless entry and start, power steering, anti-lock brakes, electronic parking brake, rearview camera, radar sensors for parking, tilting sunroof, and an optional Sony infotainment center with CarPlay and Android Auto.

That means that it feels and drives more like a traditional car, at least until you hit the 25 mph speed limiter.

In addition to the current list of features, the company says that ahead of the official launch later this year, it will announce several innovative new features that “will be a first in the LSV industry.”

Eli Zeros are popular in Bora Bora (seriously)

Electrek’s Take

In my opinion, the proliferation of LSVs in the US can not come soon enough! While there are a few options, they’re still quite limited in number and variety.

These handy vehicles are exactly what this country needs: the antidote for an epidemic of oversized SUVs and ego-extenders. Not only are they more convenient to drive and park in cities than full-size vehicles, but if the old adage about big vehicles being used for “compensation” is true, then there’s no better wingman than rolling up in a tiny car like this.

I actually had a chance to take one of the first rides ever in the Eli Zero before it began sales back in late 2021 while visiting Italy. I was surprised to see just how roomy it felt inside despite the small footprint of the vehicle. I took a more recent test drive the next year along with the company’s founder Marcus Li, who explained to me that it’s the transparent door design that helps create that spacious illusion, removing the cramped feeling that many micro-cars suffer from.

The funny thing here is that I can already tell you what the detractors are going to say: that it’s an overpriced, glorified golf cart. And I can already tell you how hilariously wrong they are. First of all, it’s cheaper than average golf cart these days (if you don’t believe me, do a quick internet search for golf cart dealers in the US and look at the shocking prices). And secondly, this is way nicer than a golf cart, offering features like air conditioning, parking sensors, and keyless entry/starting.

Sure, it’s not going to meet the needs of a family of four taking their kids to a soccer game in the next town over, but it’s not meant to. It’s meant for folks who just need a one or two-seater and live in a city. I’d already have my name on the list if I was in the US more often (it wouldn’t be my first or even my second micro-EV I’ve had in the US). I mean, why not? I’d have all summer to think of a way to justify it to my wife!

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Check out the new Genesis GV60 interior, it looks even more luxurious in blue [Video]

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Check out the new Genesis GV60 interior, it looks even more luxurious in blue [Video]

If you thought the current GV60 looked pretty inside, wait until you see the updated model. Genesis unveiled the new GV60 earlier this month, its first major redesign since launching in 2021. Here’s our first look at the interior of the new Genesis GV60.

Genesis GV60 interior gets an upgrade in the new model

Genesis launched the GV60 in October 2021 as its first dedicated EV. Less than four years later, the luxury electric SUV is already getting a new look.

The luxury brand unveiled the new GV60 last week for the first time. One of the biggest updates is to the front end.

Although the GV60 is already a sporty-looking EV, the redesigned front bumper with a new 3-D shape takes it up another level. Then, add the signature Genesis Two Line headlamps with Micro Lens Array (MLA) tech, and the refreshed GV60 is a head turner.

The revamped model now features 21″ wheels with a new five-spoke design, complementing its wide, low stance.

Inside, the upgraded GV60 features its new 27″ connected car Integrated Cockpit (ccIC) infotainment system. The design “eliminates the bezel” between the driver display and infotainment screens.

New-Genesis-GV60-EV
The updated Genesis GV60 (Source: Genesis)

The new Genesis GV60 interior also gains a redesigned three-spoke steering wheel for an even more sporty feel while you’re in the cockpit. Other popular features from the outgoing model, like the Crystal Sphere shift-by-wire system, are still included.

After revealing the updated model for the first time last week, we are already getting a look at the redesigned interior.

The updated interior of the Genesis GV60 in blue (Source: HealerTV)

A new video from Korea’s HealerTV gives us our first look at the Genesis GV60 interior in a new blue color. Although the reporter initially thought it was a performance model, he noted it was just a new color option. Other added design elements, like the large quilting pattern on the side panels, give it that Bentley or Rolls-Royce feel.

Last week, HealerTV posted a video revealing the first look at the updated Genesis GV60 exterior design. You can see the redesigned front and rear bumpers add to the GV60’s already impressive look.

Genesis GV60 update first look (Source: HealerTV)

In the US, the 2025 Genesis GV60 starts at $52,350. A new AWD trim was introduced this year, starting at $55,850.

The current mode gets up to 294 miles driving range, but a bigger battery is expected to push that number closer to 300 miles in the 2025MY. It’s expected to feature the same 84 kWh battery as the updated 2025 IONIQ 5, which provides up to 318 miles range. That’s up from 303 miles in the previous model with a 77.4 kWh battery.

2025 Genesis GV60 trim Range
(EPA-est)
Starting Price*
Standard RWD 294 miles $52,350
Standard AWD 264 miles $55,850
Advanced AWD 248 miles $60,900
Performance AWD 235 miles $69,900
2025 Genesis GV60 prices and range by trim (*excluding $1,350 destination fee)

Genesis will launch the updated GV60 in Korea in the first quarter of the year, with overseas markets following shortly after. Check back for more info, including prices and specs, closer to launch.

What do you think about the new GV60 design? Do you like the changes? What would you change? Let us know in the comments below.

Ready to check out the electric luxury SUV for yourself? With the 2025 models here, Genesis is offering clearance prices on the 2024 lineup while they are still in stock. You can use our link to find offers on 2024 and 2025 Genesis GV60 models at a dealer near you today.

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Amprius unveils high-power SiCore cell for EVs, drones, more

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Amprius unveils high-power SiCore cell for EVs, drones, more

Amprius Technologies just unveiled a new SiCore cell built on its Silicon Anode Platform that boosts battery performance for EVs, electric aviation, and drones.

In late 2024, battery manufacturer Amprius delivered pre-production 10Ah samples to six customers for testing, and full commercialization is set for early 2025. If real-world tests deliver as promised, this battery could enable its customers to achieve superior range, speed, and reliability.

Amprius’s new SiCore cell delivers an energy density of 370 Wh/kg and a power output of over 3000 W/kg. That means it packs a ton of energy while also delivering power in bursts – ideal for scenarios where endurance and speed are equally critical.

The Fremont, California-based company says what makes its new SiCore cell unique is its flexibility. It handles high discharge rates of up to 10C without active cooling and 15C with cooling, making it a solid choice for extreme conditions. Think drones flying longer missions or electric aircraft nailing energy-draining takeoffs and landings.

According to Amprius customer Teledyne FLIR, which specializes in unmanned aerial systems, this battery could be a game-changer for its drones. Tung Ng, vice president of unmanned Systems North America at Teledyne FLIR, said, “We are eager to evaluate how this breakthrough technology can meet the rigorous needs of our defense, security, and industrial customers, enabling longer runtimes and increasing operational flexibility.”

EVs, advanced air mobility, and eVTOL aircraft also stand to benefit from the SiCore cell’s balance of high energy and high power. Dr. Ionel Stefan, Amprius’ CTO, described it as a breakthrough in the tricky trade-off between power and energy density, calling it “a new power possibility for high-demand applications.”

Read more: Amprius ships EV battery that reaches 90% charge in 15 minutes


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Chrysler’s electric crossover may be a pipe dream after all

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Chrysler's electric crossover may be a pipe dream after all

If you are waiting on an EV from Chrysler, you’ll have to wait a little longer. The company is adjusting plans. Chrysler’s long-awaited electric crossover is officially on hold after an email leaked notifying suppliers of the changes. Here’s what to expect now.

Why is Chrysler’s electric crossover delayed again?

Despite announcing plans to have an all-electric lineup by 2028, Chrysler has yet to release a single EV. Now, it looks like it will be here even later than expected.

After an internal Stellantis email leaked last week, first reported by MoparInsiders, Chrysler confirmed it’s pausing its electric crossover. The email sent to suppliers said the program “has been put on hold until further notice.”

Chrysler’s electric crossover was initially scheduled to debut later this year, but the launch date has been pushed back.

At the 2023 Reuters Events Automotive USA Conference, Chrysler CEO Chris Feuell said the brand’s first EV will be a two-row crossover in 2025.

The electric crossover was expected to be an evolution of the Airflow concept from 2022. However, Stellantis’ head designer, Ralph Gilles, who oversees Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, and Maserati, said the EV was “evolving in a new direction” in November 2023.

Chrysler's-electric-crossover
Chrysler Airflow concept (Source: Stellantis)

Inspired by the Airflow, Chrysler’s electric crossover was supposed to be powered by the STLA Large platform, which also underpins the new Jeep Wagoneer S and Dodge Charger Daytona EVs.

The Airflow was based on Chrysler’s RU platform, used for the Pacifica Hybrid, but the company said the EV platform would offer more capabilities.

Chrysler-Halcyon-EV-concept
Chrysler electric Halcyon Concept (Source: Stellantis)

Chrysler revealed its new vision with the radical Haylcyon concept show last year. Earlier this year, a brand spokesperson confirmed to Car and Driver that “Chrysler brand CEO Chris Feuell has said that we are working to develop a production version of the Chrysler Halcyon concept at some point in the future.” However, no launch date was confirmed.

Electrek’s Take

Chrysler’s electric crossover being put on hold is the latest in a series of setbacks for Stellantis EV ambitions in the US.

Stellantis sales fell another 15% in the US last year, marking its fourth straight YOY sales decline in the US. Chrysler (-7%), Jeep (-9%), Ram (-19%), Dodge (-29%), and Alfa Romeo (-19%) all sold fewer vehicles last year than in 2023.

The first Jeep and Dodge EVs, which were expected to hit US dealerships by the end of 2024, are finally arriving after encountering software issues.

Is Stellantis in trouble in the US? Over the summer, former CEO Carlos Tavares told reporters that unprofitable US brands could be shut down. “If they don’t make money, we’ll shut them down,” he said.

Despite this, Feuell told CNBC a year ago, “Chrysler brand is here to stay. It is being well invested in. The brand is not on the table for elimination, and it has a very bright future.”

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