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The chairman of the Energy Transitions Commission has highlighted the role both companies and governments can play when it comes to reducing emissions, emphasizing the importance of the upcoming COP26 summit on climate change.

In a wide-ranging interview with CNBC’s “Squawk Box Europe” at the end of last week, Adair Turner was asked if meaningful action was actually taking place when it comes to corporate announcements related to ESG — a term which stands for environmental, social and governance — or if these lacked substance.

“A lot of meaningful action is taking place,” Turner said. “The problem is that it’s five to ten years later than it should have occurred – but it’s still good news.”

He went on to note that companies and countries across the world were “now making clear commitments and taking clear actions” to cut their emissions.

“Almost everybody has now agreed that we’ve got to get the global economy to about zero emissions by 2050,” Turner, who chaired the U.K.’s Financial Services Authority between 2008 and 2013, said.

“The other bit of good news is that the technologies to do that — the technologies of renewables, of batteries, of electrolyzing hydrogen — have ended up being far cheaper and easier to apply than we dared hope 10 years ago,” he said.

According to the foreword of a recent report from the International Renewable Energy Agency, the cost of electricity from utility scale solar photovoltaics dropped by 85% in the period 2010 to 2020. For onshore wind, costs fell by 56%, while offshore wind saw a decline of 48%.

The report from IRENA also states that, in the U.S., the price of utility scale battery storage decreased by 71% between 2015 and 2018.
 
The production of hydrogen using renewables and electrolysis — sometimes called ‘green’ hydrogen — remains expensive, but efforts are also being made to lower costs.

In June, the U.S. Department of Energy launched its Energy Earthshots Initiative and said the first of these would focus on cutting the cost of “clean” hydrogen to $1 per kilogram (2.2 lbs) in a decade. According to the DOE, hydrogen from renewables is priced at around $5 a kilogram today.

COP26

Looking at the bigger picture, Turner acknowledged that while the technologies were there and a lot of companies were taking action, even stronger commitments would be needed at COP26, which will be held in the Scottish city of Glasgow from October 31 to November 12.

“In particular, we now need to focus not just on how do we get to zero emissions by 2050, but how do we get really serious emission reductions in methane as well as CO2 — I want to stress that point — in the 2020s,” he said. “We’ve really got to get the action in place now.”

A lot is riding on COP26, which was due to take place last year but postponed because of the coronavirus pandemic. The U.K.’s official website for the summit says it will “bring parties together to accelerate action towards the goals of the Paris Agreement and the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change.”

Described by the United Nations as a legally binding international treaty on climate change, the Paris Agreement, adopted in late 2015, aims to “limit global warming to well below 2, preferably to 1.5 degrees Celsius, compared to pre-industrial levels.”

Much of the discussions at Glasgow will be centered around nationally determined contributions, or NDCs. In simple terms, NDCs refer to individual countries’ targets for cutting emissions and adapting to the effects of climate change.

In his interview with CNBC Turner noted how the NDCs presented at COP26 would, when added up, be “nothing like the scale of emission reductions that we need.”

“We are going to have to think about additional action on top of that,” he said. “And that will require further tightening of NDCs in future years but also, maybe, some cross-cutting initiatives at COP26 on methane, on deforestation, on accelerating the drive towards electric vehicles, which can be agreed across all countries.”

Governmental role

When it came to getting results, Turner stressed the important role national governments could play.

“You need not only corporates to be committed and to make voluntary commitments because they want to do the right thing,” he said, but strict government ”regulations and taxes and other instruments as well.”

He explained how establishing a framework to create the conditions in which businesses could then deliver was key.

One example of how governments are attempting to generate change is in the automotive industry. The U.K., for instance, wants to stop the sale of new diesel and petrol cars and vans by 2030 and require, from 2035, all new cars and vans to have zero tailpipe emissions.

“The automotive industry is pivoting towards EVs at an amazing pace,” Turner said. “But we need to make that even faster by just telling them you can’t sell an internal combustion engine car beyond 2035. So yes, you need strong action from government — sometimes the best action is regulation, sometimes it’s a carbon price, sometimes it’s a subsidy or support.”

When it comes to climate change and action, topics related to increased government regulation and carbon pricing have generated a significant amount of debate in recent times.

In a separate interview with CNBC’s Steve Sedgwick over the weekend, former U.S. Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz touched upon these subjects.

Moniz said he thought the energy transition to net zero was “a $100 trillion-plus affair.” He was, he said, encouraged at how financial institutions were “demanding things like disclosure from … companies … in order to be able to shape their own investment portfolios.”

“But we know that most areas of the clean energy transition right now do not have, let’s say, the returns that an investor would like without government coming in and reshaping policy and regulation,” Moniz said. “So that I think is a key step now that needs further attention.”

He was then asked if a carbon tax would level the playing field and make renewables more attractive when compared with hydrocarbons.

“First of all, I like to say clean energy and not renewable because we need the entire space, including carbon capture and hydrogen and nuclear.”

“But yes, a carbon pricing mechanism, I think, would be the most straightforward way of doing two things. One, to shape the playing field – assuming the price, frankly, is high enough. But secondly, what carbon pricing would do is create a pool of resources that I would strongly urge be used in a progressive way.”

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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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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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2 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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3 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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