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Saudi Arabias Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (R) takes part in a working session with the US president (not pictured) at the Al Salam Royal Palace in the Saudi coastal city of Jeddah, on July 15, 2022.

Mandel Ngan | AFP | Getty Images

Saudi Arabia announced its commitment to building a nuclear energy program, as well as a pledge to allow greater oversight for atomic energy inspectors, at a time when the kingdom is pushing ahead with its drive to become a more powerful player on the international stage.

The Saudi energy minister said his country would move to much more robust safeguards and checks from the International Atomic Energy Agency, the U.N.’s nuclear watchdog, than it had previously. Under the agency’s Small Quantities Protocol (SQP), the IAEA exempts countries with little or no nuclear material from many inspections and transparency requirements. 

“The kingdom has recently taken the decision to rescind its Small Quantities Protocol and to move to the implementation of a full-scope Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement,” Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud said during the annual conference of the IAEA in Vienna on Monday. 

“The kingdom is committed through its policy on atomic energy to the highest standards of transparency and reliability,” he said.

The watchdog agency had been pushing the kingdom and other countries with SQPs to switch to the Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement (CSA) for years – IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi called them a “weakness” amid global non-proliferation efforts.

Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, arrives for a meeting of the Board of Governors at IAEA headquarters on September 11, 2023 in Vienna, Austria.

Thomas Kronsteiner | Getty Images

In a post on social media platform X, Grossi wrote: “We signed an agreement for #SaudiArabia to provide the @IAEAorg with junior professional officers, marking a significant step in nuclear expertise and cooperation,” and thanked the kingdom for its support. 

The announcement put the spotlight on the kingdom’s nascent nuclear energy efforts — Saudi Arabia has a small nuclear reactor, a research unit set up with the help of Argentina, that it has not yet put into operation. Moving to the CSA will enable the kingdom to access fissile material and start running the reactor, which would make it the second Arab country in the world with a nuclear energy program after the United Arab Emirates.

“I look forward to receiving Saud Arabia’s formal communication about its decision,” Grossi said late Monday. “The IAEA stands ready to provide support in this regard.”

The Saudi energy minister did not comment on whether his country would also join the IAEA’s Additional Protocol, which requires more thorough oversight including snap inspections.

Concerns of a Middle East arms race

Prince Abdulaziz’s comments come amid increasing concern among nuclear nonproliferation experts and lawmakers about Saudi Arabia’s intentions with the technology. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said in a recent wide-ranging interview with Fox News that if Iran developed nuclear weapons, Saudi Arabia would too. He initially made the same assertion in an interview with CBS in 2018. 

The kingdom under Mohammed bin Salman’s leadership has made strides in elevating its position as a global player, from hosting the G20 and mediating between Russia and Ukraine to investing billions of dollars in global sports deals and major events. It has flexed its muscle as a so-called “middle power,” establishing itself as a diplomatic actor able to leverage its relationships with both the West and Russia and China for its own benefit. A nuclear program would elevate that position further. 

Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud and U.S. President Joe Biden shake hands next to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the day of the G20 summit in New Delhi, India, September 9, 2023. 

Evelyn Hockstein | Reuters

Riyadh is also trying to obtain as many concessions as possible from Washington as the Biden administration tries to push it toward a normalization deal with Israel. U.S. assistance with a nuclear energy program is one of Saudi Arabia’s key demands — but not everyone is happy about that.

“A normalization agreement with Saudi Arabia would be a welcome development. But not at the cost of allowing the Saudis to develop nuclear weapons. Not at the cost of a nuclear arms race throughout the Middle East,” Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid said in a statement last week. Numerous U.S. and European lawmakers have also voiced objections and concerns.

The development also comes against the backdrop of continued gridlock in talks between Washington and Tehran, the latter of which has been rapidly increasing its uranium enrichment levels in the years since former President Donald Trump pulled the U.S. out of the Iranian nuclear deal in 2018. The multilateral Obama-era deal had allowed the lifting of economic sanctions on Iran in exchange for curbs to its nuclear program. 

A picture taken on November 10, 2019, shows an Iranian flag in Iran’s Bushehr nuclear power plant, during an official ceremony to kick-start works on a second reactor at the facility.

ATTA KENARE | AFP via Getty Images

The IAEA in early September announced that there was “no progress” in the IAEA’s efforts to monitor Iran’s nuclear activity, and that “verification and monitoring has been seriously affected by Iran’s decision to stop implementing its nuclear-related commitments under the JCPOA,” the acronym for the Iran deal, which is formally called the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. 

Iran maintains that its program is solely for civilian purposes, but it has increased its uranium enrichment to 60% purity – just a short technical step away from 90% purity, which is the level needed for bomb-making capability. Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi said the changes came after European signatories to the JCPOA “trampled upon their commitments” in the deal.

Still, the U.N. watchdog said that Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile was down this month compared to May, potentially in a nod to the U.S. But it remained 18 times higher than its limit under the JCPOA. 

CNBC has contacted the Iranian foreign ministry for comment. 

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Hyundai IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 9 lose the $7,500 EV tax credit: Here’s how you can still get it

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January 21, 2025

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Hyundai IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 9 lose the ,500 EV tax credit: Here's how you can still get it

Hyundai-EV-tax-credit

In a sudden reversal, Hyundai’s new IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 9 EVs no longer qualify for the $7,500 US tax credit. Although this is a major blow to one of the top-selling EV brands in the US, there is still a way you can get the credit. Here’s how.

Hyundai EVs lose US federal tax credit in 2025

After setting another new US retail sales record last year, its fourth straight, Hyundai expected 2025 could be even bigger.

“With exciting new models like the IONIQ 9 and increased US production ramping up at our new Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America in Georgia, I’m confident this momentum will continue,” Hyundai Motor North America CEO Randy Parker said.

Earlier this month, Hyundai announced its new 2025 IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 9, both made in the US, qualified for the $7,500 federal EV tax credit.

This was significant news because it was the first time Hyundai qualified since the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) passed in 2022.

The upgraded 2025 IONIQ 5 and Hyundai’s three-row IONIQ 9 were among 25 EVs that qualified for the credit in early January.

Hyundai-EV-tax-credit
2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 XRT (Source: Hyundai)

According to the updated list from the Department of Energy (DOE) last week, Hyundai no longer has eligible EV models. The only Hyundai Motor Group (including Kia and Genesis) electric cars that qualify are the 2025 Kia EV6 and 2026 Kia EV9. Genesis, Hyundai’s luxury brand, also lost eligibility.

Hyundai began production at its new $7.6 billion EV plant in Georgia in October. The new 2025 IONIQ 5 was the first to roll off the assembly line, which will be joined by Hyundai’s three-row IONIQ 9.

Hyundai-EV-tax-credit
2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 (Source: Hyundai)

Last year, Hyundai said it expected US-built models would qualify for a partial $3,750 credit until its battery unit with SK On came online, which was expected sometime in 2025.

Kia builds the new 2025 EV6 and three-row EV9 at its West Point, GA plant, enabling it to still qualify for the credit.

Meanwhile, Hyundai is still passing the $7,500 EV tax credit on through leasing. With leases starting as low as $199 per month, the new 2025 IONIQ 5 is still cheaper than a new Toyota RAV4.

Hyundai-EV-tax-credit
2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 (Source: Hyundai)

With a bigger 84 kWh battery, the 2025 IONIQ 5 has a driving range of up to 328 miles, up from 303 miles in the outgoing model, which had a 77.4 kWh battery. It also gains noticeable design upgrades and now includes an NACS port for charging at Tesla Superchargers.

The IONIQ 5 was already the fourth-top-selling electric vehicle in the US last year. With more range, an upgraded design, and a Tesla NACS port, it will be even more attractive in 2025.

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 launched a new promo last week. It offers those who buy or lease the new 2025 IONIQ 5 a free ChargePoint Level 2 EV charger. Alternatively, you can choose a $400 charging credit.

Are you ready to test Hyundai’s new electric vehicles for yourself? We can help you get started. Check out our links below to find deals on Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis EVs at a dealer near you today.

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Tesla points to diner integration in app, insurance discount with Full Self-Driving, and more

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January 21, 2025

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Tesla points to diner integration in app, insurance discount with Full Self-Driving, and more

Tesla update points to the automaker’s upcoming diner in Los Angeles being integrated into its app, insurance discount for using (Supervised) Full Self-Driving, and more.

The latest update to Tesla’s mobile app has given us some insights into upcoming features.

First off, Tesla is getting closer to finishing its LA diner/Supercharger station, and according to a new in-app render found by Tesla App Updates, Tesla is going to integrate it into its app:

Obviously, Supercharger stations are already integrated in Tesla’s app, but there could be more with the diner, like in-app food ordering.

They also found an interesting new line in the Tesla app:

“safety_score_miles_and_miles_percent/safety_rating_discount_screen/safety_score_fsd_discount_experience_fsd”

It points to Tesla giving discounts to its insurance customers if they use Full Self-Driving (FSD) more when driving their vehicles.

Another alert message added to the vehicle points to something interesting:

Your vehicle must be connected to the internet to calculate the expected range based on age and mileage.

This would mean you could know if your range estimation is based purely on vehicle data or if it uses outside data, like weather around your route.

The Tesla app update also gives us a few hints about what’s coming with the RWD Cybertruck. The cheaper version of the Cybertruck won’t only have one motor instead of two and a smaller battery, but according to some updates in the app, it will also have a manual tonneau cover and optional outlets in the truck’s bed.

The cheaper Cybertruck is expected to launch later this year.

Finally, the app update also shows that Tesla will now tell you how much time it will take to heat the vehicle battery before charging starts.

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Hiboy winter sale takes 50% off EVs from $200, Rad Power RadWagon 4 cargo e-bike $1,499, EcoFlow DELTA 2 $449, Greenworks, more

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January 21, 2025

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Hiboy winter sale takes 50% off EVs from 0, Rad Power RadWagon 4 cargo e-bike ,499, EcoFlow DELTA 2 9, Greenworks, more

Today’s Green Deals are headlined by Hiboy’s latest winter sale with up to 50% being taken off its EV lineup, like the popular S2 Pro Electric Scooter that is down at $450, among others. Close behind is Rad Power’s switched-up sale that is still offering extra battery discounts, accessory packages on its newest models, and continued discounts like on the RadWagon 4 Cargo e-bike that is down at $1,499. We also spotted EcoFlow’s DELTA 2 Portable Power Station skidding lower than the brand’s ongoing New Year sale’s pricing, with it down at $449 for an unknown time. At the end of things we have a 1-day discount on Greenworks’ 80V 22-inch Cordless Electric Snow Blower with a 4.0Ah battery at 50% off for $400 – and even an additional discount on a secondary 4.0Ah battery that can fit right into the snow blower’s additional slot. Plus, all the other hangover Green Deals are in the links at the bottom of the page, like yesterday’s 5-day Jackery sale with select low power station pricing, Velotric’s Go 1 Utility e-bike hitting $999, 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.

Hiboy has launched a winter sale that is giving e-riders up to 50% in continued savings on its lineup of EVs, with one of the best affordable commuters from under the flag, the S2 Pro Electric Scooter, down at $449.99 shipped. This model would normally cost you $736 outside of the discounts, with the biggest we saw in 2024 being a drop to the $380 low during Cyber Monday sales. Today, you’re looking at a 39% markdown that slashes $286 off the going rate and lands it down among its lowest prices – matching its Christmas and New Year pricing. You’ll also find it matching in price over at Amazon right now too.

One of the best models for new and veteran riders looking for an affordable commuter, Hiboy’s S2 Pro arrives equipped with a 11.6Ah battery that powers the 500W hub motor and delivers a 25-mile travel distance on one charge at top speeds of up to 19 MPH. It features both downhill and regenerative braking to recycle energy for prolonged travels, recharging the battery whenever riders use the brakes or coast down hills. It comes with an IPX4 water-resistant build with a standard folding body, as well as an LED headlight, taillight, and sidelights. There’s also a full array of smart controls through the companion app, including setting adjustments and remote locking when you’re not riding.

If your commute is a shorter distance and you’d prefer saving a bit more, you can grab the 17-mile S2 Electric Scooter at $309.99 shipped, down from $600, or for longer commutes, consider the upgraded S2 Max Electric Scooter for $519.99 shipped while it’s down from $885.

More Hiboy winter sale e-scooter deals:

Hiboy winter sale kids EV deals:

Hiboy winter sale e-bike deals:

You can browse the entirety of Hiboy’s winter sale on the landing page here.

Rad Power RadWagon 4 cargo e-bike

Rad Power’s flash sale offers have ended, with the brand shifting its sale to now end January 29 – and keeping a few previous offers just without the extra battery promotion attached. A notable continuation is the brand’s RadWagon 4 Cargo e-bike dropping to $1,499 shipped. Normally priced at $1,799 after falling from its original $1,999 price tag back in 2024, it usually spends sales at $1,599 or higher, we haven’t seen it fall lower since 2023 though, with its $1,399 rate last seen summer 2023 and its $1,299 pre-order low not seen since it first hit the market years before. As it currently stands, this is the best rate we’ve seen in over a year.

One of the most popular Rad Power models I’ve seen in NYC (right beside the RadRunner 2), especially when it comes to parents and nannies in need of a way to shepherd kids around the city, the RadWagon 4 e-bike is hands-down my favorite cargo-hauling model. The 672Wh battery provides you with up to 45+ miles of travel via its five levels of pedal assistance (25+ miles using only the throttle), topping out at 20 MPH speeds.

It comes stocked with some solid features that make it ready for your e-mobility needs, like the integrated taillight that activates when braking, the obvious integrated rear cargo rack that boasts versatility, custom 22-inch by 3-inch tires with fenders over each, a 7-speed Shimano derailleur, a 200-lumen headlight, a water-resistant wiring harness for weather protection, and a backlit LCD display that has a USB port to charge your phone with.

Rad Power’s extended e-bike savings:

Rad Power’s newest e-bikes with accessory deals:

  • RadExpand 5 Plus Folding e-bike: $1,899
    • 20 MPH for up to 60+ miles
    • comes with any accessory under $200
    • add both to cart for automatic discount
  • Radster Road Commuter e-bike: $2,199
    • 28 MPH for up to 65+ miles
    • comes with any accessory under $200
    • add both to cart for automatic discount
  • Radster Trail Off-Road e-bike: $2,199
    • 28 MPH for up to 65+ miles
    • comes with any accessory under $200
    • add both to cart for automatic discount
  • RadWagon 5 Cargo e-bike: $2,399
    • 28 MPH for up to 60+ miles
    • comes with any accessory under $200
    • add both to cart for automatic discount

***Note: With the following battery pack discounts – be sure to check compatibility with your existing model before ordering. Discounts will be automatically applied in the cart.

Rad Power e-bike accessory savings:

EcoFlow DELTA 2 power station

Take EcoFlow’s DELTA 2 portable LiFePO4 power station traveling with you at $449

EcoFlow’s official Amazon storefront is beating out its direct New Year sale pricing on the DELTA 2 Portable Power Station that is being offered for $449 shipped. Costing $999 at full price, it spent most of 2024 keeping above $549, with gradual falls lower until Cyber Monday saw it land at the $399 low. It is currently priced at $499 in the brand’s direct New Year sale, and even with the two sitewide discount options, this deal here still comes in $15 to $25 lower at the second-lowest price we have tracked, saving you a total of $550. It’s 220W solar bundle option is also beating out its New Year pricing at $699, down from $1,299.

A great companion for travels, EcoFlow’s DELTA 2 power station offers an expandable LiFePO4 capacity starting at 1,024Wh (just the station) and ramping up to 3,072Wh (with added expansion batteries). Your devices and most appliances are covered through any of its 15 port options, with the unit providing a 1,800W output that surges up to 2,200W thanks to the station’s X-Boost tech, which also reduces its own charging times. In just 50 minutes you can have its own battery back to 80% via a wall outlet, with a full charge taking a little longer at 80 minutes. You can also refill the battery fully in six hours with the 220W solar panel bundle option, with that time shrinking as you add more solar input up to its maximum 500W.

Greenworks 80V 22-inch cordless electric snow blower

For today only save 50% on Greenworks’ 80V 22-inch cordless electric snow blower with a 4.0Ah battery at $400

Coming to us through its Deals of the Day, Best Buy is offering the Greenworks 80V 22-inch Cordless Electric Snow Blower with a 4.0Ah battery for $399.99 shipped through the end of the day. Normally you’d be shelling out $800 for this package at full price, with 2024 mostly seeing drops between $450 and $570, though we did spy it hitting the $330 low in a similar one-day early Christmas sale. This limited-time deal comes in to cut a massive 50% off the going rate, giving you the second-lowest price we have tracked.

This 80V snow blower’s digitally controlled brushless motor comes powered by the single 4.0Ah battery (with an additional slot for a second battery, if preferred) to provide enough juice to clear out a 6-car driveway on one full charge. Able to clear out a 22-inch wide path after a pass, with a 10-inch depth, the snow will be tossed out of your way by up to 20 feet through its 180-degree rotating chute. The auger-assist system on this model delivers more support to break through heavier snow and ice that hasn’t been too tightly packed down, with the LED headlights giving you the visibility you need in low-light hours, as well as a foldable handle design for storage needs.

Also sitting in the one-day pool of deals is Greenworks’ 80 Volt 4.0Ah battery (without a charger) for $159.99 shipped. This deal cuts $70 off a $230 price tag to give you the second-lowest rate ($12 above all-time low) and a great opportunity to add a secondary battery to the above snow blower if you don’t have another already lying around. This doubles your available runtime, letting you clear out even more snow.

Best New Year 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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