We are used to software updates on our phones, but cars that require software updates are still somewhat of a novelty. Until Tesla came along and shattered that paradigm, cars were more like appliances that, once they rolled off the production line, didn’t evolve much in functionality, safety, or technology. … [continued]
Tesla Model 3 Performance has taken on the world famous Nürburgring race track with all its might — executing the 5.148 km (3.199 mi), 16 turn asphalt track masterfully. No doubt, the driver was also exceptional in handling the car — you’d need the nerves of a gorilla to drive at these insane speeds on such a path.
The European passenger plug-in vehicle market had a record 60,000 registrations in March, growing 38% compared to the same period last year, a good performance considering the stagnating mainstream market (−4% year over year, or YoY).
The Dutch plug-in electric vehicle (PEV) market had another positive sales month in April, with 2,520 plug-in vehicle registrations, up 150% year over year (YoY). That translated as a PEV share of 8% across the overall auto market, pulling the year-to-date (YTD) count to 12,944 units, and keeping the 2019 PEV share at 9% — above last year’s final result.
The French plug-in electric vehicle (PEV) market had 4,542 registrations in April, up 43% YoY, with a big portion of this growth coming from pure electric vehicles (BEVs). In total, BEVs scored 3,222 deliveries last month (+70%), with those all-electric cars representing 71% of all plug-in vehicle sales. This growth is even more significant when we realize that the overall vehicle market remained stagnant (+0.4%).
With the right-hand drive Model 3 currently in production, Tesla recently opened up orders for customers in the UK. Much fanfare surrounds the Model 3’s British launch. In turn, local automotive media outlets are now coming out with their own reviews of the American contender.
Global sales, growth, and market data for China, the US, and Europe
Today was another exciting day for the electric drive aficionados. Volkswagen presented its ID. sub-brand to the world, with the first model, the ID.3, ready for reservation. The times that VW was short for VaporWare are over.
Last night, Tesla added a tow hitch option for European customers. The capacity of the hitch is only 910 kilograms (about 2000 pounds), but it will be useful both for putting small bike and ski carriers onto the cars and for hauling small trailers.
I’m a little late sharing these highlights, but below are the 20 CleanTechnica articles that were most popular in April. If you missed any of them, note that they are required reading. I don’t want to say you’re going to prison if you don’t read them, but, well …
