Happy Monday, readers! It’s CES week, which means a lot of companies will be showcasing their visions for the future of motoring. However, Detroit will be notably absent from the event. So will these companies be offering worthwhile products or just selling dreams? Only time will tell.
Today on Critical Materials, we’re discussing what to expect from CES this year. We’ll also delve into the expected midpoint range for EVs during the 2023 model year, and the EPA’s plan to review California’s proposed 2035 ban on new gas car sales. Stay tuned for all this and more on today’s news roundup.
30%: CES is Slow, Detroit is Out, and Hyundai is Still Working on Getting its Wings
It’s the second week of 2024, which means that CES is in full swing in Las Vegas. Software-centric electric cars are taking center stage at the event, except for those of automakers from Detroit who decided not to attend this year.
Ford, General Motors, Stellantis, and Toyota have all chosen to skip CES this year, with various cost-cutting reasons cited by Gary Shapiro, the CEO of the Consumer Technology Association. Meanwhile, for those attending, there are big plans in store.
Honda plans to debut an all-new global EV series, part of its strategy to launch 30 new EVs by the end of the decade. Mercedes-Benz will showcase its electric Concept CLA class and highlight the latest technologies such as the Mercedes-Benz Operating System MB.OS. Sony and Honda’s joint venture, Afeela, will also unveil a new prototype. And Hyundai will be presenting its latest efforts, including its Supernal arm’s concept for an eVTOL aircraft and “next-generation airport” called a vertiport.
Stay tuned for our extensive coverage throughout the week.
60%: EV Range Midpoint was 270 Miles in 2023
EV ranges continue to improve, with the average new EV for the 2023 Model Year capable of an EPA-rated 270 miles of battery-only range according to the Department of Energy. Lucid’s 2023 Air Grand Touring leads the pack with an outstanding 516 miles of range, albeit with a higher price tag. On the other end, the 2023 Mazda MX-30 has the lowest range at around 100 miles per charge under ideal conditions.
The 300-mile barrier has already been surpassed by many EVs, and the midpoint of 270 miles marks significant progress. With advancements in EV tech and infrastructure, reaching even higher ranges doesn’t seem too far off.
However, improvements in range are just one aspect. More advanced battery tech with quicker charging times, such as solid-state batteries, and a robust DC Fast Charging infrastructure across the U.S. are crucial for the future of EVs. With federal infrastructure incentives, it’s just a matter of time before we see further advancements in this space.
90%: EPA is Reviewing California’s Plan for 2035 EV Sales Mandate
In 2022, the California Air Resources Board approved a plan to end the sale of new passenger cars with gasoline-only propulsion systems. The ban, set to take effect in 2035, has garnered attention from the EPA, which has scheduled a public hearing and invited written comments regarding California’s request.
With the potential to set a precedent for other states, California’s proposed ban could have wide-ranging effects. More than a dozen states have committed to implementing CARB’s standards and enforcing regulations that could lead to a ban on gas cars.
While the Biden administration has expressed a desire to promote electrified vehicles, the public remains divided on the feasibility and timing of a complete phase-out of combustion-powered passenger cars.
100%: What Would it Take to Get You to Trust Self-Driving Cars?
Public perception of self-driving cars has taken a hit in recent years, particularly with safety concerns and accidents involving autonomous vehicles. While companies continue to innovate in this space, the challenge remains in rebuilding public trust. How do you feel about self-driving cars? Are you ready to embrace them, or do you remain hesitant?