Jennifer Sensiba, Author at CleanTechnica

Moab’s Getting Its CCS Charging Mojo Back

Jennifer Sensiba — Mon, 29 May 2023 02:58:39 +0000

As the popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) continues to rise, Moab, Utah is quickly becoming an important destination for EV owners looking to take a vacation. With its stunning red rock landscape and wide variety of outdoor activities, Moab offers something for everyone. Local governments and businesses haven’t completely overlooked the opportunity. The City of […]

Holiday Weekend Reveals Future Charging Needs (Part 1)

Jennifer Sensiba — Mon, 29 May 2023 02:30:56 +0000

Memorial Day weekend is a time for Americans to hit the road and enjoy the start of summer. According to AAA, an estimated 42.3 million people were expected to travel this Memorial Day weekend, which is a 6% increase over last year. 37.1 million of those travelers will be driving, an increase of more than […]

Fake Social Media Accounts Are Attacking Electrify America

Jennifer Sensiba — Sun, 28 May 2023 23:29:29 +0000

Toward the end of last week, there was a real shocker of an announcement in the industry when Ford announced that it will be adopting the Tesla/”NACS” charge plug for vehicles starting in 2025. When there’s a big story like that, one important aspect of ongoing coverage is to see how other players in the […]

Volta Trucks Enters Partnership To Help Build Testing Fleet

Jennifer Sensiba — Sun, 28 May 2023 16:36:32 +0000

Volta Trucks is trying to take a different approach to cargo vehicles in cities. Starting in 2017, with grand plans to revolutionize safety and environmental technology for trucks, the company has had a long journey to delivery. The Swedish EV startup’s vehicle, the Volta Zero, is an all-electric commercial cargo vehicle designed for city-center freight […]

New York To Build 13 Fast Charging Hubs

Jennifer Sensiba — Sun, 28 May 2023 14:03:22 +0000

From where I’m sitting in New Mexico, it sure looks a lot like large cities like New York already have enough. After all, it already has a lot more charging than our whole state has! However, expanding the electric vehicle fast charging infrastructure in cities that already have such facilities is important for several reasons. […]

New 3-Row VW ID.Buzz Reveal Incoming! What Should We Expect on June 2nd?

Jennifer Sensiba — Sun, 28 May 2023 05:36:46 +0000

The Volkswagen Microbus, also known as the VW Type 2, the Kombi, or simply the Bus, has become a cultural icon for several reasons. Introduced in the 1950s, the Microbus quickly gained popularity due to its unique design, versatility, and association with various social movements. One of the main factors contributing to the Microbus’s iconic […]

Some Serious News & Some Silly News From Hyundai

Jennifer Sensiba — Sat, 27 May 2023 18:35:06 +0000

During May, Hyundai has had a number of press releases. But, unlike most months, Hyundai had a couple of fun ones about a customer’s weird custom license plate and Spiderman. I know some readers are super cereal, so I decided to start with one serious one that’s a big move for the company. So, let’s […]

Volvo Proves Anti-EV Trolls Wrong

Jennifer Sensiba — Sat, 27 May 2023 17:33:24 +0000

In a recent press release, Volvo announced that it’s found a way to truly stick it to the trolls that attack EVs online, in social media, and in regular media. Before we get to how Volvo did this, let’s take a look at the bogus arguments that it’s proving wrong. A Common Argument Against EVs […]

Kia Aims To Expand The Role Of EVs In The World With New Apps

Jennifer Sensiba — Sat, 27 May 2023 11:30:48 +0000

Electric vehicle (EV) batteries are often associated with powering vehicles, but their capabilities extend far beyond that primary function. As technology evolves and the demand for clean energy solutions grows, the potential applications of EV batteries continue to expand. In this article, I’ll delve into some of these innovative uses that not only contribute to […]

Two Charging Companies Respond To Ford’s Adoption Of The Tesla/NACS Plug

Jennifer Sensiba — Sat, 27 May 2023 04:14:11 +0000

Yesterday’s announcement that Ford’s future vehicles would be equipped with Tesla’s NACS charging connector (Supercharging port) signaled a big shift in the industry. Before the announcement, Tesla was using its plug and everyone else was using the CCS1 plug in the United States. It seemed like this would continue indefinitely, as manufacturers of both vehicles […]

Blue Bird Opens New Production Facility For Electric School Bus Production

Jennifer Sensiba — Fri, 26 May 2023 21:35:55 +0000

Blue Bird recently unveiled its new Electric Vehicle (EV) Build-up Center in Fort Valley, Georgia. The company repurposed an almost 40,000 sq.ft. facility to accommodate the growing need for electric, zero-emission school buses. At the EV Build-up Center, skilled technicians equip the vehicles with electric batteries and other necessary parts, building them into environmentally friendly […]

US Officials Visit Li-Cycle’s Battery Recycling Plant in Arizona

Jennifer Sensiba — Fri, 26 May 2023 18:35:43 +0000

The Importance Of Battery Recycling Lithium battery recycling is an essential process that plays a significant role in conserving resources, protecting the environment, and ensuring the sustainability of energy storage technologies. With the rapid growth of electric vehicles, portable electronics, and renewable energy systems, the demand for lithium-ion batteries has surged, making their recycling more […]

When A Company Abandons CCS, It Should Completely Take Care Of Existing Owners

Jennifer Sensiba — Fri, 26 May 2023 15:35:35 +0000

Ford CEO Jim Farley met with Elon Musk on a Twitter Space to announce that Ford will be adopting Tesla’s NACS plug for future cars, starting in 2025 with next-gen vehicles. While this will probably end up being a good move for the industry, we’ll have to wait and see how this plays out as […]

Gogoro Increases Partnership With Dotstation To Serve 8 Cities In Korea

Jennifer Sensiba — Thu, 25 May 2023 22:35:23 +0000

Image provided by Bikebank and Gogoro.

" data-medium-file="https://cleantechnica.com/files/2023/05/Gogoro-Bikebank-Korea-Press-Photo-400x200.png" data-large-file="https://cleantechnica.com/files/2023/05/Gogoro-Bikebank-Korea-Press-Photo-800x400.png" />In the past, we’ve covered Gogoro a number of times at CleanTechnica. It would be foolish not to! In Taiwan’s urban areas, the Gogoro Network has introduced an innovative swappable battery refueling system that prioritizes sustainability and efficiency. This advanced network currently supports 540,000 riders and boasts over 1.1 million smart batteries, accessible at 12,000 […]

DOE Launches Cool New Decarbonization Effort

Jennifer Sensiba — Thu, 25 May 2023 19:35:14 +0000

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has recently introduced the Clean Fuels & Products Shot, an initiative focused on substantially decreasing greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) originating from carbon-based fuels and products essential to daily life. As the seventh DOE Energy Earthshot, this project aims to lower carbon emissions from the fuel and chemical industry by […]

Electrify America Offers 2 Years Of Charging For The Upcoming BMW i5. Is This A Good Idea?

Jennifer Sensiba — Thu, 25 May 2023 17:35:07 +0000

Featured image provided by Electrify America.

" data-medium-file="https://cleantechnica.com/files/2023/05/Medium-1033-ElectrifyAmericaExpandsCollaborationwithBMWofNorthAmericatoProvideTwoYearsof30-MinuteComplimentaryChargingSessionsfortheNewBMWi5-e1685007500245-400x200.jpg" data-large-file="https://cleantechnica.com/files/2023/05/Medium-1033-ElectrifyAmericaExpandsCollaborationwithBMWofNorthAmericatoProvideTwoYearsof30-MinuteComplimentaryChargingSessionsfortheNewBMWi5-e1685007500245-800x400.jpg" />In a recent press release, Electrify America announced yet another complimentary charging program, this time for a BMW vehicle. In this article, we’ll take a look at the deal and the larger trend that it’s a part of. Plus, I’ll speculate a bit about the future of this “free lunch.” Electrify America’s Latest Deal With […]

Audi Says To Drive ICE If You Don’t Like Poor Charging Networks

Jennifer Sensiba — Thu, 25 May 2023 14:38:23 +0000

With the possible exception of range, charging is likely one of the most important aspects of EV ownership. The good news? Most of that happens at home and doesn’t take up any of your valuable time. It takes a few seconds to plug in, and then you go in and enjoy the evening before you […]

Uber Can Connect To Tesla App, Offer Drivers Rides That Fit In EV’s Range

Jennifer Sensiba — Thu, 25 May 2023 14:12:39 +0000

Working as an Uber or Lyft (or both) driver in an EV can be challenging. How do I know? I did it for about 50,000 miles in a 2018 Nissan LEAF. Trying to do that in an EV that lacks liquid cooling in a hot city like Phoenix didn’t turn out to be a great […]

Volvo Trucks Is Making Great Progress On Electric Truck Sales, But Isn’t Letting Safety Slide

Jennifer Sensiba — Wed, 24 May 2023 22:35:05 +0000

In the first quarter of 2023, Volvo Trucks emerged as the market leader in heavy electric trucks across Europe and North America. The Swedish truck manufacturer has successfully sold nearly 5,000 electric trucks across approximately 40 countries. Currently, Volvo Trucks is expanding its electric product offerings to additional markets in Asia, Latin America, and Africa. […]

Are Fat-Tire E-Bikes Too Fat?

Jennifer Sensiba — Wed, 24 May 2023 19:35:44 +0000

Over the last three years, I’ve done a lot of e-bike reviews. While some of them have been really cool townie and street bikes, most of them have followed a very popular formula: a mountain bike with front suspension, loads of battery capacity, and 4″ tires. But, not long ago, Snapcycle sent me something a […]

Daimler Truck Subsidiary FUSO Announces Production Start of Next Generation eCanter

Jennifer Sensiba — Wed, 24 May 2023 16:35:19 +0000

Featured image provided by Daimler Truck.

" data-medium-file="https://cleantechnica.com/files/2023/05/Daimler-FUSO-eCanter-Press-Photo-400x267.jpg" data-large-file="https://cleantechnica.com/files/2023/05/Daimler-FUSO-eCanter-Press-Photo-800x533.jpg" />With increased power, enhanced efficiency, and an extended range, the Next Generation eCanter from FUSO offers a wide array of applications and operates with zero CO2 emissions during driving. After making its European debut at the IAA Transportation in Hanover in September 2022, Daimler Truck subsidiary FUSO has commenced the production of this all-electric light […]

AUXITO LED Headlights Review

Jennifer Sensiba — Wed, 24 May 2023 14:41:38 +0000

When it comes to electric vehicles, many people likely assume that LED headlights are a standard feature. After all, EVs are cutting-edge, energy-efficient vehicles that prioritize sustainability and technological advancements — so it only makes sense that they would come equipped with the latest lighting technology, right? However, this assumption isn’t always accurate. Take the […]

Skoda Upgrades Its Top Vehicle’s Range & Tech With Enyaq Laurin & Klement

Jennifer Sensiba — Wed, 24 May 2023 13:25:43 +0000

Škoda Auto is finalizing the upper tier of its all-electric SUV lineup with the introduction of the new Enyaq L&K. Honoring Škoda’s heritage, this variant is named after the Czech car company’s founders, Václav Laurin and Václav Klement, and is characterized by unique exterior and interior design elements, as well as an extensive range of […]

Cadillac Announces ESCALADE IQ, But When’s The Suburban EV Coming?

Jennifer Sensiba — Tue, 23 May 2023 19:35:58 +0000

In a recent press release, Cadillac (GM’s flagship luxury brand) announced a new vehicle that’s supposed to be released later this year. But details were very sparse. Later this year, Cadillac says it has plans to unveil the ESCALADE IQ, which promises to uphold the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship, technology, and performance. Following in the […]

Snapcycle Eagle (Dual Suspension Folding Fat Tire E-Bike) Review

Jennifer Sensiba — Tue, 23 May 2023 15:35:02 +0000

Snapcycle Eagle e-bike

" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://cleantechnica.com/files/2023/05/IMG_1633-400x300.jpg" data-large-file="https://cleantechnica.com/files/2023/05/IMG_1633-800x600.jpg" />A few weeks ago, Snapcycle sent me a pretty unique e-bike to test (full disclosure: the company let me keep it, and I gave it to my brother for further testing). Not only is it a folder, but it has a dual suspension system to handle everything from harsh terrain to urban curbs with ease. […]

U.S. Federal Government Takes Next Steps On Infrastructure Bill EV Charging

Jennifer Sensiba — Tue, 23 May 2023 11:35:21 +0000

The Biden administration recently announced a Ride and Drive Electric funding opportunity worth $51 million. This initiative is part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and aims to expedite the electrification of the nation’s transportation sector. Furthermore, this move aims to encourage private sector investments in clean transportation. Additionally, the administration has launched the National Charging […]

Bridgestone Reveals New EV Tire

Jennifer Sensiba — Tue, 23 May 2023 11:25:00 +0000

Bridgestone Turanza EV tire shot on passenger side of blue Tesla.

" data-medium-file="https://cleantechnica.com/files/2023/05/Bridgestone-EV-Tire-Turanza-400x246.jpeg" data-large-file="https://cleantechnica.com/files/2023/05/Bridgestone-EV-Tire-Turanza-800x493.jpeg" />Tires play a crucial role in the efficiency and overall performance of electric vehicles, and also vehicles in general. They are the only point of contact between the vehicle and the road, and hence, their design and quality have a significant impact on various aspects of driving. One of the key factors is energy efficiency. […]

Utterly Unrealistic Range Tests Are Uninforming and (Mostly) Useless

Jennifer Sensiba — Mon, 22 May 2023 14:31:39 +0000

Brasil estabelece recorde global de autonomia do Bolt EUV

" data-medium-file="https://cleantechnica.com/files/2023/05/brasil-estabelece-recorde-global-de-autonomia-do-bolt-euv-Recorde_B-e1684763906505-400x200.jpg" data-large-file="https://cleantechnica.com/files/2023/05/brasil-estabelece-recorde-global-de-autonomia-do-bolt-euv-Recorde_B-e1684763906505-800x400.jpg" />In a recent press release from GM Brazil, the story of a wild range test of the Chevrolet Bolt EUV was shared. To commemorate the launch of the vehicle in Brazil, GM’s South American division worked with a local university to wring out as many miles as possible from the vehicle’s battery pack. The result? […]

Chevy’s Not Taking Any Chances With Bolt Battery Packs

Jennifer Sensiba — Sun, 21 May 2023 01:48:17 +0000

Image used with permission.

" data-medium-file="https://cleantechnica.com/files/2023/05/RDT_20230517_1708423541699551977939905-e1684557674417-400x200.png" data-large-file="https://cleantechnica.com/files/2023/05/RDT_20230517_1708423541699551977939905-e1684557674417-800x400.png" />Some recent posts on Reddit give us some news that might look bad on the surface but really show us something good. It turns out that GM’s battery software errs far on the side of caution for Bolts and Bolt EUVs after the fire recall. As you can see in the image above, there’s a […]

Our Psychological Problem with Global Warming (See: Mount St. Helens) & What To Do

Jennifer Sensiba — Sat, 20 May 2023 03:27:18 +0000

Image courtesy of DALL·E

" data-medium-file="https://cleantechnica.com/files/2023/05/Mt-St-Helens-global-warming-complacency-DALL·E-400x295.png" data-large-file="https://cleantechnica.com/files/2023/05/Mt-St-Helens-global-warming-complacency-DALL·E-800x591.png" />Perhaps the most iconic photo of the Mount St. Helens eruption is one with a Ford Pinto in the foreground. Sure, there are some more amazing photos of the destruction and of the volcanic explosion itself, but this one tends to resonate among car people and many others because it takes something routine like visiting […]

Can A Viable RV Be Built Onto A Bicycle Or Tricycle?

Jennifer Sensiba — Mon, 15 May 2023 18:35:32 +0000

Recently, the almighty and all-knowing YouTube algorithm did what it does best: give me things to watch that it knows I can’t resist. This time, toilet time was spent watching a video of two men who built an RV on the back of a tricycle and attempted a 100-mile trip with the weird vehicle they’d […]

Electric Bus Company Solaris Makes Two Announcements

Jennifer Sensiba — Mon, 15 May 2023 12:42:58 +0000

Photo by Lukasz Bera. Fotografia reklamowa Lukasz Bera.

" data-medium-file="https://cleantechnica.com/files/2023/05/Solaris_Urbino_9_LE_electric_2-e1684154418131-400x200.jpg" data-large-file="https://cleantechnica.com/files/2023/05/Solaris_Urbino_9_LE_electric_2-e1684154418131-800x400.jpg" />Solaris, an electric bus company we cover often here (more on that toward the end of the article), recently had two announcements that show the company continuing its fight for mass transit electrification in Europe. In Austria, the company recently struck a deal that will greatly help the city of Lustenau meet its goals. Rheintal […]

Behold, The Cleanest EVs On The Road. Why Aren’t Banks Jumping On This?

Jennifer Sensiba — Sun, 14 May 2023 03:41:00 +0000

In a previous article series, I compared the lifetime emissions of various real EVs and PHEVs on the road, as well as several hypothetical EVs. I even compared power sources (renewables vs. dirtier grids) to see how that all stacks up. I’m not going to go through the methodology and assumptions involved, as I previously […]

VW Brings Back Its Iconic Race Support Vans, This Time As EVs

Jennifer Sensiba — Sat, 13 May 2023 16:21:43 +0000

Normally, a van wouldn’t be your first thought for racing. They’re big, their center of gravity isn’t low, and they tend to not be very fast except perhaps in straight lines. There are some notable exceptions to this rule, but in general, few think of vans when they think of hitting the pavement and racing, […]

Kia Steps Up EV Education Efforts

Jennifer Sensiba — Fri, 12 May 2023 00:55:59 +0000

Featured image provided by Kia and Electrify America.

" data-medium-file="https://cleantechnica.com/files/2022/09/938-KiaAmericaoffers500kilowatt-hoursofcomplimentaryfastchargingtoNiroEVbuyersthroughElectrifyAmericanetwork-e1681485839368-400x158.jpg" data-large-file="https://cleantechnica.com/files/2022/09/938-KiaAmericaoffers500kilowatt-hoursofcomplimentaryfastchargingtoNiroEVbuyersthroughElectrifyAmericanetwork-e1681485839368-800x316.jpg" />It can be tough to be an EV driver if you don’t know much about EVs. Here are some of the awful (but very avoidable) things that a novice EV driver can do wrong: Overcharging the battery: EV drivers who overcharge their vehicle’s batteries can reduce their battery life and damage the vehicle’s electrical systems. […]

Save A Bird By Dimming Your Lights

Jennifer Sensiba — Thu, 11 May 2023 17:55:15 +0000

Image provided by NASA (Public Domain)

" data-medium-file="https://cleantechnica.com/files/2023/05/NASA-earth_lights_lrg-400x200.jpg" data-large-file="https://cleantechnica.com/files/2023/05/NASA-earth_lights_lrg-800x400.jpg" />Light pollution affects more than just our ability to stargaze — it can also have a major impact on animals. With excessive artificial light interfering with their natural sleep cycles, nocturnal creatures like bats, owls, and fireflies can have a tough time finding food, attracting mates, or staying safe from predators. Other animals, such as […]

GM Hires Former Apple Exec To Get Infotainment On Track

Jennifer Sensiba — Thu, 11 May 2023 12:38:33 +0000

Have you noticed how important infotainment systems have become in vehicles lately? Over the years, they went from being a bonus feature to a must-have. It used to be that in-car entertainment was an optional thing, with shows like “pimp my ride” installing everything from TVs to DVD players to Playstations. Today, they’re serious business […]

New Battery Recycling Center Will Have A Big Impact on Europe

Jennifer Sensiba — Thu, 11 May 2023 12:10:17 +0000

Lithium-ion batteries are a rapidly growing technology, used to power everything from our mobile phones to electric vehicles to renewable energy systems. Lithium-ion batteries generally have a much longer lifespan than anti-EV commentators would lead people to believe, and once they’re too degraded for vehicle use, they serve for years more doing stationary energy storage. […]

Abandoning Cheap Cars Could Be A Serious Blunder For Automakers

Jennifer Sensiba — Tue, 09 May 2023 22:15:50 +0000

Electrify America EV Charging Station, Image courtesy of Jennifer Sensiba | CleanTechnica

" data-medium-file="https://cleantechnica.com/files/2022/12/New-Electrify-America-EV-Charging-Station-Chevy-Bolt-EUV-e1675724312171-400x200.jpeg" data-large-file="https://cleantechnica.com/files/2022/12/New-Electrify-America-EV-Charging-Station-Chevy-Bolt-EUV-e1675724312171-800x400.jpeg" />A little over a week ago, several of us wrote about the end of the line for the Chevrolet Bolt and Bolt EUV. These vehicles aren’t the greatest EVs, but they occupy a pivotal space in the EV market. With liquid cooling, enough range to get to the next Electrify America station on most interstates, […]

Electric Motors Beat ICE Off-Road

Jennifer Sensiba — Mon, 08 May 2023 14:55:30 +0000

We’re getting to the point where electric trucks and true SUVs (on actual truck platforms) are nothing new. We still haven’t seen a single customer-owned Cybertruck after years of anticipation, but Rivian and Ford both have normal electric truck offerings in customer’s hands and there’s a Hummer EV (in both pickup and on the road […]

Boulder, Colorado, Buys First Electric Fire Engine

Jennifer Sensiba — Fri, 05 May 2023 17:50:15 +0000

Here at CleanTechnica, we cover electric buses a lot. The stories generally aren’t that interesting, largely because we’re covering the buses themselves, and not the occupants. In some cities, you’re practically guaranteed to never be bored on a bus (and that may or may not be a good thing). That having been said, the buses […]

Electrify America’s New CEO Takes A Dare, Drives Across The Country Only On EA Chargers

Jennifer Sensiba — Fri, 05 May 2023 16:50:09 +0000

If you follow certain YouTubers or listen to some of the Tesla stans on Twitter, your impression of Electrify America could be pretty poor. According to some, it’s an utterly unreliable charging network, plagued with issues that strand drivers, perhaps even making them start life over in some rural town between the coasts until the […]

One Big Thing I Learned About The Industry By Helping Start An EV Conversion Business

Jennifer Sensiba — Mon, 01 May 2023 03:17:20 +0000

A few months ago, I got a surprising phone call from my dad and brother. As I’ve said here before, I grew up in a transmission shop, and I’ve had several other family members growing up who worked in the automotive industry, but most of what I grew up with were ICE (internal combustion engine) […]

Daimler Trucks, NextEra, & Blackrock Form Heavy-Duty Charging Company

Jennifer Sensiba — Mon, 01 May 2023 02:00:34 +0000

Medium- and heavy-duty electric trucks, like any electric vehicle, require charging infrastructure that is both accessible and effective. However, charging infrastructure for these vehicles presents a bigger challenge than that of smaller electric vehicles due to their larger size and greater power requirements. Firstly, medium- and heavy-duty electric trucks typically have bigger batteries, which means […]

BorgWarner Helps School District Charge Multiple Buses With One Charger

Jennifer Sensiba — Sun, 30 Apr 2023 21:38:05 +0000

Charging medium- and heavy-duty electric vehicles (EVs) is more expensive than charging light-duty EVs due to several factors. First, medium- and heavy-duty EVs have larger battery sizes, which require more energy (measured in kilowatt-hours) to charge fully, resulting in higher electricity consumption and costs. These vehicles require high-power charging infrastructure that can provide all of […]