Electric Cars

Dejan Corovic

As above, so bellow
A lot of the threat to the Western car industry from cheap Chinese EVs is due to self-created pressure to adopt EVs in the first place, by fining western companies for producing ICE vehicles.
Agreed,

But point here is that Chinese cars are not just cheap, but of very high quality. Actually of such a high quality for a price that Western car makers can't compete. And that's their own conclusion.

We had seen same process before. In 19th centrury German, and indeed American, products were "cheap" then they became synonim for quality. Then Japanese products were "cheap" and became high quality. Now Chinese are reaching that new level. Regan's Fed chairman Valker imposed Plazza accord on Japanese and curbed Japanese economy, but the same can't be done with Chinese.

What i think was idiotic happened 10 - 20 years ago when Western politicians started pumping capital in China to aid its growth. That was a huge mistake and basically Chine become threat by receiving money from West. West should had invested that money into it's own nations, not int China. Now its going to be really hard to reverse this trend.
 

AD1184

Celestial
But point here is that Chinese cars are not just cheap, but of very high quality. Actually of such a high quality for a price that Western car makers can't compete. And that's their own conclusion.
Well, it is only a point because there is pressure in western markets to adopt EVs. China does not produce ICE cars of a similar quality, or at all. So if there was a level playing field in western markets for ICE and electric cars, there would be significantly less market penetration by Chinese manufacturers.
 

Dejan Corovic

As above, so bellow
Well, it is only a point because there is pressure in western markets to adopt EVs. China does not produce ICE cars of a similar quality, or at all. So if there was a level playing field in western markets for ICE and electric cars, there would be significantly less market penetration by Chinese manufacturers.
Another thing about EVs is that for China they are of strategic value. Chine is producing lots of cheap electricity and by reducing its dependancy on oil China is less prone to the maritime blockade by US.
 

pigfarmer

tall, thin, irritable
EVs seem to have lost some of their shine here in the US, if for no other reason is the need to throw **** at Tesla. They're not going away but neither are traditional ICE vehicles.
 

nivek

As Above So Below
EVs seem to have lost some of their shine here in the US, if for no other reason is the need to throw **** at Tesla. They're not going away but neither are traditional ICE vehicles.

Public opinion was never high in regards to EVs as we all know, it was Biden's administration who was the chief promoter of EVs and that mandate died when Trump was elected,, which in part reflected public opinion...Tesla never tried to replace ICE vehicles with EVs, they just tried to get a slice of the pie in automobile sales market, nothing wrong with that and personally I would own a Tesla as a second vehicle, the higher end models are quiet nice...All the hatred towards Tesla is short-lived, the liberal hate mobs will find something else to raise their torches to and scream at, indubitably...

...
 

pigfarmer

tall, thin, irritable
Honestly, in congested urban areas where there is enough $$ to support the necessary infrastructure they make sense. I'd even argue hybrids do in suburban areas. But take a drive across the Midwest and forget about it. I've only been through the desert southwest once and there are places where you have to make sure there are enough gas stations and water much less anything else.
 

nivek

As Above So Below

Experts make bold suggestion for thousands of tons of outdated used EV batteries: 'It's not going to be easy'

Clean energy experts in Australia say reusing and recycling old electric vehicle batteries could be the key to reducing electronic waste across the globe.

Researchers from Edith Cowan University studied predictions of how much e-waste comes from used EV batteries, per The Conversation. Right now, an estimated 100,000 EVs are on Australia's roads. Experts with the University of Technology Sydney suggest that by 2030, this could produce around 30,000 tons of e-waste, spiking to 360,000 tons by 2040. They warn that e-waste in landfills increases human health risks and the risk of fire.

The experts at ECU proposed a new scale for assessing the health of EV batteries at the end of their initial use.

A battery health assessment of at least 80% of the original capacity means batteries can be reused for things like smaller EVs, scooters, and golf carts. An assessment of 60% to 80% would make a battery eligible to be reused for different applications, like stationary power storage. All batteries under 60% would be mined for precious minerals to be used in new batteries.

Adopting this scale would require manufacturers to make battery data accessible. Batteries are typically sealed shut, preventing access to specific data.

"Old EV batteries have huge potential," wrote the creators of the EV battery health assessment scale, per The Conversation. "But it's not going to be easy to realize this."

Recycling companies have proved that up to 95% of EV battery parts can be recycled. But the experts at ECU say batteries in Australia are designed with performance and safety at the forefront, with recyclability as an afterthought.

In the meantime, other nations are requiring manufacturers to provide EV battery data for recyclers. The European Union will begin requiring a digital passport for all EVs in January 2027. In 2021, California passed a law requiring manufacturers to provide reports on battery health to recyclers.


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nivek

As Above So Below

Fiat solves 'barrier for electric cars' to allow battery recharges in FIVE MINUTES

Italian car giant Fiat says it will 'redefine' and monumentally improve electric car ownership in Europe by rapidly speeding up charging times – one of the biggest complaints motorists have regarding switching to EVs.

The Turin-based manufacturer hopes to get a head start on rival EV makers with the introduction of a 'technological revolution' that guarantees owners can fully recharge the batteries in their zero-emission cars in just five minutes.

It today confirmed its first battery swapping station has opened in Madrid.

Launched in partnership with charging solution provider Ample and car sharing service Free2move, it promises to 'break one of the barriers to electrification'.

A fleet of 40 Fiat 500e cars are now available in the Spanish city that can access a battery swap station. On arrival, a depleted battery unit can be swapped for a fully charged one in around the same time it takes to fill up a petrol car with fuel.

It means Fiat is set to go head-to-head with Chinese EV mega companies Nio and BYD, both of which are also promising full battery recharges in Europe in less than five minutes
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(More on the link)

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nivek

As Above So Below

Toyota’s water-powered engine could signal the fall of EVs

In a surprising turn of events, the automotive world has been rocked by Toyota’s announcement of a new engine technology that could challenge the dominance of electric vehicles. The CEO of Toyota has introduced a water engine, a potentially revolutionary innovation that raises questions about the future of electric cars and the broader implications for the industry. This article delves into the details of this groundbreaking announcement and what it could mean for the future of transportation.

Toyota’s recent announcement has sent shockwaves through the automotive industry. The CEO detailed a new water engine that promises to revolutionize how we think about vehicle propulsion. This engine, according to Toyota, utilizes water as a primary component in its operation, potentially offering an alternative to traditional fossil fuels and electric power. The details, while still emerging, suggest a significant shift in Toyota’s strategic direction, emphasizing sustainability and innovation.

The announcement has been met with a mix of excitement and skepticism across the automotive landscape. Industry insiders and tech enthusiasts have been quick to weigh in, with some praising Toyota for pushing the boundaries of what is possible, while others caution against the technological and logistical challenges such an innovation presents. Nevertheless, the announcement has positioned Toyota at the forefront of automotive innovation, potentially reshaping its market strategy and brand positioning as it embraces this new era.

The concept of using water to power an engine is not entirely new, but Toyota’s approach appears to be a novel iteration. Essentially, the water engine relies on a chemical reaction involving water to produce energy, which is then used to propel the vehicle. Unlike traditional internal combustion engines that burn fuel, this engine would theoretically use water as a medium to create energy, potentially making it more efficient and environmentally friendly.

When comparing the efficiency of the water engine to traditional combustion and electric engines, several factors need to be considered. While electric vehicles (EVs) have made significant strides in efficiency and reduced emissions, the infrastructure for widespread adoption is still developing. In contrast, a water engine could offer a more immediate and scalable solution if the technology proves viable. Environmental implications are also a critical consideration; if the water engine can deliver on its promises, it could offer a greener alternative to current technologies, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering carbon emissions.

The introduction of Toyota’s water engine could represent a significant challenge to the burgeoning electric vehicle market. As it stands, EVs are rapidly gaining traction, supported by growing infrastructure investments and increasing consumer demand for sustainable transportation options. However, the water engine could disrupt this trend by offering a potentially more versatile and accessible alternative.

Electric vehicle manufacturers are likely to respond by accelerating their innovation cycles, perhaps focusing on enhancing battery technology and improving charging infrastructure to maintain their competitive edge. The current state of electric vehicle adoption, while robust, is still in its infancy compared to traditional vehicles. Should Toyota’s water engine prove successful, it could force a reevaluation of the existing automotive landscape, prompting both established automakers and newcomers to rethink their strategic roadmaps.

Despite the excitement surrounding Toyota’s announcement, skepticism abounds. Critics question the feasibility of a water-powered car, citing potential technical and logistical challenges that could hinder its development and widespread adoption. For instance, the infrastructure required to support a water engine ecosystem is not yet in place, posing a significant hurdle to overcome.

Moreover, experts in the field have expressed doubts about the viability of Toyota’s claims. Some argue that the energy required to extract usable power from water could offset any potential benefits, making it a less efficient solution than it appears. Insights from industry leaders suggest that while the water engine could indeed be revolutionary, significant research and development are needed before it can be considered a practical alternative to existing technologies. As Forbes points out, there are many hurdles to clear before this concept can reach the consumer market.

Toyota’s announcement of the water engine is a bold step within the broader trend of automotive innovation. As automakers worldwide race to develop sustainable and efficient transportation solutions, the introduction of new technologies like the water engine could catalyze further advancements across the sector. The potential ripple effects on global energy policies and automotive regulations are profound, with governments potentially incentivizing or mandating the adoption of such technologies in pursuit of environmental goals.

Speculating on the future landscape of transportation, it’s intriguing to consider whether water engines might become mainstream. If Toyota manages to overcome the challenges associated with this technology, it could pave the way for a new class of vehicles that redefine how we think about mobility. While the road ahead is uncertain, one thing is clear: the quest for sustainable automotive solutions is far from over, and Toyota’s water engine could play a pivotal role in shaping the future of transportation.

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Dejan Corovic

As above, so bellow

Toyota’s water-powered engine could signal the fall of EVs

In a surprising turn of events, the automotive world has been rocked by Toyota’s announcement of a new engine technology that could challenge the dominance of electric vehicles. The CEO of Toyota has introduced a water engine, a potentially revolutionary innovation that raises questions about the future of electric cars and the broader implications for the industry. This article delves into the details of this groundbreaking announcement and what it could mean for the future of transportation.

Toyota’s recent announcement has sent shockwaves through the automotive industry. The CEO detailed a new water engine that promises to revolutionize how we think about vehicle propulsion. This engine, according to Toyota, utilizes water as a primary component in its operation, potentially offering an alternative to traditional fossil fuels and electric power. The details, while still emerging, suggest a significant shift in Toyota’s strategic direction, emphasizing sustainability and innovation.

The announcement has been met with a mix of excitement and skepticism across the automotive landscape. Industry insiders and tech enthusiasts have been quick to weigh in, with some praising Toyota for pushing the boundaries of what is possible, while others caution against the technological and logistical challenges such an innovation presents. Nevertheless, the announcement has positioned Toyota at the forefront of automotive innovation, potentially reshaping its market strategy and brand positioning as it embraces this new era.

The concept of using water to power an engine is not entirely new, but Toyota’s approach appears to be a novel iteration. Essentially, the water engine relies on a chemical reaction involving water to produce energy, which is then used to propel the vehicle. Unlike traditional internal combustion engines that burn fuel, this engine would theoretically use water as a medium to create energy, potentially making it more efficient and environmentally friendly.

When comparing the efficiency of the water engine to traditional combustion and electric engines, several factors need to be considered. While electric vehicles (EVs) have made significant strides in efficiency and reduced emissions, the infrastructure for widespread adoption is still developing. In contrast, a water engine could offer a more immediate and scalable solution if the technology proves viable. Environmental implications are also a critical consideration; if the water engine can deliver on its promises, it could offer a greener alternative to current technologies, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering carbon emissions.

The introduction of Toyota’s water engine could represent a significant challenge to the burgeoning electric vehicle market. As it stands, EVs are rapidly gaining traction, supported by growing infrastructure investments and increasing consumer demand for sustainable transportation options. However, the water engine could disrupt this trend by offering a potentially more versatile and accessible alternative.

Electric vehicle manufacturers are likely to respond by accelerating their innovation cycles, perhaps focusing on enhancing battery technology and improving charging infrastructure to maintain their competitive edge. The current state of electric vehicle adoption, while robust, is still in its infancy compared to traditional vehicles. Should Toyota’s water engine prove successful, it could force a reevaluation of the existing automotive landscape, prompting both established automakers and newcomers to rethink their strategic roadmaps.

Despite the excitement surrounding Toyota’s announcement, skepticism abounds. Critics question the feasibility of a water-powered car, citing potential technical and logistical challenges that could hinder its development and widespread adoption. For instance, the infrastructure required to support a water engine ecosystem is not yet in place, posing a significant hurdle to overcome.

Moreover, experts in the field have expressed doubts about the viability of Toyota’s claims. Some argue that the energy required to extract usable power from water could offset any potential benefits, making it a less efficient solution than it appears. Insights from industry leaders suggest that while the water engine could indeed be revolutionary, significant research and development are needed before it can be considered a practical alternative to existing technologies. As Forbes points out, there are many hurdles to clear before this concept can reach the consumer market.

Toyota’s announcement of the water engine is a bold step within the broader trend of automotive innovation. As automakers worldwide race to develop sustainable and efficient transportation solutions, the introduction of new technologies like the water engine could catalyze further advancements across the sector. The potential ripple effects on global energy policies and automotive regulations are profound, with governments potentially incentivizing or mandating the adoption of such technologies in pursuit of environmental goals.

Speculating on the future landscape of transportation, it’s intriguing to consider whether water engines might become mainstream. If Toyota manages to overcome the challenges associated with this technology, it could pave the way for a new class of vehicles that redefine how we think about mobility. While the road ahead is uncertain, one thing is clear: the quest for sustainable automotive solutions is far from over, and Toyota’s water engine could play a pivotal role in shaping the future of transportation.


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How does one get to read the whole article. Is this subscription site?
 

nivek

As Above So Below
How does one get to read the whole article. Is this subscription site?

Not sure what you mean, I posted the whole article here, its from MSN news...

....
 

pigfarmer

tall, thin, irritable
I can't imagine being in that mess, period. Personally, I'd be saying 'ooooooh' from further away!

Modern cars have had automatic shutoffs of different types for quite some time starting in the late 80s so the tech is well refined by now. Gas tanks are also plastic since then and are more forgiving than their steel predecessors and more thought has been given to their placement. My 89 Saab had a plastic tank that was somewhat flexible and a mechanical rollover fuel cutoff. Modern vehicles use PFM (pure fookin magic) and can sense the sudden stop and use of restraints and airbags to shut off fuel flow. My truck will also call 911 which is damned thoughtful of it.

Not foolproof but way better than in years past.

Take the two ancient examples I have downstairs though, and KABOOM ! IDK why lithium ion batteries are so prone to fire but I'd be worried about them too in a violent crash.
 

pigfarmer

tall, thin, irritable
I never assume anything is real anymore because you can't. The safety features I speak of are and I have personally seen plenty of bad accidents where what @Dejan Corovic said applies.
 

Dejan Corovic

As above, so bellow
Are you sure this video is real?
I never thought of that. I don't know if it was real.

Now that you said, its unlikely that's real because what's that security guy doing on the road. I twould take him at least 15 minutes to arrive at a scene, and by that time traffic would already had stopped.
 

AD1184

Celestial
There are a multitude of little details that make the video highly suspect, and much more likely to be AI generated than not. There is the behaviour and appearance of the vehicles in the pile-up. But also, look at the gesticulations of the man on the left of the screen, and where he is directing them. The dialogue in the audio is also unconvincing.

The framing of the video is also suspect, if we assume it is someone supposed to be hand-holding a smart phone. It would be extremely dangerous to be standing where the camera is and where the other people are supposed to be, in the roadway with their backs to traffic that is sliding on ice. And to be standing there holding the camera absolutely fixed on the crash without flinching, losing framing, or looking behind you?

Of course, this sort of thing does happen on icy roads, and there are genuine videos of similar occurrences, especially from the period before the advent of AI video generation.
 
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