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BYD eMax 7 electric MPV launched in India starting at ₹26.9 lakh

Kia EV9 electric SUV launched in India at ₹1.3 crore

<ul><li>Skoda recently launched the Kylaq SUV, the company’s latest entry-level subcompact SUV.</li><li>The company has announced its plans to launch an electric vehicle in India in 2025.</li><li>The Skoda Enyaq EV’s updated version will debut in India next year.</li></ul>Skoda Auto will roll out its electric vehicle in the Indian market in 2025. In an exclusive interaction with ANI Skoda Auto Brand Director Petr Janeba says Skoda's European bestseller, the Enyaq EV, was initially slated for an Indian debut this year but postponed to next year for an updated version. Janeba says a significant facelift planned for the model in March has led the company to hold off until the new version, featuring Skoda's latest design language, is ready. He said, "We have one of the best-selling EVs in Europe our European Enyaq. The car was tested, and the car was prepared for India. We have actually stopped bringing the car this year. Because there will be a huge facelift of the Skoda Enyaq coming in March following the new design language." He added, "We actually can choose one of the three EV cars coming to India or all three." Skoda is closely monitoring India's changing EV policies, especially the CAFE3 (Corporate Average Fuel Economy) norms set to be introduced in April 2027. On further investment in India Janeba highlighted the importance of a consistent regulatory environment, as state-level EV and hybrid tax policies currently vary widely, impacting long-term planning. "And within this plan, we understand nobody can survive in India without having a deeper localised CKD EV in India. We are ready for this. We are ready in Pune to make another investment for the car and for the production to get it. At the end of the day, we still take our time in order to decide the right measure car for the market, seeing the new competitors coming on the EVs." Said Janeba Skoda already has two manufacturing units in India, in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar and Pune. EVs are planned to be manufactured in their Pune plant For the production, he stated, "In the same factory in Pune, Chakan we will be producing EVs. Currently we have increased because of the Kylaq the production capacity in Pune to 250,000 units a year and we will be increasing further once it is needed either for the current cars because of the export or because of the Indian demand or for the new cars like EVs." The facility is also set to support EV production with deep localisation efforts to make Skoda's electric lineup more affordable for Indian consumers. Piyush Arora, India CEO, Skoda Auto echoed this sentiment, expressing confidence that Skoda's expanded product offerings will capture the growing sub-four-meter SUV segment, a category that represents nearly 30 per cent of India's automotive market. "With the new Kodiaq and other upcoming models, we are aiming for a 5 per cent market share in the medium term," he added. Skoda's commitment to India extends beyond manufacturing. Arora highlighted the company's investment in local engineering talent and its dealer and supplier networks. "Our technical centre in India plays a crucial role in developing products like the Kodiaq, which was fully designed in India," he noted, calling it a testament to India's engineering prowess and the company's long-term vision for the region. With inputs from ANI. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/auto/news/skoda-kylaq-suv-launched-in-india-starting-at-7-89-lakh/articleshow/115013668.cms">Skoda Kylaq SUV launched in India starting at ₹7.89 lakh</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/stock-market/webstories/swiggy-ipo-gmp-risk-factors-and-all-you-need-to-know/slidelist/115004939.cms">Swiggy IPO – GMP, risk factors and all you need to know</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/telecom/news/reliance-jio-ipo-indias-biggest-telco-to-go-public-in-2025-retail-ipo-further-away/articleshow/114944496.cms">Reliance Jio IPO – India’s biggest telco to go public in 2025, retail IPO further away</a>

Skoda plans to launch an updated electric vehicle in India in 2025

State-owned <keyword id="20039950" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Bharat-Petroleum-Corporation" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Bharat Petroleum Corporation" meta.hostid="153" meta.entityid="Bharat Petroleum Corporation">Bharat Petroleum Corporation</keyword> plans to invest Rs 1.7 lakh crore over the next five years to grow its core oil refining and fuel marketing business as well as in 'future big bets' of <keyword id="20115883" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="petrochemicals" source="keywords">petrochemicals</keyword> and <keyword id="19895435" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="green-energy" source="keywords">green energy</keyword>, its chairman G Krishnakumar has said. At present, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (<keyword id="19908646" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="BPCL" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="BPCL" meta.hostid="153" meta.entityid="BPCL">BPCL</keyword>) owns about 14 per cent of India's oil <keyword id="20064251" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="refining-capacity" source="keywords">refining capacity</keyword> and about a quarter of the fuel retailing network. It plans to grow these businesses while foraying into newer areas. The firm is now implementing the first phase of a multi-decade aspirational journey in the form of '<keyword id="22826627" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="project-Aspire" source="keywords">Project Aspire</keyword>' - its five-year strategic framework that is based on two fundamental pillars - 'Nurturing the Core' and 'Investing in Future Big Bets', he said in the company's latest annual report. "Our mid-term strategy is on a continuum. While we remain committed to growing our core businesses, which include refining and marketing <keyword id="20037698" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="petroleum-products" source="keywords">petroleum products</keyword> and upstream, we are equally focused on our big bets comprising petrochemicals, gas, green energy, non-fuel retail, and digital. "Project Aspire, with a planned capex outlay of around Rs 1.70 lakh crore over five years, will enable us to create long-term value for our stakeholders while preserving our planet for future generations," he said. "A cornerstone of our long-term strategy, Project Aspire, with a Rs 1.70 trillion investment, marks the initial phase of our multi-decade odyssey to shape the energy of tomorrow. This, coupled with our robust balance sheet, fuels our ambition to lead the <keyword id="19951336" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="energy-transition" source="keywords">energy transition</keyword>." The company is targeting net zero carbon emissions from its operations by 2040. "BPCL has drawn a net-zero roadmap, which encompasses renewable power, green hydrogen, compressed biogas, carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS), efficiency improvement and the offsets procurements. This would require a phased capital outlay of approximately Rs 1 lakh crore till 2040, and the company is geared for the same," he said. The firm's bet on continuing investing in core businesses is based on the premise that India's booming economy will drive a 4-5 per cent annual increase in energy demand and petroleum product consumption. Also, the demand for major petrochemical products is expected to rise by 7-8 per cent annually. "This presents a strategic opportunity to expand refining capacity alongside the development of integrated petrochemical complexes," he said. BPCL is implementing new petrochemical projects at two of its three oil refineries. A Rs 49,000 crore ethylene cracker project is being implemented at the Bina refinery in Madhya Pradesh, alongside raising oil refining capacity from the current 7.8 million tonnes to 11 million tonnes annually by 2029. A polypropylene project is being set up at Kochi refinery in Kerala by 2027. "To meet the anticipated demand beyond our planned expansions in Bina and Kochi, we are actively evaluating options for setting up additional integrated refining and petrochemical capacities within the next 5-7 years," Krishnakumar said without disclosing either the investments or the location of such a project. Andhra Pradesh is being speculated as the likely site after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's BJP and regional party TDP stormed to power in the state in recently concluded assembly elections. TDP has been demanding the implementation of a refinery-cum-petrochemical complex that was promised as part of the package when the state was split more than a decade back. "Our investment in the petrochemical project is consistent with our aspiration of becoming a dominant player in India's petrochemical growth story," Krishnakumar said. On energy transition, he said BPCL is targeting to build 2 gigawatts (GW) of <keyword id="19895602" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="renewable-energy" source="keywords">renewable energy</keyword> capacity by 2025 and 10 GW by 2035. "We are investing nearly Rs 1,000 crore to establish two 50 MW captive wind power plants in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, which will support our refineries in Mumbai and Bina." The firm is also investing around Rs 300 crore in 72 MWp of solar project in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. "Concomitantly, we are executing green hydrogen projects aligned with the National Green Hydrogen Mission. These projects include a 5 MW electrolyser plant at Bina refinery and a green hydrogen refuelling station with an indigenously developed electrolyser at Kochi," he noted. BPCL, he said, is committed to supporting the transition to electric mobility through a robust and accessible charging infrastructure. The company has installed over 3,000 charging stations, including fast chargers for cars and two-wheelers. 900 fast chargers are installed across 120 highway corridors, which helps address the range, discovery and time anxiety of electric vehicle (EV) owners. "Over the next five years, we aim to install 4-wheeler fast chargers at approximately 6,000 retail outlets across 400 highway corridors, prioritising high-traffic corridors like the Golden Quadrilateral and N-S/E-W highways," he said. On biofuels, he said BPCL sells petrol with 20 per cent ethanol blend at 4,279 out of its over 22,000 petrol pumps. It is also building compressed biogas plants using municipal solid waste to make gas that can be used as CNG in automobiles. The firm is also exploring partnerships in the arena. "These combined efforts, along with the upcoming commissioning of a bio-ethanol refinery, positions BPCL as a key player in India's transition to a greener fuel mix, creating a robust ecosystem for the adoption of cleaner fuels across the country," he added. BPCL is establishing a corporate venture capital fund to invest directly in promising startups. "In order to thrive in this complex and challenging business landscape, we will leverage our agility and focus on operational excellence to ensure continued success. Safety and reliability will remain our top priorities, guiding all our actions. We are committed to upholding the highest standards of corporate governance," he added. He said the energy sector of India stands at an inflection point. "The nation has an ambitious vision of becoming a USD 30 trillion developed economy by 2047. 'Viksit Bharat @2047' will necessitate an almost fourfold increase in primary energy demand." India's exponential growth trajectory will propel it to a pivotal role in the global energy market, accounting for roughly 12 per cent of world energy consumption by 2047. "The key strategic objectives for India in the energy sector will entail significant expansion in refining capacities, raising the share of gas in the energy basket from about 6 per cent to 15 per cent, establishing leadership in petrochemical exports, and sharply reducing energy imports from current levels of 47 per cent to below 25 per cent by 2030 and to zero by 2047," he said. India is targeting 500 GW of non-fossil fuel energy capacity, sourcing half of its energy needs from renewables, reducing carbon emissions by 1 billion tonnes and lowering carbon intensity by 45 per cent by 2030 with the ultimate goal of net-zero emissions by 2070. "Building on its strong Indian energy presence, BPCL aspires to meet 7-10 per cent of the nation's primary energy demand by 2047," he said.

BPCL planning Rs 1.7 lakh crore spend to expand core business, new energy foray over next five years

South Korean auto major <keyword id="20190176" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="hyundai-motor" source="keywords">Hyundai Motor</keyword> Group on Thursday said it is looking to expand the annual production capacity across <keyword id="19906087" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Hyundai" source="keywords">Hyundai</keyword> and <keyword id="19997865" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Kia" source="keywords">Kia</keyword> brands in India to 15 lakh units per year, as part of its mid-to-long-term strategy in the country. Outlining the company's strategy for the India market, Hyundai Motor Group (HMG) Executive Chair Euisun Chung said the automaker plans to roll out more <keyword id="19962337" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="EVs" source="keywords">EVs</keyword>, while also utilising the country as an export hub for the neighbouring countries. Chung visited India on April 23 to review the group's mid-to-long-term strategies to solidify its position as a leading mobility provider. Hyundai Motor Group is expanding its manufacturing footprint in the Indian region with the establishment of an annual production system of 1.5 million vehicle units for Hyundai Motor India and Kia India combined, the automaker stated. Hyundai Motor India will start operating its Pune plant, acquired from General Motors last year, in the second half of the next year. Hyundai Motor is currently making improvements to the facility to create a production hub capable of building more than 200,000 units annually, it said. With the addition of the Chennai plant's production capacity of 824,000 units, Hyundai Motor will have an annual production capacity of over one million units when combined with the Pune plant, it added. Besides, Kia India's yearly production capacity will also be expanded to 431,000 units within the first half of this year. "Combined together, Hyundai Motor Group will have the ability to produce approximately 1.5 million units annually in India," HMG said. The group also plans to expand its EV lineup and create an EV ecosystem to accelerate customer uptake and expand charging infrastructure. It will also strengthen its SUV sales leadership in India, HMG said. Hyundai Motor India plans to unveil its first locally produced EV in India next year, it said. Starting with the mass production of its first <keyword id="21425421" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="electric-SUV-model" source="keywords">electric SUV model</keyword> at the Chennai plant at the end of 2024, the company plans to further produce five EV models by 2030, it added. Hyundai Motor India will also utilize its sales network hubs, expanding the number of EV charging stations to 485 by 2030, HMG said. Kia India will also start production of its local EV model in 2025 and plans to further expand its EV models, it added. The company will also focus on building EV charging infrastructure, it stated. "India is among the fastest-growing economies globally, and as this growth continues the strategic importance of Hyundai Motor India will only increase," Chung said while addressing employees in a town hall meeting. He further said, "by leveraging our strong reputation and competitive quality in India, we aim to expand exports to neighbouring countries, making India the global export hub to boost our regional market competitiveness." Chung said that by around 2030, the automaker expects to see a substantial expansion in the EV market in India. "In anticipation of this evolution, Hyundai is focused on developing locally tailored EVs aimed at establishing us as a leading global EV brand," he added. "We also plan to proactively build charging stations at strategic locations 'including dealerships' to facilitate the adoption of EVs," Chung said. Hyundai Motor India sells models like Creta, Verna while Kia India sells models like Seltos, Carens and Sonet in the country. SEE ALSO:<a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/jiocinema-introduces-new-ad-free-premium-plans-starting-at-29/articleshow/109581033.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/jiocinema-introduces-new-ad-free-premium-plans-starting-at-29/articleshow/109581033.cms" target="_blank">An Ambani disruption in OTT: At just ₹1 per day, you can now enjoy ad-free content on JioCinema</a><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/news/realme-narzo-70-narzo-70x-5g-smartphones-launched-in-india-starting-at-11999/articleshow/109557895.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/news/realme-narzo-70-narzo-70x-5g-smartphones-launched-in-india-starting-at-11999/articleshow/109557895.cms" target="_blank">Realme Narzo 70, Narzo 70X 5G smartphones launched in India starting at ₹11,999</a><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/apple-let-loose-event-scheduled-for-may-7-ipads-expected-to-be-launched/articleshow/109553148.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/apple-let-loose-event-scheduled-for-may-7-ipads-expected-to-be-launched/articleshow/109553148.cms" target="_blank">Apple Let Loose event scheduled for May 7 – New iPad models expected to be launched</a>

Hyundai plans to scale up production capacity, introduce more EVs in India

Union Finance Minister <keyword id="19916618" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Nirmala-Sitharaman" source="keywords">Nirmala Sitharaman</keyword> highlighted India's significant progress in electrification, <keyword id="23692737" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="water-accessibility" source="keywords">water accessibility</keyword>, and <keyword id="20879840" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="economic-empowerment" source="keywords">economic empowerment</keyword> during a fireside chat with John J Hamre, President and CEO of the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), in Washington, DC. Highlighting the progress made in <keyword id="23003732" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="rural-electrification" source="keywords">rural electrification</keyword>, <keyword id="19916494" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="sitharaman" source="keywords">Sitharaman</keyword> highlighted that every village in India now has access to electricity. She noted that in 2014, many villages across India, including those near state capitals, lacked even basic infrastructure for electrification. She said "I don't think any village in India is unelectrified today. Households have received the connections. So, if I remember the situation in 2014, there were still many villages in many parts of India, some even very close to the state capital, provincial headquarters, without even a pole to receive the electric wires. Now, all that has been overcome. Houses have got their electricity." The Finance Minister also discussed the <keyword id="19971121" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Jal-Jeevan-Mission" source="keywords">Jal Jeevan Mission</keyword>, a program initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to provide tap water connections to every household. She explained, "Earlier, one tap water connection was provided to a village, from where everyone would take water to their home. But under the 'Jal Jeevan Mission,' each and every house gets a tap water connection." Sitharaman emphasized the positive impact of this initiative on health, sanitation, and convenience for millions of Indian families. Turning to the economic empowerment of <keyword id="20101496" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="municipalities" source="keywords">municipalities</keyword> and urban centers, Sitharaman noted that these local governments are receiving increased autonomy and financial support. She explained that municipalities receive a portion of taxes collected by the central government, along with additional funds based on the Finance Commission's recommendations. "Over and above, today, we are enhancing their capacities to raise resources from the market. Municipalities are a very powerful instrument of economic development and they, on their own, are raising a lot of resources," she added. Sitharaman also expressed confidence in India's economic growth and its appeal to <keyword id="20632552" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="global-investors" source="keywords">global investors</keyword>. "The policies are working, reforms are happening, and they shall continue to happen," she stated, adding that "greater liberalisation of the economy will be there and, in a way, we are accessing newer markets and speaking about the <keyword id="19948184" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Indian-economy" source="keywords">Indian economy</keyword> in more avenues and platforms that will attract more investors." With ongoing reforms and increased global engagement, Sitharaman noted, India is solidifying its position as a significant player on the world stage, expanding its economic reach and inviting foreign investment.

No village in India left without access to electricity, claims FM Nirmala Sitharaman

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Electric cars are expensive, but tax credits might be able to help.</li><li>Federal tax incentives are crucial for EV buyers. State rebates help, too.</li></ul>While electric-vehicle prices have come down in the past year, affordability is still an issue for US buyers.According to Cox Automotive, new EVs sold for an average of $56,328 in September, while the average price paid for any new car was $48,397.Such high pricing is making it harder for <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/electric-vehicle-misconceptions-about-the-ev-transition-market-sales-2024-5">a new wave of shoppers</a> to commit to an electric car, but federal and state tax credits that give you money back for buying an EV could mean you're in luck if you're looking to plug in. You just need to know how to cash in.New requirements for a $7,500 federal tax credit under the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-get-electric-vehicle-tax-credit-ira-biden-2022-12">Inflation Reduction Act</a> went into effect at the start of this year. The revised rules <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/list-evs-electric-cars-qualify-for-federal-tax-credit-2024-1">limited the number of EVs</a> on the market that qualify for the credit, but more vehicles are expected to qualify as automakers adjust. In the meantime, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/electric-vehicle-lease-payments-cheaper-affordability-hack-2024-9">a leasing loophole</a> is helping more buyers access the full $7,500 credit.Here's what to know about claiming tax credits and rebates on electric-car purchases.<div type="image" title="Tesla cars on the production line in a warehouse." height="3857" width="5142" msid="115030133" hostid="261" sizebytes="1143850"></div><h2>Federal EV tax credits</h2>The <a href="https://fueleconomy.gov/feg/tax2023.shtml">federal EV tax credit</a> is split: You can get $3,750 if the vehicle meets either the critical-minerals requirements or the battery-component requirements. If it meets both sets of requirements, it qualifies for the full $7,500 credit.Here's a closer look at those requirements:<ul><li>The vehicle must have a battery capacity of 7 kilowatt-hours or more.</li><li>The gross vehicle weight rating must be less than 14,000 pounds. (For context, the gargantuan Hummer EV weighs about 9,000 pounds.)</li><li>Final assembly of the vehicle must take place in North America.</li><li>At least 50% of minerals for the vehicle and battery components must be extracted, processed, or recycled in the US or countries with which the US has a free-trade agreement.</li><li>The manufacturer's suggested retail price can't top $80,000 for vans, SUVs, and pickup trucks, or $55,000 for all other vehicles.</li></ul><div type="image" title="A charger hanging out the side of a car." height="2673" width="3565" msid="115030135" hostid="261" sizebytes="227186"></div>The leasing loophole:<ul><li><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/electric-vehicle-lease-payments-cheaper-affordability-hack-2024-9">Leased electric vehicles</a> are categorized under the "qualified commercial clean vehicles" tax credit, which has fewer restrictions than the "new clean vehicle" credit outlined above.</li><li>Under these rules, dealers are afforded $7,500 for all-electric vehicles and are not held to the individual buyer standards of income caps, MSRP limits, or mineral and component requirements. Dealers are taking advantage of this by passing along their $7,500 credit to lessees who may not otherwise qualify for the credit if they purchase the vehicle.</li></ul>If you're buying used:<ul><li>The used-EV credit took effect last year.</li><li>The vehicle must be at least two years old, under $25,000, and sold by a licensed dealership.</li><li>Your income can't exceed $150,000 if you're a joint filer or surviving spouse, $112,500 if you're a head of household, or $75,000 if you're a single filer.</li><li>Taxpayers are eligible for a credit of 30% of the vehicle price, up to $4,000.</li><li>The purchaser cannot be the same person who bought it new.</li><li>There can only be one credit taken per vehicle.</li><li>Taxpayers can use this credit once every three years.</li></ul><h2><div type="image" title="Three Ford Mustang Mach-E electric vehicles on a dealer lot." height="1665" width="2220" msid="115030136" hostid="261" sizebytes="198372"></div></h2><h2>State credits</h2>Some states have incentives for EVs in addition to the federal tax credits. Here are just a few examples.Colorado: <ul><li>Residents can get <a href="https://afdc.energy.gov/laws/11702">a tax credit</a> of up to $5,000 for buying or leasing a light-duty EV or truck or a plug-in hybrid EV.</li></ul>Illinois:<ul><li>The state offers <a href="https://www2.illinois.gov/epa/topics/ceja/Pages/default.aspx">rebates</a> of up to $4,000 for residents who buy or lease a new or used EV.</li></ul>New York: <ul><li>Residents can get a $2,000 rebate for EVs with an EPA-rated range greater than 200 miles, $1,000 for EVs rated 40 to 199 miles, and $500 for EVs with a range under 40 miles or with a sticker price under $42,000.</li></ul>Rhode Island:<ul><li>The state offers residents up to $1,500 for the purchase or lease of a new battery-electric vehicle or $1,000 for a used one. It also offers up to $1,000 for the purchase of a new plug-in hybrid vehicle or $750 for a used one.</li></ul>

Using tax credits and rebates to your advantage could save you thousands on a new electric vehicle

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Used electric vehicles became more affordable after a new tax credit kicked in in January 2023.</li><li>Driving range and driving habits can affect the type of used EV you should shop for.</li></ul>Electric-vehicle prices are falling across the board. And as <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/nissan-kicks-review-price-rare-find-under-30k-2024-10">more models flood the market</a>, you can get a particularly good deal on a used EV.But shelling out thousands of dollars on an unfamiliar piece of technology (especially one that's been around the block a few times) is daunting for some shoppers.Aside from wondering <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/cheapest-electric-car-affordable-kia-ford-chevy-hyundai-nissan-2022-6">which car to buy</a>, used-EV shoppers might be wondering whether the battery could die. Shoppers on a budget might also be looking for more ways to save money, as EV tax credits broadened to include used electric cars in January 2023.The research can be a lot to take on at once. We talked to car-buying experts to demystify the process.<h2>Consider where and how much you drive</h2>Scott Case, the cofounder and CEO of Recurrent, a startup that tracks EV battery health, recommended starting by considering how far you typically drive and the climate you live in — those factors will affect how much range you'll want, as EVs perform best in temperate weather and can't drive quite as far in cold temperatures."Let's say you live in Florida and you drive 30 to 50 miles every day — you can pretty much buy anything," Case said. On the other hand, people who travel 150 miles daily and live in the occasionally frigid Midwest would need to shop around for a long-range vehicle.<div type="image" title="A gray Tesla Cybertruck plugged in at a public charging station." height="1150" width="1533" msid="114294136" hostid="261" sizebytes="313240"></div>Most older electric cars don't have the range of the latest offerings — you might find models with estimates from the Environmental Protection Agency of only 80 to 120 miles.<h2>Battery range will degrade over time</h2>Anyone who's owned a smartphone knows that lithium-ion batteries wear out over time. Pretty much the same goes for EVs.As the years go by, cycles of charging and driving wear out an EV's battery pack, reducing driving range. The vehicle-data firm Geotab has estimated that EV batteries <a href="https://www.geotab.com/blog/ev-battery-health/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">tend to lose about 2% of their capacity each year</a>.The good news is that an EV's battery is unlikely to fail completely or render the car useless.But understanding how much life a vehicle has left isn't all that simple. Case said that exposure to extreme temperatures, frequent trips to powerful DC fast chargers, and variations in battery chemistry mean some used cars perform better than others with identical mileage.<div type="image" title="A charging cable extending from a Tesla Supercharger to a Chevrolet Equinox EV." height="3024" width="4032" msid="114294138" hostid="261" sizebytes="789912"></div>Jim Fish, a vice president of Opus IVS, a tech-focused collision-repair company, said the best question to ask about a battery's care is how often it was left below 20% and above 80% of its charge.Leaving a battery too close to empty or on a full charge for too long affects its ability to hold a charge, Fish said."Of course, you might struggle to find out the truth to that question," Fish said.Recurrent provides reports on EV battery health aimed at helping shoppers choose between cars.<h2>You can get up to $4,000 off thanks to federal tax credits</h2>At the start of last year, a <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/federal-state-electric-car-vehicle-tax-credits-rebates-qualify-2023-1">used-EV tax credit went into effect</a> as part of a larger incentive program in the Inflation Reduction Act. Automotive retail analysts described it as a welcome change for EV shoppers on a budget.To <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/ev-tax-credit-suv-tesla-model-y-ford-mach-e-2023-2">qualify for the credit</a>, the vehicle must be purchased at a dealership so that the dealer can report the required information to the IRS.The buyer must be purchasing the vehicle for personal use and not for resale, must not be the original owner of the vehicle, must not be able to be claimed as a dependent, and must not have used any other clean-vehicle credit in the previous three years. Income caps for buyers range from $75,000 to $150,000, depending on their tax-filing status.The vehicle must have a sale price of $25,000 or less and must be at least two model years old.Many states also have tax incentives for purchasing EVs. More detailed information and required forms can be found on the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/used-clean-vehicle-credit" target="_blank" rel="noopener">IRS's website</a>.

Considering an electric vehicle? Experts explain how to pick one for your lifestyle and budget

As festival season rolls around, many people are excited about purchasing an <keyword id="19906970" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="electric-vehicle" source="keywords">electric vehicle</keyword> (EV) not just for the eco-friendly benefits but also for the attractive discounts. With the growing popularity of EVs — a third of car-aspirants plan to buy an EV this year, reveals a Way2News survey — one lingering concern that might cross your mind is the risk of the car catching fire. While EV fires are rare, they can still happen under certain conditions, so it's essential to understand the risks and know how to prevent them. <h2>Why do they burn?</h2>First and foremost, EV fires are most commonly linked to the lithium-ion batteries that power these vehicles. When an EV is involved in a crash, or if its battery is physically damaged in any way, there is a risk of what is known as "<keyword id="19981370" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="thermal-runaway" source="keywords">thermal runaway</keyword>." This happens when heat inside the battery cannot dissipate quickly enough, causing the cells to overheat and, in rare cases, ignite. Thankfully, EV manufacturers extensively test vehicles to minimise this risk, and incidents are exceedingly rare. In fact, statistics show that electric car fires are significantly less frequent than fires in internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. A study from Sweden's Civil Contingencies Agency found that only 0.004% of EVs caught fire in 2022, compared to 0.08% for ICE cars. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="113816837" title="PM E-DRIVE scheme with ₹10,900 crore outlay announced for electric vehicles" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>As such, the ambient temperature can also play a significant role in the safety and performance of EV batteries. Extreme heat can be particularly dangerous, as it increases the likelihood of the battery cells overheating and entering thermal runaway, which may lead to a fire. High temperatures can accelerate the chemical reactions within lithium-ion batteries, making them more prone to malfunctions. Therefore, it is important to avoid exposing your EV to prolonged high heat, such as parking it under direct sunlight for extended periods, especially in regions where temperatures soar during the summer. Regular maintenance of the battery's cooling system is also critical, as it ensures the battery stays within a safe operating range, preventing overheating and extending the battery's lifespan <h2>Charging and flooding</h2>Another key risk comes from improper charging practices. Overcharging the battery, or using poorly regulated, non-certified charging stations, can cause the battery to overheat. It's crucial that EV owners use certified, high-quality charging stations and follow manufacturer recommendations to avoid overloading the system. Many modern EVs come with software that automatically stops charging once the battery is full, but it’s always a good idea to avoid prolonged charging beyond the battery's capacity. Water exposure can also be hazardous for EVs, particularly in flood-prone areas. While most EVs are designed to handle a fair amount of moisture, saltwater exposure, such as during coastal floods, can create serious problems. Saltwater can corrode the battery and create short circuits, which might lead to fires long after the vehicle has been submerged. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="113857238" title="Ron DeSantis said EVs could catch fire if caught up in Hurricane Helene. Experts say he&amp;#39;s right — and that you should take these steps to protect yourself." mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>In the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, for example, there were reports of submerged EVs catching fire even days after the floodwaters receded. If you live in an area prone to flooding, take extra precautions by parking your EV in a sheltered area, and if your car has been exposed to water, have it inspected immediately. <h2>Those annoying software updates are important!</h2>It’s also important to stay updated on any recalls or software updates. EVs, like any other technology, may occasionally be subject to recalls due to manufacturing defects or safety concerns. Being proactive in checking for recalls can prevent potential issues from becoming dangerous. For instance, some EV models have had recall campaigns specifically to address battery-related risks, ensuring that any faulty cells are replaced before they pose a threat. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="113315022" title="Waiting for the festive season to buy an EV? Cabinet approves PM E-Drive subsidising most EVs, sans electric cars" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>Finally, while EV fires may capture attention when they happen, it’s essential to keep them in perspective. Despite the fear surrounding them, EV fires are much less common than fires in gasoline-powered cars. The data shows that EVs are about 80 times less likely to catch fire than their gasoline counterparts. When considering an EV purchase, focus on the safety features and proactive measures in place to keep you and your vehicle safe. With proper charging, regular inspections, and staying informed, you can confidently enjoy the benefits of your new EV this festive season!

Planning to purchase an EV? Here's how to ensure it never catches on fire

<ul class="summary-list"><li>US electric demand is rising, fueled by everything from data centers to electrified transportation, says BofA.</li><li>By 2035, as much as 300 gigawatts of effective capacity could be required to power the nation.</li></ul>With resources flooding into infrastructure and tech, US electric demand is charging up. As the economy becomes more power-hungry, Bank of America considers momentum energized for five key utility stocks."There is now evidence that demand growth has returned, driven by the re-shoring of industry, the development of data and crypto mining centers and the electrification of buildings, transportation, and infrastructure," analysts wrote on Monday.Though power consumption has ebbed over the past two decades, the bank anticipates that the US will require 100 gigawatts of effective capacity by 2035. That indicates a 1.5% nationwide annual growth rate, compared to 0.5% between 2015 and 2024.Under BofA's high-case scenario, however, power demand could require as much as 300 gigawatts instead.Among factors driving this trend is artificial intelligence. The bank previously cited that this alone could require as much as 28 gigawatts of effective capacity by 2026.While this will vary dramatically per region, analysts listed five utility firms that stand to benefit from the acceleration: <a target="_blank" href="https://markets.businessinsider.com/stocks/sre-stock">Sempra</a>, Northwestern Energy, <a target="_blank" href="https://markets.businessinsider.com/stocks/pnw-stock">Pinnacle West</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://markets.businessinsider.com/stocks/etr-stock">Entergy</a>, and <a target="_blank" href="https://markets.businessinsider.com/stocks/txnm-stock">TXNM</a>.1. Entergy stands to gain 3.6% from current levels, based on BofA's price objective of $138 per share. That's based on a 2026 sum-of-the-parts analysis and expectations that the utility firm's 15.4-times price-to-earnings ratio will rise over 5%.In 2024, the electric distributor has soared over 30% year-to-date. It has already <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/data-centers-electricity-consumers-discounts-utilities-2024-4">played a role</a> in the emerging buildout of AI data centers and has <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/companies-expand-access-ev-charging-rural-america-2022-3">helped expand</a> the power-charging grid for electric vehicles.2. Sempra will rise 13% based on the bank's $94 share target. Goldman Sachs has similarly touted this infrastructure firm, noting the company's significant spending to <a target="_blank" href="https://markets.businessinsider.com/news/stocks/ai-stocks-to-buy-electricity-demand-benefit-utilities-data-centers-2024-5?utm_medium=ingest&amp;utm_source=markets">support data center growth in Texas.</a>3. Northwestern Energy could similarly jump over 13% to reach a $65 price target, Bofa says."We value NWE at an in-line multiple given improving regulatory treatment in Montana and sector-average EPS growth with no equity dilution, with upside likely occurring in 2026 onwards," analysts wrote. "Between a more constructive regulatory construct and a strong balance sheet, we see NWE as differentiated relative to other small cap utilities."4. Pinnacle West will climb 4.6% under BofA's price objective of $93 per share. The bank has previously touted PNW among high-quality, value stocks <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/stocks-to-buy-market-outlook-investing-strategy-volatility-vix-bofa-2024-8#25-lockheed-martin-25">worth owning to hedge against volatility</a>.5. TXNM Energy is set to increase 10% from current levels, reaching a price target of $48 per share.

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