MERCEDES-BENZ SUBSCRIPTION FOR POWER, EXTREME E RECAP, AND MORE

EV Channels Review

This episode of the EV Resource Podcast covers a range of significant EV news. A key highlight is the confirmation of the Tesla Semi's 500-mile range with a full load, positioning it as a potentially game-changing vehicle for the trucking industry due to estimated fuel savings of up to $200,000 over three years. The podcast also touches on the extreme acceleration of the Pininfarina Battista, a $2.25 million hypercar achieving 0-60 mph in 1.79 seconds, though the reviewer suggests a modified Tesla Model S Plaid offers comparable performance for a fraction of the cost. In a more practical segment, Domino's Pizza is adding 800 Chevy Bolt EVs to its fleet, aiming to reduce carbon emissions and operational costs. VinFast's first shipment of 999 VF8 SUVs to North America is also noted as a milestone. A controversial topic discussed is Mercedes-Benz's proposed $1,200 annual subscription to unlock increased power and performance in its EQE and EQS models, a move the reviewer finds excessive, preferring a one-time payment or inclusion with the vehicle purchase. Finally, the Extreme E season finale in Uruguay is recapped, detailing a dramatic and chaotic race weekend that saw Rosberg X Racing lose their championship lead, with X44 ultimately clinching the title by a narrow margin.