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G. David Felt

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Everything posted by G. David Felt

  1. I agree to disagree my friend. ? Lime Green Corvette can do WITHOUT! I like the Cacti green, would have rather had it a emerald green metallic, but will take the Cactic green.
  2. One could say that LG marketing tag line of "Life's Good" might be not so good right now. According to the Korean news site "thelec.net" GM is following recent announcements by BMW, Volvo, Stellantis and others that have chosen to dump the use of pouches and focus on cylinder cells using the 4680 format that Tesla has brought to market. The 4680 according to Tesla is five times more energy than the current smaller cells that Panasonic builds for them, increases range by 16 percent and is six time more power when you compare equal to equal size battery packs. This change in direction has thrown a wrench in the talks for the 4th Ultium Cell plant that GM announced last year with LG. GM has issued a no comment statement on the joint venture with LG. LG has stated that talks are ongoing but delayed. One would be right to question GM on "Why the Change when prismatic and pouch batteries have higher energy density?" The downside to cylinder cells is lower energy density due to the increased space in the battery pack when the cylinder cells are packed together. The answer it would seem to be is twofold, simpler production process and a solid-state future as even Tesla has stated that the advances undergoing testing would allow them to move from existing battery chemistry to solid-state on the same production line. Auto makers see that by adopting the 4680-cylinder design, the 80mm length of the cylinder making them longer and wider works to reduce the spaces when the cells are packed together. On top of this is that there is no need for tabs like a pouch further allowing space saving, weight reduction, and cost.  It would seem that along with all the various battery startups, the design thought by these companies is to support the current battery production line with a chemistry makeup that will enhance cell safety, reduce production costs and time while speeding up the rollout of the solid-state energy dense cells. The final piece is the reduction in cost of the cells. It would seem that the oldest type of batteries, could be what gives the EV market the biggest cost savings for entry level EVs. For those interested in hearing from one of the leading engineers who has torn down more Tesla's than any other company, the video above will give you Sandy Munro's thoughts on the 4680 cell and the future of batteries. While Samsung SDI has not confirmed or denied reports, theelec has stated that inside sources confirm a 4680 pilot production line is going online to provide test samples to Tesla and anyone else interested in the cell. LG Energy Solutions on the other hand has released a press statement that they see great growth in their pouch cell production and yet at the same time to enable them to be a supplier to Tesla and more has set up a mass production facility for production of the 4680 cell with a two-pronged focus on polymer-based solid-state battery cells and sulfide-based solid-state battery cells. Both designed out of colleges in the U.S. LGES did in the same new release state that the second half of 2023 will see increased revenue growth as cost pass-through mechanisms help drive the price of the pouch cells down as the various Ultium plants ramp up production. Samsung has moved their R&D from the lab to production with the use of the graphene ball, a unique battery material that enables a 45% increase in capacity, five times faster charging than traditional lithium-ion batteries and ready to go into solid-state battery cell production. With Samsung 4680 cells going into production, the science-based theory is that a graphene ball based 4680 battery pack of 100kWh will take 12 minutes to fully charge. As an alternative battery cell provider, GM is now squarely in the sights of Samsung. The Samsung Graphene ball tech along with the Nature Energy technology by Samsung will allow a battery pack of 100kWh to cover 500 miles according to Samsung. Samsung has built the pilot line for 4680 cells at Cheonan with an annual capacity of up to 12GWh. This is the same plant that is currently now making 2170 cells that are being sold to various EV companies including Tesla.
  3. One could say that LG marketing tag line of "Life's Good" might be not so good right now. According to the Korean news site "thelec.net" GM is following recent announcements by BMW, Volvo, Stellantis and others that have chosen to dump the use of pouches and focus on cylinder cells using the 4680 format that Tesla has brought to market. The 4680 according to Tesla is five times more energy than the current smaller cells that Panasonic builds for them, increases range by 16 percent and is six time more power when you compare equal to equal size battery packs. This change in direction has thrown a wrench in the talks for the 4th Ultium Cell plant that GM announced last year with LG. GM has issued a no comment statement on the joint venture with LG. LG has stated that talks are ongoing but delayed. One would be right to question GM on "Why the Change when prismatic and pouch batteries have higher energy density?" The downside to cylinder cells is lower energy density due to the increased space in the battery pack when the cylinder cells are packed together. The answer it would seem to be is twofold, simpler production process and a solid-state future as even Tesla has stated that the advances undergoing testing would allow them to move from existing battery chemistry to solid-state on the same production line. Auto makers see that by adopting the 4680-cylinder design, the 80mm length of the cylinder making them longer and wider works to reduce the spaces when the cells are packed together. On top of this is that there is no need for tabs like a pouch further allowing space saving, weight reduction, and cost. It would seem that along with all the various battery startups, the design thought by these companies is to support the current battery production line with a chemistry makeup that will enhance cell safety, reduce production costs and time while speeding up the rollout of the solid-state energy dense cells. The final piece is the reduction in cost of the cells. It would seem that the oldest type of batteries, could be what gives the EV market the biggest cost savings for entry level EVs. For those interested in hearing from one of the leading engineers who has torn down more Tesla's than any other company, the video above will give you Sandy Munro's thoughts on the 4680 cell and the future of batteries. While Samsung SDI has not confirmed or denied reports, theelec has stated that inside sources confirm a 4680 pilot production line is going online to provide test samples to Tesla and anyone else interested in the cell. LG Energy Solutions on the other hand has released a press statement that they see great growth in their pouch cell production and yet at the same time to enable them to be a supplier to Tesla and more has set up a mass production facility for production of the 4680 cell with a two-pronged focus on polymer-based solid-state battery cells and sulfide-based solid-state battery cells. Both designed out of colleges in the U.S. LGES did in the same new release state that the second half of 2023 will see increased revenue growth as cost pass-through mechanisms help drive the price of the pouch cells down as the various Ultium plants ramp up production. Samsung has moved their R&D from the lab to production with the use of the graphene ball, a unique battery material that enables a 45% increase in capacity, five times faster charging than traditional lithium-ion batteries and ready to go into solid-state battery cell production. With Samsung 4680 cells going into production, the science-based theory is that a graphene ball based 4680 battery pack of 100kWh will take 12 minutes to fully charge. As an alternative battery cell provider, GM is now squarely in the sights of Samsung. The Samsung Graphene ball tech along with the Nature Energy technology by Samsung will allow a battery pack of 100kWh to cover 500 miles according to Samsung. Samsung has built the pilot line for 4680 cells at Cheonan with an annual capacity of up to 12GWh. This is the same plant that is currently now making 2170 cells that are being sold to various EV companies including Tesla. View full article
  4. Very cool the power of this mega dump truck. This Cheetos Tesla Semi is cool to see. I love the graphic design work the company did on the truck. Tesla Semi Details From Frito-Lay Visit: Powertrain, Interior, Charging (insideevs.com) One could never say the battery pack was tiny on the Tesla Semi. New Photo Reveals Tesla Semi's Massive Battery System (insideevs.com)
  5. Looks better on the web page, but the download does look less green imho.
  6. That as an EV would rock!
  7. Loving that they have added ability to build your own e-Ray Corvette and loving the Cacti exterior color and now you can choose the interior color and so I went with the two-tone Cacti interior too. Very subtle but the green interior with black accents works for me on this car.
  8. Yes, but if GM wanted to get people excited and into cars over SUVs/Trucks, that 2024 Buick Riviera as an EV would be a WINNER even for me. I love it. Yes, I would agree that the Cadillac has its gaudy points, but then what Luxury line does not. I see it as a very strong starting point for a V edition Coupe for Cadillac.
  9. @oldshurst442 @Drew Dowdell @ccap41 @Robert Hall @surreal1272 So I have to say that the ideas coming out of CarScoop on Instagram is HOT. Their idea of a 2024 Buick Riviera with vintage hints are cool. https://www.instagram.com/p/Cn2vzf8OrwY/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link Then we have using the Camaro platform a Cadillac Sports Coupe. https://www.instagram.com/p/CnzJWeRudny/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link Some very cool ideas.
  10. Interesting news today: https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/other/prosus-to-cut-30-of-corporate-staff-in-latest-tech-layoffs/ar-AA16JzL8?ocid=msedgntp&pc=W069&cvid=c409791e7237427b9c04a97e0a651014 Love this story about the Ford Galaxy 500 with 7L engine. 10 Things That Made The Ford Galaxie 500 7 Litre A Fantastic Muscle Car (msn.com) This will be interesting if it truly comes to market, Toyota 2000GT. The Iconic Toyota 2000GT Returns As The Ultimate Grand Touring Sports Car (msn.com) You can check out what the original 2000GT looked like here: Toyota Automobile Museum: Collection (2000GT) | Company Archives | Downloadable Assets | Toyota Motor Corporation Official Global Website 2000GT | Vehicle Gallery | Toyota Brand | Mobility | Toyota Motor Corporation Official Global Website This is very interesting as the most recent testing shows Tesla is far behind other auto companies in self driving technology. Tesla's Autopilot is falling behind as other software catches up (msn.com) CR Rates Active Driving Assistance Systems - Consumer Reports Ford/Lincoln BlueCruise/ActiveGlide Rated #1 score of 84 GM SuperCruise score of 75 Mercedes Driver Assistance score of 72 BMW Driving Assistance Professional score of 69 Toyota/Lexus Safety Sense 3.0 score of 65 VW/Audi Travel Assist/Adaptive cruise assist score of 62 Tesla Autopilot Score of 61 Rivian Highway Assist score of 59 Nissan/Infiniti ProPilot Assitant score of 58 Honda/Acura Sensing/AcuraWatch score of 58 Volvo/Polestar Pilot Assitant score of 53 Hyundai/Kia/Genesis Highway Driving Assitant score of 47 Good read on the tech that is enabling self driving.
  11. @oldshurst442 @ccap41 @Robert Hall @surreal1272 Here is a modernized sweet ride. Supercharged Success (theblock.com) LT4 Wet Sump Crate Engine | Chevy Performance Parts (chevrolet.com) Nothing like taking a 1967 RS/SS Camaro and putting in a modern LT4 power plant and upgrading the rest of the auto to handle the Supercharged power. While this is a very cool build, GM does have to clearly post a warning: *Because of its effect on a vehicle’s emissions performance, this engine is intended exclusively for use in competition vehicles. This engine is designed and intended for use in vehicles operated exclusively for competition: in racing or organized competition on courses separate from public streets or highways. Installation or use of this engine on a vehicle operated on public streets or highways is likely to violate U.S., Canadian, and state and provincial laws and regulations related to motor vehicle emissions. This is why I think modernizing autos to EV will be much more fun for not having to deal with the unburnt hydrocarbons / emissions from such a lovely ride.
  12. Very Cool
  13. WOW, Musk really does not live in the real world. The stories of his testimony prove this out. He is delusional. Elon Musk shows in ‘funding secured’ trial that he does not live in the real world (msn.com) @oldshurst442 @ccap41 @Robert Hall Thought you guys would like this story. Richard Rawlings Strikes Gold With A Trailer Full Of Classic Muscle Cars (msn.com) Ugh, I do have to agree that we are not done with stock market losses. Jeremy Grantham says ‘easiest leg’ of stock-market bubble burst is over. Here’s what’s next. (msn.com) Good for a laugh as I would have never thought of what auto this ended up being. The EPA Says This Subcompact Coupe Has the Worst Gas Mileage, and It Isn’t What You Think (msn.com) Seems Nissan is following GM with a potential EV truck version.
  14. Ran to business costco today and this beauty was there right in front. Sadly the car next to it also in a handicap spot parked crooked. Hope they do not ding the door. Course the Mercury was not parked straight either.
  15. I do not get it, what is supposed to be so funny about that? Can I get my 3 minutes and 45 seconds refunded back to my life please? ?
  16. This announcement by onsemi and Kia will clearly make some say "Who cares?" and "What is a Traction Inverter?" Why should this be so exciting or important for EV performance auto owners?   The purpose of power module-based traction inverter is to convert the DC current from the electric vehicle’s battery to AC current to be used in the electric motor to drive the vehicle’s propulsion system. It also plays a significant role in capturing energy from regenerative braking and feeding it back to the battery.  onsemi EliteSiC family of silicon carbide power modules has been selected by Kia Corporation to go first into the EV6 GT model that is going into production. This will allow the EV6 GT to go from zero to 60 in 3.4 seconds with a top speed of 161 mph. Per onsemi and Kia Corporation, quote:  The traction inverter of a high-performance EV, the EliteSiC power module enables high-efficiency power conversion from the DC 800 V of the battery to the AC drive for the rear axle. onsemi continues to collaborate with Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Corporation (HMC/KIA) to use the EliteSiC technology for the upcoming high performance EVs based on HMC/KIA’s Electric – Global Module Platform (E-GMP). onsemi’s high-power density SiC power module delivers the most innovative package technology to minimize parasitics and thermal resistance and offers robust package reliability using innovative interconnects. This leads to reduced power losses associated with DC to AC conversion along with reduced size and weight of the traction inverter, increasing performance and EV range by 5%. Kia believes that the multiple decades of leadership by onsemi in superior packaging that allows for reduced weight and high-density power handling will allow Kia to lead the EV market. This partnership allows Kia to scale high-volume production of EVs with superior handling of parts supply. For those interested in reading more about the 5 versions of the Power Modules by onsemi, you can go here Power Modules (onsemi.com)  
  17. Interesting read if you want to know why all auto companies are going to heat pumps. Tesla heat pump detailed, gives a boost to winter EV range (greencarreports.com)
  18. Luxury in style, but it is still a Tesla. hahahahaha
  19. Always good to compare and contrast and while I like the Mach-e very much, I do think Chevrolet has a home run hit on their hands with the Blazer SS EV. I like the Blazer Interior much better than the all black with ultra large pad and skimpy dash screen.
  20. 1st generation parked next to 2nd generation Chevrolet Bolt @ Costco Been a interesting day as I saw a CADILLAC Allante today along with numerous Rivian R1T and Ford Lighting electric trucks.
  21. If this story is true, very cool to have a Mini electric truck. https://electrek.co/2023/01/19/gm-mulls-compact-electric-pickup-truck-after-silverado-ev/
  22. WOW, Yes, no needing to heat you up and make you sleepy on the bike. That would be a deal breaker for me too having the exhaust next to my inside thigh. I have to think that the bikes that have a cat but exhaust under the seat would be nice on a cold day to warm up the seat, but would long term make ya sleepy and on hot days would suck.
  23. LOL, I hear and see Harleys daily due to my neighbor and his wife are Harly Riders every weekend and they have a huge group of them. Loud Noisy and many are always tweaking the bikes once they arrive at the house before they take off for a cruise somewhere. Yet before that cruise begins, it would seem that a good half a dozen riders have to address issues with their bikes first. I am glad that your friends do not seem to have any issues and you find them solid, I would love American bike makers to take the global crown on every front, sadly I just do not see Harley being that global crown right now. Only time will tell if they can survive and I hope that the American Bike industry does flourish, and this includes Livewire.
  24. Where I bought my Yamaha PWCs they sell Harley too and I will say that a Yamaha bike is superior to a Harley. The dealership tows in far more Harleys than any other bike. I will agree to disagree with you as Harley still makes crap bikes from fit n finish to reliability IMHO. I am surprised as I missed the spin off as a subsidiary of Livewire by Harley. WOW, did not know this as this all happened during the Pandemic so I honestly did not look at stuff but found some very interesting new release from Harley Davidson. @Drew Dowdell We missed that Harley left Ford and went to GMC for their Harley Branded Trucks. FIRST HARLEY-DAVIDSON EDITION GMC PICKUP IN HISTORY INTRODUCED - Harley-Davidson Media Site (h-dmediakit.com) Livewire set records for the Pro Stock cirquit. HARLEY-DAVIDSON LIVEWIRE MOTORCYCLE SETS NEW WORLD RECORDS AT EV RACING EXHIBITION - Harley-Davidson Media Site (h-dmediakit.com) I see that May 10th 2021 Harley-Davidson created Livewire brand as a subsidiary of Harley-Davidson yet with its own stock on the NYSE. Harley-Davidson Launches LiveWire, the Electric Motorcycle Brand - Harley-Davidson Media Site (h-dmediakit.com) July 8th 2021 Livewire launches their first production bike. Introducing LiveWire ONE™, the first product from the all-electric LiveWire™ brand - Harley-Davidson Media Site (h-dmediakit.com) Liking the Livewire website. Electric Motorcycles | LiveWire LiveWire | News Back to Harley-Davidson, it is very interesting to see how much the company has changed in the last year. You used to have to find a custom bike shop to build you a tricycle Harley-Davidson for those that can no longer ride a normal two wheel bike. Harley-Davidson now builds 3 trike bikes for sale. Boomers have a new upgrade path. ? 2023 Trike Motorcycles | Harley-Davidson USA
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