EDITOR'S PICK

Toyota Built An App To Hack Plug-In Hybrid Owners' Brains And Make Them Actually Charge Their Cars

17 Sep 2025 | Synopsis

Toyota developed the ChargeMinder app to encourage plug-in hybrid owners to charge their vehicles more consistently. Using behavioral science techniques like personalized reminders, gamification, and educational quizzes, the app increased user satisfaction and improved charging habits. In Japan, it boosted peak renewable charging by 59%, while U.S. trials saw a 10% rise in charging frequency and a 16-point jump in satisfaction.

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Volvo XC70 PHEV: A Battery-First Hybrid That Redefines the Segment

17 Sep 2025 | Synopsis

Volvo's XC70 PHEV redefines plug-in hybrids with up to 200 km (124 mi) of EV range from a 39.6 kWh NMC battery, plus fast charging and bi-directional power. Its P1–P3 drivetrain pairs a 1.5L turbo engine with dual motors for seamless series-parallel operation. Built on Volvo's SMA platform, it launches first in China, with Europe expected next. The XC70 signals a battery-first strategy bridging hybrid autonomy and full electrification.

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Where’d the Billion Come From? Musk's Tesla Buy Raises Questions

17 Sep 2025 | Synopsis

Elon Musk's $1B Tesla stock purchase, made via his personal trust, sparked a surge in share price and raised questions about how the buy was funded. Likely financed through margin loans, derivatives, or asset reallocation, the move increased Musk's net worth by up to $8.6B. The timing aligns with Tesla's proposed $1T compensation plan, suggesting a strategic gesture to boost investor confidence and governance optics.

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Extreme H: Hydrogen Racing's Bold New Frontier

17 Sep 2025 | Synopsis

Extreme H is the world's first hydrogen-powered off-road racing series, debuting in Qiddiya City, Saudi Arabia. Evolving from Extreme E, it features gender-equal teams, zero-emission Pioneer 25 SUVs, and green hydrogen supplied via electrolysis. The rugged desert course tests fuel cell performance on gradients up to 130%. Backed by Saudi Vision 2030, the series aims to prove hydrogen's viability and promote sustainable motorsport innovation.

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Seattle's Sound Transit: Ridership, Energy, and Fiscal Challenges

16 Sep 2025 | Synopsis

Seattle's Sound Transit has expanded its Link light rail system to 45 miles, offering fast, affordable, and eco-friendly travel powered by hydro and wind energy. Ridership hit 3.08 million in October 2024, with fares as low as $1 for seniors and free for youth. A Lynnwood–SEA Airport trip takes 80–85 minutes by rail, beating car travel in cost and emissions. Despite success, Sound Transit faces need for a substantial financial overhaul.

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