Smaller EVs Challenge SUVs, Record Heat Waves, Federal EV Charging Roll-Out Lags, and Other News

Here’s what you might have missed this week in outdoor, innovation, and EV news.

Are Smaller EVs About to Challenge SUV Sales?

Nearly half of all EVs sold globally in 2023 were SUVs, but as more small electric cars enter the market, is that about to change? Tiny cars, like the European Microlino, with a top speed of 56 mph, may still be rare, but manufacturers of smaller-sized EVs are positioned to challenge the global SUV dominance, according to The Guardian.   

Read More (from The Guardian)

Glacier’s Going-to-the-Sun Road Still Covered in Snow

If you’re planning to visit Glacier National Park and drive the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road this summer, you may want to plan your trip for later in the season. Crews working in the park are currently battling the deepest snow measured in the spring since 2011. Based on the unreliable nature of alpine weather, park officials decline to give an estimated open date. Those planning to visit should keep an eye on the park website for updates. Also note that advance reservations are required to drive the road from the west throughout the busy season.

Read More (from Unofficial Networks)

Charging ‘Trees’ Can Help Solve NYC’s EV Charging Problem

New York City-based startup Gravity has unveiled a new concept for curbside fast charging: a sleek, tall charger called a DEAP Tree (Distributed Energy Access Points). When implemented, the trees can provide 200 miles of range in 5 (500kW) or 13 minutes (200kW). While most EVs currently on the market aren’t able to handle 500kW charging speeds, the solution can still help get more EVs in the city back on the road faster. 

Read More (from Axios)  

Record Heat Waves Affect Outdoor Recreation in the Southwest

Last week, the U.S. Southwest saw a heat wave that sent temperatures soaring to record levels, in some cases above 110 and even 120 degrees Fahrenheit. We are still two weeks out from the official start of summer, and those planning to participate in outdoor activities in the region should take precautions such as starting early in the day and carrying plenty of water.  

Read More (from AP)

Why Is the Federal EV Charging Network Roll-Out so Slow?

As part of the 2021 infrastructure law, the Biden administration set aside $7.5 billion with a goal of building 500,000 EV charging stations nationwide. However, fewer than 10 stations have opened so far. Why is it taking so long? According to Green Car Reports, a lot of the red tape comes from individual state regulations and bureaucracies.   

Read More (from Green Car Reports)

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