2019

Sophie is editor of One Step Off The Grid and deputy editor of its sister site, Renew Economy. Sophie has been writing about clean energy for more than a decade.

City of Shepparton switches to electric vehicles, powered by Council solar

Victoria’s Greater Shepparton City Council becomes latest local government to make switch to electric vehicles – at least partially – with purchase of two Nissan Leafs.

Mercedes EQC400 in front of wind turbines

2 min

Are electric vehicles cleaner than petrol, diesel when run from coal grid?

Recent study shows electric vehicles emit less carbon emissions than internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles even when charged off a largely coal-powered grid.

3 min

Elon Musk driving Tesla Cybertruck on public roads in LA

Elon Musk spotted out driving the Tesla Cybertruck prototype that was unveiled to the world in November.

5 min

My electric motorcycle mea culpa

After seven years as an electric bike owner, I went out and bought a second hand petrol machine. Then I remembered there are 26 times as many parts in the fuel system.

1 min

The Driven Podcast: How to link solar, batteries and EVs

Most EV owners want to charge their vehicle batteries with their own solar power. Inverter makers are making that easier.

2 min

Hyundai to focus on autonomous and electric vehicles in $24 billion push

Hyundai commits $A24.5 billion into five year push to become top electric vehicle maker, with focus on future smart mobility technology including connected services and autonomous driving.

3 min

EV battery costs, and emissions, fall dramatically as capacity increases

New reports show that the increased production of EV batteries has delivered a big cut in costs, and a halving of emissions involved in the process.

Battery cell modules for extended-range and plug-in hybrid electric vehicle packs on the assembly line in Brownstown Township, Michigan. Source: GM

2 min

GM and LG Chem announce joint battery venture worth $US2.3 billion

General Motors and LG Chem announce $US2.3 billion investment to mass produce electric vehicle batteries at new factory in Ohio.

The EQC400 in brilliant blue. Credit: Bridie Schmdit

4 min

Test drive for Mercedes-Benz EQC 400, its first electric car: No holding back

The Mercedes-Benz electric EQC 400 delights on a test drive day, with plenty of zip, tech and comfort. Just don't go too heavy on the pedal.

3 min

EV News

Electric Ford F-150 patent suggests lighter design that could lower prices

New Ford patent reveals the all-electric Ford F-150 could be made more cheaply than its fossil fuel stablemates through a new approach to battery placement and body structure.