Industry News

Tesla is hitting a speed bump in China, and while that might seem like a problem for drivers on the other side of the world, it could also impact EV owners right here in the U.S.

The issue? China is delaying Tesla’s approval for Full Self-Driving (FSD) software. This isn’t just a minor paperwork snag—it’s tied to bigger trade tensions between the U.S. and China. And when two global superpowers are at odds, businesses like Tesla (and their customers) can feel the effects.

So, what does this mean for you? Let’s break it down.

1. Could This Slow Down FSD in the U.S.?

Tesla’s self-driving software learns by gathering real-world driving data from all over the world. The more diverse the data, the better the software becomes. But if Tesla is blocked from collecting data in China—a country with millions of Tesla drivers navigating unique road conditions—it could slow down FSD’s progress everywhere.

In short, if FSD isn’t getting smarter as fast as Tesla wants, the updates and improvements U.S. drivers are waiting for might take longer.

2. Will This Affect Tesla’s Prices?

Tesla relies on China for a lot of its parts, especially batteries. If these trade tensions get worse, it could lead to supply chain issues, which might mean:

• Higher prices for new Teslas and replacement parts
• Longer wait times for vehicle deliveries
• Potential delays in software updates or new features

While nothing is certain yet, Tesla has already adjusted prices several times over the past year based on supply and demand. If this situation drags on, it wouldn’t be surprising to see more price changes.

3. What About U.S. Regulations?

China is being extra strict with Tesla’s self-driving technology, and if they require Tesla to make big changes before approving FSD there, it could set a precedent.

Why does that matter? Because the U.S. government also keeps a close eye on autonomous driving rules. If China enforces tougher FSD restrictions, U.S. regulators might follow suit, which could lead to:

• More safety testing requirements for Tesla before rolling out new updates
• Delays in Tesla’s robotaxi plans
• Stricter laws around where and how FSD can be used

So, even if this starts as a China problem, it could influence the future of self-driving tech in the U.S.

What Can U.S. Tesla Owners Do?

Stay informed: Keep an eye on Tesla news. Changes in China might signal shifts in FSD timelines for U.S. drivers.

Watch for pricing changes: If trade tensions increase, Tesla may adjust vehicle and part prices.

Follow U.S. self-driving regulations: If new laws come up, they could affect when and where you can use FSD.

Share your experience: Tesla listens to customer feedback, and owners sharing their real-world FSD experiences (good or bad) can help shape future updates.

 

Tesla is playing in a global market, and what happens overseas doesn’t stay overseas. While it’s too early to say exactly how this situation will unfold, it’s clear that Tesla’s China challenge could impact everything from FSD improvements to car prices here in the U.S.

For now, keep enjoying your Tesla, stay up to date with the latest news, and buckle up—because the EV industry is always full of surprises.

Big news for the EV world—Toyota has just wrapped up construction on its first-ever EV battery plant in the U.S.! Located in Liberty, North Carolina, this massive facility will start shipping batteries in April 2025, helping power Toyota’s growing lineup of electrified vehicles.

A Major Move for Toyota’s EV Strategy

The new plant, officially called Toyota Battery Manufacturing North Carolina (TBMNC), is a big step in the automaker’s shift toward electric mobility. Toyota Motor North America (TMNA) owns 90% of the facility, while Toyota Tsusho Corporation holds the remaining 10%. This marks Toyota’s first in-house EV battery plant outside of Japan and its 11th manufacturing facility in the U.S.

$14 Billion Investment & 5,000 New Jobs

Toyota isn’t holding back on this project. The company has invested nearly $14 billion into the facility, which will eventually employ 5,000 workers. The plant will produce lithium-ion batteries for a range of Toyota vehicles, including:
✅ Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs)
✅ Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs)
✅ Fully Electric Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs)

Toyota’s Expanding North American Footprint

Toyota has been a major player in the North American auto industry for years. With vehicle assembly plants in Alabama, Indiana, Kentucky, Mississippi, and Texas—plus additional manufacturing sites in Canada and Mexico—the company is doubling down on local production.

In 2023, Toyota sold 2.73 million vehicles in North America, including 2.33 million in the U.S.. It also produced over 2 million vehicles in the region, with 1.27 million rolling off U.S. assembly lines.

A $49 Billion Investment in the U.S.

Toyota’s latest battery plant is part of its long-term commitment to U.S. manufacturing. The company has now invested a total of $49 billion in the U.S., supporting over 280,000 jobs in the industry.

What This Means for EV Enthusiasts

For Toyota fans and EV enthusiasts, this new plant means more access to advanced battery technology and expanded production of Toyota’s hybrid and electric lineup. With battery production happening stateside, we could see faster innovation, more affordable EV options, and better battery supply stability for future Toyota models.

As the EV industry continues to evolve, Toyota’s move signals that the future of electrified driving in North America is just getting started.

The electric vehicle (EV) industry in North America is facing a significant challenge—new 25% tariffs on vehicles and auto parts imported between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. These tariffs, imposed by President Donald Trump and set to take effect on February 4, 2025, have the potential to disrupt supply chains, increase manufacturing costs, and slow EV adoption just as the industry is gaining momentum.

So, what does this mean for consumers, automakers, and the future of EVs? Let’s break it down.

Why Are These Tariffs Being Imposed?

The 25% tariff on imported vehicles and auto parts is part of a broader trade policy introduced by President Trump to reduce reliance on foreign manufacturing and bring production back to the U.S. While the move is intended to boost domestic jobs, it has created ripple effects in the highly interconnected North American auto market.

Canada and Mexico are key suppliers of auto parts for American-made vehicles. Tesla, for example, manufactures its cars in the U.S., but around 20% of its parts come from Mexico. General Motors (GM) and Ford also rely on supply chains that cross borders, with GM producing nearly 900,000 vehicles in Mexico in 2024. These automakers now face significantly higher costs to import essential components, leading to concerns about rising vehicle prices.

How This Affects the EV Market

The EV sector is especially vulnerable to tariffs because it is still scaling up. Higher tariffs on batteries, raw materials, and components mean increased production costs, which could be passed down to consumers. Here’s how different stakeholders in the EV ecosystem could be affected:

1. Automakers Face Higher Costs

For Tesla, GM, Ford, and other automakers, the tariffs mean higher costs for batteries, chargers, and critical vehicle parts sourced from Canada and Mexico. Many manufacturers might have to absorb the cost or pass it on to buyers, making EVs less competitive compared to gasoline vehicles.

2. EV Prices Could Rise

With increased production expenses, consumers may see EV prices jump by several thousand dollars. This is especially concerning at a time when EV adoption is growing but still dependent on affordability and incentives. Higher prices could slow demand, making it harder for automakers to hit their sales targets.

3. Canada’s Retaliation Further Complicates the Market

In response to the U.S. tariffs, Canada has imposed its own 25% tariffs on U.S. vehicle imports, including EVs. This means American automakers selling EVs in Canada—like Tesla, Ford, and Rivian—will have to pay more to export their vehicles, making them less attractive to Canadian buyers.

4. Supply Chain Disruptions Could Delay Production

Many EV components, such as battery cells and semiconductors, are not produced at scale in the U.S. yet. These tariffs could create shortages or force automakers to restructure their supply chains, potentially delaying production and slowing the EV market’s growth.

The Bigger Picture: Will EV Growth Stall?

The EV industry is at a turning point. Governments worldwide, including in the U.S. and Canada, have set aggressive targets for phasing out gas-powered vehicles. But if tariffs increase EV prices and slow production, it could make these targets harder to reach.

• In the U.S., the Biden administration has been pushing for EV adoption through incentives like tax credits and infrastructure investment. However, tariffs could undermine affordability and consumer confidence.

• In Canada, where EV incentives have been a key driver of sales, the retaliatory tariffs on U.S. EVs may reduce options for consumers and hurt the overall market.

• In Mexico, which has been positioning itself as a global EV manufacturing hub, tariffs could stifle growth and investment, forcing companies to rethink their production strategies.

What’s Next?

The tariffs are already causing concerns in the auto industry, and automakers are likely to lobby for exemptions or policy adjustments. Potential outcomes include:

• Reshuffling supply chains to reduce dependency on Canadian and Mexican imports

• Passing costs onto consumers, making EVs more expensive in the near term

• Negotiating new trade deals to minimize disruptions

• Expanding domestic manufacturing, though this would take time and investment

What This Means for Consumers

If you’re in the market for an EV, here’s what you need to consider:

• Buy sooner rather than later – Prices may rise in the coming months as automakers adjust to new costs.

• Look for incentives – Government rebates and tax credits might help offset higher costs.

• Expect potential delays – If supply chains get disrupted, certain models may have longer wait times.

Final Thoughts

The 25% tariffs between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico could have long-term consequences for the EV market. While the goal of boosting domestic manufacturing is valid, the immediate impact is higher costs, potential supply shortages, and uncertainty for both automakers and consumers.

As the industry navigates these challenges, one thing is clear—EV adoption is at a crossroads. How governments, automakers, and consumers respond to these tariffs will shape the future of the electric vehicle revolution in North America.

What are your thoughts? Are you considering buying an EV now, or will you wait to see how the market reacts? Let us know in the comments!

On January 21, 2025, the federal government announced significant changes to electric vehicle (EV) policies that could impact consumers, automakers, and the environment. President Donald Trump’s executive order seeks to roll back several EV-focused initiatives introduced during the previous administration. These changes include eliminating the $7,500 federal EV tax credit, halting funding for charging infrastructure development, and rescinding California’s ability to enforce stricter emissions standards.

This blog post will break down what these changes mean and how they could affect the EV market in the United States.

What Are EV Subsidies?

EV subsidies, such as federal tax credits, have been a driving force behind the growth of electric vehicles. These incentives reduce the upfront cost of EVs, making them more accessible to consumers. Subsidies also encourage automakers to innovate and develop cleaner, more efficient technologies.

In addition to tax credits, federal and state governments have invested in building a network of charging stations. These efforts aim to address “range anxiety”—the concern about how far an EV can travel before needing a charge—which has been a barrier for some consumers.

What’s Changing?

The new executive order aims to:

1. Eliminate the Federal EV Tax Credit: The $7,500 incentive for purchasing EVs will no longer be available. This change increases the cost for consumers considering a switch to electric vehicles.

2. Defund Charging Infrastructure Development: Federal support for expanding the EV charging network will cease, which could slow the progress of making EVs a practical option nationwide.

3. Rescind California’s Emissions Standards Waiver: California has historically set stricter emissions standards than the federal government, pushing automakers to produce cleaner vehicles. Removing this waiver could affect emissions regulations across the country.

Who Will Be Affected?

• Consumers: Without federal tax credits, the cost of EVs may be prohibitive for many households. Buyers may also face challenges finding convenient charging options if infrastructure development slows.

• Automakers: Many companies have invested heavily in EV technology to meet emissions standards and consumer demand. The removal of incentives and stricter emissions rules may disrupt these efforts and reduce the U.S. market’s competitiveness in the global EV industry.

• The Environment: EVs play a crucial role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. A slowdown in EV adoption could hinder the nation’s efforts to address climate change.

What’s Next for EVs?

While federal support may be diminishing, the EV market has momentum that could carry it forward. Many automakers remain committed to their EV goals, and some states may introduce their own incentives to fill the gap left by federal changes. Additionally, consumer demand for cleaner, more efficient vehicles may continue to drive growth.

For those considering an EV, now is a crucial time to evaluate options and understand how these changes could impact your decision. Staying informed about local incentives and the evolving market will be key.

The Bigger Picture

The shift in federal policy highlights the dynamic nature of the EV industry and its reliance on government support. It also underscores the importance of consumer awareness and advocacy in shaping the future of sustainable transportation. As the industry adapts to these changes, one thing is clear: the road ahead for EVs will require innovation, resilience, and collaboration.

Stay tuned to our blog for updates on how these policies evolve and what they mean for EV owners and enthusiasts.

For the first time since 2011, Tesla reported a drop in its annual deliveries. In 2024, the company delivered 1.79 million vehicles, slightly fewer than the 1.81 million delivered in 2023. While this might sound like bad news at first, it actually shows something exciting: the electric vehicle (EV) market is growing and changing in a big way.

Why Did Tesla’s Deliveries Drop?

There are a few reasons Tesla’s deliveries went down:

1. More Competition: Other EV companies, like China’s BYD, are stepping up and selling more vehicles. BYD sold 1.76 million EVs in 2024, giving Tesla a run for its money. More competition means better choices for drivers.

2. Changing Incentives: In some parts of the world, governments reduced financial perks for buying EVs. For example, Europe cut back on EV subsidies, and in the U.S., hybrids are becoming more popular again. These shifts made it harder for some buyers to choose an all-electric car.

3. Older Models: Tesla’s lineup of cars is still strong, but many of their models have been around for a while. Some drivers are looking for something newer or more affordable. Meanwhile, competitors are offering fresh designs and features that attract attention.

4. Economic Uncertainty: In 2024, some regions faced economic challenges, making buyers more cautious about spending on big-ticket items like cars. Even with promotions, some potential customers held off on their purchases.

Why This Is Good News for EV Drivers

This decline doesn’t mean the EV market is in trouble. In fact, it’s the opposite. Here’s why:

• More Choices: With more companies entering the EV space, drivers have a wider selection of cars to pick from. Whether you’re looking for a sporty ride, a budget-friendly option, or something luxurious, there’s likely a car for you.

• Lower Prices: As competition heats up, prices are dropping. Tesla, for example, ran promotions like zero-interest financing to attract buyers. More competition means better deals for everyone. Other companies are also offering incentives, making EVs more accessible than ever.

• Innovation Is Everywhere: To stay ahead, Tesla is working on exciting new projects, like self-driving cars and more affordable models. This keeps the entire industry moving forward. Other manufacturers are pushing boundaries too, focusing on extended range, faster charging, and improved safety features.

• Better Infrastructure: With more EVs on the road, there’s growing investment in charging networks. Companies and governments are expanding charging station availability, making EV ownership more convenient for everyone. This benefits not just Tesla owners but all EV drivers.

Tesla’s Response to Challenges

Tesla isn’t sitting back and letting these challenges pass by. The company is actively working on solutions to maintain its position as a leader in the EV market. Here are some of the key moves Tesla is making:

• Affordable EVs: Tesla plans to release lower-cost cars to appeal to more drivers. These models are expected to bring Tesla’s cutting-edge technology to a wider audience, helping the brand stay competitive in an increasingly crowded market.

• Self-Driving Tech: Their work on autonomous vehicles, like robotaxis, could change how we get around. Imagine a future where you don’t even need to drive—your car does it for you. This technology has the potential to revolutionize transportation and keep Tesla at the forefront of innovation.

• Improving Existing Models: Tesla is updating its current lineup with better range, faster charging, and enhanced features. These updates aim to keep existing customers happy while attracting new ones.

• Global Expansion: Tesla is building more factories worldwide to produce vehicles closer to key markets. This strategy helps lower costs and speed up delivery times, ensuring they can meet demand wherever it arises.

What’s Next for the EV Market?

The EV market is evolving rapidly, and Tesla’s challenges are part of a bigger story. Here are some trends to watch:

• Rise of New Players: Companies like Rivian, Lucid Motors, and traditional automakers like Ford and GM are investing heavily in EVs. This means more competition but also more innovation. Every new player brings fresh ideas and technologies that benefit consumers.

• Focus on Sustainability: As the world moves toward greener energy, EVs are becoming a central part of sustainability goals. Governments and businesses are investing in renewable energy and EV infrastructure, making it easier and more affordable to switch to electric.

• Battery Breakthroughs: Advances in battery technology are improving range and reducing charging times. Solid-state batteries, for example, could revolutionize the industry by making EVs even more efficient and practical.

What This Means for EV Drivers

For EV drivers, these changes are mostly positive. Whether you already own an EV or are thinking about buying one, the growing market means:

• More Options: You’ll have a wider range of vehicles to choose from, whether you want a compact car for city driving or a spacious SUV for family trips.

• Improved Features: Expect better range, faster charging, and new technologies like advanced driver-assistance systems.

• Lower Costs: As competition increases, prices are likely to keep dropping, making EVs more affordable for more people.

• Enhanced Charging Networks: Charging your EV will become easier than ever, with more stations popping up in urban and rural areas alike.

Final Thoughts

Tesla’s delivery decline is a sign of a maturing and thriving EV industry. More competition and choices mean the market is healthier than ever. For EV enthusiasts, this is the perfect time to enjoy the benefits of a booming market. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your ride, explore accessories to enhance your driving experience, or just stay informed, there’s never been a better moment to be part of the EV revolution.

The future of electric vehicles is bright, and Tesla’s challenges are just one chapter in an exciting story. 

As incoming U.S. President Donald Trump prepares to take office, his transition team has outlined significant changes to electric vehicle (EV) policies. According to a document seen by Reuters, these recommendations could shift priorities away from EV support, focusing instead on boosting domestic production and redirecting funds to national defense.

What Are the Proposed Changes?

The recommendations suggest several policy shifts that differ from the current administration’s approach:

1. Cutting EV Support:

   • The transition team proposes ending the Biden administration’s $7,500 tax credit for EV buyers. This incentive has helped make EVs more affordable for many Americans.

   • It also recommends halting federal funding for EV charging stations. These funds would be redirected to strengthen the U.S. battery supply chain and national defense.

2. Imposing Tariffs:

   • New tariffs on battery materials, components, and EV supply chain imports are suggested. These tariffs aim to protect U.S. industries and reduce dependence on imports, particularly from China.

   • The document mentions negotiating exemptions with allied countries while maintaining tariffs globally.

3. Rolling Back Emissions Standards:

   • The team proposes returning emissions and fuel-economy standards to 2019 levels. This change would allow more gas-powered vehicles and relax the stricter limits championed under the Biden administration.

   • Blocking California from setting its own stricter emissions standards is also recommended. California’s policies have influenced over a dozen other states to adopt tougher rules.

4. National Defense Focus:

   • The team emphasizes that battery materials and critical minerals are essential for U.S. national security. Funds previously allocated for EV support would go toward ensuring these materials are free from reliance on China.

   • Programs promoting electric military vehicles would be ended, with resources redirected to defense priorities.

Why These Changes?

The transition team’s recommendations are designed to align with President Trump’s campaign promises:

• Supporting the auto industry by reducing regulations on gas-powered cars.

• Strengthening domestic production to reduce reliance on foreign imports.

• Prioritizing national defense needs over climate-focused initiatives like EV expansion.

According to Karoline Leavitt, a spokeswoman for the transition team, these policies aim to balance the needs of both gas-powered and electric vehicle markets.

Impact on the EV Industry

If implemented, these changes could have significant effects on EV adoption and production in the United States:

1. For Automakers:

   • Legacy automakers like General Motors and Hyundai, which have invested heavily in EVs, might face challenges if consumer incentives are removed and production costs rise due to tariffs.

   • Tesla, the leading U.S. EV seller, could also see an impact. However, CEO Elon Musk has indicated that Tesla might adapt better than competitors if subsidies disappear.

2. For Consumers:

   • Eliminating tax credits would likely make EVs more expensive, reducing their appeal for cost-conscious buyers.

   • Fewer public charging stations could deter potential EV adopters who rely on accessible infrastructure.

3. For the Environment:

   • Relaxing emissions standards and increasing gas-powered vehicle production could lead to higher overall pollution levels.

   • States like California, which have pushed for stricter environmental policies, would face obstacles in maintaining their progress.

Key Takeaways

The proposed changes represent a stark shift from the current administration’s EV policies, focusing less on rapid EV adoption and more on domestic production and national defense priorities. While these recommendations are not yet official policies, they signal a potential shift in how the U.S. approaches transportation and energy in the coming years.

Source: reuters.com

Rivian: The Underdog Shaping the EV Industry

If you’re following the EV market, you’ve probably noticed Rivian making waves. While Tesla might be the reigning champ, Rivian is quietly and confidently carving its niche. What makes Rivian different? It’s not just about selling electric trucks and SUVs—it’s about creating an experience, building community, and pushing the boundaries of what an EV can do.

Let’s take a closer look at how Rivian is positioning itself to take on the competition.

1. The Lifestyle Brand for Adventurers

When Rivian launched its R1T truck and R1S SUV, it wasn’t just selling vehicles—it was selling a lifestyle. These rugged, adventure-ready EVs appeal to people who love exploring the great outdoors. With features like a built-in camp kitchen and impressive off-road capabilities, Rivian vehicles are made for the wild.

This focus on adventure is a stark contrast to Tesla’s sleek, city-focused designs. While Tesla aims for mass appeal, Rivian has zeroed in on a passionate niche: adventurers who want to explore sustainably.

2. Opening the Charging Network to All EVs

One of Rivian’s boldest moves this year was opening its Adventure Network to all EV owners. Starting with a charging station in Joshua Tree, California, Rivian is expanding this network to 3,500 chargers across 600 locations.

Why does this matter? Because access to charging stations is a major hurdle for EV adoption. By inviting all EV drivers to use its chargers, Rivian is fostering a sense of community and encouraging more people to go electric. It’s a move that sets Rivian apart from Tesla, which only recently began opening select Superchargers to non-Tesla EVs.

3. Big Backers and Smart Partnerships

Rivian isn’t going it alone. The company has built strong relationships with major players like Amazon and Volkswagen:

• Amazon: Rivian secured a partnership to deliver 100,000 electric delivery vans to the retail giant, boosting production and visibility.
• Volkswagen: A $5.8 billion investment from Volkswagen allows Rivian to share its software technology, with plans to see Volkswagen EVs using Rivian tech by 2027.

These partnerships give Rivian the financial stability and market credibility it needs to grow in a competitive space.

4. Stock Performance: A Rollercoaster Ride

Let’s talk numbers. Rivian’s stock hasn’t had the easiest year, with a year-to-date decline of around 38.4%. However, recent momentum suggests a potential turnaround:

• The stock surged 13% last week after receiving a glowing “Buy” rating from Benchmark analysts.
• The current price sits at $14.62, with a target of $18 as analysts point to strong growth potential in the coming decade.

This recent uptick shows that investors still believe in Rivian’s long-term vision.

5. The Road Ahead

Rivian’s journey is just beginning. While it has challenges—scaling production, competing with Tesla, and navigating the EV market—it also has massive opportunities. Its focus on a niche market, commitment to sustainability, and innovative partnerships position it as a serious contender in the EV race.

Rivian might not be Tesla, but it doesn’t have to be. The EV market isn’t a zero-sum game, and Rivian is carving out its unique space. Whether you’re an EV enthusiast or just curious about the future of transportation, keep an eye on Rivian. It’s proving that sometimes, the underdog has the most exciting story to tell. Are you ready to see Rivian take on the giants, or are you rooting for the established players? Share your thoughts below!

[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” top_padding=”10″ text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” advanced_gradient_angle=”0″ overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none” gradient_type=”default” shape_type=””][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text]Press release

29 October 2024

The board of Drive Electric, a not-for-profit with a mission to accelerate the uptake of e-mobility in New Zealand, announced the appointment of chief executive officer, Brian Dewil.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][image_with_animation image_url=”152079″ image_size=”full” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”None” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”center” img_link_target=”_blank” border_radius=”none” box_shadow=”none” image_loading=”default” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default” img_link=”https://de.fruitpunch.digital/about/our-board/”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg_image_animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid” column_padding_type=”default” gradient_type=”default”][vc_column_text]Board Chair Kirsten Corson says, “We are delighted to welcome Brian Dewil to Drive Electric as our Chief Executive Officer.

“We were fortunate to have a large number of skilled and highly qualified applicants for the role, each bringing their own unique strengths and vision for the future of EVs. After a thorough selection process, we are excited to welcome Brian, his understanding of the EV landscape, along with his proven leadership and commitment to sustainability, make him the perfect fit to guide Drive Electric into its next chapter.

“To date we have focused on light vehicles and now we’re looking to expand into commercial and heavy vehicles too. We’re excited to have Brian on board and look forward to the electrifying journey ahead!”

Brian Dewil, the incoming CEO of Drive Electric says he is, “Honored to lead our organisation’s mission of accelerating sustainable transportation across our nation.

“My focus is on building meaningful partnerships between industry leaders, government bodies, and communities to strengthen Aotearoa New Zealand’s EV ecosystem.

“Our priorities are clear: advocating for forward-thinking EV policies, expanding our charging network, growing membership into light commercial and heavy EVs, and making electric mobility accessible to everyone living in Aotearoa New Zealand.

“We’re committed to fostering innovation while delivering practical solutions that benefit both our environment and our communities. I look forward to working alongside our stakeholders to create lasting change and contribute to a sustainable future. Together, we’ll establish our country as a leader in clean and affordable transportation.”

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About Brian Dewil:

Brian is an accomplished executive who has consistently grown and scaled companies, particularly in the mobility and technology sectors. As the former founding Managing Director of Ola New Zealand, successfully led the company from pre-launch to capturing 40% market share and achieving $65M in annual recurring revenue within three years.

During tenure as Board Director at Ola, provided strategic oversight on regulatory compliance and legal matters while spearheading enterprise partnerships across Australia and New Zealand. Led the Go To Market strategy at Ola Electric Mobility, contributing to the company’s expansion and market penetration.

Demonstrated expertise in building businesses from inception, having shaped both Urban Sherpa and Ola NZ’s strategic direction and organisational culture. Holds Microsoft AI certification, reflecting an ongoing commitment to advancing business through emerging technologies. Executive experience includes leadership roles at RICS, where the focus was on driving innovation and strategic growth.

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