Electric Cars

Despite the official conclusion of Amazon's Prime Day, a variety of green technology deals are still available, presenting a golden opportunity for consumers to invest in sustainable solutions at significantly reduced prices. Among the most attractive offers are EcoFlow's TRAIL series portable power stations, Leviton's advanced EV charging units, and Greenworks' powerful electric pressure washer, all reaching new price lows.

EcoFlow has prolonged its Prime Day promotion, allowing more shoppers to take advantage of substantial discounts on its TRAIL 200 DC 60,000mAh and TRAIL 300 DC 90,000mAh portable power stations. These devices are now available starting from an unprecedented $104. Additionally, purchasers will receive a complimentary RAPID 30W GaN Charger, an added value of $26. These power stations, initially priced at $200 and $250 respectively, have seen their prices drop consistently, making the current offer the best recorded to date.

The EcoFlow TRAIL 200 DC, weighing just four pounds, is equipped with a 60,000mAh LiFePO4 battery, offering up to 220W output through a combination of two 12W USB-A ports, a 140W USB-C port, and a 100W USB-C port. Its larger counterpart, the TRAIL 300 DC, boasts a 90,000mAh LiFePO4 capacity and delivers up to 300W, featuring the same USB-A ports alongside two 140W USB-C ports and a 120W car outlet. Both models prioritize safety with built-in protections against overvoltage, overloading, and short-circuiting, and include integrated woven handles for enhanced portability. Recharging from a standard AC outlet offers speeds of 200W or 280W, with the 300 DC model also supporting a 110W maximum solar input.

Beyond power stations, the sale extends to Leviton's 48A Level 2 EV Charging Stations. Both smart and standard models are now accessible from $514. The smart variant, originally priced at $749, is available for $599.20, representing a 20% reduction and its second-lowest price. For those who can forgo smart controls, the standard version is an even more economical choice at $514.28. These deals highlight the growing accessibility of EV charging infrastructure for home use.

For outdoor maintenance, Greenworks' latest Pro 3,000 PSI Electric Pressure Washer is currently marked down to $320. This high-performance cleaning tool, typically retailing at $450, is now available at nearly its lowest price ever, making it an excellent investment for adaptive cleaning experiences around the home. Furthermore, various other green deals are ongoing, including discounts on Birdfy smart birdhouses and a wide array of electric vehicles and tools, reinforcing the commitment to energy-conscious living.

The extended sales provide a continued opportunity for consumers to embrace sustainable living through discounted green technologies. From portable power solutions for outdoor adventures or emergency backup to efficient EV chargers and eco-friendly cleaning equipment, these promotions facilitate a more energy-efficient routine. With winter approaching, these off-season price cuts on electric tools and other gear offer significant savings for those looking to upgrade their environmental footprint.

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled an advanced mobile electric vehicle charging apparatus, dubbed 'ELF', which promises to revolutionize EV charging speeds to rival conventional fuel station experiences. This pioneering system, derived from the German term 'Experimental-Lade-Fahrzeug' (Experimental Charging Vehicle), signifies a pivotal moment in the evolution of charging technology.

More than just an electric van, the ELF is an integrated mobile EV powerhouse, supporting ultra-fast, bidirectional, inductive, and conductive charging methods. Constructed upon the foundation of the Mercedes V-Class passenger vehicle, it incorporates five distinct charging ports. This innovative vehicle functions as a mobile research hub, dedicated to developing quicker, more convenient, and ecologically sound electric vehicle charging solutions. The ELF is equipped with two rapid charging systems: a conventional Combined Charging System (CCS) and a robust Megawatt Charging System (MCS). Mercedes is pushing the boundaries with CCS, reporting charging capacities of up to 900 kW, enabling a 100 kWh charge in roughly ten minutes. The MCS, initially engineered for heavy-duty electric trucks, extends charging capabilities into the megawatt range.

This cutting-edge technology is actively being utilized to refine the charging experience for forthcoming Mercedes-Benz vehicles. For instance, the Concept AMG GT XX achieved a peak charging output of 1,041 kW during megawatt charging after its impressive performance in Nardò. Collaborating with Alpitronic, Mercedes developed a high-capacity EV charging station capable of delivering up to 1,000 amps via a modified CCS commercial truck charger. The insights gained from this venture are now being applied to create a new generation of ultra-fast chargers for Mercedes-Benz's charging parks, aiming for charging times that are almost identical to traditional refueling. Beyond its charging capabilities, the ELF also features bidirectional charging, allowing it to supply energy back to homes (Vehicle-to-Home), the grid (Vehicle-to-Grid), or power various electric devices (Vehicle-to-Load). Mercedes estimates that a typical 70-100 kWh vehicle battery could power an average single-family residence for two to four days. The new electric CLA and GLC with EQ Technology will be the first Mercedes models to incorporate bidirectional charging, with services set to launch in Germany, France, and the UK in 2026, followed by other markets. With smart energy management, homeowners could potentially save around 500 euros annually on electricity costs. The ELF also serves as a platform for experimenting with other charging techniques, including wireless inductive and automated conductive charging, with the accumulated knowledge being crucial for enhancing future Mercedes-Benz EV models.

The advent of the Mercedes-Benz ELF represents a significant leap forward in electric vehicle technology, showcasing a commitment to innovation and sustainability. By addressing the critical need for faster, more efficient, and flexible charging solutions, Mercedes-Benz is not only enhancing the EV user experience but also contributing to a broader vision of intelligent energy ecosystems. This initiative underscores the potential for seamless integration of electric vehicles into daily life, promising a future where charging is as effortless as driving, and electric mobility plays a central role in a sustainable and interconnected energy landscape.