In a bid to combat emissions and promote sustainable transportation, the city of Charlotte has introduced Carolina Carshare, an innovative program aimed at making electric vehicles (EVs) more accessible. This initiative is part of Forth Mobility’s federally funded Affordable Mobility Platform, which seeks to lower the financial barriers associated with EV ownership. As the first Southeastern city to adopt this platform, Charlotte hopes to significantly reduce its carbon footprint by encouraging the use of shared electric cars.
North Carolina's largest source of emissions stems from transportation, necessitating a shift toward cleaner alternatives. Recognizing the prohibitive cost of purchasing EVs for many households, Charlotte launched Carolina Carshare on Wednesday. The program allows residents of designated affordable housing communities, such as Peppertree Apartments, to rent electric vehicles for up to 24 hours at an affordable rate. Mayor Vi Lyles emphasized the importance of this initiative during the launch event, where two Chevy Volts were unveiled as part of the program.
Located in one of the city’s low-income Corridors of Opportunity, Peppertree Apartments serves as the pilot site for Carolina Carshare. Heather Bolick, Charlotte’s chief sustainability officer, explained that nearly 40% of the city’s greenhouse gas emissions originate from transportation. Thus, transitioning to electric vehicles represents a crucial step in decarbonizing the sector. One resident has already utilized the shared car to commute to a night shift when public transportation was unavailable, highlighting the practical benefits of the program.
Funding for Carolina Carshare comes partially from a Department of Energy grant established under the Biden administration. This funding aims to assist communities in reducing energy consumption. Residents can rent the Chevy Volts for $5 per hour or $50 per day, offering a cost-effective solution for those without personal vehicles. Plans are underway to expand the program by installing charging stations at three additional locations: McNeel Apartments, Belmont Center, and Innovation Barn.
Through initiatives like Carolina Carshare, Charlotte is taking significant strides toward achieving its sustainability goals. By providing affordable access to electric vehicles, the city not only addresses environmental concerns but also enhances the quality of life for its residents. This forward-thinking approach sets a precedent for other cities seeking to implement similar programs, promoting a greener future for all.
Revolutionizing its lineup, Lexus is set to introduce a revamped version of its mid-sized luxury sedan, the ES, featuring cutting-edge design and advanced technology. The eighth-generation model takes inspiration from the LF-ZC concept showcased at the Japan Mobility Show in 2023. This new iteration not only embraces bolder aesthetics but also incorporates a versatile platform capable of supporting both electric and hybrid powertrains. With this move, Lexus aims to redefine its brand identity and enhance its presence in the electric vehicle market by presenting an innovative vision at the upcoming October exhibition.
Underpinning the new ES is Toyota's enhanced TNGA GA-K EV platform, designed to ensure stability across all drivetrain configurations. For hybrid models, such as the 350h, there’s now an option for all-wheel drive paired with an upgraded, lightweight 2.5-liter system boasting increased battery capacity. Meanwhile, the fully electric variants—350e (front-wheel drive) and 500e (all-wheel drive)—feature spacious interiors despite housing large batteries beneath their floors. Notably, the ES 350e promises an impressive range of approximately 300 miles per charge when fitted with 19-inch wheels.
Inside, passengers will enjoy state-of-the-art amenities including a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a 14-inch infotainment screen compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Additionally, dual Bluetooth connectivity allows simultaneous pairing with two smartphones. The cabin boasts eco-friendly bamboo-style door panels crafted using 3D printing techniques, ambient lighting, and premium Mark Levinson surround sound audio. Set for release before March 2026 globally, including in the United States, Lexus plans to complement the ES with another electric vehicle possibly derived from Toyota's forthcoming three-row SUV project.
Innovation drives progress, and Lexus demonstrates this principle through its commitment to redefining automotive excellence. By merging striking design elements with sustainable technologies, the automaker not only meets modern consumer demands but also sets a benchmark for future developments in the industry. Such initiatives underscore the importance of adaptability and forward-thinking strategies in maintaining competitiveness within an ever-evolving marketplace.
In a bold step towards electric vehicle dominance, General Motors (GM) has announced the 2026 Cadillac Optiq V, an all-electric compact crossover. Part of GM's fifth-generation V-series, this model continues the company’s mission to electrify its entire Cadillac lineup. Following January's reveal of the Lyriq V, another electric SUV, GM is set to disclose pricing, specifications, and production timelines for the Optiq V later this summer. The vehicle, manufactured in Mexico, competes with high-end brands like Mercedes-Benz EQB and Audi Q4 e-tron.
A New Chapter in GM's Electrification Journey
Amidst a rapidly evolving automotive landscape, General Motors has taken significant strides in expanding its electric offerings. In the vibrant spring of 2025, GM unveiled the Cadillac Optiq V, a dynamic addition to its V-series lineup. This performance-oriented crossover emphasizes precision engineering, enhanced suspension systems, and responsive steering capabilities, delivering an exhilarating driving experience. Positioned as the second all-electric vehicle under the prestigious V badge, the Optiq V aims to attract tech-savvy consumers who value both luxury and sustainability.
Produced at GM's facility in Mexico, the base model of the 2025 Optiq starts at $54,390. Despite being on the market for less than a year, sales figures indicate it ranks second-to-last among Cadillac models, with 1,716 units sold in the first quarter of 2025. However, the brand remains optimistic about future demand, bolstered by increasing consumer interest in electric vehicles.
Additionally, the Lyriq V, introduced earlier in the year, has already garnered attention for its competitive pricing starting at $79,990, which still qualifies buyers for valuable EV tax credits. These developments underscore GM's commitment to revolutionizing the luxury electric vehicle segment.
From a journalist's perspective, GM's strategic moves reflect a clear vision for the future of mobility. By prioritizing innovation and sustainability, the automaker is not only meeting current market demands but also shaping the industry's trajectory. As more details emerge about the Optiq V, enthusiasts eagerly anticipate how this model will redefine the compact crossover category and further solidify Cadillac's position as a leader in electric performance vehicles.