Electric Cars

Xpeng, a Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, is increasingly embracing a vision-centric strategy for autonomous driving, mirroring Tesla's controversial method. This marks a significant pivot for Xpeng, which was the first automaker globally to incorporate lidar into its vehicles back in 2020. However, the company has since reassessed its approach, now favoring a camera and AI-driven system.

Candice Yuan, a leading figure in Xpeng's Autonomous Driving Center, revealed at the IAA Mobility 2025 show that lidar data proved incompatible with their AI architecture. She explained that Xpeng's AI system, named VLA (Vision, Language, Action), is predominantly trained using short video segments from customer vehicles. Unlike lidar-based systems employed by companies such as Waymo and Zoox, which emphasize lidar's role in enhancing environmental perception, especially under challenging conditions, Xpeng believes its vision-only model, XNGP, can theoretically operate across various scenarios in China. This perspective aligns with Tesla's long-standing argument that camera-based systems are more cost-effective and scalable than lidar, despite ongoing debates about the reliability of camera-only autonomy in highly complex urban settings.

While Xpeng and other Chinese manufacturers like Ji Yue are advancing vision-based autonomy, the ultimate goal of true driverless cars remains elusive. Despite promises from companies like Tesla about impending fully autonomous capabilities, these systems often still necessitate human oversight, particularly in intricate urban environments. In contrast, Waymo and Zoox, with their heavy reliance on lidar, currently offer truly driverless rides, suggesting that a comprehensive sensor suite may be critical for achieving full autonomy. This ongoing technological divergence underscores the dynamic and competitive landscape of autonomous driving development, where different manufacturers are betting on distinct pathways to achieve the future of self-driving transportation.

A group of innovative car enthusiasts has taken the humble Chevrolet Bolt EV, a vehicle typically lauded for its commuter efficiency and affordability, and reimagined it as a track-ready race car. This transformation, seemingly counterintuitive given the Bolt's modest performance specifications, is aimed at competing in the unconventional 24 Hours of Lemons race. The project showcases a unique blend of engineering ingenuity and a passion for accessible motorsports, demonstrating that with creative modifications and a focus on fun over outright speed, even an everyday electric car can find its place on the race circuit.

The Unexpected Journey of a Chevy Bolt EV to the Racetrack

In a fascinating turn of events, a 2018 Chevrolet Bolt EV, typically known for its economical urban commuting capabilities, has been meticulously converted into a race car by a dedicated team of enthusiasts. This ambitious project, documented by EVTuners, saw the practical electric hatchback undergo a series of significant modifications to prepare it for the 24 Hours of Lemons race—a renowned endurance series for budget-friendly vehicles. The conversion process involved installing essential safety equipment such as a custom-fitted roll cage and specialized racing seats, alongside a crucial fire extinguishing system. Furthermore, a sophisticated data logging device, powered by a Raspberry Pi, was integrated to monitor performance. To enhance its racing potential, the vehicle also underwent an extensive weight reduction program, with much of the original interior stripped away. While the Bolt EV's 200 horsepower is adequate for daily driving, its 60-kilowatt-hour battery pack and standard charging speeds pose a unique challenge on the racetrack, necessitating frequent recharges during the endurance event. This creative endeavor underscores a growing trend in motorsports: making racing more accessible and enjoyable without the need for high-performance, high-cost vehicles, fostering a spirit of innovation and camaraderie among participants.

This innovative project serves as a powerful reminder that the spirit of automotive passion extends beyond traditional high-performance vehicles. It challenges preconceived notions about what constitutes a \u201crace car\u201d and highlights the growing potential for electric vehicles in diverse automotive applications. The team's decision to enter the Bolt EV into a race like the 24 Hours of Lemons not only makes motorsports more inclusive and sustainable but also encourages a hands-on, problem-solving approach to car modification. It demonstrates that with creativity and dedication, even a car designed for efficiency can be transformed into a source of weekend racing excitement, proving that the thrill of competition isn't exclusive to the fastest or most expensive machines. This endeavor could inspire a new wave of EV enthusiasts and underscore the versatility of electric technology.