Electric Cars

Electrify America has officially inaugurated its most expansive electric vehicle fast-charging installation to date. Situated in Orlando, Florida, this cutting-edge facility provides two dozen charging points, each capable of delivering an impressive 350 kilowatts of electricity. While this development offers substantial rapid charging capabilities, it’s crucial to note a particular detail: all available charging stalls are equipped with CCS1 connectors.

This new station is a significant boon for the electric vehicle community in Orlando and beyond. Its strategic placement near Interstate 4, Orlando International Airport, Walt Disney World, and Universal Studios ensures convenient access for both local EV drivers needing a quick power boost and visitors passing through. Furthermore, the proximity to the Sand Lake Corners South shopping center means drivers can conveniently engage in dining and retail activities while their vehicles are recharging. However, the universal presence of CCS1 connectors necessitates that owners of NACS-equipped electric vehicles, such as those from Tesla and Rivian, will need to have an appropriate adapter to utilize these high-speed charging services. This requirement also extends to a growing number of electric models from traditional automakers, including General Motors, BMW, Stellantis, and Mercedes-Benz, which are increasingly adopting the NACS standard.

The shift towards the NACS connector has gained momentum since Tesla opened its Supercharger network to other manufacturers in the U.S. In response to the increasing demand for robust charging infrastructure, Electrify America previously introduced "large-format stations" capable of simultaneously serving at least 20 EVs, each with 350 kW output. Several such large-scale facilities, some integrated with 1.9-megawatt battery storage systems for grid balancing, are already operational in California. Electrify America views its expansion in Florida as a strategic move, acknowledging the state’s position as the second-largest market for registered electric vehicles in the nation, following California.

The continuous evolution and expansion of EV charging infrastructure, while presenting temporary compatibility challenges, ultimately pave the way for a more sustainable and accessible future for electric transportation. Such advancements highlight the ongoing commitment to supporting the burgeoning EV market and fostering widespread adoption of electric vehicles, contributing to a cleaner and more efficient energy landscape.

Segway is expanding its electric bicycle lineup with the introduction of the Xyber Air, a new model designed to reach a broader market. Following the attention-grabbing launch of the original Xyber, known for its futuristic and high-performance design, the Xyber Air offers a more conventional yet still aggressively styled option. Priced at $1,999, this street-legal e-bike aims to blend advanced features with regulatory compliance, making it an attractive choice for daily riders.

The Xyber Air maintains the distinctive angular frame and moto-inspired look that defined its predecessor, including Segway’s signature X-shaped front and rear lighting. However, it's engineered to fit within Class 1, 2, and 3 e-bike classifications, ensuring its legality on various public infrastructures. Powering the bike is a 750W nominal rear hub motor, capable of a peak output of 1,600W and delivering 80 Nm of torque. Riders can choose between different operational classes, achieving speeds up to 20 mph in Class 1 and 2, or 28 mph in Class 3. A unique Hybrid Mode allows for throttle use up to 20 mph while pedal assist extends to 28 mph, offering flexibility for varied riding conditions.

Equipped with a 717 Wh battery, Segway estimates the Xyber Air can travel up to 58 miles on a single charge. This range, however, will naturally vary based on rider weight, terrain, and the extent of throttle usage. The bike’s suspension system features an 80 mm dual-crown front fork, complemented by 20x4-inch fat tires and hydraulic disc brakes with 180 mm rotors. Drawing inspiration from motorcycles, it includes advanced functionalities such as traction control, hill-start assist, regenerative hill descent control, and automatic lighting, enhancing both safety and riding experience.

Connectivity is a key aspect of the Xyber Air, offering features like AirLock automatic unlocking, Apple Find My compatibility, GPS tracking, Lost Mode remote disabling, and over-the-air updates. A full-color TFT display provides navigation and seamless smartphone integration. While some connected services will require a subscription after the initial year, this aligns with a growing trend in the micromobility sector, necessitated by the data connections these services demand. Despite its robust feature set, the Xyber Air weighs 84 pounds, a significant reduction from the original Xyber, yet still supports a substantial payload of 330 pounds. It also holds UL 2271 and UL 2849 certifications, underscoring its safety and quality. Available for order now, the Xyber Air is slated to begin shipping on October 27 through Segway's dealer network and select retail locations.

The introduction of the Xyber Air represents a strategic move by Segway to make its innovative e-bike technology more accessible and compliant with existing regulations. By refining the design to fit established e-bike categories while retaining the aggressive styling and advanced features, Segway offers a compelling option for those seeking a high-performance, street-legal electric moped-style bicycle. This approach broadens the appeal of their product line, providing a diverse range of choices for consumers in the expanding e-bike market.