Electric Cars

General Motors navigated a challenging economic landscape in the second quarter of 2025, demonstrating remarkable resilience and a clear commitment to its electric vehicle strategy. Despite facing a significant financial hit from new tariffs, the automotive giant saw its electric vehicle sales more than double, a testament to its expanding EV portfolio and market penetration. This surge in EV adoption across its brands, particularly Chevrolet and Cadillac, underscores GM's unwavering focus on a sustainable, electrified future, even as global trade policies introduce unexpected fiscal pressures. The company's performance highlights a strategic pivot that prioritizes long-term growth in the burgeoning EV sector, absorbing short-term setbacks for enduring gains.

In the second quarter of 2025, General Motors announced impressive sales figures for its electric vehicle division, showcasing substantial growth across its Chevrolet, Cadillac, and GMC brands. The company collectively sold 46,280 EVs, marking a remarkable 111% increase compared to the same period last year. This rapid expansion positions GM as a formidable contender in the electric vehicle market, steadily closing the competitive gap with established leaders like Tesla in the United States.

Chevrolet, driven by the success of models such as the Equinox EV, which has been dubbed 'America's most affordable 315+ range EV,' emerged as the second top-selling electric vehicle brand in the US, surpassing both Ford and Hyundai. Chevrolet's EV sales alone experienced a 146% rise in Q2 and a 134% increase in the first half of 2025, propelled by the strong market reception of its electric Equinox, Blazer, and Silverado models. Cadillac also asserted its dominance in the luxury EV segment, with electric vehicles accounting for over 25% of its total sales in Q2. The luxury brand's diverse electric lineup now features the Optiq, Lyriq, Vistiq, and the grand Escalade IQ. Even GMC saw a boost in electric vehicle sales, with the Sierra EV pickup joining the popular Hummer EV pickup and SUV in its growing electric fleet.

Despite this significant progress in EV sales, General Motors encountered financial headwinds, primarily due to new tariffs. The company reported a $1.1 billion net impact in the second quarter from these tariffs, which contributed to a 35% decline in profits (EBIT) to $3.04 billion, down from $4.43 billion in Q2 2024. Despite beating Wall Street's revenue estimates with $47.1 billion, the tariff implications are projected to intensify in the third quarter. Nevertheless, GM CEO Mary Barra reiterated the company's long-term vision, stating that profitable electric vehicle production remains its 'north star.' GM reaffirmed its full-year 2025 guidance, previously adjusted in May, which anticipates an additional $4 billion to $5 billion in tariff-related costs. The company is actively implementing strategies, including manufacturing adjustments, targeted cost initiatives, and consistent pricing, to mitigate at least 30% of this financial strain.

Looking ahead, GM is investing $4 billion to reconfigure North American production and is expanding its partnership with LG Energy Solution to produce more cost-effective LFP EV batteries at their joint venture plant in Tennessee. The highly anticipated new Chevy Bolt EV, offering an extended range, faster charging, and enhanced features, is expected to debut later this year as the first in a 'family of Bolts,' including an even more affordably priced variant. Currently, GM is leveraging federal incentives, such as the $7,500 tax credit set to expire in September, to offer attractive discounts on its electric vehicles. The Chevy Equinox EV, starting under $35,000 and boasting a range of up to 319 miles, has become a top-selling EV in the US, proving that affordable, long-range electric vehicles resonate strongly with consumers.

General Motors' second-quarter performance in 2025 vividly illustrates its unwavering commitment to an electrified automotive future. Despite substantial financial pressures from newly imposed tariffs, the company's electric vehicle sales have surged, positioning key brands like Chevrolet and Cadillac at the forefront of the burgeoning EV market. This robust growth, coupled with strategic investments in production and battery technology, demonstrates GM's resolute pursuit of profitable EV manufacturing, reinforcing its long-term vision for sustainable mobility amidst evolving global trade dynamics.

In an electric bicycle market often characterized by intricate technology and hefty price tags, Priority Bicycles introduces the Glide, a model that champions simplicity and user-friendliness. This new offering from the New York-based company stands out for its straightforward yet robust design, featuring a Gates Carbon Drive system and an internally geared rear hub. The Glide is positioned to deliver a high-quality, low-maintenance riding experience at a cost-effective price point, challenging the notion that advanced features must come with a premium. Its emphasis on reliability and ease of use makes it a compelling option for those seeking a practical and enjoyable electric cycling solution without unnecessary complexities.

The Priority Glide represents a significant step in making sophisticated e-bike technology accessible to a wider demographic. By integrating durable, low-upkeep components like the Gates belt drive and an internally geared hub, the bike promises a smooth, hassle-free ride. This strategic focus on essential features, combined with an attractive price, underscores Priority Bicycles' commitment to demystifying electric cycling and fostering a broader embrace of this eco-friendly transportation mode. The Glide's launch is a testament to the idea that quality and convenience can be delivered without compromising affordability, offering a refreshing perspective in the evolving e-bike landscape.

Simplicity Meets Performance: The Glide's Design Philosophy

The Priority Glide disrupts the prevailing trend of overly complex electric bicycles by offering a streamlined, easy-to-manage alternative. Designed for riders who prioritize a clean, low-maintenance experience, the Glide eschews intimidating digital menus and excessive mechanical components. This ethos aligns perfectly with Priority Bicycles' established reputation for producing high-quality bicycles that are virtually maintenance-free, yet remain affordably priced. The Glide maintains this tradition, providing a premium cycling experience without the typical high costs associated with specialized bike shops.

The Glide's core appeal lies in its integration of the acclaimed Gates Carbon Drive belt system, known for its exceptional durability and zero-maintenance requirements, alongside the equally reliable Nexus 3 internally geared rear hub transmission. This combination eliminates the need for a traditional derailleur and chain, offering smoother, cleaner shifting—even when stationary—and significantly reducing upkeep. Unlike many low-cost belt-drive e-bikes that often feature only a single speed, the Glide provides enhanced versatility. Furthermore, its design incorporates a dropped top tube for easy step-over access, dual-piston hydraulic disc brakes for superior stopping power, puncture-resistant tires, integrated LED lighting, and a double center kickstand, all contributing to a comprehensive, commuter-friendly package that emphasizes simplicity and convenience, whether utilizing pedal assist or throttle operation.

Accessibility and Practicality: A New Standard for E-Bikes

With a starting price that is remarkably competitive, especially when considering its advanced features, the Priority Glide positions itself as one of the most accessible electric bicycles equipped with a Gates Carbon Drive system and an internally geared hub. This makes high-end, low-maintenance e-biking attainable for a much broader consumer base, challenging the market's traditional pricing structures. The Glide's design also focuses on broad usability, supporting a maximum payload of 300 lbs (136 kg) and available in two frame sizes and color options, ensuring it accommodates a diverse range of riders and personal preferences.

Powering the Glide is a modest yet efficient 350W front hub motor paired with a 374Wh removable downtube-integrated battery, providing an assisted top speed of 20 mph (32 km/h). This setup yields a practical range of 20 miles (32 km) on throttle or up to 60 miles (96 km) with pedal assist, making it perfectly suited for daily errands, leisurely rides, or short commutes. The conservative motor and battery size also contribute to the bike's impressively low weight of just 49 lbs (22.2 kg), setting it apart as one of the lightest direct-to-consumer e-bikes available today. Riders can choose from three pedal assist levels or utilize the thumb throttle, and the smooth shifting of the Shimano Nexus 3-speed internal hub enhances the riding experience. This focus on practical power, lightweight construction, and intuitive controls removes common barriers to cycling, such as complex maintenance and intimidating technology, allowing riders to simply enjoy the journey.