Electric Cars

Honda's electric SUV, the Prologue, has demonstrated impressive market performance, securing its position as the third best-selling EV in the US during August. This achievement is particularly noteworthy given that it trails only the highly popular Tesla Model Y and Model 3. A key factor in this success appears to be Honda's continued commitment to offering substantial incentives, with discounts reaching nearly $17,000, even after the federal EV tax credit has expired. This aggressive pricing strategy has clearly resonated with consumers, significantly boosting the vehicle's appeal and market penetration.

The automotive industry has witnessed a trend where manufacturers implement significant price reductions following the expiration of federal incentives. Honda has been at the forefront of this trend with the Prologue, offering various financial benefits that, at one point, exceeded $20,000. These incentives, including financing bonuses and attractive interest rates, have propelled the Prologue's registration numbers. According to recent data, Prologue registrations surged by 81% in August, reaching over 9,000 units, underscoring the direct correlation between attractive pricing and increased consumer adoption in the competitive EV market. This robust performance is especially significant as it outpaced other models built on similar platforms, such as the Chevy Equinox EV.

Looking ahead, Honda is preparing for the launch of the 2026 Prologue model. While specific pricing details are yet to be revealed, there is speculation that the new model might see a slightly lower starting price to offset the absence of the $7,500 federal EV credit. This proactive approach to pricing, potentially influenced by competitors like Hyundai, which has already reduced prices for its 2026 IONIQ 5, highlights the dynamic and competitive nature of the electric vehicle market. Honda's ongoing efforts to offer compelling deals, such as considerable lease cash and zero-interest financing options, suggest a sustained strategy to maintain the Prologue's strong sales momentum and solidify its standing in the burgeoning EV segment.

In a rapidly evolving automotive landscape, the success of vehicles like the Honda Prologue underscores the importance of innovation and accessibility. By offering attractive incentives and adapting to market shifts, manufacturers can not only drive sales but also accelerate the broader adoption of electric vehicles, contributing positively to a more sustainable future for transportation.

Yasa, a company based in the UK, has introduced a groundbreaking axial flux electric motor prototype that has established a new, unofficial benchmark in power density. This remarkably lightweight motor, tipping the scales at just 28 pounds, generates an astonishing 1,005 horsepower at its peak, marking a significant 40% improvement over the company's previous record holder. This innovation promises to revolutionize the electric vehicle sector by offering a path towards more efficient and higher-performing powertrains.

The newly developed axial flux electric motor by Yasa recently underwent rigorous testing on a dynamometer. During these tests, the prototype achieved an extraordinary peak power output of 750 kilowatts (equivalent to 1,005 horsepower). What makes this achievement particularly remarkable is its mass: at only 12.7 kilograms (28 pounds), the motor boasts an unparalleled power density of 59 kW per kilogram. This figure significantly outperforms Yasa's previous record-holding motor, which delivered 550 kW (737 hp) at a weight of 13.1 kg (28.8 lbs), resulting in a power density of 42 kW/kg. In comparison, this compact yet potent motor is nearly four times more powerful than the rear electric motor found in the Tesla Model Y Standard, which produces 200 kW (268 hp) in Europe, and even surpasses the combined output of two Tesla Model 3 Performance vehicles, each rated at 460 hp.

Beyond its impressive peak power, the continuous power output of this motor is equally critical. Yasa's prototype is designed to sustain an output of 350 to 400 kW (469 to 536 hp) continuously, a feature vital for consistent performance in various driving conditions, not just short bursts of acceleration. This sustained power capability, combined with its lightweight design, suggests significant advantages for electric vehicles. Lighter motors contribute to an overall reduction in vehicle weight, which in turn can lead to greater driving range with smaller battery packs and faster charging times.

Joerg Miska, Yasa's CEO, emphasized that this record-breaking achievement underscores the company's distinctive capabilities. He highlighted that the motor's performance density is three times that of current leading radial flux motors, pushing the boundaries of electric motor engineering. The technology relies on readily available materials, ensuring that it can be mass-produced efficiently once market demand rises. This strategic choice of materials and scalable design makes the advanced axial flux motor a viable and impactful solution for the broader automotive industry.

Currently, Yasa's axial flux motors are integrated into high-end automotive applications, such as the Lamborghini Temerarior and Ferrari 296 GTB, where they complement combustion engines to deliver enhanced performance. Furthermore, concepts like the Mercedes-AMG GT XX, an anticipated all-electric super grand tourer, plan to utilize three Yasa axial flux motors to achieve a combined output exceeding 1,000 kW (1,360 hp). Historically, innovative technologies often debut in luxury segments before becoming more accessible. The expectation is that Yasa's axial flux motors will follow a similar trajectory, eventually becoming standard in more mainstream electric vehicles as production scales and costs decrease, thereby democratizing high-performance, efficient electric propulsion.