Electric Cars

US Electric Vehicle Fast-Charging Infrastructure Growth Slows in Q2

In the second quarter, the development of public fast-charging stations for electric vehicles in the United States experienced a slowdown. Data from the charging analytics platform Paren indicates that charging companies installed 4,382 new ports across 806 new stations, a noticeable drop from the 4,865 ports and 891 stations added during the same period last year. This 10% year-over-year decrease, coupled with a decline from the record-setting fourth quarter, suggests a strategic reorientation within the industry. Charging data analyst Loren McDonald points to a new industry focus on profitability and improving the user experience, rather than solely on rapid expansion.

This evolving strategy is evident in the types of charging stations being deployed and the shifting market dynamics. While fewer stations are being added, newer installations often feature more high-powered ports and enhanced amenities such as restrooms, cafes, and Wi-Fi, signaling a push towards a more comfortable and reliable charging experience. Notably, Tesla's long-standing dominance in the public fast-charging sector is waning, with its market share dipping below 50% for the first time. The company contributed only 27% of new deployments in Q2, as competitors like Walmart, ChargePoint, Red E, and Electrify America significantly increased their presence. Despite the slower pace of new station construction, the utilization rate of existing chargers has remained stable at 15.8%, indicating that the increased capacity is being effectively absorbed by the growing number of EV drivers. However, this growth is highly concentrated, with 40% of new ports located in just five states, exacerbating the disparity between well-served coastal regions and charging deserts in less populated areas.

Despite these adjustments in deployment strategy, the electric vehicle charging industry maintains an optimistic outlook. The continued strong demand for EVs, bolstered by factors such as rising fuel prices and evolving government policies, suggests a robust future for the sector. The focus on enhancing charger reliability and improving the overall customer experience is expected to foster sustained growth and greater satisfaction among electric vehicle owners.

Rivian's Electric Van Dominates US Market, Outperforming All Rivals

Rivian's Commercial Van (RCV) has solidified its position as the undisputed leader in the American electric van sector. Recent sales figures reveal that the RCV has not only outperformed all its competitors combined by a staggering 70% but has also become the company's second most popular model, trailing only the R1S SUV.

Rivian's Electric Van Sales Soar in Q2 2026

From April through June, the Rivian Commercial Van (RCV) achieved an impressive 4,003 unit sales, marking a substantial 48.2% increase compared to the same period last year. This remarkable performance highlights the RCV's strong market presence, particularly when juxtaposed against its rivals. In contrast, the Chevrolet BrightDrop, which ceased production in 2025, saw its sales drop by 65.1%, recording only 460 units. The Mercedes-Benz eSprinter, however, experienced a significant surge, with sales climbing by 270.6% to 315 units. Other notable players include the Ford E-Transit, which saw a 29.9% decline with 293 units sold, and the Ram ProMaster EV, which secured 110 deliveries.

Looking at the broader picture of the first half of the year, the RCV maintained its dominant lead with 7,216 units sold, representing a 73% increase from the previous year. The Chevrolet BrightDrop followed with 956 units, a 39.9% decrease. The Mercedes-Benz eSprinter showed robust growth, selling 517 units, an increase of 283%. The Ford E-Transit, despite a significant 88.2% drop, sold 493 units, while the Ram ProMaster EV saw an extraordinary 692.9% increase, delivering 333 units.

The primary driver behind the RCV's overwhelming success is its monumental agreement with Amazon, which involves an order for 100,000 electric vehicles. To date, Rivian has delivered over 30,000 EVs to the e-commerce giant, with tens of thousands more slated for delivery by 2030. Furthermore, with the expiration of its exclusivity agreement with Amazon in 2023, Rivian's electric vans are now available for purchase by any company, starting at a competitive price of $79,900, excluding delivery fees. Rivian also offers a customizable bare-chassis variant, enabling third-party modifiers to integrate specialized bodies onto its electric platform, as exemplified by the Morgan Olson C250e, specifically designed for Canada Post.

The electric vehicle market, particularly in the commercial sector, is rapidly evolving. Rivian's triumph with the RCV demonstrates the immense potential for specialized electric vehicles that cater to the logistical needs of businesses. The company's strategic partnership with Amazon has provided a crucial launchpad, establishing a strong foundation for future growth. The availability of the RCV to a broader market, coupled with its adaptable design, suggests a promising future for Rivian as it continues to innovate and capture a larger share of the burgeoning electric commercial vehicle segment.

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Momentum Unveils Advanced Vida E+ EX Commuter E-Bike with Enhanced Features

Momentum, an innovative bicycle brand focused on urban mobility and supported by the industry giant Giant Group, has recently revealed its latest offering for city commuters: the Vida E+ EX electric bicycle. This new iteration builds upon the success of its predecessor, the original Vida E+, by incorporating a suite of enhanced features designed to elevate the daily riding experience. The upgrades aim to provide a more comfortable, capable, and technologically advanced journey for urban cyclists.

Introducing the Momentum Vida E+ EX: A New Era of Urban Commuting

On July 14, 2026, Momentum, a prominent bicycle brand renowned for its urban cycling solutions and backed by the formidable Giant Group, officially launched its latest innovation, the Vida E+ EX commuter e-bike. This new model represents a significant evolution from the original Vida E+, bringing a host of advanced features that promise to transform daily commutes. Among the most notable additions are a sophisticated cruise control system, an optional throttle, and a more robust power unit, all integrated to deliver a superior riding experience.

The heart of the Vida E+ EX is Momentum's proprietary SyncDrive Move S rear hub motor, which delivers a potent 500W of power and 60 Nm of torque. This Class 3 e-bike is engineered to provide pedal assistance up to 28 mph (45 km/h), utilizing advanced torque, cadence, and speed sensors to dynamically adjust motor output. This intelligent system ensures a seamless and natural pedaling feel, adapting to the rider's input in real time for optimal efficiency and comfort. While the bike is primarily sold as a Class 3 e-bike without a throttle, Momentum offers an optional add-on throttle for riders who prefer a more relaxed mode of transport, allowing them to accelerate without pedaling.

A standout feature introduced in the Vida E+ EX is the innovative Cruise Mode. This function allows riders to maintain a consistent speed over extended distances, proving particularly useful on long bike paths or quiet streets where a steady pace enhances comfort and reduces rider fatigue. Furthermore, the bike integrates an optional '0-Start' throttle, a feature commonly found in direct-to-consumer e-bikes but less prevalent in models from major cycling manufacturers. This enables riders to accelerate from a complete standstill without pedaling, simplifying starts at traffic lights or on inclines, especially for new riders or those carrying heavy loads. This feature, widely adopted in North America, addresses a crucial need for convenience and accessibility in urban cycling.

Powering the Vida E+ EX is a removable 700 Wh battery, offering an impressive range of approximately 40-55 miles (64-89 km) with pedal assist, or 31-43 miles (50-69 km) when the throttle is used more extensively. The included 3A charger ensures efficient recharging, reaching 80% capacity in just 4 hours and 40 minutes, and a full charge in a little over 6 hours.

Designed with the daily commuter in mind, the Vida E+ EX boasts a range of practical features. It includes an 80 mm suspension fork for a smoother ride, a low-step aluminum frame for easy mounting and dismounting, and wide 26 x 2.4-inch tires for enhanced stability and comfort. A travel-adjustable dropper seatpost allows riders to quickly lower the saddle for confident stops and raise it back for efficient pedaling, all without dismounting. This feature, traditionally seen on mountain bikes, has found a valuable application in commuter e-bikes, improving rider convenience and safety in urban environments.

Utility is a core aspect of the Vida E+ EX, equipped with integrated fenders, lights, and a MIK-compatible rear rack as standard. The frame is engineered to support a total rider and cargo weight of up to 300 lbs (136 kg), with the option to carry an additional 33 lbs (15 kg) on a front rack and 55 lbs (25 kg) on the rear rack. The bike also holds a UL 2849 certification for its entire system, ensuring high safety standards. Additional amenities include integrated brake lights, hydraulic disc brakes with four-piston front calipers, and Bluetooth connectivity via the RideControl Dash Core display. Momentum's RideControl app further enhances the user experience, offering a digital E-Lock function to disable motor assistance when the bike is parked, adding an extra layer of security.

The Momentum Vida E+ EX is available in four appealing color options: Caramel Cinnamon, Abyss Black, Mountain Air, and Pale Olive. The bicycle is priced at US $1,985, with an additional $65 for those who choose to include the throttle add-on.

The introduction of the Momentum Vida E+ EX marks a significant step forward in urban e-bike design. By integrating advanced features like cruise control, an optional throttle, and a dropper seatpost, Momentum is not only enhancing the convenience and comfort of daily commutes but also setting new benchmarks for accessibility and technological sophistication in the electric bicycle market. This model reflects a growing trend towards smarter, more user-friendly urban transportation solutions, empowering riders to navigate their cities with unprecedented ease and confidence. The Vida E+ EX is poised to become a favored choice for commuters seeking a reliable, powerful, and adaptable e-bike.

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