Latest news with #HyundaiKonaElectric
Miami Herald
5 days ago
- Automotive
- Miami Herald
Subaru Launches Its Uncharted EV With a 290-Mile Range, Should Hyundai and Kia Worry?
Subaru has revealed its new Uncharted electric vehicle (EV) in person for the first time, and the compact SUV is bound to put some pressure on the electric variants of the Hyundai Kona and Kia Niro. The all-new Uncharted Sport and GT trims offer up to 338 horsepower, translating to a 0-60 mph time of less than 5 seconds, and an estimated 290-mile range. This horsepower stems from dual electric motors on the front and rear axles, and standard all-wheel drive (AWD) on two of the three variants. The Uncharted's complete trim lineup includes Premium FWD, Sport, and GT levels. Drivers receive over 300 miles of range on the front-wheel drive (FWD) trim, but lower horsepower at 221. Fast-charging each grade's 74.7-kWh, high-capacity lithium-ion battery from 0% to 80% takes about thirty minutes, and selectable drive modes include Snow, Mud, and Dirt. Off-roading is enhanced by the model's lightweight and rigid high-strength steel, structural support from its underfloor batteries, aerodynamic enhancements, and specifically tuned suspension components. While this compact model is almost seven inches shorter than Subaru's new Solterra electric SUV, it features 1.2 cubic feet of additional storage behind the second row for a total of 25 cubic feet. There's seating for up to five passengers, and design touches, such as orange accents and soft-touch materials, characterize the cabin. Subaru StarTex interior upholstery is available on the Uncharted GT and Sport, and the GT trim also receives standard heated outboard rear seats. On the technology front, drivers receive a 14-inch touchscreen, dual wireless smartphone chargers, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Dual USB-C chargers are present in the rear, and a battery preconditioning system helps achieve the 30-minute charge time from 0% to 80%, even under challenging conditions such as cold weather. The digital gauge cluster is positioned above the dashboard, which contains a sleek LED ambient lighting strip. A panoramic glass roof paired with two-tone coloring helps form the Uncharted's contemporary appearance, and trims like the GT feature ventilated front seats and 20-inch wheels. The other wheel option measures 18 inches, and AWD models contain low-profile roof rails. The Subaru Uncharted beats both the Hyundai Kona Electric and Kia Niro EV in both power and range. The 2026 Hyundai Kona Electric boasts between 133 and 215 horsepower, while the Kia Niro EV offers 201 horsepower. The Kona Electric can take drivers between 200 and 260 miles on a single charge, versus the Niro EV's 253-mile range. The Uncharted is also more off-road focused than its Hyundai and Kia counterparts, and features more cargo space behind its second row than the Niro, while falling short of the Kona Electric by just 0.5 cubic feet. The 2026 Subaru Uncharted will give the Hyundai Kona Electric and Kia Niro EV a run for their money with its sharp exterior styling, impressive range, off-road capability, and interior that doesn't cut corners on tech. During the global in-person reveal of the Uncharted in New York, I noticed several standout elements that distinguished this Subaru from its competition, including rear door handles on the C-pillar, a striking headlight signature, and an interior that felt clean and straightforward, yet not dull. The 2026 Subaru Uncharted is expected to go on sale in early 2026, with pricing to be announced closer to its release. Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
The Advertiser
11-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
2025 BYD Atto 2 small electric SUV confirmed for Australia
The 2025 BYD Atto 2 has been confirmed for Australian showrooms, where smallest and most affordable electric SUV offered here by the Chinese automaker so far will arrive in the fourth quarter of this year. BYD Australia – which will take over local distribution of the brand from independent importer EVDirect next month – has announced the compact five-seat Atto 2 electric SUV will be offered here with a single electric powertrain and two model grades. Launched in China in March 2024, the BYD Atto 2 is sold under other names overseas, including Atto 3 Up, Yuan Pro and S1 Pro. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. It will be sold in Australia as the Atto 2 to underline its positioning, in terms of both size and price, below the brand's pioneering Atto 3 electric SUV with which it shares its platform, and will be aimed at rivals including the Kia EV3 and Hyundai Kona Electric. "As an SUV, the Atto 2 is very important," Sajid Hasan, BYD Australia senior product planning manager, told CarExpert. "What we've seen is that there's been a shifting of passenger cars to SUVs. What the hatch segment used to be has flowed into the small SUV segment, and then you got a lot of cross-pollination between the medium SUV segment and light SUV segments." SUVs have accounted for 59.8 per cent of all new vehicle sales so far this year in Australia – not including Tesla and Polestar sales, which are reported separately. Led by the Hyundai Kona, the small SUV segment the Atto 2 will enter for BYD made up the third-largest chunk (6.4 per cent) of the new vehicle market, behind mid-size SUVs and just a few sales behind 4×4 utes. "This small SUV segment being a very large portion of the total market composition, volume-wise, is just an enormous growth opportunity for us to grow our brand and our volume," Mr Hasan said. While pricing is yet to be confirmed, the Atto 2 should be cheaper than the mid-size Atto 3, which starts from $39,990 before on-road costs – making it considerably more affordable than the new Kia EV3's $48,990 starting price. The Hyundai Kona Electric is priced from $54,000 before on-road costs. In China, the Atto 2 starts at ¥96,800 (A$20,835), which is less than the BYD Dolphin hatchback (¥99,800 or A$21,480) that's currently priced from $29,990 drive-away in Australia. Based on its specs in China – where it is called the BYD Yuan Up – the Atto 2 measures 4310mm long, 1830mm wide and 1675mm high, making it 145mm shorter than the Atto 3. However, it's larger than light SUVs such as the Mazda CX-3 and Nissan Qashqai – and the electric Jeep Avenger – but not as big as Australia's most popular SUVs, like the mid-size Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5. Indeed, the Atto 2 has a 400-litre boot, which expands to 1370L of space with the second row folded. In China, the Atto 2 is offered with a single electric motor mounted to the front axle, with the choice of 70kW and 130kW power outputs. BYD Australia confirmed the 130kW/290Nm version will be standard here, and available in both 'Essential' and 'Premium' trim grades when it arrives Down Under. The Australian-spec Atto 2 will also have a 51.13kWh Lithium Ion Phosphate (LFP) 'Blade' battery and, while no driving range has been confirmed, it's larger than the 32kWh and 45.1kWh battery capacities available overseas, which enable a WLTP range of 312km. BYD Australia has confirmed few other specs, but the Atto 2 will have flush door-handles and a panoramic sunroof as standard, outside a cabin including synthetic leather seat trim and 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster. Essential versions will feature a 10.1-inch rotating infotainment touchscreen, while the Premium grade will gain a 12.8-inch screen and a 360-degree surround camera. BYD has ambitious expansion plans, including a goal of exports accounting for half its global sales by 2030, which would be a significant achievement given the brand is not present in the US, the world's second largest auto market behind China. The brand was officially launched in Australia in 2022 under EVDirect, whose chief told CarExpert as recently as January this year that BYD plans to outsell long-time local market leader Toyota by 2027. EVDirect previously said BYD had ambitious plans to sell 100,000 vehicles per annum in Australia by 2026, by doubling its sales and launching up to five new models annually. Last year BYD sold 20,458 vehicles in Australia, where Toyota sold 241,296. MORE: Everything BYD Content originally sourced from: The 2025 BYD Atto 2 has been confirmed for Australian showrooms, where smallest and most affordable electric SUV offered here by the Chinese automaker so far will arrive in the fourth quarter of this year. BYD Australia – which will take over local distribution of the brand from independent importer EVDirect next month – has announced the compact five-seat Atto 2 electric SUV will be offered here with a single electric powertrain and two model grades. Launched in China in March 2024, the BYD Atto 2 is sold under other names overseas, including Atto 3 Up, Yuan Pro and S1 Pro. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. It will be sold in Australia as the Atto 2 to underline its positioning, in terms of both size and price, below the brand's pioneering Atto 3 electric SUV with which it shares its platform, and will be aimed at rivals including the Kia EV3 and Hyundai Kona Electric. "As an SUV, the Atto 2 is very important," Sajid Hasan, BYD Australia senior product planning manager, told CarExpert. "What we've seen is that there's been a shifting of passenger cars to SUVs. What the hatch segment used to be has flowed into the small SUV segment, and then you got a lot of cross-pollination between the medium SUV segment and light SUV segments." SUVs have accounted for 59.8 per cent of all new vehicle sales so far this year in Australia – not including Tesla and Polestar sales, which are reported separately. Led by the Hyundai Kona, the small SUV segment the Atto 2 will enter for BYD made up the third-largest chunk (6.4 per cent) of the new vehicle market, behind mid-size SUVs and just a few sales behind 4×4 utes. "This small SUV segment being a very large portion of the total market composition, volume-wise, is just an enormous growth opportunity for us to grow our brand and our volume," Mr Hasan said. While pricing is yet to be confirmed, the Atto 2 should be cheaper than the mid-size Atto 3, which starts from $39,990 before on-road costs – making it considerably more affordable than the new Kia EV3's $48,990 starting price. The Hyundai Kona Electric is priced from $54,000 before on-road costs. In China, the Atto 2 starts at ¥96,800 (A$20,835), which is less than the BYD Dolphin hatchback (¥99,800 or A$21,480) that's currently priced from $29,990 drive-away in Australia. Based on its specs in China – where it is called the BYD Yuan Up – the Atto 2 measures 4310mm long, 1830mm wide and 1675mm high, making it 145mm shorter than the Atto 3. However, it's larger than light SUVs such as the Mazda CX-3 and Nissan Qashqai – and the electric Jeep Avenger – but not as big as Australia's most popular SUVs, like the mid-size Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5. Indeed, the Atto 2 has a 400-litre boot, which expands to 1370L of space with the second row folded. In China, the Atto 2 is offered with a single electric motor mounted to the front axle, with the choice of 70kW and 130kW power outputs. BYD Australia confirmed the 130kW/290Nm version will be standard here, and available in both 'Essential' and 'Premium' trim grades when it arrives Down Under. The Australian-spec Atto 2 will also have a 51.13kWh Lithium Ion Phosphate (LFP) 'Blade' battery and, while no driving range has been confirmed, it's larger than the 32kWh and 45.1kWh battery capacities available overseas, which enable a WLTP range of 312km. BYD Australia has confirmed few other specs, but the Atto 2 will have flush door-handles and a panoramic sunroof as standard, outside a cabin including synthetic leather seat trim and 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster. Essential versions will feature a 10.1-inch rotating infotainment touchscreen, while the Premium grade will gain a 12.8-inch screen and a 360-degree surround camera. BYD has ambitious expansion plans, including a goal of exports accounting for half its global sales by 2030, which would be a significant achievement given the brand is not present in the US, the world's second largest auto market behind China. The brand was officially launched in Australia in 2022 under EVDirect, whose chief told CarExpert as recently as January this year that BYD plans to outsell long-time local market leader Toyota by 2027. EVDirect previously said BYD had ambitious plans to sell 100,000 vehicles per annum in Australia by 2026, by doubling its sales and launching up to five new models annually. Last year BYD sold 20,458 vehicles in Australia, where Toyota sold 241,296. MORE: Everything BYD Content originally sourced from: The 2025 BYD Atto 2 has been confirmed for Australian showrooms, where smallest and most affordable electric SUV offered here by the Chinese automaker so far will arrive in the fourth quarter of this year. BYD Australia – which will take over local distribution of the brand from independent importer EVDirect next month – has announced the compact five-seat Atto 2 electric SUV will be offered here with a single electric powertrain and two model grades. Launched in China in March 2024, the BYD Atto 2 is sold under other names overseas, including Atto 3 Up, Yuan Pro and S1 Pro. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. It will be sold in Australia as the Atto 2 to underline its positioning, in terms of both size and price, below the brand's pioneering Atto 3 electric SUV with which it shares its platform, and will be aimed at rivals including the Kia EV3 and Hyundai Kona Electric. "As an SUV, the Atto 2 is very important," Sajid Hasan, BYD Australia senior product planning manager, told CarExpert. "What we've seen is that there's been a shifting of passenger cars to SUVs. What the hatch segment used to be has flowed into the small SUV segment, and then you got a lot of cross-pollination between the medium SUV segment and light SUV segments." SUVs have accounted for 59.8 per cent of all new vehicle sales so far this year in Australia – not including Tesla and Polestar sales, which are reported separately. Led by the Hyundai Kona, the small SUV segment the Atto 2 will enter for BYD made up the third-largest chunk (6.4 per cent) of the new vehicle market, behind mid-size SUVs and just a few sales behind 4×4 utes. "This small SUV segment being a very large portion of the total market composition, volume-wise, is just an enormous growth opportunity for us to grow our brand and our volume," Mr Hasan said. While pricing is yet to be confirmed, the Atto 2 should be cheaper than the mid-size Atto 3, which starts from $39,990 before on-road costs – making it considerably more affordable than the new Kia EV3's $48,990 starting price. The Hyundai Kona Electric is priced from $54,000 before on-road costs. In China, the Atto 2 starts at ¥96,800 (A$20,835), which is less than the BYD Dolphin hatchback (¥99,800 or A$21,480) that's currently priced from $29,990 drive-away in Australia. Based on its specs in China – where it is called the BYD Yuan Up – the Atto 2 measures 4310mm long, 1830mm wide and 1675mm high, making it 145mm shorter than the Atto 3. However, it's larger than light SUVs such as the Mazda CX-3 and Nissan Qashqai – and the electric Jeep Avenger – but not as big as Australia's most popular SUVs, like the mid-size Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5. Indeed, the Atto 2 has a 400-litre boot, which expands to 1370L of space with the second row folded. In China, the Atto 2 is offered with a single electric motor mounted to the front axle, with the choice of 70kW and 130kW power outputs. BYD Australia confirmed the 130kW/290Nm version will be standard here, and available in both 'Essential' and 'Premium' trim grades when it arrives Down Under. The Australian-spec Atto 2 will also have a 51.13kWh Lithium Ion Phosphate (LFP) 'Blade' battery and, while no driving range has been confirmed, it's larger than the 32kWh and 45.1kWh battery capacities available overseas, which enable a WLTP range of 312km. BYD Australia has confirmed few other specs, but the Atto 2 will have flush door-handles and a panoramic sunroof as standard, outside a cabin including synthetic leather seat trim and 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster. Essential versions will feature a 10.1-inch rotating infotainment touchscreen, while the Premium grade will gain a 12.8-inch screen and a 360-degree surround camera. BYD has ambitious expansion plans, including a goal of exports accounting for half its global sales by 2030, which would be a significant achievement given the brand is not present in the US, the world's second largest auto market behind China. The brand was officially launched in Australia in 2022 under EVDirect, whose chief told CarExpert as recently as January this year that BYD plans to outsell long-time local market leader Toyota by 2027. EVDirect previously said BYD had ambitious plans to sell 100,000 vehicles per annum in Australia by 2026, by doubling its sales and launching up to five new models annually. Last year BYD sold 20,458 vehicles in Australia, where Toyota sold 241,296. MORE: Everything BYD Content originally sourced from: The 2025 BYD Atto 2 has been confirmed for Australian showrooms, where smallest and most affordable electric SUV offered here by the Chinese automaker so far will arrive in the fourth quarter of this year. BYD Australia – which will take over local distribution of the brand from independent importer EVDirect next month – has announced the compact five-seat Atto 2 electric SUV will be offered here with a single electric powertrain and two model grades. Launched in China in March 2024, the BYD Atto 2 is sold under other names overseas, including Atto 3 Up, Yuan Pro and S1 Pro. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. It will be sold in Australia as the Atto 2 to underline its positioning, in terms of both size and price, below the brand's pioneering Atto 3 electric SUV with which it shares its platform, and will be aimed at rivals including the Kia EV3 and Hyundai Kona Electric. "As an SUV, the Atto 2 is very important," Sajid Hasan, BYD Australia senior product planning manager, told CarExpert. "What we've seen is that there's been a shifting of passenger cars to SUVs. What the hatch segment used to be has flowed into the small SUV segment, and then you got a lot of cross-pollination between the medium SUV segment and light SUV segments." SUVs have accounted for 59.8 per cent of all new vehicle sales so far this year in Australia – not including Tesla and Polestar sales, which are reported separately. Led by the Hyundai Kona, the small SUV segment the Atto 2 will enter for BYD made up the third-largest chunk (6.4 per cent) of the new vehicle market, behind mid-size SUVs and just a few sales behind 4×4 utes. "This small SUV segment being a very large portion of the total market composition, volume-wise, is just an enormous growth opportunity for us to grow our brand and our volume," Mr Hasan said. While pricing is yet to be confirmed, the Atto 2 should be cheaper than the mid-size Atto 3, which starts from $39,990 before on-road costs – making it considerably more affordable than the new Kia EV3's $48,990 starting price. The Hyundai Kona Electric is priced from $54,000 before on-road costs. In China, the Atto 2 starts at ¥96,800 (A$20,835), which is less than the BYD Dolphin hatchback (¥99,800 or A$21,480) that's currently priced from $29,990 drive-away in Australia. Based on its specs in China – where it is called the BYD Yuan Up – the Atto 2 measures 4310mm long, 1830mm wide and 1675mm high, making it 145mm shorter than the Atto 3. However, it's larger than light SUVs such as the Mazda CX-3 and Nissan Qashqai – and the electric Jeep Avenger – but not as big as Australia's most popular SUVs, like the mid-size Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5. Indeed, the Atto 2 has a 400-litre boot, which expands to 1370L of space with the second row folded. In China, the Atto 2 is offered with a single electric motor mounted to the front axle, with the choice of 70kW and 130kW power outputs. BYD Australia confirmed the 130kW/290Nm version will be standard here, and available in both 'Essential' and 'Premium' trim grades when it arrives Down Under. The Australian-spec Atto 2 will also have a 51.13kWh Lithium Ion Phosphate (LFP) 'Blade' battery and, while no driving range has been confirmed, it's larger than the 32kWh and 45.1kWh battery capacities available overseas, which enable a WLTP range of 312km. BYD Australia has confirmed few other specs, but the Atto 2 will have flush door-handles and a panoramic sunroof as standard, outside a cabin including synthetic leather seat trim and 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster. Essential versions will feature a 10.1-inch rotating infotainment touchscreen, while the Premium grade will gain a 12.8-inch screen and a 360-degree surround camera. BYD has ambitious expansion plans, including a goal of exports accounting for half its global sales by 2030, which would be a significant achievement given the brand is not present in the US, the world's second largest auto market behind China. The brand was officially launched in Australia in 2022 under EVDirect, whose chief told CarExpert as recently as January this year that BYD plans to outsell long-time local market leader Toyota by 2027. EVDirect previously said BYD had ambitious plans to sell 100,000 vehicles per annum in Australia by 2026, by doubling its sales and launching up to five new models annually. Last year BYD sold 20,458 vehicles in Australia, where Toyota sold 241,296. MORE: Everything BYD Content originally sourced from:
Canberra Times
10-06-2025
- Automotive
- Canberra Times
2025 BYD Atto 2 small electric SUV confirmed for Australia
It will be sold in Australia as the Atto 2 to underline its positioning, in terms of both size and price, below the brand's pioneering Atto 3 electric SUV with which it shares its platform, and will be aimed at rivals including the Kia EV3 and Hyundai Kona Electric.
Miami Herald
27-05-2025
- Automotive
- Miami Herald
Hyundai Launches Unbeatable 2025 Kona Electric Lease Offer for May
If you've been wanting to make the switch to an electric vehicle, but have been trying to find an EV within your budget, you're in luck. Hyundai is offering a pretty slick lease deal on the 2025 Kona Electric for the month of May. Redesigned just last year, the Hyundai Kona Electric is one value-packed model, with a range up to 261 miles on a single charge, that makes it a great daily driver. With Hyundai's latest lease deal, the Kona Electric is available for as little as $189 per month for a 24-month lease term. The deal includes a $7,500 EV lease bonus, requires a down payment of $3,999 due at signing, and allows for up to 12,000 miles per year. Available from $32,975, the Hyundai Kona Electric is one of the more affordable EVs on the market, especially once you discount the automaker's $7,500 lease bonus. The all-electric crossover features up to 201 horsepower and four trim levels to choose from. In its base SE trim, the Kona Electric features a 12.3-inch touchscreen display and a 12.3-inch instrument cluster. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, as does Wi-Fi hotspot capability, and front and rear USB ports. The real meat of the 2025 Hyundai Kona Electric comes in the form of the N Line trim, a new addition to the range. The performance-inspired model rides on unique 19-inch wheels with restyled bumpers and side skirts. The Kona Electric N Line features a Bose premium audio system, a wireless device charging pad, and ambient lighting. Like all Hyundai vehicles, the Kona Electric comes equipped with a full suite of active safety systems. The range-topping Limited trim adds a sweet set of comfort and convenience features to the Kona Electric's spec sheet. Among the new additions are a heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats, and a hands-free smart liftgate with auto open. Like all Hyundai vehicles, the Kona Electric comes equipped with a full suite of active safety systems. Hyundai's lease deal on the 2025 Kona Electric appears to be a nationwide offer, with rates remaining the same regardless of location. On the offers page, the Chicago, Illinois area is listed as having a rate $20 higher per month, but viewing the details reveals the same deal as the rest of the country. The Hyundai Kona Electric is available in four trim levels, with the SE and SEL trims running you $189 and $209 per month, respectively. The sportier N Line model will cost you $229, while the range-topping Limited trim is available from as low as $259 per month. Regardless of trim level, the Kona Electric lease deal spans 24 months with $3,999 due at signing. You can also take advantage of Hyundai's $7,500 EV lease bonus, or, if you're a recent college graduate, you can apply another $400 towards your down payment. Active duty, veteran, and retired military personnel can receive $500 towards a Kona Electric lease. If you've been wanting to get behind the wheel of an EV, but couldn't afford to do so, now is your chance! The Hyundai Kona Electric lease deal runs through June 2nd, so you still have some time. The Kona Electric comes well-equipped, and considering the average price of a new EV, it's one of the most affordable models on the market. With four trim levels to choose from, you're bound to find a Kona Electric model that fits your needs and budget. Personally, I'd go for the N Line. While it costs a bit more to lease compared to the base trim, it comes with a unique look, upscale amenities, and a decent enough range to get me where I need to go. Lease offers can vary based on location, vehicle configuration (trims, options), and are subject to credit approval. Advertised monthly payments often don't include taxes, registration, and other potential fees. To get the full official details on the 2025 Hyundai Kona Electric lease offer, head on over to the official Hyundai website. *Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. The information presented herein is based on manufacturer-provided lease offer information, which is subject to frequent change and may vary based on location, creditworthiness, and other factors. We are not a party to any lease agreements and assume no liability for the terms, conditions, availability, or accuracy of any lease offers mentioned. All terms, including but not limited to pricing, mileage allowances, and residual values, require direct verification with an authorized local OEM dealership. This article does not constitute financial advice or an endorsement of any particular lease or vehicle. Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Spectator
20-05-2025
- Automotive
- Spectator
I've become a solar panel hustler
What better accessory for my fleet of electric cars (well, two) than my own solar power station, converting the rays of the sun into blistering acceleration? I am propelled by a love of tech gadgets and the prospect of a quick killing. Do not confuse me with Net Zero zealots – I'm in this eco game for myself. So far today, my roof has thrown off 62.8 kWh – enough to drive my 2019 Hyundai Kona Electric for 350 km. (The other car is a Tesla, which I am scared to take out after a dozen of its brethren were recently incinerated in Toulouse.) Solar panels are the best investment game in town, and that's why they're going gangbusters in France – despite the bureaucratic mountain you have to climb. First, I had to submit drawings and specifications on paper and electronically. Next, digital photos and computer renderings to persuade the functionaries at Bâtiments de France that my panels would not harm the view from the church tower, a historic monument. Then there was further exhausting intercourse with EDF. And now I have been certified as a producer of electricity in France – one of a select group of 500,000 households that have climbed on the green bandwagon. This is sweet for us, but may not be so great for France, to be frank. A report in February by retired admiral Jean Casabianca warned that solar power risks the stability of France's electricity grid. The risk is that renewables introduce huge fluctuations into the grid. In the quickest QED in history, Spain's power grid collapsed – blamed on renewable-heavy systems. Here in Miller Towers, pas de souci. After I have charged the cars, powered the dodgy heat pumps, recharged Bella's GPS tracking collar and blanketed every square centimetre of the domain with gigabit wifi, I sell the excess to EDF – the para-state generating company also responsible for Hinkley Point C in Somerset. They don't really want to do business with the likes of me but are required to by the statutory Obligation to Buy, imposed in a flight of green fancy by the government in 2000. EDF honestly hates us. It is forced to pay us above wholesale costs for electricity that is becoming close to valueless during the day – and we are destabilising its network at night. It has been exactly one year since I activated the parc solaire and started farming sunbeams. So it's an opportune moment to take stock of the project. I am aware that my experience in Occitanie might differ from that of someone in, for example, Essex. Here in the land of baseload nuclear energy – and especially way down here in the south with lots of sunshine – the problem is not a lack of power but increasingly an excess of it, as panels proliferate everywhere: on houses, sports halls and, most recently, in supermarket car parks. Of course, all these panels are useless at night. In April 2024, before my solar panels were activated, I imported 2,594 kWh of electricity. In April this year, my importation was 949 kWh. The rest I produced myself. My bill fell from €690 to €222 – a 63 per cent reduction. This is the first month in which I have been able to do a direct comparison on the year before. It has been exactly one year since I activated the parc solaire and started farming sunbeams There's more to come. I will soon receive an annual payment for exporting my surplus electricity to the grid. And kind Mr Macron has promised me yet another €2,000 bung to reward me for my investment in eco-friendliness. I should feel guilty about this, watching my poorer neighbours heat their houses with bottles of propane and even kerosene. But I don't – since the state will simply borrow the money to pay me, I regard this as a modest contribution to the €3 trillion debt mountain. What about the microeconomics? The cost of installing the solar was around €30,000. The carport cost another €30,000, but I was building that anyway and it needed a roof. The solar roof, made of translucent architectural panels, obviously cost wildly more than a conventional tile roof. My solar panels have a nominal capacity to generate 12 kWh, although the output has never exceeded 10. Normal, apparently. The costly bit is the equipment where the direct current coming off the roof is converted to alternating current – to be consumed by me or injected into the grid. And then there was the cost of an electrician who knew what he was doing, and the visit by the network provider Enedis to upgrade me to a meatier three-phase 24 amp connection. The returns, however, are fabulous. In the longer days, when the sun is unobstructed, I usually export more power than I consume. But when the sun goes down, I import it. I pay twice as much to import current than I get for exporting it. December and January yield little. So I still get a bill – just a lot smaller. All this so far seems to equate to a yield on investment of 14 per cent – a truly staggering sum. The Livret A, the main consumer savings vehicle here, pays 2.4 per cent. If there's spare cash, it's a no-brainer. If you have to borrow the money, the calculus is different – but you may still be quids in. I asked my research assistant Grok, my preferred AI engine, to calculate the return on investment of a hypothetical similar system to mine, but in Essex, with its reduced iridescence. After lengthy workings, all of which seemed to my non-actuarial eye to be reasonable, it calculated the rate of return at 6 per cent. This calculus presumably worsens as you move further north in Britain and the skies darken. My instinct tells me these calculations are optimistic – wildly so once you start adding the cost of heat pumps, upgrading the electricity connections and maintaining it all. The maintenance, I must signal, is not entirely straightforward. Mrs M has gone to London to have a shower because we've had no hot water here for ten days. The village plumber arrived and was defeated by what he called a 'usine de gaz' – a colloquial French expression for a wilderness of complications. Electric living is not as straightforward as it seems. I have had to summon a specialist technician from Béziers. The Net Zero Secretary, Ed Miliband, is very keen on solar panels and heat pumps for all of you in Britain. Various incentives are in place – but as the sun sets in the Languedoc and I steel myself for a cold shower, my useless Tesla fully charged with nowhere to go, I advise caution. I don't think my own experience in one of the sunniest spots in Europe equates to the results in Britain – where, at least pending the Miliband revolution, there is still hot water.
