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Nissan Arya – Pole to Pole 27,000 km Expedition – Lands in

Vancouver On 30 March 2023. Husband and wife explorers Chris & Julie Ramsey embarked on a long distance drive an all-electric Nissan Ariya CVUV as they attempt to travel more than 27,000km across three continents from the 1823 Magnetic North Pole in the frozen Arctic Ocean, to the South Pole in Antarctica. On the 9-month expedition through the Americas they will showcase the capability and excitement of EVs and shine a light on bold initiatives and fascinating communities harnessing renewable energy.
And with this in mind, Alannah. Senior Manager of Marketing for Nissan Canada, recently hosted Chris, and Julie Ramsey EV adventure seekers on the Vancouver leg of their journey. The couple from Aberdeen in Scotland say they have been EV owners for the last decade, first owning a Nissan LEAF, first generation. Now the couple are in love of EV driving. travel and adventure. Having completed the Mongol Rally from the U.K to Ulan-Ude in Southern Siberia, a 10,000 miles trip in the Nissan Leaf EV crossing 20 countries, their latest journey is a journey form Pole to Pole, being the first people to take an ARIYA to the 80 to 80 magnetic North Pole.
The couple said the drive in the slightly modified Nissan Ariya was full of challenges in the high arctic such issues as melting ice roads due to climate change, and the pressurized schedule. Luckily, a Nissan support vehicle was also on hand. The couple said the highlights were also amazing with sightings of a polar bear, no light pollution, and the spectacular the beauty and breathtaking tranquility of the region
So far, the couple have visited 14 countries on the trip and in Canada that included Yellowknife, Banff and Jasper, and Kamloops, the hospitality we have received from people across Canada was amazing the couple said.
“Somebody reached out to us on social media as a couple or a family from Jasper and they are EV owners. And they said, “hey, if you’re passing by, do come by and say hello, you can get a charge and we have a room for you in our house. You’re more than welcome to join.” Said Julie Ramsey. “We drove through countries that had never seen an electric car. So it engages people instantly and that car engages anybody, in any place we go to.” But you know, that aside, we still managed to reach the North Pole with the Nissan ARIYA. We achieved history. A huge achievement. You know, it is pioneering in itself. And yes, sometimes it takes a bit to reflect on that and just say, “we did it.” It is just amazing.
“The Nissan ARIYA-e DORCE 4force we used on the expedition was modified by Arctic Trucks with larger tires 36 – inch wheels, bigger wheel arches, and a raised suspension to cope with more extreme terrain and a special jacking system on the rear.” Said Chris, adding “the only other thing we have actually done, is underneath you’ll see like a big metal skip plate if you do look underneath. And the idea behind that is to protect everything.”
But outside of that, the interior is exactly the same as the standard ARIYA, the suspension system, the drive train, the battery, have not been touched.
about -30 temperatures. There are two additional modifications in the Nissan Ariya specifically added for the Pole-to-Pole excursion. One is an espresso machine inside the EV for coffee lover Chris Ramsey, who says the on-demand caffeine will help during long isolated parts of the journey. Probably not much to look at up in the North Pole at certain points. A portable wind generator and solar panels also provide additional power.
Chris Ramsey said, “the car had a beating in the Arctic. Because obviously, there’s not smooth roads, there is lots of bumps and hills and a whole manner of terrains when we were up there.” Julie Ramsey said, “ I think both Chris and I and the Arctic support team and everyone were just surprised, amazed at how well the car has coped. But the thing is, is that I think with an EV being less mechanical, parts of that definitely helped a lot, there was very little damage and drama.”
The couple said, “But surprisingly, the drives pass quite quickly. And I think because we are driving through different parts of Canada, the scenery changes all the time. So there is always something to see, or you know, there’s always something interesting as we travel through all these countries is to share stories of projects like this and people that are taking action against climate change and just individuals that are just doing amazing things in the world.”

By Veeno Dewan

2023 Kia Niro PHEV – New Second Generation Shines!

The Kia Niro series of five door hatchback compact CUVs is immensely popular in Canada , Best of all, in 2023 they come available in three electrified powertrains: all electric (BEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and hybrid electric (HEV). Full disclosure – my wife did buy a full BEV Kia Niro in 2020 as our family car and it has done stellar service as our go -to transport, no issues with reliability, drivetrain, or quality we are happy to report- so I am a little
biased!
The new 2023 Niro is larger than its predecessor, with a stylish exterior redesign and a more generous suite of safety features. The Niro has a sleeker look to it and more interesting visual elements. It is aerodynamic with a wind cheating drag coefficient of 0.29. There are slimmer running lights, boomerang LED taillights and a rear skid plate garnish. Some models get the cool Aero blade rear panel on the rear side panels.
The all-new Niro EV has a 64.8 kWh battery and 150 kW motor with DC fast-charging capability and up to 407 kilometers of range ( An increase of 22 kilometers over the outgoing model).
The Niro HEV – arrives with DOHC 16-valve 1.6-liter inline-4, 104 hp, 106 lb-ft and 2 AC motors, with a (combined output if 180 hp and 195 lb-ft; plus the 8.9-kWh lithium-ion battery pack,) and a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission
The PHEV as tested pairs the 1.6L gas engine with a 62-kW electric motor, for a total system output of 180 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque. When connected to a Level 2 charger, the PHEV, says Kia, can recharge the 11.1-kWh lithium-ion polymer battery in less than three hours. Fully charged, the all-electric range of the PHEV is up to 55 km and its fuel economy improved by 25 per cent over its predecessor.
Pricing is as follows HEV: LX $29,995, EX $31,995, EX Premium $34,695, SX $38,695.PHEV: EX $37,995 EV: Premium $44,995, Premium+ $47,995, Limited $52,995. At $37,995, the as tested PHEV comes only in a mid-range EX trim
Inside, the Niro cabin is pleasing with its contemporary intersecting gloss piano black surfaces and detailing. Durable plastics and recyclable materials are in use for the headliner made from recycled wallpaper, and plant fibre in the seats. A synthetic leather interior is offered. Top marks for a clear, well-designed digital with dual-screen digital displays for the infotainment system and gauges. The 4.2-inch Super Vision Cluster is paired with an 8-inch LCD audio display, or there is an available 10.25-inch Multi-Media Display with an easy-to-use graphic interface and split screen capability for multi-tasking of entertainment, navigation, and personalized settings. The seating both front and rear and the ergonomics are particularly good and of course the Kia even in base form comes with a bunch of high-tech infotainment and advanced creature features. Cargo capacity behind the rear seats increases to 1,805 litres with the rear seats folded. Safety is high with.
On the road the Kia PHEV offers enough power from the gas engine to tackle highway speeds with relative ease. Its small engine, so drivers should be aware it will not rocket like most Electric only EVS into passing manoeuvres. In town the PHEV steps up with easy drivability and jovial safe driving manners. Fully charged, the all-electric range of the PHEV is up to 55 km and then the transitions to the 1.6L gas engine is impressively seamlessness. There is a Drive Mode” button and the PHEV has a console button offering a choice of Auto, Hybrid, or EV power. Hybrid and the Sport mode lets drivers preserve battery charge for later use. The PHEV also has a left paddle that allows for higher levels of regenerative braking.
The Niro’s suspension was a pleasant surprise, soaking up most rough road with aplomb. Of course, the Niro is no speed demon and is meant to be a practical daily driver that offers great efficiency, no matter which drivetrain is selected. In terms of fuel economy, the PHEV has a combined rate of 2.1 Le /100
km.
To sum up, there are advantages to the Kia Niro PHEV. It is ideal if you cannot spring for the pricier Kia EV, as the fuel economy and electric range is particularly good. There is compelling case for the PHEV if you do long-distance driving and suffer from range anxiety. Also note, the Kia PHEV is also eligible in B.C. for provincial and government green car rebates that sweetens the deal. The Niro’s full range of EV and hybrid alternatives is simply an excellent range of vehicle to consider and compelling value for money. Highly recommended.

2023 Kia Niro PHEV Priced from $37,995.
More info at kia.ca

Auto review by
Veeno Dewan

 

First Nations in B.C. died at a much higher rate from toxic drugs, health authority

Vancouver: Doug Kelly, the grand chief of the Sto:lo Nation, says parents need to love their children unconditionally even if they use drugs.
His advice comes less than a year after his daughter died of an overdose and as new data shows the disproportionate impact of toxic drugs on Indigenous people in British Columbia.
“Do not shame your child or your loved one, do not judge. Simply be there,” he said Friday.
“And when they’re ready, and only when they decide that they’re prepared to move on their healing journey, like my daughter did three years ago, only then will they get the help that they need.”
Kelly’s daughter, who he isn’t naming as part of his culture’s grieving process, died after an overdose last Thanksgiving after years of sobriety.
Dr. Nel Wieman, acting chief medical officer of British Columbia’s First Nations Health Authority, said First Nations people are disproportionately dying from illicit drugs in B.C. and the gap continues to widen.
First Nations people represent 3.3 per cent of B.C.’s population, but the health authority says 16.4 per cent of those who died from overdoses last year were Indigenous. In 2021, that number was 15.2 per cent.
There were 373 deaths of Indigenous people last year in B.C.
Kelly said First Nations women are being particularly hard hit in the overdose crisis.
“The only way that we can immunize our young girls and women is by building up their self-esteem, by helping them to become proud of who they are and where they come from,” he said.
Wieman said the death rate of Indigenous women was double that of non-Indigenous women last year.
“The grief and loss is immeasurable. As the acting chief medical officer, I can’t stand here before you today and just routinely go through the motions of sharing the data,” Weiman said, adding that their traditions of knowledge, ceremony, and connection to culture are a big part of what’s needed to slow the number of deaths.
“We need to change how we think, about what we say, and how we treat people who use substances.”
Weiman called for a series of changes, including more people to deliver programs in communities, and equitable and timely access to culturally safe services closer to their homes.
She said health-care workers in rural and remote communities are feeling burned out and asking them to do more is not going to work.
“When we talk at a provincial level about what types of interventions would be most helpful, we’re really forgetting the realities of First Nations people who live in very rural, remote, isolated communities. What will programs look like?” she asked.
Kelly said First Nations need to secure funding to begin developing those services themselves.
He said his daughter and other Indigenous women don’t feel safe in many of the programs funded by the B.C. government.
“She had a very difficult time in finding services that didn’t make her feel shame, didn’t make her feel stigma. So, that’s a really big issue,” he said.
The First Nations Health Authority said it has changed its toxic drug crisis response to having a greater focus on First Nations women, dedicating a portion of harm reduction funding to supporting those living in urban areas and away from home.
Kelly said his time with his daughter taught him to be a dad and a grandfather who provides unconditional love.
“I learned that by walking with my daughter in her hardest times.”
This month marked seven years since B.C. declared a public health emergency due to the overdose crisis. The province estimates nearly 2,300 people died from toxic drugs last year.

By Ashley Joannou
The Canadian Press

Canada suspends Sudan consular services as diplomats evacuated

By Dylan Robertson
The Canadian Press

Ottawa: Canada suspended consular services in Sudan on Sunday amid reports of allied countries evacuating Canadian diplomats and as armed conflict escalates in the East-African country.
Global Affairs Canada said Canadian diplomats would “temporarily work from a safe location outside the country” while still trying to help citizens in Sudan.
The Associated Press reports that more than 420 people, including 264 civilians, have been killed and over 3,700 wounded in the fighting between the Sudanese armed forces and the powerful paramilitary group known as the Rapid Support Forces, or RSF.
Those deaths occurred in just nine days after power-sharing negotiations between the two groups deteriorated.
Global Affairs said there were 1,596 Canadian citizens formally registered as being in Sudan as of Saturday.
But Nicholas Coghlan, Canada’s former top envoy to Sudan, said in a Sunday interview that the number is likely “considerably higher,” with many being dual nationals.
He said many Canadians abroad see registering as a needless hassle, while others believe their information will be shared with other branches of government such as the Canada Revenue Agency, despite laws preventing such data transfers.
Coghlan was also Canada’s first ambassador to South Sudan when it separated from that country in 2011, and he oversaw an evacuation of citizens after a civil war broke out in 2013.
At that time, less than 20 Canadian citizens were registered in South Sudan, but roughly 140 ended up being evacuated in less than a week.
Canada first evacuated those easily reachable in the capital of Juba who wanted to leave, and then worked to identify others and get them onto roughly weekly flights operated by one of Canada’s allies.
The ongoing situation in Sudan is likely different, Coghlan said, because the clashing forces are deliberately targeting airports as strategic locations in a turf war.
The Associated Press reports that fighting at the country’s main international airport in the capital city of Khartoum has destroyed civilian planes and damaged at least one runway.
Canada’s embassy sits near that airport, making it one of the most dangerous areas in the country, Coghlan said.
The New York Times reported Sunday that U.S. special forces evacuated six Canadian diplomats, along with 70 American diplomats and some from other countries.
The BBC, meanwhile, reported Canadians were among a group evacuated by sea to Saudi Arabia. Global Affairs did not immediately confirm those reports.
Overland travel through contested areas has proven dangerous. Khartoum is about 840 kilometres from Port Sudan, on the Red Sea. Both the country’s militias have accused each other of obstructing evacuations.
Coghlan said Sunday’s announced suspension of consular services means Canadian citizens who need emergency passports to leave Sudan likely have no chance of getting them, because Ottawa deemed it too risky to keep a scaled-down operation running in the country.
He said many dual nationals likely have expired passports or insufficient paperwork to get on a flight.
Some registered Canadians likely work for the United Nations or aid organizations, who can help extract them, but many will be private citizens with family ties to Sudan who will be left to their own devices.
Reports from Sudan’s Arqin border crossing with Egypt suggest 30 packed coaches were trying to reach safety.
Sudan experienced a “near-total collapse” of countrywide internet and phone connections Sunday, according to the monitoring service NetBlocks.
Coghlan said many Sudanese will likely feel let down by western countries, particularly those critical of how the world handled the heads of the two duelling forces ever since an October 2021 coup d’etat.
“The signal that’s been sent there is (that) there is a perception of people leaving the sinking ship,” he said,
“That’s how it looks, a sense of abandonment, for sure.”
The federal government is not evacuating its locally hired Sudanese staff, saying it is “looking at all possible options to support them.”
Coghlan said the issue of how to handle locals is always sensitive.
“The harsh reality is they are typically left to their own devices,” he said.
“That’s controversial within Global Affairs (Canada), out of a sense that we depend on these people 100 per cent.”
Last summer, the Liberals came under fire over allegations that Canada did not heed intelligence warnings about the safety of its Ukraine embassy’s locally engaged staff ahead of Russia’s February 2022 full-scale invasion. The allegations, which have not been proven, include claims that other western countries had evacuated Ukrainians listed as targets by Moscow.
Coghlan said the current Sudan conflict, unlike the Ukraine invasion and the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan, does not have a focus on western policy.
He stressed that situation is dynamic and he does not have the full facts surrounding Ottawa’s choice to pull out diplomats and end consular services.
“The minister had a very hard decision to make here,” he said. “It’s very easy to be an armchair quarterback on this.”

How to Blow Up a Pipeline

(PG)***

Terrorism 101!

With a very self-explanatory title audiences will get exactly what they’re promised in How to Blow Up a Pipeline. This self explanatory guide to destroying infrastructure hits close to home in this chilling movie from Elevation Pictures now causing time to pause at The International Village Cinemas and various Cineplex cites and Landmark viewing centers around B.C.
Locals with long memories might recall British Columbia has long been a hotbed of radicalism. First we saw the fire bombing of a Red Hot Video stare in once upon a time quiet North Vancouver in the early seventies. Flash forward to the mayhem and destruction a group of well-heeled terrorists levied again gas pipeline infrastructure in the B.C. North just a few years back. Against this backdrop comes this movie that recounts the efforts of a group of idealistic (?) young men and women determined to make a difference.
Yes, we all know climate change is real. Sorry doubters. Free country. Instead of scenic British Columbia rural Texas turns out to be the assembly stage for this small group of desperadoes out to set a chill deep in the heart of big oil. This thriller of a drama takes a hard look at the motivations of this lot as they meticulously plot to teach the oil companies a lesson. All this sounds like it’s right out of the Al Quida playbook as we see just how the seeds of hatred develop among this subclass of people.
What How To Blow Up a Pipeline reveals is just how dangerous these bent on destruction disciples can be. Great acting and the tension packed into this film shows the ups and downs on planning and executing a wanton act of destruction – something that is becoming all too common in this truly messed up world. Eco-Terrorism turns out to be alive and well in the dark hearts of some perceived to be aggrieved idealistic climate fanatics out to make a difference through tactics they perceive as being legitimate and necessary,

 

2023 Kia Niro EV – Big Improvements to the new model

Review by Veeno Dewan

The 2023 Kia Niro is larger than its predecessor, with a stylish exterior redesign and in addition to the well-equipped spec – a more comprehensive suite of safety features. First a bot of confession, our family had a 2021 Kia Niro EV which did stellar service until we traded it in a few weeks ago for a new 2023 Ultimate fully loaded version! Why because we thinks it great!
The new 2023 model that has a sportier sleeker look with an impressive drag coefficient of 0.29. There are new daytime running lights. At the rear, there are fancy boomerang LED taillights and a skid plate garnish feature. As a finishing touch, depending on body color, the EV Niro has a cool “Aero Blade’ panel feature on the rear flanks. Its not purely a cosmetic touch, and aids airflow underneath the D-pillar. The Aero Blade can be painted in body colour or in a variety of contrasting hues.
Interestingly there are three available power trains: HEV hybrid, PHEV plug-in hybrid, and all-electric EV. All Niros are front-wheel drive. A six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission is standard in the HEV and PHEV. The HEV features a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine coupled with a 32-kW permanent magnet synchronous electric motor, for a combined maximum output of 139 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. Kia claims the HEV returns between 4.4 L/100 km – 4.8 L/100 km of combined fuel economy and a driving range of nearly 950 km.

The PHEV has a 1.6L four-cylinder engine with a 62-kW electric motor, and a lithium-ion polymer battery for a total system output of 180 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque. Fully charged, the all-electric range of the PHEV is up to 55 km. Standard on the HEV and PHEV models with navigation, is the excellent Green Zone Drive Mode, which automatically switches into EV drive mode in residential areas, and nearby schools and hospitals
The all-electric EV is powered by a larger than before 64.8-kWh battery and a 150-kW (201 hp) motor with DC fast-charging capability. Plugged in to a Level 3 fast charger, the EV battery can replenish to 80 percent from 10% in less than 45 minutes, at a maximum charging capability of 85 kW. The 11-kW onboard charger also helps recharge the EV in under seven hours on a Level 2 charger.
The Niro EV is rated for 385 km of range, while optimised range is 407 km. An optional heat pump and battery warmer help preserve range in cold temperatures. One very handy feature in the new EV is the V2L (Vehicle-to-load) function, which allows the passenger to power external electric devices with the vehicle battery.
Inside, as usual one cannot help but be impressed with how well- appointed and well-finished the cabin is. With good visibility and a roomy interior, there is a classy upscale look to the dash and front driver’s cockpit. It’s all black detailing set off with metal look high quality controls and gauges. SX trim Niro’s arrive with LED lighting, LED foglamps, 10.25 Multimedia screen, 7” LCD supervision cluster and Harmon Kardon audio system.
The standard infotainment system is an 8.0-inch touchscreen, but a larger 10.3-inch unit is installed on higher trim levels. The tech systems are intuitive and simple to use. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. Kia’s UVO3 interface IS wonderful, intuitive, and easy to use. Seats and passenger cabin space is comfortable with ample room in all areas.
The bigger dimensions means more cargo capacity behind the rear seats to 646 litres Niro models offer plenty of head- and legroom even for tall passengers sitting in the back, and a flexible cargo area.
Safety is good with standard equipment such as: automatic high beams, lane-keeping assist, available forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking, Available adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go technology, Available blind-spot monitor, and rear cross-traffic alert, plus much more.
On the road, the Niro EV electric motor’s 201 hp and 291 lb-ft of torque gives you effortless power especially in Sport mode. However, in Eco, Eco+, and Normal modes, torque is held a tad to minimize torque steer and wheel spin. Meanwhile selectable drive modes are a handy feature.
The 20232 Niro EV’s low center of gravity and independent suspension gives it a smooth ride and neutral handling. One pedal driving is easy with the multi -level regenerative braking. With good road manners, generous driving no-gas range, an excellent equipment spec and a practical roomy interior, the Niro EV is very tempting if you are in the market for as an electric- only CUV. The Kia Niro is good…very good. Highly recommended.

2023 Kia Niro EV. Priced from: $26,995 – $54,695.
More info at www.kia.caom.

Living with Chucky

Killer Chiller!

Smart people who follow the movie business know that horror movies are the most profitable of all films. They even beat out porn, if you’ll excuse the expression. Fear fills seats. Now for the first time a documentary has arrived that takes the wraps off of one of the most famous “beloved”? series of them all. Welcome to the world of a cute little doll with attitude in the awesomely revealing, entertaining and insightful Living with Chucky. Sounds better than dying with Chucky, doesn’t it? Either way this monster hit of a monster that never stops giving is worth checking out on streaming services such as Apple, Xbox and Google play and many more across Canada courtesy of EGPR
Long known as the grand daddy/master of horror films monster king Universal Studios took a chance on an offbeat film called Child’s Play lo those many years ago. Somehow that film caught on and what has followed is an onslaught of killer films all starring Chucky. Quite naturally Living with Chucky takes us back in time to see just how this demon seed of a doll caught on – bad language and all.
Made by the daughter of one of the original crew this documentary explores the origins of this series and delves deep as to how a determined producer ( and friend/collaborator of Steven Spielberg no less) got a group of talented technicians together to create a youthful phenomena. Blessed with an offbeat story and insightful director they made celluloid history and all on a low budget at the start..
Here we get up close and personal to see the genesis of a movement with a cult following. Long before the tough talking Ted there was Chucky.
Brought to life by an awesome group of puppeteers the creators managed to churn out over the top stories that took a life of their own, building more and more fans along the way. With this documentary we see the creative process unfold. Above all else it stresses the dynamic of hard-working professionals that had come together at first with a hope and a prayer yet managed to build momentum after their first surprising success. Better and better they got as the scripts got campier and campier yet grew an undeniably loyal fanbase that is still going strong to this very day. While as we speak a new television series with that cute faced killer of a doll is being shot in Toronto.
Wild, wacky and deliciously funny this historic look at the ultimate campy horror icon is definitely worth watching.

New 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6 EV: 581 km EV range is Awesome!

By Veeno Dewan

The latest addition to Hyundai’s fully Electric Vehicle lineup is the Ioniq 6, a five- door sedan with a pure EV powertrain. Recently we got to have a look and experience the car at a Hyundai ride and drive event in Vancouver.
The Ioniq 6 is certainly a striking looking car with its dramatic elegant sweeping double curved side profile that makes the car so distinctive. A dynamic front fascia has air inlets and active grille shutters for improved aerodynamics The flush fitting door handles are touch operated and the rear is very unique two decked spoilers. Multiple pixel illumination is another cool design featured element both inside and outside the car.
The Ioniq 6 is as aerodynamic as they come with a super low drag coefficient of just 0.22 that helps with excellent driving range. The Ioniq 6 is the second Hyundai model to ride on Hyundai’s Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) that allows for dual motors, optimized interior space, performance. The 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6 comes in a rear-wheel-drive base version with 18-inch wheels and 225 hp/ 258 lb-ft of torque from the 77-4-kWh battery pack paired with a 168-kW motor. Driving range on this model is a fantastic 581 km officially!
The AWD model has a 74-kW motor on the front axle and a 165-kW motor at the rear and delivers 509 km of driving with the 18-inch wheels. Opting for the larger 20-inch wheels drops range to 435 km, In fact, Natural Resources Canada (NRC) recently confirmed the Ioniq 6 now holds the national title of “Best-in-Class” when it comes to range versus power efficiency.
Pricing starts at MSRP $54,999 for Ioniq 6 Preferred RWD Long Range trim, while the AWD trim starts at $57,999.
The Ioniq 6 is equipped with up-to date technology and best-in-class ultra-fast 800-volt/350 kW charging that can charge the battery from 10 to 80 percent in as little as 18 minutes. It can gain up to 322 kilometres of range in 15 minutes of charging. There is also a battery pre-heater, and charge prep
function
The Ioniq 6 includes elevated levels of standard equipment such as: Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Heated front seats and steering wheel, Power trunk, Rear view camera with dynamic guidelines. There is also the super useful vehicle-to-load outlet and a V2L port capable of an 110V, 15-amp output at 1.9 kW to power external accessories. Another excellent feature is Hyundai’s BlueLink+ digital key, which allows you to unlock and start the IONIQ 6 with your smartphone. Hyundai offers its Bluelink Connected Car Services for a period of three years with Over-the-Air update capability.
Safety is also high with: Blind-Spot Collision Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, Highway Drive Assist, full airbags complement and much more.
The Ioniq 6 cabin is not as radical as the exterior design, with a neat, minimalist look and feel. Multicolor adjustable ambient lighting can adjust the mood and tone in the car. Interior as standard features include Leather-wrapped steering wheel with interactive pixel lights, 12.3” LCD cluster display, Highlights include premium materials and a roomy cabin. There is a full digital dash dual-display enclosure with twin 12.3-inch screens, one for driver data and the other a multimedia touchscreen. However, there are ,physical shortcut buttons for the infotainment system and capacitive touch climate controls. Other items include Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, Front, center, and dual rear multiple format USB input/charging. The front and rear seats were amazingly comfortable and there is ample legroom front and rear. Rear headroom is tad compromised by the fastback roofline, but the cabin feels light and airy. the trunk can hold 11.2 cubic feet, with a nice low and wide opening. Meanwhile the “frunk” (front trunk), is more for storing chare cables with its shallow plastic tray
On the test drive, the Ioniq 6 is supremely smooth effortless and relaxing to drive. And made easier by the autonomous Highway drive assist system that allows for keeping a set distance from the vehicle in front, assists in lane changes. There is decent handling, and strong acceleration, while road feel, handling traction and braking are all faultless. there are multiple drive modes and an i-Pedal, for one touch driving.
The Ioniq 6 has already won numerous prestigious awards during the past few months as it has been named “‘Saloon of the Year” at the 2023 GQ Car Awards and “New Car of the Year” by Le Guide de l’auto. Plus, it achieved a five-star safety rating and “Best in Class” selection in the ‘Large Family Car’ category from Euro NCAP. The Ioniq 6 is available in Hyundai Dealerships across Canada Starting this Spring. Watch out for full drive soon. Th verdict is in and its good! Highly recommended.

 

B.C. expands EV charging, leads country in going electric

Photo: Unsplash

As British Columbians are embracing zero-emission vehicles faster than any other jurisdiction in Canada, the Province is helping them go electric with $26 million in new funding for public charging stations.
“British Columbians are switching to clean energy and cleaner transportation in record numbers as part of our CleanBC plan and leading Canada in the transition to zero emission vehicles,” said Josie Osborne, Minister of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation. “The new funding we are announcing today to expand B.C.’s public charging network will help get more EVs on the road, reduce our reliance on fossil fuels, and lower fuel costs for people.”
The Province’s newly released annual report about zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) shows they represented 18.1% of new light-duty passenger vehicles sold in 2022 – the highest percentage for any province or territory. To support British Columbians’ transition to electric vehicles and to help industry lower its emissions, year-end funding of $26 million will go toward the CleanBC Public Charging Program for light-duty vehicle charging.
The new funding will support approximately 250 more public light-duty fast-charging stations, including stations to complete the Electric Highway, a CleanBC Roadmap to 2030 commitment that will make recharging easier in every corner of the province.
The 2022 ZEV Update report highlights CleanBC Go Electric rebates and programs that have helped drive growth in the number of electric vehicles in B.C. The number of registered light-duty EVs rose from 5,000 in 2016 to more than 100,000 today – a 1,900% increase in the past six years. Last year, 30,004 zero-emission vehicles were bought in B.C., beating the previous record of 24,263 in 2021.

In addition, the report outlines progress in the installation of public charging stations across British Columbia, which now has one of the largest public charging networks in Canada, with more than 3,800 charging stations at the end of 2022. That compares to just 781 charging stations in 2016.
The CleanBC Roadmap to 2030, released in 2021, details a range of expanded actions to accelerate the switch to cleaner transportation, including strengthening the Zero-Emission Vehicles Act to require 26% of light-duty vehicle sales to be ZEV by 2026, 90% by 2030 and 100% by 2035 — five years ahead of the original target, and implementing the Clean Transportation Action Plan.
CleanBC is a pathway to a more prosperous, balanced and sustainable future. It supports government’s commitment to climate action to meet B.C.͛s emission targets and build a cleaner, stronger economy for everyone.

Quotes:
George Heyman, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy –
“Transportation accounts for about 40% of emissions in B.C., which is why we are committed to accelerating requirements for ZEVs and setting new standards for medium- and heavy-duty vehicles. To support this uptake, we continue to expand B.C.’s electric vehicle charging network, with a target of having 10,000 public EV charging stations by 2030.”

Lisa Beare, MLA for Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows –
“British Columbians are committed to choosing green travel alternatives, and it’s great that our government is able to support current and future EV owners with new funding for chargers. Together, British Columbia is meeting and exceeding our CleanBC targets, which is good news for generations to come.”

Bob D’Eith, MLA for Maple Ridge-Mission –
“We’re expanding our network of EV chargers to help people get around and explore B.C. all while using sustainable green technology. With this investment, EV users will be able to charge their vehicles in all corners of the province, which helps open doors for clean, affordable and accessible transportation.”

Dan Ruimy, mayor, Maple Ridge –
“The City of Maple Ridge fully supports the expansion of EV infrastructure as part of the local and global push to meet greenhouse gas targets. The city has invested in EV and hybrid fleet vehicles charging facilities throughout the city to support our residents who are making cleaner transportation choices and looking for low-cost charging options. Our upcoming Climate Action Leadership Summit taking place on Thursday, April 13, highlights how partnerships and collaboration with other levels of government can be leveraged and investments such as this one can help us make meaningful progress on climate
action.”

Blair Qualey, president and CEO, New Car Dealers Association of BC –

“B.C.’s new car dealers are proud to be involved in a true partnership that has been so instrumental in B.C. establishing and maintaining a leadership position in zero-emission vehicle adoption. Ongoing investments that continue to support the CleanBC Go Electric rebate program and the availability of adequate charging infrastructure for consumers and businesses will be critical to the Province meeting its ZEV mandate targets, while also creating the promise of a greener and stronger economic future for British Columbians.”

Harry Constantine, president, Vancouver Electric Vehicle Association –

“Expanding the buildout of the Electric Highway and establishing a network of charging stations are critical steps for moving the adoption of electric vehicles forward. This stands to benefit all British Columbians, including remote communities. We are very pleased to see the Province investing in these measures.”

India assures Ukraine of enhanced humanitarian aid

India has assured Ukraine of enhanced humanitarian assistance after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky requested it in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Meenakshi Lekhi, Minister of State for External Affairs, met with Ukraine’s First Deputy Foreign Minister Emine Dzhaparova on Tuesday.
During the meeting, Dzhaparova expressed Kyiv’s desire to build a stronger and closer relationship with New Delhi to her Indian counterparts.
“Pleased to meet Ukrainian First Dy FM Emine Dzhaparova. Exchanged views on bilateral & global issues of mutual interest. Cultural ties & women empowerment also figured in the discussion. Ukraine was assured of enhanced humanitarian assistance,” Lekhi said in a tweet.
Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking additional humanitarian aid including medical equipment from India, the external affairs ministry said on Wednesday.
The request came during the recent three-day visit to India by Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Emine Dzhaparova who handed over Zelenskyy’s letter to Union Minister of State for External Affairs Meenakashi Lekhi, a statement from the foreign ministry said.
“Dzhaparova also called on Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture, Meenakashi Lekhi. Besides holding discussions on a wide range of bilateral and international issues of mutual interest, she handed over a letter from President Zelenskyy, addressed to Prime Minister Modi. Ukrainian request for additional humanitarian supply, including medicines and medical equipment was also shared by her,” according to the statement released by the Ministry of External Affairs.

Source: FPJ

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