Car Automotive

The Winter Freeze: Real-World Range Degradation in Pre-Owned 2024 EVs (LFP vs. NMC)
Used Cars

The Winter Freeze: Real-World Range Degradation in Pre-Owned 2024 EVs (LFP vs. NMC)

- by Riley Butler

By early 2026, the “great battery split” of 2024 has become a major talking point in the pre-owned market. If you are shopping for a two-year-old EV today, you aren’t just choosing between brands; you are choosing between chemistries. The 2024 model year saw a massive surge in Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries in entry-level trims (like the Tesla Model 3 RWD) and Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) in long-range variants.

As these cars face their second or third winter, real-world telemetry has revealed a stark contrast in how they handle the “Big Freeze.”

1. The Chemistry of Cold: Why Ions Slow Down

At a molecular level, temperature is simply a measure of kinetic energy. When the mercury drops below $0^{\circ}\text{C}$, the electrolyte inside a battery becomes more viscous—essentially “thicker”—making it harder for lithium ions to move between the anode and cathode.

  • LFP’s Struggle: LFP batteries use an olivine crystal structure.
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The Retained Value Duel: Hyundai Ioniq 6 vs. Ford Mustang Mach-E Depreciation Over 3 Years (2023–2026)
Used Cars

The Retained Value Duel: Hyundai Ioniq 6 vs. Ford Mustang Mach-E Depreciation Over 3 Years (2023–2026)

- by Riley Butler

As the automotive world settles into 2026, the initial “gold rush” of the electric vehicle transition has matured into a robust used market. For buyers and sellers alike, the most critical metric is no longer 0–60 mph times or software Easter eggs; it is residual value.

Three years ago, in 2023, the Hyundai Ioniq 6 and the Ford Mustang Mach-E were two of the most sought-after non-Tesla EVs on the market. Now, with those three-year leases ending and vehicles hitting the second-hand market, we have a clear picture of which brand’s strategy held water—and which one was submerged by depreciation.

1. The State of the Market: MSRP vs. Reality

The 2023 model year was a chaotic starting point for this comparison. It was the year of the “Tesla Price Wars,” where aggressive cuts by Elon Musk forced both Ford and Hyundai to slash MSRPs mid-cycle.

In 2026, we see …

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The Best Used Electric Cars Under $25,000 Eligible for Federal Used EV Tax Credits in 2026
Used Cars

The Best Used Electric Cars Under $25,000 Eligible for Federal Used EV Tax Credits in 2026

- by Riley Butler

The year 2026 has become a “perfect storm” for savvy electric vehicle buyers. A massive wave of 2023 and 2024 lease returns is currently flooding dealership lots, driving prices to historic lows. Simultaneously, the federal government’s Used Clean Vehicle Credit (IRC 25E) remains a powerful tool, offering an immediate “point-of-sale” discount of up to $4,000.

If you are looking to transition to electric for less than the cost of a new base-model Corolla, here is how to navigate the 2026 market and which cars offer the best bang for your buck.

1. The 2026 Tax Credit Landscape: What You Need to Know

In 2026, the federal used EV tax credit is no longer a “wait until April” tax break. It is an instant rebate. Most participating dealers now allow you to transfer the credit directly to them, lowering your “out-the-door” price at the moment of purchase.

Key Eligibility Rules:

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How to Verify Battery State of Health (SOH) in Used 2023 Tesla Model 3 Lease Returns
Used Cars

How to Verify Battery State of Health (SOH) in Used 2023 Tesla Model 3 Lease Returns

- by Riley Butler

The 2023 Tesla Model 3 was a benchmark year for the world’s most popular electric sedan. However, as the first wave of 12-month and 24-month lease returns hits the used market in 2026, prospective buyers face a unique challenge. Unlike a traditional internal combustion vehicle, where a high-mileage engine can be assessed by sound or oil quality, an EV’s “engine”—the battery—is a silent black box.

In the 2023 vintage, Tesla utilized two distinct battery chemistries: Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) for the Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) models and Nickel Cobalt Aluminum (NCA) for the Long Range and Performance variants. Understanding how to verify the State of Health (SOH) of these specific packs is the difference between a savvy investment and a costly mistake.

1. The 2023 Battery Landscape

Before diving into the diagnostics, you must identify what you are testing.

  • Model 3 RWD (LFP): These packs are incredibly durable and designed to
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Affordable Used Trucks and SUVs for Sale in the Houston Area
Used Cars

Affordable Used Trucks and SUVs for Sale in the Houston Area

- by Riley Butler

If you are in the market for a reliable and affordable used truck or SUV in the Houston area, you’ll be pleased to know that there are plenty of options available for budget-conscious buyers. Whether you need a rugged truck for work or a spacious SUV for family adventures, finding a quality vehicle at a reasonable price is essential. To help you in your search, we’ve compiled a list of places where you can find cheap used trucks and SUVs for sale in the Houston area.

Top Places to Find Cheap Used Trucks and SUVs in Houston:

1. DriveTime Houston:

DriveTime Houston is a trusted name when it comes to affordable and reliable used vehicles. With a wide selection of trucks and SUVs at competitive prices, DriveTime offers options for buyers with varying budgets. Their dealership in Houston provides a hassle-free buying experience, making it a popular choice for those …

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