The electric vehicle market is picking up and while Tesla has been the sole conversation, a legacy automaker is emerging with incredible momentum. General Motors just broke a new monthly sales record for its electric vehicles and secured its place as the second-largest EV seller in the U.S.EV sales have more than doubled year-over-year in Q2 of 2025, and GM is showing that it can execute on a very solid plan.Here are the three key reasons for how the company is experiencing success.1. Affordable EVs Broaden the MarketGM identified this hurdle and solved it by smartly positioning itself in the affordable EV space. The Chevrolet Equinox EV has a reasonable starting price of $33,600 (before incentives), and an affordable option that can be compared to a Tesla Model Y.Competitive retail prices that are favorably positioned, such as the Chevrolet Equinox EV for $33,600.Appeals to a new class of first-time EV buyers that will gravitate toward low up-front costs.Expands its customer base to new/younger generations of drivers that tend to gravitate toward low-priced options measuring against gas-driven options.One of the largest wins is expanding GM's customer base and creating the framework for loyalty with the brand.The company continues to pursue these opportunities with a re-designed Chevrolet Bolt being made available for model year 2027, to build upon its already significant position with affordable electric vehicles.2. A Scalable and Flexible EV PlatformA key contributor to GM's possibility is its investment in the Ultium battery platform. Announced in 2020, the platform allows GM to scale EV production using the same technology, while producing EVs of all different sizes, from compact cars to full-size trucks.Additional benefits of the Ultium platform include:The capability to power everything from a compact car to a full-size truck with versatility.Lower production costs and less manufacturing complexity.A unique ability to make new models faster than its competitors, through modular innovation.The ability to incorporate next-generation features and technologies seamlessly.This move complements its current battery offerings, while accelerating blending of its EV offerings to create a sustainable lineup with new and innovative vehicles for years to come.3. Achieving Profitability from the EV SegmentPerhaps the most important milestone for GM to hit this year is achieving positive variable profitability for its EV lineup in 2024. Simply stated, the revenues gained from selling an electric vehicle (EV) now exceed the variable direct costs of producing an EV account for the labor and materials.Though GM has invested heavily in retooling existing factories to produce EVs, or building new assembly factories from scratch, GM has proven it can produce EVs profitably.Key impacts of achieving profitability are:Greater ability to reinvest in research, development, and new technologies for future innovation.Allows for the launch of new features such as longer battery range, and smart technology.Upon achieving potential profitability, greater flexibility to potentially price more competitively among customers.Enhanced ability for GM to react to changes in the EV market or economic process.Enable GM to expand its business into additional market segments while increasing overall production capacity.As this occurs, GM can keep pushing its new electric vehicles forward into new products, move into new segments, and in particular grow its shown EV market share.Commitment to Sustainability and Reducing EmissionsAnother contributing aspect of GM's EV rise is its focus on environmental responsibility. Part of GM's long-term aspiration includes a future with zero emissions. GM has made commitments by taking action ahead of its plans to reduce the carbon footprint from its manufacturing to its movement towards clean energy to reduce the carbon emissions of its operations.Set future goals and targets for improving GM's footprint.Help set a goal of zero-emissions vehicles across its vehicle lineup.Use recyclable and sustainable materials in making its vehicles.Continue to improve energy efficiency across all its manufacturing plants.What’s NextAlthough General Motors has made tremendous strides, there are still many challenges. The end of the $7,500 federal tax subsidy on September 30 may temporarily dampen the market. GM remains optimistic.With an attractive growing line of desirable EVs, an established national charging infrastructure, and a sustainable proving production model, GM stands in a strong position to maintain its growth and continue pushing for the pole position in the U.S. electric vehicle market.

Getting stranded with a dead car battery is never fun, but knowing how to jump start your car can save the day. Whether you're facing a cold winter morning or forgot to turn off your headlights, these straightforward methods will get you back on the road quickly and safely.What You Need to Know Before StartingJump starting a car is a simple process, but understanding why batteries die helps prevent future problems. Common culprits include leaving lights on overnight, extreme weather conditions, or natural battery wear. Your alternator typically charges the battery while driving, so if it's failing, you might face repeated dead battery situations.Method 1: Using Jumper Cables and Another VehicleThis traditional method requires finding a helpful driver with a working vehicle.Essential Tools:Quality jumper cables (8-10 gauge for small cars, 6 gauge for midsize, 4 gauge for large vehicles)A second vehicle with a working batteryStep-by-Step Process:Preparation Phase:Position the working vehicle close enough for cables to reach both batteriesTurn off both vehicles completely, including lights and accessoriesOpen both hoods and locate the batteriesCable Connection:Connect the red positive clamp to the dead battery's positive terminal firstAttach the other red clamp to the working vehicle's positive terminalConnect the black negative clamp to the working batteryAttach the final black clamp to an unpainted metal surface under the hood of the dead vehicle (not the negative terminal)Starting Process:Start the working vehicle and let it run for several minutes. Rev the engine slightly to boost power flow to the dead battery. The dashboard lights of the dead vehicle should illuminate, indicating power transfer.Attempt to start the dead vehicle. If successful, let both cars run for a few minutes before disconnecting cables. Remove cables in reverse order of installation.Method 2: Using a Portable Jump StarterPortable jump starters offer independence and convenience without requiring another vehicle.Essential Tools:Fully charged portable jump starterBuilt-in cables (usually included)Step-by-Step Process:Preparation:Ensure your jump starter is fully charged before emergencies arise. Most units require minimum battery levels to function effectively.Connection Process:Open your vehicle's hood and locate the batteryConnect the jump starter's red clamp to the positive terminalAttach the black clamp to the negative terminalTurn on the jump starter according to manufacturer instructionsStarting Your Vehicle:Attempt to start your car immediately after connecting. If successful, let the engine run for several minutes before disconnecting the jump starter. If unsuccessful, wait a few minutes and try again.Safety Tips and TroubleshootingSafety First:Never let cable clamps touch each other during the processAvoid smoking or creating sparks near batteriesWear safety glasses if availableCheck for battery damage or leaks before proceedingWhen Jump Starting Fails:If your car won't start after multiple attempts, the problem might extend beyond a simple dead battery. Possible issues include:Complete battery failure requiring replacementFaulty alternator not charging the batteryStarter motor problemsCorroded battery terminalsChoosing the Right EquipmentJumper Cable Selection:Wire gauge determines power transfer capability. Thicker cables (lower gauge numbers) work better for larger engines. Ensure cables are long enough to reach between vehicles comfortably.Portable Jump Starter Features:Modern jump starters often include USB ports, flashlights, and air compressors. Choose units with sufficient cranking amps for your vehicle's engine size.Prevention and MaintenanceRegular battery maintenance prevents unexpected failures. Clean terminals monthly, test battery voltage seasonally, and replace batteries showing signs of weakness. Cold weather significantly reduces battery capacity, so consider battery heaters in extreme climates.Jump starting your car doesn't require mechanical expertise, just careful attention to proper procedures. Keep quality jumper cables or a portable jump starter in your vehicle, and you'll never be stranded by a dead battery again.