Alpha Motor Opens Reservations For Its Retro-Looking Electric Pickup

Zac Estrada

Zac Estrada is a reporter covering transportation, technology and policy. A former reporter for The Verge and Jalopnik, his work has also appeared in Automobile Magazine, Autoweek, Pacific Standard, Boston.com and BLAC Detroit. A native of Southern California, he is a graduate of Northeastern University in Boston. You can find him on Twitter at @zacestrada.

Alpha Wolf electric truck

The electric pickup truck market is charging up even before the first models have hit the road.

Last week, Irvine-based Alpha Motor Inc. and Torrance-based Canoo unveiled their versions that they hope will compete with legacy companies like Ford and General Motors.

The Alpha Wolf Utility Truck, like Canoo's pickup, is a much smaller version than the gas-powered vehicles on the market. The two-seat pickup truck is just 188 inches long, about a foot shorter than the smallest gasoline-powered pickup currently on sale in the U.S. Alpha plans to offer two and four-wheel-drive versions of the Wolf with a 75-85 kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery and projects a range of about 275 miles on a full charge.


It will be priced between $36,000 and $46,000 when it goes into production as early as 2023. With the current $7,500 federal tax credit for EVs, as well as the current $1,500 California Clean Fuel Reward, an Alpha Wolf would not only be one of the least-expensive new pickups, but also cost a fraction of what large electric trucks from General Motors and Amazon-backed Rivian Automotive are expected to sell for.

"If priced right, I feel pretty confident and excited about both," said Robby DeGraff, an auto industry analyst for Tustin-based AutoPacific.

DeGraff said both Alpha and Canoo's offerings are unlikely to sway traditional truck buyers away from brands like Chevrolet and Ford, though. But the Alpha Wolf's styling — which runs against the traditional macho image of full-size pickups — might make it attractive to outdoor enthusiasts who currently drive brands like Subaru. The Alpha Wolf would also appeal to buyers looking for vehicles in the upper-$20,000 to upper-$30,000 range, an area underserved by current pickup offerings.

"The vast majority of the hype I've been hearing or seeing about the Canoo and Alpha Wolf EV pickups is coming from friends and colleagues who partake in active outdoor recreation," DeGraff said. "They want to take the Canoo electric pickup camping deep into the woods. They want to throw a pair of mountain bikes in the back of the retro-looking Alpha Wolf and depart ASAP to Moab."

With a 65-inch-long bed, the Wolf would be short on cargo-hauling compared to the midsize pickups currently on sale. But Alpha will be able to tow up to 3,000 pounds and get from zero to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds, about a second faster than a V6-powered Toyota Tacoma. Other features promoted by Alpha were multiple charging ports inside the Wolf's interior, along with a minimalist design for the dashboard and two large digital displays, and multiple outlets for charging electronic devices.

The Alpha Wolf is the latest in Alpha's spree of product announcements, the first of which was the Icon Electric Utility Vehicle unveiled in December. Designed for both consumer and commercial use, Alpha says the Icon is meant to be adapted as an SUV, van or truck thanks to its "skateboard-like chassis."

Earlier this year, the company announced The Jax Crossover Utility Vehicle and shares the Wolf's battery components but is styled to look more like an SUV rival and is estimated to cost between $38,000 and $48,000. The Ace Coupe was announced earlier this year with two levels of performance, available all-wheel drive and a projected $32,000 starting price. Reservations for the Ace, Jax and Wolf are open on Alpha's website, but unlike other EV startups, they aren't taking deposits.

Alpha joins a growing group of both legacy and startup automakers trying to establish the electric pickup truck market, even though none of the models have yet to reach customers.

Canoo Inc. revealed its radically shaped compact pickup truck concept last week, packed with innovative storage solutions, about 200 miles of range and a projected 2023 on-sale date. Rivian expects first deliveries of its $75,000 R1T pickup truck and related R1S SUV as early as June, and plans to open a showroom in Laguna Beach later this year.

Ford Motor Company, also a Rivian investor, is expected to unveil an all-electric version of its full-size F-150 as soon as this year, along with a small pickup truck with an internal combustion engine. Archrival GM's GMC Hummer EV, announced last October, is expected to reach customers this fall with as much as 1,000 horsepower and an initial price of at least $112,000. Elon Musk said in January production of the Tesla Cybertruck, previewed in 2019, could start by the end of this year, but volume sales will likely begin in early 2022.

⏳Top Productivity Techniques for Entrepreneurs

In the busy world of entrepreneurship, staying productive is crucial for achieving success. With numerous tasks (and social media) competing for your attention, it can be tough to stay organized and focused. Fortunately, several proven productivity hacks can help you manage your time effectively and prioritize your workload. These strategies are backed by research and have been used by successful individuals in various fields. In this listicle, we’ll explore five effective productivity hacks, including the Pomodoro Technique and the Eisenhower Matrix, that can improve your work habits and enhance your entrepreneurial efforts.


The Pomodoro Technique

Developed by Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s, the Pomodoro Technique uses a kitchen timer to break work into intervals, typically 25 minutes long, followed by short breaks. Cirillo named the method after the tomato-shaped timer he used as a university student, and it has since been adopted by many professionals and students to enhance focus and productivity. To implement it:

  • Choose a task to work on
  • Set a timer for 25 minutes
  • Work on the task until the timer rings
  • Take a short 5-minute break
  • After 4 pomodoros, take a longer 15-30 minute break

The Eisenhower Matrix

Named after former U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower, this prioritization method helps individuals categorize tasks based on urgency and importance. Eisenhower famously stated, "What is important is seldom urgent and what is urgent is seldom important," which underscores the value of distinguishing between these two aspects to effectively manage time and tasks. This prioritization method helps you focus on what's truly important by categorizing tasks into four quadrants based on urgency and importance:

  1. Urgent and important: Do immediately
  2. Important but not urgent: Schedule for later
  3. Urgent but not important: Delegate if possible
  4. Neither urgent nor important: Eliminate

Time Blocking

Time blocking is a technique used by many successful entrepreneurs, including Jack Dorsey and Cal Newport, to allocate specific periods for different types of work. By scheduling tasks in advance, individuals can minimize distractions and ensure they dedicate focused time to their most important responsibilities. This creates structure and helps minimize context switching. For example:

  1. 9-11 AM: Deep work on top priority project
  2. 11 AM-12 PM: Respond to emails/messages
  3. 1-3 PM: Meetings
  4. 3-5 PM: Administrative tasks

The Two-Minute Rule

Popularized by productivity expert David Allen in his book "Getting Things Done," the Two-Minute Rule states that if a task can be completed in two minutes or less, you should do it immediately. This approach helps prevent small tasks from piling up and cluttering your to-do list, allowing for a more organized workflow.


Batching Similar Tasks

Batching tasks is a technique used by many high-performing individuals, including writer Tim Ferriss, who advocates for grouping similar activities to minimize context switching. By focusing on one type of task at a time, such as responding to emails or making phone calls, you can increase efficiency and reduce mental fatigue.


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LA Startups Supercharging Cars and Dating 🚗⚡💑

🔦 Spotlight

Happy Friday Los Angeles!

EVgo Inc., a leading Electric Vehicle (EV) charging company based in West Los Angeles, has seen substantial growth under CEO Badar Khan. The company now operates over 3,400 fast chargers across 1,000 sites nationwide, strategically placed in high-traffic urban and suburban areas to enhance convenience for EV users. EVgo’s model focuses on owning and managing its charging stations to ensure a seamless experience, reflecting its commitment to supporting the mass adoption of electric vehicles and facilitating the transition to cleaner transportation.

In a different electrifying market, Joe Feminella, inspired by his own successful dating journey, launched the dating app, First Round’s On Me in El Segundo with $5 million in funding. This app differentiates itself by requiring users to schedule a date within 24 hours of matching, and after a soft launch in select markets, it expanded nationwide in 2024. As the dating app market faces criticism over algorithmic practices and premium features, First Round’s On Me aims to offer a more genuine and immediate dating experience. Both EVgo and First Round’s On Me exemplify how companies in different industries are addressing their respective market challenges with innovative approaches to improve user experience and engagement.


🤝 Venture Deals

LA Companies

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LA Venture Funds

  • Crosscut Ventures participated in an $8.9M Series A Extension for Nostra AI, a startup that helps e-commerce businesses improve their website performance by speeding up load times. - learn more
  • Fika Ventures, an eight-year-old Los Angeles venture capital firm, has raised a fourth fund in the amount of $160 million to invest in early-stage B2B startups. - learn more

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      🍵☕️Top 6 Coffee Alternatives for Enhanced Productivity

      In the fast-paced world of startups and venture capital in Los Angeles, maintaining peak productivity is essential for founders and investors alike. As the hustle intensifies, many are seeking alternatives to traditional coffee that not only provide a sustained energy boost but also support overall health and well-being. The following list highlights some of the top-rated coffee alternatives that can enhance focus and productivity while minimizing the adverse effects of caffeine. These options incorporate adaptogens, superfoods, and gut-friendly ingredients, making them ideal choices for those looking to optimize their performance without the afternoon crash.


      Matcha

      Image Source: Jade Leaf Matcha

      Matcha is a finely ground green tea that offers a moderate amount of caffeine, along with L-theanine, which promotes relaxation without drowsiness. This combination can enhance focus and concentration, making matcha a suitable alternative for those looking to boost productivity without the jitters of coffee.

      Popular Brands: ReNude Chaga Matcha (60 mg caffeine), Golde Pure Matcha (60 mg caffeine), Organic Ceremonial Matcha - Teahouse Edition (30 mg caffeine)


      Dandelion Root Coffee

      Image Source: Amazon

      Dandelion root coffee is a caffeine-free alternative that mimics the taste of coffee. It is known for its potential to support liver health and digestion, which can contribute to overall well-being and productivity. The drink can help avoid the acidity and jitters that often accompany regular coffee, making it a gentler option for those sensitive to caffeine.

      Popular Brands: Dandy Blend (0 mg caffeine), Teeccino Dandelion Dark Roast (0 mg caffeine)


      Adaptogenic Drinks

      Image Source: MUD\WTR Masala Chai

      Adaptogenic beverages, which include ingredients like ashwagandha, reishi, and maca, are designed to help the body adapt to stress and promote mental clarity. These drinks can provide a sustained energy boost without the crash, supporting productivity throughout the day. They are often made with superfoods and spices that enhance both physical and mental performance.

      Popular Brands: MUD\WTR Masala Chai (35 mg caffeine), Four Sigmatic Think Coffee (150 mg caffeine), ReNude Chagaccino (0 mg caffeine)


      Golden Milk (Turmeric Latte)

      Image Source: Golde

      Golden milk, made from turmeric, ginger, and milk (or a milk alternative), is a caffeine-free option that can improve mood and reduce inflammation. The calming properties of this drink can help maintain focus and clarity, making it a great addition to a productive morning routine.

      Popular Brands: Golde Turmeric Latte Blend (0 mg caffeine), Blume Turmeric Blend (0 mg caffeine), Four Sigmatic Golden Latte Mix (0 mg caffeine)



      Chicory Root Coffee

      Image Source: Teeccino

      Chicory root coffee is an excellent alternative that satisfies the desire for a warm beverage without caffeine. It is rich in inulin, a prebiotic fiber that aids in digestion and promotes gut health by supporting beneficial bacteria. Chicory coffee has a nutty, earthy flavor and can help control blood sugar levels, contributing to overall energy and productivity throughout the day.

      Popular Brands: Anthony’s Instant Chicory Root (0 mg caffeine), Teeccino Chicory Coffee Alternative (0 mg caffeine)


      Yerba Mate

      Image Source: Guayaki Yerba Mate

      Yerba mate is a traditional South American herbal tea made from the leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant. It contains about 40-80 mg of caffeine per serving, which is less than a standard cup of coffee but enough to provide a gentle energy boost. Yerba mate is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, and users often report feeling energized without the jitters or crashes associated with coffee. It has a unique, slightly bitter flavor and can be enjoyed in various forms, including loose-leaf tea and pre-brewed options.

      Popular Brands: Guayaki Yerba Mate (40-150 mg caffeine)


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