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The last thing Elon Musk wants right now is barrelling toward Tesla
Michael Swensen/Getty Images and Michael Macor/The San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images
The United Auto Workers union won a critical vote at a plant in Tenessee. After a massive strike last year, the union set out to organize more factories that aren't represented, including Tesla. The union's white whale is Tesla, workers of which have never been represented by a union.Volkswagen workers in Tennessee voted Friday to join the United Auto Workers union in a huge victory for the once-embattled union as it works toward another run at organizing Tesla.
After two failed attempts by the UAW in Chattanooga in recent years, Friday's victory represents a turning point for the 89-year-old union. After years of dwindling membership, a messy federal criminal investigation, and high-profile automotive industry organizing failures, UAW President Shawn Fain is aiming to usher in a new era for his union.
The counting of the votes by the National Labor Relations Board continued late into Friday night, with Reuters reporting that a final tally of 2,628 to 985, or 73% of the votes, were in favor of unionizing.
After a 46-day strike that hit all three Detroit car companies simultaneously last year yielded some of the richest UAW contracts in recent memory, Fain said the UAW was just getting started.
A massive drive has since gone into full force as the union encourages thousands of non-union auto workers to sign union cards, targeting nearly 150,000 US auto workers across 13 companies — including those outside Detroit and, most notably, Tesla.
This week's victory at Volkswagen makes history as the UAW's first successful organizing campaign at a foreign car company in the South. After the election at Volkswagen, the UAW is pressing deeper into the South next month for another unionization vote at Mercedes-Benz's factory in Alabama.
The warm-up for Tesla
Conquering the South is just a warm-up for the big event for the UAW: Organizing Tesla.
Tesla has never held a union vote at any of its US facilities. The electric car company has long been an organizing target for the UAW, but aggressive anti-union culture and rhetoric from CEO Elon Musk have stymied efforts up until now.
The UAW's previous push at Tesla fizzled out by 2019 as a federal criminal investigation stole union leaders' attention, sent two previous UAW presidents to prison, and dented the public's trust in the union. The UAW has since undergone a government-led reform and Fain became the union's first democratically elected president in March 2023.
Some Tesla workers were in the early stages of forming a union during the UAW's massive strike this past fall, a union official told The New York Times. While Tesla initially benefited from these work stoppages, labor experts have warned that momentum for the UAW at other automakers could spell trouble for Tesla in the long run.
A successful UAW campaign is the last thing Elon Musk needs
Any major clash with the UAW would only add to Tesla's growing list of hurdles this year. After years of growth, Tesla reported declining deliveries in the first quarter of 2024, an early sign that not even the EV leader is immune to an industry-wide softening in demand for battery-powered cars.
On top of that, a year of slashing prices on its cars to appeal to more frugal EV shoppers has taken a toll on the company's industry-leading profit margins.
Tesla already increased wages for factory workers after the UAW's new raises went into effect, a move labor experts have said is designed to quell interest in union activity. Many Tesla workers already make more per hour than their unionized counterparts.
And in Sweden, Tesla is already locked in a dispute with striking mechanics that has worried investors since the start of the year.
An explosion occurred at a military base in Iraq, reports say
Fatemeh Bahrami/Anadolu via Getty Images
Explosions occurred at a military base south of Baghdad in Iraq, according to reports.The base is used by Harakat al Nujaba, an Iran-backed group, according to The New York Times.It's unclear who is responsible for the explosion. The reports come a day after an Israeli strike against Iran.Explosions occurred at a military base in Iraq early on Saturday, according to multiple reports.
The base, located south of Baghdad, is used by Harakat al Nujaba, an Iran-backed group, according to The New York Times.
An Iraqi security official told CNN at least three people were wounded in the blasts. A local hospital also told the Times three people were injured.
It is not clear who or what caused the explosions.
When reached by Business Insider, US Central Command noted a statement it shared on X, which said: "We are aware of reports claiming that the United States conducted airstrikes in Iraq today. Those reports are not true. The United States has not conducted air strikes in Iraq today."
The Department of Defense and the Israel Defense Forces did not immediately respond to requests for comment from BI.
The reports come a day after Israel struck Iran, according to reports that cited unnamed senior US officials. Several explosions were heard near an Iranian military base. The New York Times reported two Israeli defense officials acknowledged the strike on Friday was carried out by Israel.
Those explosions came days after Iran attacked Israel last weekend, launching more than 300 missiles and drones, almost all of which were shot down by IDF and ally forces, like the US.
Trump will face a grueling cross-examination about his lying, defaming, and books-cooking if the DA gets his way
Spencer Platt/Getty Images
Leaving his NY hush-money trial Friday, Trump said he plans to testify in his own defense.This was soon after he sat through a hearing on prior acts the DA hopes to cross him on.Trump would be confronted on his history of lying, falsifying documents, and ignoring judges.If former President Donald Trump keeps his promise to testify at his hush-money trial, cross-examination could get ugly.
Manhattan prosecutors said Friday that they want to grill Trump about that time he lied under oath, as the judge in his civil fraud trial found in October.
Prosecutors want to roast him on the stand for violating court orders, as the same fraud trial judge also found, in repeatedly citing Trump for gag-order violations.
And they want to barbecue Trump over the way he seemingly couldn't stop defaming writer E. Jean Carroll, who he was found liable of sexually abusing and defaming in a civil trial.
Possibly worse — given that Trump is on trial on charges of falsifying business documents — prosecutors also want to ask him about two trials where he and his executives were found to have falsified business documents. Those were the 2023 Trump Organization payroll-tax-fraud trial and, again, the civil fraud trial.
"Yes," Trump told reporters as he left court Friday, when asked if he will testify.
It was at least the second time the GOP frontrunner promised to take the stand in his own defense at the trial, in which he is accused of falsifying business documents as part of a scheme to interfere with the 2016 election.
The timing was noteworthy.
Just moments earlier, Trump sat through what's called a Sandoval hearing, where his lawyers and prosecutors argued over what "prior bad acts" could be fair game on his cross-examination.
Trump was visibly angry — scowling at the defense table — as his acts were sorted over.
On his way out of the courtroom, he thumped a wooden railing with his hand.
"We object to each," defense lawyer Emil Bove had said of all the acts prosecutors want to bring into the case.
During the nearly two-hour Sandoval hearing, Bove complained of the DA's plans to the trial judge, state Supreme Court Justice Juan Merchan.
Bove said that the verdicts, judgments, and contempt-of-court orders that prosecutors want to question Trump about are mostly under appeal and "unduly prejudicial," meaning they'd unfairly prejudice the jury against the former president.
The defense lawyer fought especially hard against jurors hearing that a federal jury in Manhattan had found Trump liable for violating Carroll with his hands during an assault in the mid-1990s — an attack that the judge said effectively amounted to rape.
"What is the theory of this trial?" Bove asked angrily.
"Are they making arguments about sexual misconduct?" he demanded. "This is a case about documents."
Trump's lying about sexual assault "is critical evidence that the jury should have in assessing his credibility if he testifies," countered Matthew Colangelo, a prosecutor for District Attorney Alvin Bragg.
Merchan said he would render a Sandoval decision Monday, to be followed by opening statements.
Prosecutors will then call their first witness, a person whose name has not yet been made public. Their testimony will not be finished before the day breaks early for the first day of Passover, prosecutors said.
When defense lawyers asked for a second time for prosecutors to give advance notice of who would be the first witness, they were again turned down. Prosecutors are under no obligation to give early notice of their witnesses.
When defense lawyer Susan Necheles suggested that not knowing the name now might "delay the trial," the judge reacted sternly.
"Whether you get the name or not, you are not going to delay the trial," the judge said.
"We don't want to, your honor," Necheles said.
"Well, you won't delay the trial," the judge snapped back.
Trump has consistently denied wrongdoing in the case. He faces a potential sentence of anywhere from zero to four years in jail if convicted.
12 surprisingly affordable things Taylor Swift has worn recently and where to buy them
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Taylor Swift is known for incorporating more affordable pieces into her looks, like Calzedonia tights (shown left) and Reformation dresses (shown right).Gotham/Robert Kamau/Getty Images
Taylor Swift's influence is undeniable: whether it's crashing Ticketmaster with her sold-out concert tickets (here's how to buy Eras tour tickets if you weren't one of the lucky ones who managed to nab tickets), setting streaming records, or causing a measurable boost in the US economy, almost everything the singer touches turns to gold.
The same can be said about her effect on fashion. Business Insider reporter Juliana Kaplan spoke with several small businesses about the "Swift Effect;" Taylor's ability to sell out items and create big business for small brands she wears. One brand, Wove Made, saw a 2,000% increase in sales when Swift was spotted wearing a custom bracelet to a Chiefs game.
While Taylor Swift is reportedly now a billionaire, you can still find a surprising number of affordable brands in the singer's wardrobe. Sarah Chapelle, the fashion reporter behind Taylor Swift Style (which was the first to identify most of the pieces named in this article) and author of a forthcoming book of the same name, told Kaplan that one of Swift's signature style choices is pairing designer pieces with items from accessible retailers. "This kind of approach really underlines her approachable, relatable image," Chapelle said.
Below are 12 affordable items that Swift has been spotted wearing recently and that are still in stock (or at least available for preorder). We've also rounded up Taylor's favorite red lipsticks, plus many more of her favorite accessories in our guide to the best Taylor Swift gifts.
Gilbert Flores/Getty Images; Halara
Swift and her boyfriend Travis Kelce recently attended Coachella to cheer on several of their performer friends, including Ice Spice and Jack Antonoff (her longtime collaborator and front man of Bleachers). Taylor was spotted in the crowd wearing a $40 mini skirt from Halara with a buckle garter detail. She paired the skirt with a hat supporting Kelce's podcast New Heights, which quickly sold out.
Read our Halara review.
Raymond Hall/Getty Images; Mazin Jewels
Swift has an extensive jewelry collection that spans an impressive price range — from pieces that cost tens of thousands of dollars, to several affordable items from brands like Mazin Jewels and Awe Inspired. She's been seen wearing pieces from Mazin at least half a dozen times in the past year, including at her 34th birthday party.
MEGA/Getty Images; Aritzia
According to Aritzia, the Sunday Best Trix Dress is also known as the "Taylor Swift" dress because of its popularity after the singer was spotted wearing it.
Gotham/Getty Images; Sheertex
Who doesn't love rip-proof tights? Swift is among the many fans of Sheertex, a brand making durable, comfortable tights. She's been seen wearing the brand's diamond pattern tights several times, including out to dinner in New York City and at Chiefs games. She's also been spotted in a $10 pair of tights from Calzedonia.
DAMEBK/Bauer-Griffin/Getty Images; lululemon
Swift is rarely pictured in athleisure, but when she is, she's often wearing lululemon. The tights pictured above come in numerous lengths, and Swift is wearing the 28" to accommodate her tall frame.
Gotham/Getty Images; Revolve
Swift is a big fan of Free People's skorts and has been seen in a number of the brand's styles, including the Emmy Denim Skort pictured above and its Heartbreaker Skort.
Robert Kamau/Getty Images; Little Lies
Swift wore this crushed velvet dress by the small UK brand Little Lies while out to dinner with Blake Lively in 2023. The dress is currently sold out, but you can sign up to be notified when it's back in stock.
At 31 songs, Taylor Swift's new album is way too long. Is the streaming era to blame?
John Shearer/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management
Taylor Swift released "The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology" on Friday.The surprise double album contains 31 new songs. Even as a fan, it's too much to process.Swift is famously prolific, but it's also a symptom of the streaming era's more-is-more mentality.Taylor Swift's album release days should be days of celebration. Instead, I woke up this morning with a vague sense of disquiet, somehow wishing I'd gotten fewer new songs from my most-streamed artist of all time.
At midnight on Friday, Swift unveiled her much-anticipated new album "The Tortured Poets Department" — a 16-track odyssey through her recent heartbreaks and wildest romantic whims, dense with personal revelations and intricate lyrics.
It's a lot to parse, more than any fan could hope for. But just as I was getting ready to sleep, Swift was only getting started.
At 2 a.m., she released an extended version of the album with 15 additional tracks, almost doubling its length.
Attentive fans had anticipated a late-night surprise of some kind, but hardly anyone had prepared for one of such magnitude. "In the past 3 hours she has released more songs than Lorde has in the past decade," one listener observed on X. That's not an exaggeration.
I already felt it'd take multiple business days for me to process the meta implications of "Clara Bow," let alone two full hours of Swift's most verbose work to date. Instead of going to bed contented, I suddenly felt squirrely and overwhelmed. In a 31-song tracklist, none of them have the space to breathe.
Now, before you accuse me of aimless hating or call me ungrateful, allow me to enter my credentials into evidence: The first time I heard "Our Song," I was 12 years old and instantly hooked. According to Spotify, I've spent the equivalent of several days listening to "Folklore." I went to The Eras Tour and cried.
So yes, as a Swiftie, I know the party line. We're lucky that our favorite artist is so prolific, so generous with her musings, while others haven't released new albums in eight years. (Looking at you, Rihanna.)
It's true that Swift's work ethic is a thing to behold. It's a point of both pride and pain in her new album: "I cry a lot, but I am so productive / It's an art," she sings on "I Can Do It With a Broken Heart" with self-deprecating swagger.
Indeed, "The Tortured Poets Department" is Swift's eighth album (including rerecords) in less than four years. Her constant whirlwind of activity is part of what's propelled her to supermassive stardom. It's all but guaranteed that there's always a theory online about her next release date, or another rabbit hole to fall down.
But in that sense, is there not a little too much to unpack? I can't be the only one who feels a little dizzy. In fact, I know I'm not. Another one of my Swiftie-certified friends shared with me that she's "ignoring the deluxe songs for now" because the standard edition of "Poets" is already enough to digest.
Surely, this can't be the ideal outcome for Swift's strategy: To overwhelm her loyal fans with such an opulent feast of music that some of us are full, rather than hungry for more.
Of course, Swift is far from the only artist who's released a bloated project, and these days, the streaming era is largely to blame. It's a simple concept: The more songs you have, the more streams you get. The more streams you get, the more money you make. Thus, albums have been getting longer and longer for years.
In this pragmatic pursuit of profit, artistry is bound to suffer. Potential hits get lost in the shuffle.
Worse still, the art of creating a cohesive tracklist becomes devalued. Why exercise discernment when it's better business to release the would-be scraps?
As a Swiftie, I find this to be especially obvious today of all days. The latter half of her double album contains some of the brightest gems, like "I Look in People's Windows" and "The Prophecy." But instead of getting their own moments to shine, they've been relegated to track slots 25 and 26 in a two-hour deluxe edition. They won't be included in CDs or vinyl copies. Casual fans may never even hear them, and those who do may be too zoned-out to appreciate them.
Swifties have demonstrated a knack for bringing delayed justice to bonus tracks, from "New Romantics" to "Right Where You Left Me" and "Would've, Could've, Should've," which have all become fan favorites over time. But fans shouldn't need to root through albums like vinyl crates; that's what the DJ gets paid to do. Curation is an art form, too.
In Swift's case, she may be too big to fail commercially. But an artist is never too big to improve her craft.
Rise of the Ronin is the dark horse of the March 22 releases | Kaser Focus
Warner Bros.' boss made bank last year, despite the Hollywood strikes
Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images
Warner Bros. Discovery Inc. CEO David Zaslav earned $49.7 million in 2023.Zaslav's compensation increased despite actors' and writers' strikes, topping his 2022 earnings.Warner Bros. reported losses for the year despite Zaslav's increased compensation.In a year when thousands of writers and actors were fighting for higher paychecks, one media mogul earned big.
The CEO of Warner Bros. Discovery Inc., David Zaslav, raked in a pay package worth $49.7 million in 2023, according to a regulatory filing released Friday.
Despite both the actors' and writers' strikes that lasted nearly 4 and 5 months respectively, Zaslav's pay for the year went up.
In 2023, his total compensation increased 26.5% from the year prior. It included $3 million in base pay, combined with more than $23 million in stock awards and a $22 million cash bonus, along with $1.6 in additional compensation, the filing shows.
But Zaslav's compensation in 2022 and 2023 is still modest compared to what he earned in 2021, when he was in charge of Discovery Inc. before its merger with WarnerMedia. That year, his pay package topped nearly $246.6 million.
At the same time, Warner Bros. as a company lost money for the year despite generating about $1 billion more profit than expected, thanks to costs saved from TV and film production being halted during the strikes, The Wall Street Journal reported.
Meanwhile, thousands of striking actors and writers went without a paycheck as they struggled to pay the bills and fought back against an industry that barely trickled the profits down to them.
A 30-something who used a side hustle to pay off $100,000 of debt explains what we get wrong about passive income
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Passive income usually requires some upfront work, but it's worth it in the long run. Melissa Jean-Baptiste is not pictured.Maskot/Getty Images
A passive income stream can be a great way to generate extra money to pay down debt or save. Melissa Jean-Baptiste learned first-hand that passive income is not that "passive," especially in the beginning. To maximize your chances of success, she recommends finding a side hustle that uses skills you already have.Passive income seems like a financial dream come true. The ability to make money in your sleep and have multiple streams of income with little effort is definitely money goals, especially as inflation is making everyday life more expensive.
But the term "passive income" can be a bit of a misnomer. According to Melissa Jean-Baptiste, who used a side hustle selling lesson plans to help pay off $100,000 in student loan debt, there is a catch. "There tends to be a huge initial investment on your end," she writes in her book, "So … This Is Why I'm Broke."
Jean-Baptiste learned for herself that "creating a stream of passive income is hardly ever simple or passive." She writes, "One of the most popular passive income suggestions is to start a blog or create a digital product. But honestly, it is not as easy as YouTubers and social media influencers make it seem. There are many active foundational steps that must occur first before you are generating significant passive income from a blog, digital product, or rental property."
So, what is the best way to generate passive income, and how do you get started?
Find the right side hustle for you
I think that everyone needs a side hustle, especially in today's economy. But how do you find the one that's right for you? The wrong place to start is side hustles lauded by internet or social media influencers.
Instead of leaning into the side hustle of the moment, take stock of the skills you already have and try to monetize them. During the time that Jean-Baptiste was a teacher, for instance, she created a side hustle selling her lesson plans online.
Jean-Baptiste writes in her book, "Many people think side-hustling requires new skills and it doesn't. Look at what you are already doing and expand that into a side hustle. At the height of my lesson plan-selling era, I had forty to sixty assets in my digital store and was making $10,000 to $12,000 a year. This allowed me to use my teacher check for expenses and saving, while the side-hustle money went to my debt."
The main reason many side hustles fail is that they're outside your skill set, and that makes the startup phase more difficult. "Your side hustle will only thrive if it fits your skills and lifestyle criteria, [so] look and see what you are already doing and start there," Jean-Baptiste writes.
Determine your ROI
As you seek to increase your income streams, ask yourself: What is my return on investment? Jean-Baptiste advises, "Once you've taken the time to assess your skills and outline your criteria, you have to determine the impact. Map out what the entirety of the side hustle will entail on every level and how it will impact your financial goals."
Next, Jean-Baptiste writes, "determine the skill set required, the demand for what you are offering, how convenient will it be for you to do and, most importantly, the monetary goal you are trying to reach with this side hustle."
Although passive income is often not 100% passive, at least at first, the value of a side hustle or an additional income stream is undeniable. Jean-Baptiste writes, "the passive income I generated was critical in my debt-payoff journey because I could pay more towards my debt and it gave me more options."
Finding a financial advisor doesn't have to be hard. SmartAsset's free tool matches you with up to three fiduciary financial advisors that serve your area in minutes. Each advisor has been vetted by SmartAsset and is held to a fiduciary standard to act in your best interests. Start your search now.
This article was originally published in August 2023.
The 5 best electric lawn mowers of 2024
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The best electric lawn mowers are quieter, more lightweight, and do a great job cutting your yard, making them a practical alternative to gas-powered machines.Husqvarna
Among the best lawn mowers, electric lawn mowers have become increasingly efficient now that the batteries last longer, and they're designed in such a way that they're quieter, more lightweight, and do a great job cutting your yard. The best electric lawn mowers can perform just as well, if not better, compared to their gas-powered counterparts, and are environmentally friendly and require minimal maintenance.
We researched and tested the best electric lawn mowers, including options well-suited for small yards to mulching. Through our own testing, we chose the Husqvarna Lawn Expert LE-322 as the best overall electric lawn mower. With a push-button start, this well-rounded option is great for medium-sized yards with the 21-inch deck and self-propel features. The batteries last 75 minutes, providing plenty of time to mow your yard before recharging. For a more affordable option, the lightweight Greenworks 25022 20-inch 12-amp Corded Lawn Mower requires an extension cord, but it also can mulch and is less than $230.
Our top picks of the best electric lawn mowers
Best overall: Husqvarna Lawn Expert LE-322 - See at Amazon
Best mulching: Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 21" Self-Propelled Multi Blade Lawn Mower - See at The Home Depot
Best budget: Greenworks 25022 20-inch 12-amp Corded Lawn Mower - See at Amazon
Best riding: John Deere Z370R Electric ZTrak Mower - See at Lowe's
Best for small yards: Sun Joe MJ401C-PRO Electric Lawn Mower - See at Amazon
Best overall
Easily manage small-to-medium yards with the Husqvarna Lawn Expert LE-322. It sports two batteries that last up to 75 minutes on various cutting modes — mulching, boost, and auto-sensing. The lawn mower automatically adjusts to a battery-saver mode when the batteries are nearing the end of their charge, allowing you to cut for as long as possible.
Although the deck is only 21 inches, this mower has self-propel features to help you mow up inclines easily and cross your yard faster. In fact, you can adjust the speed up to 4 mph, a great perk for a mower that weighs 102 lbs. The deck can be raised at seven different levels with a single lever, and it's designed to cut through dense grass. While it comes with a bag, we prefer using the side discharge chute as it spreads the cuttings evenly on the yard.
The Husqvarna Lawn Expert LE-322 is the best electric lawn mower, with up It sports two batteries that last up to 75 minutes on various cutting modes — mulching, boost, and auto-sensing.Alex Temblador/Business Insider
Other notable features of the Husqvarna lawn mower include a push-button start and LED headlights, and it can be stored vertically.
In an earlier version of this guide, we rated the Ego LM2102SP 21-inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower as the best electric mower, overall, but stock felt unreliable, and it's a pretty heavy unit. It's slightly less expensive than the Husquevarna, but after hands-on time with the Husquevarna, we like that our current best pick has greater speed and cutting position variations, and it excels at cutting through dense grass.
Best mulching
A lawn mower that can mulch creates super fine grass clippings that are recycled back into your yard, thus maintaining the health of your soil. The Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 21" Self-Propelled Multi Blade RY401150US lawn mower earned the spot as the best mulching lawn mower thanks to its cross-cut multi-blade cutting system. Two blades provide a finer cut, which means less clumping and better dispersal out the side chute, and more efficient bagging. If you use the bag, know it's designed so you don't spill clippings when removing it.
The batteries last up to 70 minutes and take less than 60 minutes to recharge. In addition to a push button start, you can adjust the speed of this lightweight mower though the maximum speed is unclear. The 21-inch deck has seven different cutting positions. It stores vertically when you need to put it away, and it is also relatively lightweight at only 75 pounds.
Best budget
Electric mowers don't have to be costly, and the Greenworks 20-Inch Corded Lawn Mower is proof. This mower, offered at a budget-friendly price, still has plenty of bells and whistles and impressive performance. Its 20-inch steel deck offers durability, and the 12-amp, 120-volt motor (effectively 1440 watts) is powerful enough for easy mowing.
The mower includes three-in-one mulching, side discharge, and rear bag functions. It also offers a seven-position height adjustment, allowing you to choose cutting heights between 1.5 and 3.75 inches. The push-button start allows easy operation, and the foldable handles allow for convenient storage or transportation.
This mower weighs just 56 pounds, so it's relatively easy to push. While it's a fairly basic design, this mower is suitable for homeowners or renters with smaller lawns, provided there's access to a power outlet. Greenworks advises using the mower with a 14-gauge 50-foot or 12-gauge 100-foot extension cord, which is not included.
Best riding
Electric riding lawn mowers are so effective that the John Deere Z370R Electric ZTrak Mower is our top pick in our guide to the best riding lawn mowers. It beat out gas-powered riding lawn mowers for many reasons, including the fact that the batteries can last up to two acres. It also helps that you can go up to 7 mph on this mower for maximum efficiency. You'll mow medium and large yards in no time with a deck size of 42- or 48 inches. This John Deere starts with the push of a button, followed by bringing the handles together and pushing them forward or backward. If you push the handles outward and to the side, the lawn mower locks in place. The zero-turn riding mower adjusts with a foot lever among 11 different blade positions
The electric, zero-turn John Deere Z370R Electric ZTrak Mower is the best riding mower, overall, beating out gas-powered models.Alex Temblador/Business Insider
Unlike other electric lawn mowers, the John Deere Z370R Electric ZTrak Mower does not come with a battery charger of any kind. In fact, all you have to do is plug an extension cord into the side of the machine, and it starts charging immediately. Even more exciting, the battery is in a chamber that keeps out water and dirt, so you can actually clean the riding mower with a hose and not have to worry about any damage.
In addition to a comfortable seat and a deck where you can extend your legs, this riding lawn mower has a USB port in the onboard storage container to charge your phone as you mow. I particularly like how the LED headlights along the front and the sides light up the path, as well as how this lawn mower requires little maintenance: you won't ever have to change engine oil, spark plugs, an air filter, or mower belt with the John Deere Z370R Electric ZTrak Mower.
Best for small yards
The Sun Joe MJ401C-PRO electric lawn mower may not have the width to be a practical option for larger yards, but its compact design and battery power make it ideal for small or medium-sized ones. You can mow up to a quarter acre on a single charge. The relatively narrow width also makes it convenient to maneuver around tight landscaping elements like rocks or other obstacles that require more precision than a larger mower offers.
I chose the Sun Joe for this list because I appreciate anything that improves operation safety, especially lawn mowers. This model requires you to press the safety lock button and simultaneously pull the "on" trigger to power it up. It reduces the chance of you starting the mower unintentionally.
Because of the 14-inch cutting width, this compact mower is also well-suited for those with limited storage space. It's also incredibly lightweight. At just 23.1 pounds, it's comfortable to use and makes its lack of a self-propelling mechanism less of an issue.
The Sun Joe MJ401C-PRO features three height settings, less than our other options. It has a rear discharge chute, which isn't ideal as the clippings will likely hit your feet as you walk. We previously recommended the side chute version, but it is currently unavailable. It could be the perfect fit if you are looking for a hassle-free mower.
How we chose the best electric lawn mowers
After extensive online research from expert sources like Thriving Yard, and our own hands-on experience with various brands, we assembled this list of the best electric mowers you can buy. We also used our experience with large power tools to help evaluate battery life, runtimes, and power output.
Although we did not test all the options we chose, we reviewed owner and operation manuals, watched online tutorials, and consulted with lawn care equipment expert to develop our categories For models we did test, we used them on a half-acre yard a few times to get a feel for the cutting capabilities, self propel features, deck size, weight, and more. We also used a set of specific criteria to help us evaluate and compare potential options and what to look for.
Battery Capacity: For cordless options, we paid close attention to the Ah (amp hour) of the included battery. In short, the higher the Ah, the more energy the battery can store, the higher power output, and the longer it will last. Charging Time: The time it takes to recharge a depleted battery can seriously affect the convenience of a cordless mower. If your battery can be recharged quickly, you'll be able to get back to work soon, and there's less of a chance that you'll need to purchase a second battery. Runtime: Overall runtime per battery charge is probably the most important metric to consider when evaluating cordless mowers — obviously, corded models will provide the longest. The longer the runtime, the better, especially for larger mowers that will be purchased to use on larger lawns.Weight: The lighter the mower weighs, the less effort it will place on the battery and the longer the overall runtime. We did our best to choose lighter options whenever possible while still considering overall power.Electric lawn mower FAQs
What are the benefits of electric lawn mowers?
Electric lawn mowers are just as effective as gas-powered lawn mowers but without certain drawbacks. They don't require gas or oil, so they don't emit harmful fumes or exhaust, making them far more environmentally friendly. Most importantly, electric lawnmowers come with far less maintenance. You'll never have to change a spark plug (because they're not outfitted with them) or remove the oil and gas before you winterize the mower in the winter. They are also quieter in operation. While they may have a more expensive up-front cost, they will also be cheaper to operate in the long run.
How long do electric lawn mowers last?
Battery-powered mowers themselves can last up to 10 years, but their batteries will only last about 4 years before they're unable to hold an effective charge. To ensure your batteries will last as long as possible, try to completely deplete the battery before recharging it. This will reduce the overall number of charging cycles placed on the battery, increasing its lifespan. You should also do your best to remove the battery from the charger once it's fully charged.
Corded mowers have a similar lifespan as long as they're cared for properly. There are no batteries to worry about, but their extension cords are just as important to pay attention to. This means using the correct gauge for the job, which indicates how thick the cord is. The thicker the cord, the more voltage will reach the mower and the less unnecessary work the motor has to do. Your mower's operating manual should tell you the best gauge for the job.
How expensive are electric lawn mowers?
Electric lawn mowers are available at a wide range of prices, although corded models tend to be cheaper than battery-powered options. Corded mowers also won't require any additional battery purchases over time. Size also plays a part. Large riding mowers can cost thousands of dollars, while smaller, compact machines, like the Sun Joe MJ401C-PRO, our recommendation for small yards, can be found for about $200.
Neither requires the fuel or oil that gas-powered models do, which should cut down on the overall expense of the mower. However, the long-term cost of replacement batteries — which can cost hundreds of dollars — should be considered as well.
Is it safe to cut wet grass with an electric mower?
According to the Ego mower manual, you should avoid cutting wet grass with your electric mower for two reasons. First, the moisture can affect the electrical components of the mower and cause serious damage not covered by the warranty. Secondly, using your mower on wet grass is a potential safety hazard and can cause you to slip or fall and potentially injure yourself.
Wet grass can also present maintenance and cleaning challenges. It can become stuck on the deck and other components, and unlike gas-powered mowers, you can't just spray it off with a hose. As long as you stick to cutting dry grass, you'll have a much easier time cleaning up.
Can you leave an electric lawn mower outside?
Due to the electrical components and vulnerable batteries, we don't recommend leaving your mower outdoors when it's not in use. Both Ego and Greenworks recommend keeping their electric mowers indoors in a cool, dry space. They also state that you should never cover them with a plastic tarp, which can trap moisture that can damage the internal components. If you need to keep your mower outside, keep it elevated and off the ground. This will allow air to flow around it and prevent unnecessary moisture damage.
Ego
Cutting Width: 21 inchesPower Supply: BatteryBlade Positions: 6 (1.5 to 4 inches)Run time: 60 minsWarranty: 5-year tool, 3-year battery (kits only)Pros: Powerful motor, quiet operation, rapid-charging battery, foldable upright storage, headlights, good warranty
Cons: Batteries are expensive to replace (or stock spares)
Featuring a powerful 7.5 Ah battery, the 56-Volt Ego LM2102SP 21-inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower offers the performance of gas in a convenient, cordless electric design. Its functionality and ease of use made it an easy choice for our top pick.
A three-in-one design allows you to choose between mulching, bagging, and side discharge of your grass cuttings, and the battery provides 60 minutes of runtime on a single charge. The push-button start makes it easy to start mowing right away, and thanks to a pair of LED headlights, you can safely mow at dusk or on overcast days.
The self-propelling feature of this mower also offers variable speed control, so you can customize it to whatever pace you prefer. A large, easy-to-use lever by the handle makes it simple to adjust these speeds. If you feel like getting some exercise, you can disengage this feature and push the mower manually.
We're also big fans of the six cutting heights offered by the Ego LM2102SP allowing you to precisely set your preferred height from 1.5 to 4 inches. Although the 165-pound weight is heavier than similar models, the fold-up design is extremely convenient, especially if your garage or tool shed is tight on space. This mower comes with great warranty options that are slightly on the generous side compared with others.
Toro
Cutting Width: 21 inchesPower Supply: BatteryBlade Positions: 9Run time: 45 minsWarranty: 90-day money-back guarantee, 2-year full-mower warrantyPros: Fast to charge, wide range of blade position options
Cons: Expensive
Mulching your grass while you mow allows you to reuse those valuable clippings instead of throwing them away with the rest of your yard waste. These mulched clippings break down and release nutrients back into your lawn, which both benefits your grass and makes less work for you after you're finished. If you'd prefer not to mulch, you can also use the Toro Recycler as a bagging mower.
The mower uses a single 60V battery to power its 21-inch blade, and the brushless motor help it to operate as efficiently as possible. This should help increase the lifespan of the mower motor itself. The Toro Recycler's runtime is about 45 minutes, which should be sufficient for medium-sized yards up to 1/3 acre. It can fully recharge in 2.5 hours.
You can adjust the handle of the Toro Recycler to two different positions, making it convenient for those who want to customize their mower to their specific height. This handle also completely folds down when the mower is not in use, so you'll be able to store it vertically or potentially under a worktable.
Nine height settings allow for a wide range of positions. With a minimum cutting height of 1.25 inches, you can get very low. The steel deck of this mower is also more durable than other plastic or composite models and should hold up well under regular wear and tear.
Amazon
Cutting Width: 20 inchesPower Supply: CordBlade Positions: 7Run time: N/AWarranty: Limited 4-year on batteries and toolsPros: Seven-position height adjustment, foldable handles, four-year warranty
Cons: Corded design limits reach
Electric mowers don't have to be costly, and the Greenworks 20-Inch Corded Lawn Mower is proof. This mower, offered at a budget-friendly price, still has plenty of bells and whistles and impressive performance. Its 20-inch steel deck offers durability, and the 12-amp, 120-volt motor (effectively 1440 watts) is powerful enough for easy mowing.
The mower includes three-in-one mulching, side discharge, and rear bag functions. It also offers a seven-position height adjustment, allowing you to choose cutting heights between 1.5 and 3.75 inches. The push-button start makes for easy operation, and the foldable handles allow for convenient storage or transportation.
This mower weighs just 56 pounds, so it's relatively easy to push. While it's a fairly basic design, this mower is suitable for homeowners or renters with smaller lawns, provided there's access to a power outlet.
Ryobi
Cutting Width: 38 inchesPower Supply: BatteryBlade Positions: 12 (1.5 to 4.5 inches)Run time: 2.5 hoursWarranty: 3 yearsPros: Excellent battery power, full of features, capable of large jobs
Cons: Requires more storage space than push mowers, higher price point
The Ryobi RY48111 38-Inch Battery Electric Rear Engine Riding Lawn Mower is a quality piece of equipment that pairs durable construction with the benefits of electric power. The steel frame houses a generous 38-inch blade deck, and three high-torque brushless motors provide maximized cutting power.
Assessing power is trickier because Ryobi doesn't offer the same information as the other brands featured within this guide. Still, the 48-volt battery can last for about two hours or 2 acres of mowing time on a single charge so you can get plenty of work done quickly.
This mower is full of features. The seat is adjustable for your comfort, and the control panel is conveniently located for accessibility. The 12-point deck height adjustment gives you nuanced control over your mowing height, and its LED headlights allow for evening work. There's also cruise control and USB charging. A cup holder and cell phone holder round out this machine's excellent design.
This mower offers plenty of advantages over traditional gas-powered variants. With no belts, spark plugs, or filters, it's a low-maintenance option. If you're looking for an alternative to gas-powered riding mowers, the Ryobi is reliable, powerful, and quiet.
Sun Joe
Cutting Width: 14 inchesPower Supply: CordedBlade Positions: 3Run time: N/AWarranty:Pros: Lightweight, 10.6-gallon collection bag, low price
Cons: Too small for larger yards, only three height settings
The Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO electric lawn mower may not have the portability or width to be a practical option for larger yards, but its compact design and easy-to-use operation make it ideal for small or medium-sized ones. The relatively narrow width also makes it convenient to maneuver around tight landscaping elements like rocks or other obstacles that require more precision than a larger mower offers.
One reason I chose the Sun Joe for this list is that I appreciate anything that improves operation safety, especially involving lawn mowers. This model requires you to press the safety lock button and simultaneously pull the "on" trigger to power it up. It reduces the chance of you starting the mower unintentionally.
Because of the 14-inch cutting width, this compact mower is also well-suited for those who have limited storage space. It's also incredibly lightweight. At just 29 pounds, it's comfortable to use and makes its lack of self-propelling mechanism less of an issue.
I've used Sun Joe products in the past and have found them to be straightforward to operate. The user manual provides a clear diagram of how to effectively mow with a corded model and prevent running over your extension cord.
The Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO features three height settings, which is less than our other options. But if you are just looking for a hassle-free mower, this mower could be the perfect fit.
After extensive online research from expert sources like Thriving Yard, we assembled this list of the best electric mowers you can buy. We also used our experience with large power tools to help evaluate battery life, runtimes, and power output.
Although we did not test all the options we chose, we reviewed owner and operation manuals, watched online tutorials, and consulted with lawn care equipment experts. We then used this information to create our five categories and choose the best option for each one.
We also used a set of specific criteria to help us evaluate and compare potential options.
Battery Capacity: For cordless options, we paid close attention to the Ah (amp hour) of the included battery. In short, the higher the Ah, the more energy the battery can store, the higher power output, and the longer it will last. Charging Time: The time it takes to recharge a depleted battery can seriously affect the convenience of a cordless mower. If your battery can be recharged quickly, you'll be able to get back to work soon, and there's less of a chance that you'll need to purchase a second battery. Runtime: Overall runtime per battery charge is probably the most important metric to consider when evaluating cordless mowers — obviously corded models will provide the longest. The longer the runtime, the better, especially for larger mowers that will be purchased to use on larger lawns.Weight: The lighter the mower weighs, the less effort it will place on the battery and the longer the overall runtime. We did our best to always choose lighter options whenever possible while still taking overall power into consideration.Ego Power+ LM2101 56-V 20-Inch Cordless Lawn Mower: This was our previous top pick. Although it is a great option, we ultimately decided that its replacement, the EGO LM2102SP 21-inch Self-Propelled Lawn Mower and its self-propelled design, was a better fit. If a self-propelled option isn't important to you, this Ego mower would be a great choice for anyone with a relatively high budget who is looking for a high-quality battery-powered mower.
Worx WR165 Landroid: The high price of this robotic lawnmower kept it off our list. But if the $950 price tag isn't an issue, it could be a good fit for anyone looking to explore a unique mower option. Similar to a Roomba, this mower navigates entirely on its own and automatically adjusts the height of the blade to account for uneven terrain. It wouldn't be practical for anything larger than 1/8-acre, though, so keep that in mind.
How long do electric lawn mowers last?
Battery-powered mowers themselves can last up to 10 years, but their batteries will only last about 4 years before they're unable to hold an effective charge. To ensure your batteries will last as long as possible, try to completely deplete the battery before recharging it. This will reduce the overall number of charging cycles placed on the battery, increasing its lifespan. You should also do your best to remove the battery from the charger once it's fully charged.
Corded mowers have a similar lifespan as long as they're cared for properly. There are no batteries to worry about, but their extension cords are just as important to pay attention to. This means using the correct gauge for the job, which indicates how thick the cord is. The thicker the cord, the more voltage will reach the mower and the less unnecessary work the motor has to do. Your mower's operating manual should tell you the best gauge for the job.
How expensive are electric lawn mowers?
Electric lawn mowers are available at a wide range of prices, although corded models tend to be cheaper than battery-powered options. Corded mowers also won't require any additional battery purchases over time. Size also plays a part. Large riding mowers can cost thousands of dollars, while smaller, compact machines, like the Sun Joe MJ401E-PRO, our recommendation for small yards, can be found for about $140.
Neither requires the fuel or oil that gas-powered models do, which should cut down on the overall expense of the mower. However, the long-term cost of replacement batteries — which can cost hundreds of dollars — should be considered as well.
Is it safe to cut wet grass with an electric mower?
According to the Ego mower manual, you should avoid cutting wet grass with your electric mower for two reasons. First, the moisture can affect the electrical components of the mower and cause serious damage not covered by the warranty. Secondly, using your mower on wet grass is a potential safety hazard and can cause you to slip or fall and potentially injure yourself.
Wet grass can also present maintenance and cleaning challenges. It can become stuck on the deck and other components, and unlike gas-powered mowers, you can't just spray it off with a hose. As long as you stick to cutting dry grass, you'll have a much easier time cleaning up.
Can you leave an electric lawn mower outside?
Due to the electrical components and vulnerable batteries, we don't recommend leaving your mower outdoors when it's not in use. Both Ego and Greenworks recommend keeping their electric mowers indoors in a cool, dry space. They also state that you should never cover them with a plastic tarp, which can trap moisture that can damage the internal components. If you need to keep your mower outside, keep it elevated and off the ground. This will allow air to flow around it and prevent unnecessary moisture damage.
Peter Dazeley/Getty Images
The best lawn mowersThe best riding lawn mowersThe best gardening and landscaping toolsThe best gardening tools for beginnersThe best garden hosesThe best leaf blowersThe best snow blowersThe best snow shovelsThe best rakesThe best sprinklersA top House Democrat wants to remove Trump's Secret Service protection if he's sent to prison
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Rep. Bennie Thompson wants to deprive Donald Trump of Secret Service protection if he's sentenced to prison.It's unclear what will happen to Trump if he's sentenced to state or federal prison.As a former president, Trump is entitled to Secret Service protection for life.Rep. Bennie Thompson, the former chairman of the House January 6 committee, introduced legislation on Friday that would strip former President Donald Trump of Secret Service protection if he is sentenced to prison.
"Unfortunately, current law doesn't anticipate how Secret Service protection would impact the felony prison sentence of a protectee — even a former President," Thompson, a Mississippi Democrat, said in a statement released by his office. "It is regrettable that it has come to this, but this previously unthought-of scenario could become our reality."
Thompson is responding to possible concerns that if Trump were sentenced to prison as a result of a conviction in any of the 91 felony charges across the four indictments he faces.
As Business Insider previously reported, there would be major logistical hurdles to overcome if Trump were to be incarcerated. One of the biggest concerns would be what happens to Trump's Secret Service detail. By law, former presidents and their spouses are entitled to lifetime protection unless they decline to accept the security. The children of former presidents are also entitled to protection until they turn 16.
Trump's first criminal trial began in Manhattan earlier this week. New York prosecutors allege that the former president falsified business records related to hush money paid to adult film actress Stormy Daniels before the 2016 election. On paper, Trump could face over 600 years in prison based on the combined charges of the four cases pending against him. In reality, he would likely serve a lot less based on sentencing guidelines. The maximum sentence on each count Trump faces in New York is four years of prison.
Under Thompson's bill, any Secret Service protectee would have their security stripped if convicted of a state or federal offense that is punishable by at least a year in prison. The legislation does not mention Trump directly. As such, it could apply to any future president, vice president, and their families. The Secret Service also protects major presidential candidates.
It's unlikely Thompson's bill will pass through the House, where Republicans hold a narrow majority. Still, it is notable that a Democrat as senior as Thompson is responding to Trump's legal struggles this way. President Joe Biden and his campaign have been largely quiet on the Manhattan trial.
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