Author: Casper Benedict

Green Li-ion has inaugurated a pioneering commercial-scale plant in Atoka, Oklahoma, designed to process unsorted battery waste, commonly known as “black mass,” from used lithium-ion batteries. The plant represents a significant step forward in sustainable battery recycling, producing battery-grade cathode precursor, lithium, and anode materials all under one roof. The conventional process for recycling spent lithium-ion batteries in North America involves sorting the batteries before shredding, processing them into black mass, and further refining them into sulfates. This material is then typically exported overseas, primarily to China and South Korea, for additional processing. Green Li-ion’s patented technology employs an innovative…

Tesla has unveiled its latest addition to the Model Y lineup in select European countries, introducing the Long Range rear-wheel-drive model. The new trim aims to offer a more affordable option to customers, addressing the need for lower-priced vehicles in the market. In the last quarter, Tesla faced disappointing delivery figures and accumulated an inventory of 46,000 vehicles. While some of these were already sold during transit, the overall inventory added up to over 100,000 vehicles. The automaker, like many others, is seeking ways to counter high-interest rates, and the introduction of a more cost-effective Model Y variant is part…

London-based ride-hailing provider WeFlex has made a substantial move towards greener transportation by placing an initial order for 165 electric bZ4X SUVs from Toyota. WeFlex, which currently operates a fleet of over 2,300 battery-electric vehicles, aims to transition to a fully emissions-free fleet in the future. The decision to invest in Toyota’s bZ4X showcases WeFlex’s commitment to sustainability and mirrors the efforts of ride-hailing giant Uber, which aims to electrify its 55,000 drivers in London by 2025. Neil Broad, General Manager of One Toyota Fleet Services, expressed confidence in the bZ4X, stating, “WeFlex’s commitment to bZ4X is a valuable seal…

Volkswagen has introduced the latest addition to its GTX lineup with the ID. Buzz GTX, marking the final GTX version of its ID. models in Europe. The electric van, known for its practicality and iconic design reminiscent of the legendary Bulli, now embraces a sporty edge with the GTX treatment. Equipped with the latest MEB drive generation, the ID. Buzz GTX boasts a system output of 250 kW, utilizing the new APP550 rear motor with 210 kW and 560 Nm of torque, complemented by an 80 kW AKA150 asynchronous motor on the front axle. This all-wheel-drive system enables the sporty…

Volkswagen has announced its ambitious goal to begin production of the affordable ID.1 electric car, priced at around 20,000 euros ($21,700), in 2027. This move is part of the company’s commitment to providing “affordable electric mobility for everyone,” as stated by VW brand leader Thomas Shafer during the annual press conference on Thursday. Shafer confirmed that the project, currently known as the ID.1, is already well underway. He stated, “We’re already in the middle of it, we know what the car should look like.” However, the biggest challenge lies in determining the manufacturing location for the vehicle. “This is extremely…

n a strategic move to expand its presence in the commercial vehicle market, Rivian, the upstart electric vehicle brand, has announced a new partnership with JBPCO. This collaboration will see Rivian providing a modified version of its Commercial Van chassis, complete with its 100 kWh LFP battery and software stack, including the Rivian “dashboard” and safety features like automatic emergency braking and a 360-degree camera system. The Rivian fleet chassis will serve as the foundation for an all-electric version of the Morgan C250 step-van, known as the C250e, which was announced in March 2023. This vehicle, effectively a Morgan Olson-bodied…

Fisker, the electric vehicle manufacturer, has reportedly enlisted restructuring advisers to navigate potential bankruptcy proceedings, as reported by the Wall Street Journal. The company has faced significant challenges recently, with its stock facing potential delisting due to low share prices. In its latest quarterly report, Fisker expressed doubts about its ability to sustain operations, citing the need for external investment. Despite a remarkable 300% surge in deliveries in Q4, the company continues to face financial uncertainty. Following its quarterly report, news emerged of potential investment discussions with Nissan, focusing on a partnership for electric trucks. Fisker unveiled the “Alaska” pickup…

Rivian’s much-anticipated R2 and surprise R3 electric vehicles (EVs) were recently unveiled, but the real excitement came when videos emerged showing the cars in action on public roads, providing a better sense of their size and presence among other vehicles. While Rivian had previously provided detailed dimensions of the R2, seeing it on the road alongside other cars offers a more tangible comparison. The R2 is slightly taller and shorter in length compared to the Model Y, but with a distinct shape, featuring a taller back-end. See also: Rivian R2’s Charge Port Location Sparks Debate Among EV Enthusiasts The videos were…

Chinese smartphone giant Xiaomi has announced that it will officially unveil its first electric vehicle (EV), the Xiaomi SU7, on March 28. Deliveries of the SU7 are expected to commence immediately after the launch, according to Xiaomi’s EV unit Xiaomi EV’s announcement on Weibo. Customers will have the opportunity to experience the Xiaomi SU7 starting March 25, with reservations currently being accepted. The model’s show cars will be displayed in 59 stores across 29 cities initially. Xiaomi made its foray into the automotive industry official on March 30, 2021, and showcased the SU7 for the first time on December 28,…

LG Energy Solution (LGES) has unveiled a strategic collaboration with Qualcomm Technologies to develop cutting-edge battery management system (BMS) diagnostic solutions. The partnership aims to introduce a BMS solution that can significantly extend the lifespan of electric vehicle (EV) batteries. “Our work with Qualcomm Technologies intends to create differentiated customer value by enabling real-time battery health diagnosis as well as the development of battery management solutions that are directly linked to driving information,” stated Hyuksung Chung, Vice President of Business Development Group at LG Energy Solution. See also: LG Energy Solution Launches Electric Scooter Battery Swapping Network in South Korea LGES…

British developer Viritech has introduced a new hydrogen powertrain designed for use in road cars, light commercial vehicles, and off-highway applications. The VPT60N powertrain features a 60 kW fuel cell and drivetrain capable of delivering up to 200 kW of power. In addition to the fuel cell and drivetrain, the VPT60N includes a 16 kWh battery with battery management system (BMS) and cooling components. Viritech offers the battery and hydrogen storage in both “bespoke form factors” and a standard option to reduce lead times. The powertrain is fully integrated, and the vehicle control unit (VCU) is preconfigured for easy system…

Solaris, an European manufacturer of electric buses, has secured another order from the Polish capital Warsaw. The public transport operator MZA Warszawa has placed an order for twelve Solaris Urbino 12 Electric buses, which are scheduled for delivery within a year. This latest order adds to Solaris’s growing presence in Warsaw’s electric bus fleet. In December 2023, transport operator ZTM ordered twelve new electric articulated buses from Solaris, set to arrive in the Polish capital in 2024 and 2025. With this new order, Solaris has now delivered a total of 152 electric buses to Warsaw, making it one of the…