Author: Casper Benedict

In a strategic move towards sustainable practices, the Slovenian Andrada Group is poised to establish a cutting-edge recycling facility for electric car batteries in the Alsózsolca region of north-eastern Hungary. The ambitious project envisions an annual recycling capacity of 10,000 tonnes of batteries, marking a remarkable step in addressing the environmental challenges posed by e-waste. Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Péter Szijjártó, has confirmed that the Andrada Group will inject 10 billion forints, equivalent to approximately 26 million euros, into the construction and operation of the battery recycling plant. This landmark initiative not only signifies the largest Slovenian…

Helsinki-based Kalmar, a division of Finnish company Cargotec, is poised to expand its electric vehicle offerings as it finalizes the acquisition of the electric terminal tractor product line from Lonestar Specialty Vehicles (LSV) in the United States. The anticipated completion of this strategic deal is slated by week’s end. Under the new ownership, these terminal tractors will seamlessly integrate into Kalmar’s distinguished portfolio, assuming the name ‘Kalmar TX’. In a mutually beneficial arrangement, LSV will not only transfer all intangible assets to Kalmar, but it will also maintain its involvement as a manufacturing partner exclusively for this particular product line.…

In its second-quarter financial report, Chinese smartphone manufacturer Xiaomi Corp revealed a 4% decline in revenue, reflecting the contraction of China’s smartphone market. However, the company’s foray into the realm of electric vehicles (EVs) exhibited promising progress, outpacing initial projections. The reported sales figures settled at 67.4 billion yuan (approximately USD 9.2 billion), a slight drop from the previous year’s 70.17 billion yuan during the same period. Despite this decline, the numbers surpassed the expectations of analysts, who had estimated sales of 65.13 billion yuan. See also: Xiaomi Gains Approval to Produce 100,000 Electric Vehicles Annually, Sets Sights on Thriving…

Nissan has revealed its driver lineup, featuring the return of seasoned driver Oliver Rowland and the continuation of Sacha Fenestraz’s promising journey. Rowland, who initially joined Nissan as a rookie in 2018, is set to partner with Fenestraz, forming a partnership that holds considerable promise for the renowned Japanese manufacturer’s Formula E endeavors. Rowland’s previous stints with Nissan spanned Seasons 5 to 7, where his impressive performance included securing five pole positions and clinching five podium finishes, culminating in a triumphant victory in Berlin in 2020. Hailing from Barnsley, the 31-year-old driver boasts an illustrious racing portfolio, crowned by his…

Valeo, a prominent player in the automotive industry, has taken a significant stride in advancing its contributions to the electric mobility sector. The company has initiated the series production of its cutting-edge high-voltage heating unit known as ‘Thermo HV,’ tailored specifically for electric buses. This pioneering addition serves as a supplementary electric heater that seamlessly integrates with the heat pump system, activated during colder external temperatures that demand enhanced heating. The ascent of eMobility has spurred a growing requirement for Valeo’s thermal systems. This comprehensive portfolio encompasses an array of solutions, including air conditioning systems, heat pumps, and battery cooling…

Fisker, the electric vehicle manufacturer, has announced its anticipated debut in the Canadian market, with regulatory approval expected to be granted for fulfilling pre-ordered Ocean One SUVs starting September 7. The deliveries are projected to conclude by the end of the month, marking a significant stride in the company’s North American expansion strategy. Henrik Fisker, the Chairman and CEO of the company, expressed his enthusiasm for the forthcoming Canadian launch in an official press release. Notably, the cities of Vancouver and Toronto have emerged as hotspots of customer interest for the alluring Ocean One SUV. “We have strong reservations and…

Li Auto, a player in the electric vehicle industry, has unveiled plans to roll out its cutting-edge Commute Navigation on ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) feature. The company is gearing up for the initial phase of internal testing scheduled to commence in September, targeting early bird users. The groundbreaking technology is poised to transform daily commuting experiences, providing efficient navigation tailored to users’ frequent routes. The Commute Navigation on ADAS, often abbreviated as “Commute NOA,” is poised to make daily travel smoother and more convenient for drivers. Unlike the previously introduced City NOA, which necessitates extensive algorithm training, Commute NOA…

In a stride towards a greener automotive future, Webasto, renowned for its cutting-edge automotive solutions, has offered a sneak peek into its expanding array of high-voltage heaters tailored for hybrid and electric vehicles. The spotlight shines on the pioneering Next Generation Coolant Heater, a revolutionary platform-based electric heating system making its debut, alongside novel offshoots of the proven HVH 100 heater. Webasto’s Next Generation Coolant Heater marks a departure from the traditional aesthetic of high-voltage heaters. Boasting a compact, lightweight, and eco-conscious design, this innovation promises to usher in a new era of efficiency and adaptability for the Munich-based enterprise.…

Chinese self-driving company WeRide has disclosed its intentions to embark on an initial public offering (IPO) in the United States. The announcement coincides with China’s securities regulator, the China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC), acknowledging the submission of WeRide’s filings for an offshore listing, signifying a pivotal step in the company’s business strategy. WeRide’s plan involves the issuance of a significant 159,045,000 shares of ordinary stock, with aspirations to be listed on either the renowned New York Stock Exchange or the tech-oriented Nasdaq exchange. The disclosure, available on the CSRC’s official website, provides insights into WeRide’s expansion goals and its interest…

In a remarkable stride towards innovation, Honda, the renowned automotive manufacturer, is poised to revolutionize the electric vehicle (EV) landscape with its pioneering solid-state battery technology. Following their announcement last year to establish a demonstration line for all-solid-state battery production, Honda remains steadfast in its commitment to electrification. With an investment of approximately 43 billion yen, the company is geared to accelerate research, targeting the commencement of demonstration production in Spring 2024. This initiative is a pivotal component of Honda’s ambitious US$40 billion electrification strategy, signaling its dedication to sustainable mobility. Executives from Honda recently offered insights into their EV…

In a recent voyage spanning 1,100 miles between California and Nevada, Ford’s CEO, Jim Farley, undertook a transformative expedition behind the wheel of the F-150 Lightning. The journey not only served as an exploration of the capabilities of Ford’s electric masterpiece but also as a unique opportunity to connect with individuals along the route and put charging facilities to the test. A significant highlight of Farley’s journey was his insightful stop at the renowned Laguna Seca during the Monterey Car Week, where an engaging conversation ensued with Ryan Levenson from The Kilowatts, offering an unfiltered view into Farley’s observations and…

In a strategic move towards a greener automotive landscape, Nissan has taken the wraps off its forthcoming electric vehicle (EV) lineup, presenting a trio of groundbreaking models to its dealers. The event offered a glimpse into the automaker’s electrified future, encompassing a diverse range of offerings poised to reshape the industry. Top-tier Nissan executives convened to showcase their latest innovations, revealing a carefully curated selection of new and revamped products that underscore the brand’s commitment to electrification. As the automotive landscape undergoes a transformative shift, Nissan is positioning itself as a key player in this electric evolution. Set against…

Leading the charge in the realm of commercial vehicle electrification, Lightning eMotors announced a significant achievement today as its deployed units clocked over five million real-world miles in the realm of electric mobility. The company, known for its zero-emission medium-duty commercial vehicles and cutting-edge EV technology, has emerged as a pioneer in the industry. With a legacy dating back to the early stages of commercial EV development, Lightning eMotors has now solidified its position as a mature EV manufacturer, demonstrating its capability to effectively deploy substantial numbers of electric vehicles into the market. The achievement is a testament to the…

In a strategic move to tap into the burgeoning realm of new-energy passenger vehicles and adapt to shifting market dynamics, Changan Ford Motor, a joint venture between Ford Motor Co and Changan Automobile, has unveiled plans to establish a new joint venture with state-owned Chongqing Changan Automobile. This development was revealed in an official document released by China’s market regulator on Friday. The forthcoming joint venture will see Changan Ford Motor holding a controlling 60% stake, while Chongqing Changan Automobile will hold the remaining 40% stake. This arrangement represents a noteworthy shift, as Chongqing Changan Automobile’s ownership in the new…

Global automotive supplier BorgWarner has initiated its first integrated drive module (iDM) venture in China, providing Li Auto with the ‘iDM220’ for their upcoming New Energy Vehicle (NEV) lineup. This collaboration signifies BorgWarner’s entry into the Chinese iDM market and aims to support Li Auto’s aspirations for sustainable mobility solutions. The iDM220 modules are now integrated into Li Auto’s L8 and L9 range-extended electric vehicle models, showcasing the technology’s adaptability. BorgWarner’s iDM220 is designed to operate at 400V, delivering a maximum power output of over 200 kW and an estimated peak torque of 4500 Nm. The iDM includes a compact…

General Motors (GM) has announced an extension of the production period for the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV and Bolt EUV, adding approximately one month to their manufacturing timeline. Initially slated to conclude on November 7, production of these subcompact electric vehicles will now continue until December 2023, as reported by GM Authority. The production extension takes place at GM’s Orion Assembly facility in Michigan, which has been the hub for crafting these EVs. While specific details regarding the revised ending date of production are yet to be officially disclosed, GM’s decision marks a noteworthy development in the context of the…

In a strategic move to further solidify its international footprint, Great Wall Motor has made a significant entry into the Indonesian automotive market. The Chinese automotive giant unveiled its GWM brand at the Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) on August 10, showcasing a range of models that encompassed the Tank 500 HEV, Haval H6 HEV, Haval Jolion HEV, and Ora Funky Cat. This step marks a continuation of Great Wall’s expansion into the ASEAN automotive arena, affirming its commitment to offering environmentally-conscious and technologically-advanced vehicles to a broader global audience. A press release issued by the company yesterday emphasized…

During the quarterly conference call held yesterday, Rivian’s CEO RJ Scaringe provided a comprehensive overview of the forthcoming R2 platform, shedding light on the R2 vehicles, their innovative architecture, and the anticipated production schedule. In terms of timelines, Scaringe affirmed that the R2S compact crossover is on track for its much-anticipated debut in early 2024. Furthermore, the production gears are set to start turning in 2026 at Rivian’s recently established manufacturing facility in Georgia. See also: Rivian to Reach Profitability in 2024 and Launch Cheaper R2 Model in 2025 The spotlight, however, was on the platform itself, as Scaringe revealed…

As Tesla’s highly anticipated Cybertruck edges closer to the production stage, uncertainty looms over the inclusion of its touted solar roof feature. Despite earlier announcements of this innovative addition, the automaker’s silence on the matter has left enthusiasts and industry experts wondering about the fate of this unique feature. Tesla, aligning with its peers in the automotive industry, had previously explored the integration of solar technology into its electric vehicles. However, unlike some competitors, the company has refrained from fully implementing solar roofs in its lineup. Various automakers offer solar roof systems as optional add-ons. Yet, these systems generally serve…

BrightDrop, the subsidiary of General Motors (GM) that specialises in e-delivery technologies, is broadening its electric van offerings to include Mexico, thus extending its presence throughout North America. The move aligns with BrightDrop’s commitment to providing sustainable solutions to commercial fleet operators and represents a significant step in its ongoing expansion efforts. The company’s foremost electric van models, the Zevo 400 and Zevo 600, are poised to make their debut in the Mexican market. These vehicles are tailored to address the evolving electrification needs of commercial fleets, adhering to BrightDrop’s core mission of delivering enhanced efficiency, safety, and sustainability in…