Author: Harding Greenwood

A recent discovery at the United States Patent and Trademark Office reveals Rivian’s potential addition of a movie projector accessory to the innovative Gear Tunnel in their R1T electric truck. The Gear Tunnel, a telescopic slide-out drawer beneath the passenger cabin, has seen previous accessories like the Camp Kitchen, aligning with Rivian’s identity as a luxury adventure brand catering to off-road enthusiasts. The proposed movie projector accessory aims to transform the Gear Tunnel into an outdoor cinema hub, equipped with a roll-up projector screen, wireless speakers, a projector, and a mirror for image optimization. The portable system allows for remote-controlled…

In a groundbreaking initiative, the Netherlands is set to witness the operation of a fully emission-free inland waterway vessel from April 2024, thanks to the conversion of battery containers by Zero Emission Services (ZES). Following the launch of the initial electrically powered ship, Den Bosch Max Groen, four more vessels are slated to traverse Dutch inland waterways between Den Bosch, Maasvlakte, and Moerdijk. The 90-meter-long Den Bosch Max Groen, the first of its kind on the Den Bosch-Maasvlakte-Moerdijk route, will transport containers for Heineken and other clients. Notably, this marks the second inland vessel to undergo electrification using ZES battery…

The recurring speculation regarding Tesla’s potential investment in India has resurfaced, with reports suggesting the electric car giant is open to committing up to $2 billion for a manufacturing facility in the country. However, the decision hinges on the resolution of import duties for electric vehicles (EVs). As per sources cited by Economic Times (via Reuters), Tesla is exploring the possibility of investing if import duties on EVs are adjusted. Presently, imported electric vehicles in India face a steep import tax, reaching up to 100% for cars priced over approximately $40,000, and 70% for more affordable options. The recent proposition…

In a strategic move, Smart will be unveiling a more cost-effective version of its electric SUV coupé #3 in the Pro variant, featuring a smaller 49-kWh battery. This adjustment is set to decrease the base price of the Smart #3 in Germany by 5,000 euros, making it 38,490 euros compared to the prior Pro+ base version with a 66-kWh battery, which was priced at 43,490 euros. The newly introduced Pro variant is already listed on the Smart website at the revised price, with orders expected to be accepted from the end of 2023, and initial deliveries slated for early 2024.…

Skeleton Technologies, the battery manufacturer, has brought Tobias Hüppe on board from Northvolt to serve as the Chief Operations Officer (COO), with a primary focus on expanding production. In his new role, Hüppe, with extensive experience in scaling battery production and gigafactory development, is expected to play a pivotal role in Skeleton’s growth strategy. Hüppe’s background includes significant contributions as a core team member and production manager at Northvolt, adding valuable insights to Skeleton’s production endeavors. His prior roles in key positions within the automotive industry at Faurecia, Webasto, and Edscha further underscore his expertise. Dr. Linus Froböse, Skeleton’s previous…

In a recent move by Tesla, owners of Model Y vehicles manufactured before January 8, 2021, now have the option to request the installation of an original HEPA filter through a Tesla service center using the mobile app. While Tesla offers the HEPA and Carbon Filter replacement kit on its website for $90, the retrofit for older Model Y units comes at a higher cost. The premium HEPA filter and Bioweapon Defense Mode firmware upgrade kit for retrofitting 2020-2021 Model Ys is priced at $330. This retrofit is currently available for Model Y owners in the United States and Canada,…

Milan-based Atlante, the joint venture between automaker Stellantis, NHOA Group, and Free2move eSolutions, has secured a substantial grant of nearly 50 million euros from the European Union. The funding aims to facilitate the installation of 5,000 fast-charging points by 2025 and a monumental 35,000 by 2030 across key Southern European regions, including Spain, Italy, France, and Portugal. In a strategic move, Atlante has chosen Wallbox as its preferred partner for establishing this expansive charging network. The decision is attributed to Wallbox Charger’s notable production capacity and global leadership in manufacturing superfast chargers for electric vehicles (EVs). Barcelona-founded Wallbox has been…

Automaker Stellantis has revealed a comprehensive update to its entire range of commercial vehicles at the Solutrans exhibition, showcasing the latest advancements in electric vans. Among the lineup is the Fiat E-Ducato, featuring an impressive 420 km range, powered by a substantial 110 kWh battery. Stellantis, the parent company of multiple European brands including Opel, Vauxhall, Peugeot, and Citroen, is making strides in the electric commercial vehicle market. The Fiat E-Ducato, introduced earlier this year as part of Stellantis’ second-generation large vans, stands out with its extended range, offering a sizable battery capacity of 110 kWh. Notably, the model is…

Automaker Mercedes-Benz, in collaboration with energy partner MN8 Energy, has inaugurated its inaugural High-Power Charging (HPC) facility in the United States. Situated at the Mercedes-Benz USA headquarters in Sandy Springs, Georgia, the charging hub is a strategic step in the expansion of the brand’s electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure. The hardware for the facility is provided by ChargePoint. This marks another milestone following the recent unveiling of a Mercedes “Charging Hub” in China. However, in contrast to the Chinese hub, the Sandy Springs location boasts ten dedicated charging points with a capacity of up to 400 kW. The site features a…

The electric vehicle (EV) market is encountering a notable slowdown, with consumer reluctance attributed to the steep entry costs into this transformative technology, according to recent research by S&P Global. While the North American market predominantly features larger, luxurious EVs with elevated Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRPs), the study indicates that even in regions where more affordable EV options exist, such as China, the cost implications tied to batteries and electric motors deter potential buyers. S&P Global’s survey reveals that nearly half of respondents worldwide perceive EV prices as prohibitively high. While acknowledging the inherent premium associated with advanced technology,…

South Korean steel conglomerate Posco is gearing up for a substantial expansion of its production capacities for motor cores and battery materials, specifically tailored for electric vehicles (EVs). According to documents from the group’s recent investor relations meeting, Posco plans to invest a staggering 680 billion won (approximately €483 million or $519 million) in the motor core segment alone between 2024 and 2035. In a strategic move, Posco intends to allocate 44% of the investment to North America, 20% to Europe, and retain the remaining funds for its domestic market in South Korea. The investment is projected to double the…

Michigan has taken a significant step towards enhancing its electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure with the recent passage of legislation, HB 4706. The bill, which gained approval from the Michigan Senate earlier this week, had previously received backing from the Michigan House of Representatives in June. Michigan Representative Sharon MacDonell commended the bipartisan effort, stating, “I applaud my colleagues in both parties and chambers who have voted to put this legislation on the Governor’s desk. I look forward to Governor Whitmer signing the legislation to ensure that Michigan has sufficient charging infrastructure for the electric vehicle transition.” HB 4706 introduces…