Author: Harding Greenwood

Researchers at Graz University of Technology have made significant strides in improving the assessment of discarded electric vehicle batteries for potential reuse in stationary power storage units. The current method relies on two criteria – reduced charging capacity and increased internal resistance – which the researchers deem insufficient for determining second-life use. The team analyzed lithium-ion cells used in vehicles under real-life conditions and compared them with new specimens in laboratory settings. They conducted reproducible charging and discharging cycles, recording 31 different measured values to assess the batteries’ aging condition. From this, 13 indicators were identified as meaningful, including charging…

Bosch’s renowned mid-drive electric motors, long a staple in many markets, are making their debut in Taiwan through Tern’s Vektron and Quick Haul e-bikes. While Tern is widely known for its presence in Western e-bike markets, the company is actually based in Taiwan. The arrival of Bosch-powered e-bikes in Taiwan marks a significant development, as the country’s domestic market has previously only had access to Tern’s folding and non-electric bikes. Tern’s decision to introduce the Vektron and Quick Haul models to Taiwan reflects the company’s commitment to expanding its offerings in its home market. Josh Hon, Tern Team Captain, expressed…

Tesla has expanded its range of accessories for the Cybertruck, offering a glimpse into the future of electric pickup truck utility. Among the unveiled accessories is the Cybercooler, a prototype designed for tailgating parties, which fits perfectly in the Cybertruck’s frunk. While the Cybercooler has not yet been released to the public, its edgy design and stainless steel finish blend seamlessly with the Cybertruck’s aesthetic. Another highlight is the frunk hood sensor, which ensures the safe closure of the frunk even when detecting soft objects like bananas placed at its edge. This feature demonstrates Tesla’s commitment to user safety and…

Tesla appears to be gearing up to introduce its own in-car voice assistant, as indicated by information found in the source code of its latest software update. Elon Musk, Tesla’s CEO, has been hinting at the development of a Tesla-branded voice assistant for several years. Earlier, Musk suggested that Tesla could collaborate with his AI startup xAI to deploy its chatbot inside Tesla vehicles. The latest software update, version 2024.14.3, is currently being rolled out by Tesla and includes several new features. However, Tesla hacker Green, known for uncovering unreleased features in Tesla’s code, has revealed that the update contains…

Stellantis, the automotive giant, has unveiled its readiness to provide its forthcoming battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) with combustion engines if consumer demand dictates. This potential shift in strategy could begin with the upcoming Jeep Wagoneer S, marking a strategic pivot in response to the evolving landscape of electric vehicle adoption. Addressing concerns about the transition to electric vehicles, Stellantis Chief Financial Officer Natalie Knight announced during an event focused on the brand’s first-quarter delivery and financial figures that the Wagoneer S would initially be offered as a BEV, with a hybrid or gas-only version potentially following suit based on market demand.…

Cadillac has announced plans to continue selling combustion engine vehicles alongside its electric lineup beyond 2030. John Roth, the vice president of Global Cadillac, acknowledged the coexistence of electric and internal combustion engine (ICE) models for several years to come. “We want to make sure that we have that luxury of choice in the marketplace and both will have an opportunity to meet the customer needs as we look forward,” Roth stated at a recent media event. This announcement marks a departure from previous statements by high-ranking Cadillac and GM executives, who had previously indicated that Cadillac would transition to…

Global e-bike enthusiasts have reason to rejoice as Fiido, a renowned electric bicycle manufacturer, introduces its latest offering, the Fiido Air. Boasting a featherlight carbon frame and powered by a discreetly integrated rear hub motor, this model sets a new standard for lightweight and stylish urban commuting. The Fiido Air, now available for worldwide pre-order, weighs a mere 13 kg (~28.7 lbs), making it the lightest electric bicycle in Fiido’s lineup. The carbon frame lends a sleek and minimalist aesthetic, with the battery and motor cleverly concealed for a clean look. Equipped with a 250W Mivice M070 rear motor, the…

Tesla has announced the release of its latest software update, version 2024.3.25, which includes the highly anticipated Full Self-Driving (Supervised) v12.3.6 edition. However, the update also brings another feature called High Fidelity Park Assist, although not all vehicles with ultrasonic parking sensors will be able to enjoy this new feature. Owners of Tesla vehicles equipped with ultrasonic parking sensors, particularly those with Intel Atom infotainment computer processors, may find themselves missing out on the new High Fidelity Park Assist feature. This is despite their vehicles being barely three years old. Tesla’s decision to exclude these vehicles from the new feature…

BYD, a leading Chinese new energy vehicle (NEV) manufacturer, reported further sales growth in April, marking the second-highest monthly sales figures on record. In April, BYD sold 313,245 NEVs, reflecting a 48.96 percent increase from the same period last year and a 3.57 percent increase from March, according to the company’s latest figures. Following its decision to cease production and sales of vehicles powered solely by internal combustion engines in March 2022, BYD has shifted its focus to producing plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) and battery electric vehicles (BEVs). BYD’s NEV sales include both passenger cars and commercial vehicles. Sales of passenger…

Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) is ramping up its efforts to decarbonize its logistical operations, announcing an expansion of its electric truck usage across several regions, including Arizona, Ohio, Michigan, and the Carolinas. The company initiated the integration of Freightliner eCascadia battery electric semi trucks into its logistics operations in the Pacific Northwest in December last year. These efforts were further extended to include routes supporting DTNA’s manufacturing plant in Santiago, Mexico, earlier this year. DTNA has now revealed plans to deploy its Freightliner eM2 electric box trucks for short-haul operations and deliveries at these facilities as well. DTNA aims…

Volkswagen Group has released its financial numbers for the first quarter of 2024, revealing a slowdown in sales and a decrease in profits, in line with trends seen among other EU-based automakers. Despite these challenges, the Group remains optimistic about achieving its financial targets for the year. The Q1 report indicates a 20% decrease in profits for Volkswagen Group. This comes as the company experienced a mixed performance in vehicle deliveries. Overall deliveries were up 3% year-over-year, but battery electric vehicle (BEV) sales saw a decline. While EV sales surged in China by 91%, they fell in Europe by 24%…

California has achieved a significant milestone in its electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure development, with the Governor’s office announcing over the weekend that the state now boasts one charging station for every five gas stations. According to a press release from Governor Gavin Newsom’s office on Saturday, California has surpassed the one-fifth mark with a total of 105,000 individual public or shared private EV chargers, compared to roughly 10,423 retail gas stations in the state as of 2021 data from Statista. While EV charging infrastructure still has a long way to go to surpass gas refueling stations overall, California is significantly…

Henrik Fisker, CEO of the eponymous electric car brand facing financial challenges, recently informed employees that the company is in discussions with four automakers regarding a possible acquisition. This development comes as Fisker battles market decline and considers seeking bankruptcy protection if an investor is not found soon. During a meeting with employees, Fisker disclosed that the company has signed non-disclosure agreements with four car companies, indicating ongoing talks. However, he cautioned that a deal might not materialize quickly, as the potential buyers would require time for due diligence. Fisker’s financial woes have been mounting, including missing an $8.4 million…

Luxembourg has recently concluded its fourth tender call for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, approving funding for the installation of 434 new charging points across the country. The government will provide subsidies of up to 50% to support the selected projects, which were submitted by a variety of companies including petrol stations, supermarkets, hotels, and industrial firms. Minister for the Economy Lex Delles highlighted the success of the funding scheme, noting that the number of approved charging points has increased steadily since the initiative began. Delles emphasized the importance of such programs in the decarbonization of mobility and transport, stating,…

In a strategic move towards enhancing its battery production capabilities, Tesla is reportedly poised to sign a substantial supply contract with LG Energy Solution. According to sources cited by The Korea Economic Daily, the contract, valued at approximately 6 trillion won (around 4.1 billion euros), is expected to be finalized in the second half of 2024. The agreement is purported to include the delivery of electrodes to Tesla starting in 2025, spanning a duration of six to seven years. This quantity of electrodes would be adequate for the batteries of approximately 1.3 to 1.4 million electric vehicles annually. An insider…

Honda is set to announce a major investment in Ontario for the production of electric vehicles (EVs) and their components, with financial backing from the Canadian and provincial governments, according to a source familiar with the deal. As part of the agreement, Honda will manufacture batteries, process cathode materials for these batteries, and assemble EVs in Ontario. The details of the government support package have not been disclosed. The deal, expected to be finalized and announced on Thursday, is valued at billions of dollars, making it one of the largest investments in Canadian history. The agreement underscores Canada’s efforts to…

Tesla has implemented price cuts in several major markets, including China and Germany, following similar moves in the United States. The price adjustments come as Tesla faces declining sales and heightened competition in the electric vehicle (EV) market, particularly from Chinese EV manufacturers. The decision to reduce prices follows Tesla’s recent report of a drop in global vehicle deliveries for the first quarter, marking the first decline in nearly four years. Elon Musk, Tesla’s CEO, emphasized the need for frequent price changes to align production with demand. The EV market leader initiated an EV price war over a year ago…

Mining and construction fatalities have seen a concerning rise, prompting companies to innovate for safer operations. In response, FIRSTGREEN Industries has introduced a new line of cabinless, remote-operated skid steers tailored for critical mining tasks, aiming to enhance safety and sustainability in high-risk environments. The company, known for its electric loader Elise CBL designed for remote operation in demolition environments, has expanded its offerings with the ROCKEAT equipment line. These skid steers are specifically designed for underground mining, providing operators with a safer alternative to traditional equipment. Marcus Suess, COO of FIRSTGREEN Industries, highlighted the significance of the ROCKEAT skid…

A Liebherr electric excavator at Fortescue’s Christmas Creek mine in Western Australia recently achieved a significant operational milestone by moving its one millionth tonne of dirt. This success has prompted Fortescue to plan the purchase of two additional electric excavators. Since its introduction earlier this year, the converted mining excavator has been steadily working. Following a 90-day break-in period operating at partial capacity while the site team familiarized themselves with the new technology, the excavator is now operating at full speed. Fortescue Metals CEO, Dino Otranto, expressed excitement about the milestone, stating, “This is such an exciting milestone for Fortescue…

Daimler Truck’s newest brand of all-electric vehicles, RIZON, has announced the Canadian launch of its class 4-5 trucks, marking its entry into the Canadian market. The RIZON trucks will be available for preorders starting in June 2024, offering Canadian customers a range of versatile and sustainable transportation solutions. RIZON trucks, which made their debut in the U.S. in 2023, are already in operation on American streets, serving a diverse range of customers. In Canada, RIZON will offer four model variants, including the e16L, e16M, e18L, and e18M, each tailored to meet the unique requirements of customers, with gross vehicle weights…