Author: James Bryant

Maruti Suzuki, India’s leading automaker, is preparing to install 25,000 electric vehicle (EV) charging points across the country as part of its initiative to establish a comprehensive EV charging network. This effort comes in advance of the anticipated launch of its first electric vehicle, the Concept eVX, scheduled for January 2025. Charging Network Development In collaboration with oil marketing companies (OMCs), including a state-run enterprise, Maruti Suzuki is laying the groundwork for this extensive charging infrastructure. The company is also exploring the potential for installing charging points at its dealership service centers, aiming to have at least one charging bay…

Electric vehicle maker Rivian is launching its own version of Tesla’s Sentry Mode, a security feature designed to record instances of vandalism and other events near a vehicle. The new “Gear Guard Live Camera” will be available through a software update set to roll out today, offering Rivian R1T and R1S owners a similar security capability to that of Tesla’s system. The Gear Guard Live Camera utilizes the vehicle’s exterior cameras to monitor the surroundings, allowing users to keep an eye on their car and nearby property remotely. According to Rivian, this was a “top-requested feature” from its customers. “Customers…

Shell has recently installed a 400 kW DC charger at the Markham Moor truckstop in Nottinghamshire, UK, specifically reserved for electric trucks. The new charging station features two connections, allowing simultaneous charging at 200 kW each, catering to the needs of heavy-duty electric vehicles. While the charger is likely equipped with CCS plugs, there is currently no mention of compatibility with the megawatt charging system (MCS), which has yet to be officially standardized. This strategic location sees over 8,000 heavy-duty trucks passing daily, although only around 300 of these are electric vehicles in the UK. To enhance convenience for operators,…

A U.S. judge has ordered Trevor Milton, the founder of electric truck maker Nikola, to pay $167.7 million to the company following his conviction for fraud. U.S. District Judge Diane Humetewa in Phoenix upheld a November 2023 arbitration panel’s ruling, which held Milton responsible for misleading investors and the public about Nikola’s capabilities. Milton was found liable for 97% of Nikola’s $125 million fine from settling a civil fraud case with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, as well as $46.5 million in legal fees and expenses. The panel concluded that Milton’s false claims significantly contributed to the company’s financial…

The German state of Bavaria has proposed a substantial financial support package of 50 million euros for eVTOL startup Lilium. However, this support hinges on a matching commitment from the federal government. The German Federal Transportation Ministry has expressed its endorsement of Bavaria’s proposal and indicated that it would initiate the necessary procedures to match the state’s contribution. This development follows recent reports that Lilium, currently headquartered in Munich, is contemplating relocation abroad, potentially seeking foreign investors. Recent German media coverage suggested that Lilium was exploring opportunities to move its operations and attract international funding due to delays in securing…

Volvo Cars UK is broadening its EX30 lineup with the introduction of the new entry-level ‘Core’ specification. The new addition joins the existing ‘Plus’ and ‘Ultra’ grades, offering two powertrain options. The ‘Single Motor’ variant boasts a driving range of up to 209 miles, while the ‘Single Motor Extended Range’ can travel up to 295 miles, as per official WLTP data. The starting price for the Single Motor version is £32,850, and the Single Motor Extended Range is priced at £37,050. https://evmagz.com/volvo-ex30-pricing-unveiled-starting-at-34950-for-rwd-and-44900-for-awd-models/ Order books for the new EX30 Core variants are now open, although first deliveries to customers are anticipated…

HydroRide Europe AG, a Swiss company specializing in hydrogen-powered bicycles, generation systems, and energy tanks, has been at the forefront of hydrogen energy innovation since 2017. The company’s HYRYD bikes are designed with fewer moving parts than traditional e-bikes, resulting in reduced maintenance needs and lower operating costs. One of the standout features of the HYRYD bikes is their ability to recharge in just 3-10 seconds using a swappable hydrogen tank. According to HydroRide Europe’s CEO, Adam Benz, “The outcome is only water drops which you won’t even recognize, as they will disappear with the airstream while you are riding.…

Hyundai has announced the 2025 Kona Electric, maintaining its status as one of the most affordable electric vehicle options in the U.S. with starting prices under $35,000. The latest iteration introduces a new, sporty N Line model featuring sleek design enhancements. Five years after its debut, the Kona Electric received a comprehensive update in 2024, boasting an “EV-derived” design. The 2024 model showcased improvements across the board, including extended range, increased interior space, and a contemporary redesign. Notable exterior features included a pixelated seamless light bar, an upgraded nose, and active grille shutters. The interior of the 2024 Kona Electric…

Wisk Aero, a Boeing-owned company, is targeting the latter part of this decade to start carrying passengers with its pilotless air-taxi, CEO Brian Yutko said on Monday. The company is currently working with U.S. regulators to secure necessary approvals, despite ongoing skepticism among industry analysts regarding certification timelines. Wisk is developing a four-seater autonomous electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, which is expected to have a range of 90 miles (145 km). Yutko mentioned, “We are right now testing and producing the elements of this aircraft that we will hope to fly around the end of this year,” at…

The Helmholtz Centre in Berlin has developed a pioneering approach to analyze the degradation of solid-state battery cells, aiming to enhance their longevity and performance. Solid-state batteries are recognized for their higher energy density and improved safety compared to conventional liquid electrolyte batteries. However, they face challenges such as reduced lifespan and diminishing capacity with repeated charging cycles. Addressing these issues is a key focus for researchers at the Helmholtz Centre. “Our goal is to understand the underlying causes of degradation in solid-state batteries and find ways to mitigate them,” stated Dr. Elmar Kataev, researcher at the Helmholtz Centre. Solid-state…

Chevrolet has unveiled a new, more affordable version of its electric Silverado pickup, the Silverado EV LT, adding to the expanding lineup of its electric vehicles. This introduction follows the earlier releases of the Work Truck (WT) and First-Edition RST models, further diversifying Chevrolet’s electric offerings with options tailored for various consumer needs. New images and details of the Silverado EV LT showcase its versatility and features designed for everyday use, making it a promising addition to the electric vehicle market. The Silverado EV WT, which debuted in late 2023, boasts impressive specifications with 510 horsepower and 615 lb-ft of…

Germany-based air taxi developer Lilium has received a significant order from state-owned Saudi Arabian airline Saudia, a source familiar with the deal told Reuters on Wednesday. The source indicated that Saudia had signed a framework agreement to purchase 100 Lilium jets around 18 months ago. The airline has invited reporters to an event at Lilium’s headquarters near Munich on July 18, where it plans to provide details on upcoming agreements. While Lilium declined to comment specifically on the Saudia deal, the company confirmed the event and mentioned that reporters would witness an “important contract signing.” This order would mark one…