Author: Michael Khan

Tesla is poised to significantly enhance its partnership with Indian suppliers, with plans to procure automotive components worth nearly $2 billion from the country, according to statements made by Union Minister Piyush Goyal. Speaking at the 63rd Annual Session of the Automobile Component Manufacturers Association of India, Goyal revealed that Tesla’s commitment for this year includes sourcing automotive components valued between $1.7 billion and $1.9 billion from India. This marks a substantial increase compared to the approximately $1 billion worth of auto parts that Tesla acquired from Indian suppliers in 2022. The road to establishing a Gigafactory in India appeared…

Peugeot, a prominent name in the automotive industry, has taken a significant stride into the electric vehicle (EV) market with the introduction of its all-new e-3008. This compact SUV marks the French automaker’s initial foray into EVs based on the innovative Stellantis STLA Medium platform. Scheduled for release in February 2024, the e-3008 boasts an impressive WLTP range of up to 700 kilometers, offering consumers an enticing electric option in the C-segment. Designed from the ground up as an electric vehicle, the Peugeot e-3008 will be available with three distinct all-electric powertrain configurations: a front-wheel-drive variant delivering 157 kW of…

India is set to unveil a new policy aimed at luring electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers and encouraging increased investment in the sector, according to statements made by Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal on Wednesday. This development coincides with ongoing discussions between the Indian government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and American EV giant Tesla regarding the potential establishment of a manufacturing facility in India. Sources with direct knowledge of the matter had previously revealed to Reuters last month that India was actively formulating an EV policy that would offer import tax reductions to automakers committed to local production. When asked…

ZF, an automotive supplier, is actively developing a groundbreaking electric motor that eliminates the need for permanent magnets. Unlike current magnet-free motor concepts, ZF’s I2SM (In-Rotor Inductive-Excited Synchronous Motor) achieves magnetic field generation through an inductive exciter housed within the rotor shaft. The innovation aims to deliver a motor characterized by remarkable compactness combined with maximum power and torque density. Importantly, this externally excited synchronous motor (FSM) innovation aligns with the sustainability goals of reducing dependency on permanent magnets and rare earth materials, all while maintaining performance levels comparable to conventional permanent-magnet synchronous machines. See also: ZF Group to Invest…

In a bid to secure a foothold in India’s fast-evolving electric vehicle (EV) market, India’s JSW Group has entered initial discussions with Chinese automaker Leapmotor regarding a potential technology licensing agreement. This agreement could potentially pave the way for JSW Group’s foray into EV manufacturing on Indian soil. Sources with knowledge of the matter have revealed that JSW Group is exploring the prospect of licensing Leapmotor’s innovative platform, which serves as the structural foundation for vehicles, to produce electric vehicles under its proprietary brand. If successful, this venture would mark JSW’s second attempt to penetrate the rapidly expanding EV sector.…

The electric motorcycle landscape in Asia, notably India, continues to witness a surge in popularity, as the demand for practical and budget-friendly mobility remains paramount. Recent years have seen a surge in the introduction of electric two-wheelers, predominantly in the form of utilitarian scooters. However, amidst this trend, a handful of electric two-wheelers are breaking the mold by offering a blend of sporty aesthetics and dynamic design. One such striking example emerges from the Indian electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, Revolt, with its latest offering, the RV400 electric motorcycle. In celebration of the brand’s sixth anniversary, Revolt has unveiled the RV400…

In a bid to bolster the electric vehicle (EV) market and promote local production, the Indian government is reportedly contemplating a substantial reduction in import taxes for electric cars. This potential move, spearheaded by electric car pioneer Tesla, could signal a significant shift in India’s automotive landscape. Sources familiar with the matter have indicated that the proposed policy would allow car manufacturers that establish production facilities within India’s borders to import fully assembled electric vehicles at a reduced tax rate of 15 per cent. This compares starkly with the prevailing rates of 100 per cent for vehicles priced above $40,000…

In a bold move that sends ripples through the electric vehicle realm, Indian startup Ultraviolette has astounded enthusiasts worldwide with the grand reveal of the F77 Space Edition. In a departure from the humdrum electric scooter landscape, this stunning creation pushes the boundaries of both design and performance, positioning itself as a high-powered contender in the realm of gasoline-powered counterparts. Ultraviolette, the visionary electric motorcycle manufacturer, is blazing new trails with its trailblazing creation, the F77 Space Edition. Breaking free from the confines of conventional electric two-wheelers, this remarkable machine is generating waves of excitement among the global riding community.…

In a bid to stimulate the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and foster sustainable transportation, India’s finance ministry is presently evaluating a proposition to encompass electric vehicles within the framework of the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) priority sector guidelines. This strategic maneuver could potentially lead to reduced financing expenses, encouraging a more affordable approach to raising funds for electric vehicle initiatives across the country. A government official disclosed this development on Saturday, shedding light on the ongoing deliberations surrounding this proposal. See also: Mahindra Introduces the e-Alfa Super: A Modern Electric Three-Wheeler for Urban Mobility in India The initiative,…

In a captivating revelation at the Chengdu Motor Show, MG has finally lifted the curtain on the technical prowess of its much-anticipated Cyberster roadster. The sleek electric sports car, first introduced as a concept in 2021, has garnered significant attention since its production version’s debut earlier this year at the esteemed Goodwood Festival of Speed. At the heart of this two-seater dynamo lies a dynamic duo of electric motors, seamlessly delivering a formidable 536 horsepower and a robust 535 pound-feet of torque. This power propels the Cyberster from 0 to 62 mph in an exhilarating 3.2 seconds, instantly gratifying speed…

Maruti Suzuki, the renowned Indian automobile manufacturer, has revealed its forward-looking ‘Maruti Suzuki 3.0’ strategy. This ambitious strategy entails the launch of six new electric vehicles (EVs) by the year 2031, with a resolute objective of achieving 60% of its sales from the electric segment. However, this target of 60% electric vehicle sales is not set in stone, as Maruti Suzuki has articulated a broader vision that encompasses a diversified propulsion approach. The company is striving for 25% of its sales to be derived from hybrid models, further embracing environmental sustainability. Additionally, it aims to secure 15% of its sales…

Rohm Semiconductor, a Japanese semiconductor conductor manufacturer, is set to bolster its production capabilities with the acquisition of a manufacturing facility from solar technology firm Solar Frontier. The move aligns with Rohm’s strategic vision to ramp up silicon carbide power component manufacturing, catering to the burgeoning demand within the evolving e-mobility market. The acquisition, slated for completion in October 2023, sets the stage for Rohm Semiconductor’s ambitious plans. The company’s new production facility, situated in Kunitomi, Japan, is poised to become its largest operational unit to date, empowering the company’s expansion efforts in the realm of silicon carbide power components.…

In a strategic move aligned with the evolving landscape of sustainable transportation, BPCL intends to deploy charging infrastructure at 7,000 of its 19,000 petrol stations across India by December 2024. The company’s initial focus will be on strategic locations including highways and cities that have been prioritized by the Indian government’s mobility agenda. The rollout plan encompasses the installation of fast charging stations along highways, strategically positioned at intervals of approximately 100 kilometres in both directions. This strategic approach aims to ensure convenient access to fast charging options for EV users during their journeys. Presently, BPCL has already operationalized 80…

Indian automaker Mahindra has forged a partnership with China’s BYD to supply batteries, while also sourcing electric motors from French company Valeo. This decision comes in the wake of reported delays in the cooperation with Volkswagen (VW) and the uncertainty of component deliveries from the German carmaker. Originally, Mahindra had planned to integrate battery cells featuring LFP chemistry and electric motors from VW’s MEB platform for its new all-electric vehicle platform called Inglo. However, sources indicate that this collaboration has encountered delays, with VW now projecting component deliveries not before 2026 or 2027. In response to these setbacks, Mahindra has…

In a strategic move, Tata Motors, a player in the Indian automotive sector, has declared its intention to forgo hybrid models and shift its focus towards a diversified lineup consisting of internal combustion engine (ICE)-powered vehicles and fully electric offerings. This proclamation comes on the heels of the company’s announcement that it is poised to unveil an impressive quartet of electric SUVs within the early months of the forthcoming year. Tata Motors’ forthcoming launches are set to encompass a series of electrified offerings, including the revamped Nexon EV, which will be swiftly succeeded by electric iterations of the compact Punch…

In a significant move towards advancing electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure, TeraWatt Infrastructure, spearheaded by former Google strategist Neha Palmer, has commenced the construction of a state-of-the-art charging site for EV fleets near Los Angeles Airport. The forthcoming charging park, equipped with 26 DC fast chargers, is scheduled to be operational by the upcoming year. TeraWatt Infrastructure, the proprietor of the site, will assume the responsibility of operating and maintaining the charging infrastructure. Remarkably, the company’s statement alludes to the potential inclusion of multiple tenants, suggesting that the Inglewood location could be exclusively reserved for fleet clients. Evidencing the commitment to…

In a significant stride towards sustainable logistics, Eicher Trucks and Buses has forged a strategic alliance with Amazon, the e-commerce giant. This partnership is poised to reshape the landscape of middle and last-mile deliveries in India by introducing a fleet of 1,000 electric vehicles over the course of the next five years. As part of the initial phase, Amazon is set to roll out 50 electric trucks manufactured by Eicher across key urban centres such as Delhi, Manesar, and Gurugram by the conclusion of 2024. These vehicles, designed for the “middle-mile” movement of shipments between various Amazon facilities, boast cutting-edge…

Chinese battery cell manufacturer, Eve Energy, has embarked on a new chapter in its global expansion strategy by breaking ground on a state-of-the-art production facility in the northwest state of Kedah, Malaysia. The forthcoming factory is strategically positioned to cater to the growing demand for cylindrical battery cells, specifically tailored for electric two-wheelers and power tools across the vibrant Southeast Asian market. While the exact production capacity and commencement date have yet to be revealed, Joe Chen, the Malaysia director of Eve Energy, emphasized the monumental significance of this venture. Mr. Chen underlined that this stride marks a pivotal juncture…

In a significant stride towards reshaping the energy landscape, E.On, the energy provider, has initiated a pioneering pilot project in Copenhagen. Marking a departure from conventional pricing norms, the endeavour introduces dynamic pricing for electric vehicle (EV) charging, promising to revolutionise the public charging infrastructure. Dr Lioudmila Simon, the Head of Mobility Innovation at E.On, unveiled the ambitious project with enthusiasm, underlining its potential to usher in a transformative era of energy pricing and sales strategies. The landmark rollout in Denmark signifies E.On’s maiden venture into flexible pricing strategies for public charging stations. The core principle of the pricing model…

Indian carmaker Tata Motors and Japanese battery manufacturer AESC are reportedly in talks about a possible partnership, which could lead to the production of Tata’s battery cells in India. According to Autocar Professional, the nature of the potential partnership is currently under discussion and could involve a licensing agreement or an equity partnership. The specific terms and conditions are expected to be decided in the coming months. If the collaboration comes to fruition, it may encompass NMC cells for Tata’s subsidiary, Jaguar Land Rover (JLR), and possibly include the exploration of solid-state batteries. See also: Tata Group Chooses UK for…