Author: Michael Khan

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…

In a strategic move reflecting its confidence in India’s burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) sector, South Korea’s Hyundai Motor Group is charting an ambitious course to bolster its EV lineup and charging infrastructure in the country. This development underscores the company’s commitment to tap into India’s potential as the world’s third-largest auto market. “As the demand for electric vehicles continues to grow globally, India is becoming an increasingly important center for electric vehicle production and sales,” stated a spokesperson from Hyundai Motor Group. As the second-largest carmaker in India by sales, Hyundai is poised to introduce five new EV models under…

Japan is gearing up to enhance the accessibility and appeal of electric vehicles (EVs) by significantly increasing the output of electric vehicle chargers deployed at highway service areas. The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry has laid out a forward-looking plan that seeks to cut down recharging times and bolster the widespread adoption of EVs across the nation. To achieve this ambitious goal, the ministry is planning to introduce new standards for quick chargers used for EVs and plug-in hybrids. These standards will require operators to upgrade their chargers to deliver a minimum output of 90 kilowatts (kW) by the…

Mahindra and Mahindra, the Indian automaker, recently secured $145 million from Temasek for its electric vehicle (EV) unit at a valuation of up to 805.8 billion rupees ($9.8 billion). This move is part of the company’s ongoing efforts to accelerate its electric mobility ambitions and increase EV sales. As per the deal, Temasek will acquire up to a 3% stake in Mahindra, following last year’s fundraising round, where the company raised up to $250 million from British International Investments (BII) at a valuation of up to $9.1 billion. Mahindra is proactively striving to expand the share of its electric SUVs…

In response to 12 complaints from owners of 2023 Tesla Model 3 and Model Y vehicles, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has commenced a preliminary evaluation into potential issues related to steering control and power steering in these popular electric vehicles. The investigation covers approximately 280,000 newly manufactured Tesla cars and aims to determine whether there is an unreasonable safety risk. One alarming incident reported by a Model 3 driver involved the steering feeling stuck, leading to a collision with a tree. Similarly, a Tesla Model Y owner from Alpharetta, Georgia, recounted an unnerving experience where the steering…