Author: Michael Khan

Self-driving trucking company TuSimple is making strides outside of the United States despite its recent challenges. The company has announced the commencement of Level 4 autonomous testing on a significant freight corridor in Japan. Additionally, TuSimple has become one of the first companies to receive a license for fully driverless testing in Shanghai’s Pudong area in China. These achievements come in the wake of a turbulent period for TuSimple, which underwent two major restructurings. In December, numerous employees were laid off, followed by another significant reduction in May that resulted in 300 U.S. workers losing their jobs, equating to approximately…

The implementation of post-Brexit regulations, requiring European automakers to source a higher percentage of electric vehicle components from either the United Kingdom or the European Union, could result in significant financial losses and decreased production, according to a prominent industry association. On Tuesday, the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) revealed that these rules could potentially cost automakers up to €4.3 billion ($4.7 billion) in tariffs. As per the EU-UK trade deal after Brexit, electric vehicles must contain 45% content from the EU or UK starting in 2024. Additionally, battery cells and packs must meet a 50-60% requirement. Failure to comply…

In a highly anticipated announcement, Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, has revealed that India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, is actively encouraging the electric car manufacturer to make a substantial investment in the country. Following a meeting between the two influential figures during Modi’s state visit to the United States, Musk expressed confidence that an official announcement regarding Tesla’s investment in India would be made in the near future. Sources close to the matter had previously informed Reuters that Musk intended to discuss plans for establishing a manufacturing base in India during his meeting with Modi. Musk, recognizing India’s immense…

Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo recently enacted Assembly Bill 184, known as the Nevada Clean Trucks and Buses Incentive Program, which aims to facilitate the adoption of medium- and heavy-duty electric trucks and buses by businesses and public fleets. The law provides financial incentives to Nevada-based organizations that currently own gas or diesel-powered trucks and buses, encouraging them to transition to electric or hydrogen vehicles that produce zero exhaust emissions. Under the provisions of AB184, a clean truck or bus is defined as a vehicle of medium or heavy duty, powered by electricity stored in a battery or generated by a…

Rivian, the electric vehicle (EV) startup, is gearing up for an acceleration in the production of its highly anticipated electric SUV, the Rivian R1S. Despite the challenging economic environment, the company is experiencing robust demand and expects it to continue into the coming year, according to Rivian’s CFO, Claire McDonough, during an interview with Deutsche Bank. McDonough highlighted Rivian’s production ramp and outlined the startup’s plans to achieve positive gross margins by the second half of 2024. While the industry has been grappling with supply chain issues, Rivian has found some relief. One major obstacle for the company has been…

n a recent business update, Nikola Corporation, the electric vehicle (EV) startup, has revealed plans to reduce cash usage and undertake a “reorganizing” of its workforce. With a renewed focus on the North American market, the company aims to streamline operations and ensure the continued production of its zero-emissions trucks. Nikola Corporation ($NKLA) has been striving to establish itself as a viable player in the zero-emission commercial vehicle sector, despite a tumultuous past marred by controversies. Since the appointment of new executives, the company has made significant strides towards regaining credibility and has shown determination to overcome obstacles. Over the…

Swiss e-bike specialist Thömus has recently introduced its latest innovation in the world of electric bicycles – the Twinner T1 Pro. Combining stunning aesthetics with exceptional functionality, this speed pedelec aims to redefine standards in lightweight e-bike design. Crafted predominantly from carbon fiber, Thömus has pushed the boundaries of innovation, creating a bike that not only catches the eye but also delivers impressive performance. Unlike any electric bike seen before, the Twinner T1 Pro showcases a unique blend of a step-through frame for accessibility and the sporty nature of carbon fiber. The wheels, reminiscent of those found on supercars, add…

In a significant move, Volvo has decided to discontinue several plug-in hybrid variants of its popular models in the United Kingdom. The Swedish automaker announced that this decision would impact the PHEV versions of the XC40 SUV, S90 saloon, and Cross Country-badged estates. Consequently, British customers will no longer have the option to order the V90 Cross Country, V60 Cross Country, plug-in hybrid editions of the XC40 Recharge, and the S90. However, the combustion engine versions of the V90 and V60, as well as the standard and fully electric XC40, will continue to be available in the UK market. Volvo…

Ford has announced plans to increase production of the highly sought-after Ford F-150 Lightning this fall, with a special focus on the XLT variant aimed at retail consumers. Recognizing the high demand for the electric truck, Ford aims to reduce customer wait times by allocating a significant portion of the production increase to build new XLT variants. As a result, customers who order the F-150 Lightning XLT today can expect delivery as early as September. The F-150 Lightning has been a resounding success, but its popularity has also led to lengthy wait times and inflated prices. A cursory search reveals…

Safra, a manufacturer of buses and coaches, made an announcement at the UITP Summit 2023 in Barcelona. The company showcased its latest innovation, a hydrogen retrofitted coach, equipped with the H2-PACK retrofit kit. This groundbreaking kit transforms a conventional combustion-powered intercity coach into a zero-emission vehicle. Safra took great pride in revealing that the H2-PACK retrofit kit was entirely designed and assembled in-house. The kit facilitates the conversion of the coach’s diesel engine into a hydrogen-electric powertrain. It incorporates a powerful 350 kW Dana electric motor, fueled by a 100 kW (70 kW effective) Plastic Omnium fuel cell. To ensure…

In a significant move towards bolstering India’s electric vehicle (EV) supply chain, the renowned Tata Group has sealed a preliminary agreement to construct a cutting-edge lithium-ion cell manufacturing facility. This groundbreaking endeavor will be backed by an investment of approximately 130 billion rupees ($1.58 billion). India’s car market, relative to its vast population, remains relatively modest. However, Tata Motors stands as a dominant force in the country’s EV sales, despite these sales accounting for a mere 1% of India’s total car sales, which amounted to roughly 3.8 million vehicles last year. According to a joint statement issued by Agratas Energy…

Shell, one of the leading energy companies, has announced its ambitious plan to create a comprehensive network of fast and ultra-fast charging stations across motorways in Austria by 2025. This initiative aims to support the growing demand for electric vehicles (EVs) and provide convenient charging options for EV owners throughout the country. As a first step towards this goal, Shell has already introduced high-power chargers at several key locations along Austrian motorways. The inaugural covered charging stations have been inaugurated at strategic points including Walserberg, Ansfelden, St. Pölten, Strengberg, Mondsee, and Fürnitz. A press photo accompanying the announcement showcases a…