Author: Moira Shortle

In the realm of electric vehicles (EVs), concerns about the long-term effects of DC fast charging on high-voltage batteries have lingered among owners. A pertinent question arises: how does frequent use of fast charging impact battery degradation over time? Recent research sheds light on this pressing matter, uncovering crucial insights for EV enthusiasts. A comprehensive study conducted by Recurring Auto, a leading provider of vehicle and battery analysis reports for EVs, has delved into the impact of charging methods on battery health. Analyzing charging data from a substantial pool of over 12,500 Tesla vehicles in the United States, the study…

In a significant stride towards sustainable battery manufacturing and recycling, Swedish battery maker Northvolt and British recycling company EMR have inaugurated a cutting-edge recycling facility in Hamburg, Germany. The facility, spanning 12,000 square meters, marks a key step in Northvolt’s ambitious recycling strategy, with a goal to process 10,000 tonnes of battery packs annually. Northvolt’s proactive stance on recycling began with the Revolt program in 2019, leading to the production of its first battery cell made entirely from recycled materials in 2021. This eco-friendly ethos is set to expand, with plans to upscale recycling operations in Sweden to a staggering…

In a groundbreaking announcement, Polestar, the Swedish electric performance car manufacturer, has unveiled a strategic partnership with Mobileye, a frontrunner in autonomous driving technology. The collaboration aims to seamlessly integrate Mobileye’s advanced Chauffeur autonomous driving system into the much-anticipated Polestar 4, marking a significant step forward in the evolution of self-driving vehicles. The highly-anticipated Polestar 4, which made its debut in the Chinese market today, is poised to achieve a global release in the year 2024. Positioned as an innovative platform, the Polestar 4 serves as the ideal canvas for the integration of Mobileye’s state-of-the-art SuperVision-based Advanced Driver Assistance System…

In a remarkable stride towards the future of automotive electrification, Hyundai is gearing up to introduce the IONIQ 7, a three-row electric SUV that stands as a testament to the automaker’s commitment to innovation. Following its initial announcement in 2020, the IONIQ 7 joins Hyundai’s exclusive lineup of dedicated electric vehicles, joining the ranks alongside the IONIQ 5 and the IONIQ 6 electric sedan. Elevating anticipation further, Hyundai provided a tantalizing glimpse into the IONIQ 7’s aesthetics through the unveiling of the “SEVEN” concept at the esteemed Automobility LA event. This concept showcases an avant-garde, sleek design that firmly establishes…

Acura, the luxury division of Honda, has recently unveiled its inaugural all-electric vehicle, the Acura ZDX. Mirroring the technology employed in the Honda Prologue, this electric SUV leverages General Motors’ Ultium platform, with customer deliveries anticipated to commence in early 2024. Originally showcased as the Precision EV Concept a year ago, the production version of this electric SUV will bear the name ZDX A-Spec or ZDX Type S. Both iterations will boast a robust 102 kWh battery, capable of accommodating charging rates of up to 190 kW. This indicates a probable utilization of GM’s 400-volt iteration of the Ultium platform.…

Our Next Energy (ONE), a promising energy storage technology startup based in Michigan, has unveiled impressive advancements in its Aries II lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack. This breakthrough places the battery in close competition with the benchmark nickel cobalt manganese (NCM) packs commonly employed in electric passenger vehicles. The company asserts that its Aries II battery has effectively bridged the gap in both range and mass, achieving a remarkable proximity of just six percent difference when compared to the leading NCM battery packs frequently chosen by automakers for their electric vehicles (EVs). For the LFP battery technology, attaining near-energy…

In an impressive feat of engineering and determination, Rivian’s R1S electric SUV has achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming the first production electric vehicle to conquer the formidable Rubicon Trail. This renowned off-road trail, known for its treacherous terrain and demanding obstacles, witnessed the R1S SUV navigate its way through a challenging 12-mile stretch, marking a significant achievement for electric mobility in the adventure-oriented automotive landscape. Setting out from the Loon Lake entrance south of Lake Tahoe, near the California-Nevada border, Rivian’s test and development team embarked on their mission on Monday, August 7. Over the course of approximately eight…

In recent developments, two separate recalls have been initiated in the United States, involving the all-electric Genesis GV60 and the Hyundai Tucson models. The recalls pertain to specific units and have been announced due to safety concerns. The overall impact of these recalls remains contained, affecting only a small number of vehicles. The 2023 GV60 recall by Hyundai Motor Company focuses on a specific issue related to the front passenger-side seat belt automatic locking retractors. Certain vehicles have exhibited an unusual behavior where these retractors can remain locked even after the seat belt has been fully engaged and retracted. The…

In a strategic move to navigate the evolving landscape of automotive regulations, the latest iteration of the Toyota Land Cruiser is embracing a blend of tradition and innovation. As the demand for environmentally-conscious vehicles continues to shape the industry, the engineers behind the iconic SUV are diligently charting a course to ensure its relevance well into the 2030s. Toyota’s resolute commitment to this mission is evident in the inclusion of the i-Force Max hybrid powertrain within the new Land Cruiser. Marrying a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission equipped with an integrated electric motor and a 1.87…

In a captivating scene captured on video and shared on social media, a Tesla Semi was seen transporting a Tesla Cybertruck on a U.S. highway. The footage, originally shared on TikTok by user u/itsnatalierosee and subsequently on Twitter by S.E. Robinson, Jr. (@SERobinsonJr), has ignited curiosity among electric vehicle enthusiasts. The Cybertruck observed in the video is believed to be a pre-production model undergoing testing as Tesla prepares for the impending start of limited production later this year at the Tesla Giga Texas plant. According to Tesla’s Q2 financial report, the current stage of development for the Cybertruck is labeled…

Formula E, the pioneering electric racing series, has taken a creative step towards promoting sustainable practices and environmental awareness. In a powerful testament to the principles of reduce, reuse, and recycle, the organization unveiled a thought-provoking sculpture crafted from retired components of its previous generation racecars. The art piece serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of embracing circular manufacturing systems in today’s world. Renowned British artist Charles Elliot is the mastermind behind this unique creation, ingeniously assembling donated parts from each of the 11 teams that participated in the highly competitive 2022 Formula E season. The sculpture, measuring…

Universal EV Chargers, an provider of charging infrastructure, has secured significant grants aimed at accelerating the installation of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in Illinois. The move marks a notable step forward in the state’s efforts to bolster its EV charging network. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) recently granted competitive funds to Universal EV Chargers, designated for the deployment of 176 new Direct Current (DC) fast charging ports. These charging points are set to be strategically located at 44 different sites across the state. The grants are a result of the IEPA’s Volkswagen Mitigation Plan, which employs funds from…