Author: Ryan Fisher

McLaren Applied, the electric scooter arm of Formula One’s engineering and technology firm McLaren Applied, has announced its acquisition of the bankrupt Dutch e-bike company, VanMoof. The deal comes with a commitment to invest significant capital to rejuvenate and grow VanMoof’s operations. “The opportunity is immense as VanMoof is a company with an exceptional product,” stated Nick Fry, Chairman of McLaren Applied, in an interview with Reuters. “However, this will not be an easy task, considering the financial challenges the company was facing.” The financial terms of the acquisition have not been disclosed, but Fry revealed that the investment required…

European new car registrations experienced a remarkable 15.2% surge during the month of July. This uptick marks the 12th consecutive month of growth for the automotive sector, which has been diligently rebounding from the repercussions of pandemic-induced supply chain disruptions. The data, meticulously compiled by the European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA), was unveiled on Wednesday, shedding light on the persistent upward trajectory of the industry. A standout highlight of this data lies in the electric vehicle (EV) segment, which witnessed an impressive 60.6% surge in sales during the same period. This boost continues to be fueled by the various subsidies…

In a groundbreaking collaboration, Volta Trucks, the all-electric commercial vehicle manufacturer, has partnered with DSV, a global transport and logistics powerhouse, to initiate real-world testing as part of the Volta Zero’s Driving Experience Programme. The Volta Zero, an all-electric medium-duty truck, is set to become the pioneering emission-free addition to DSV’s fleet. Operating from DSV’s southern hub in Purfleet, this cutting-edge vehicle will take on the role of completing last-mile groupage deliveries within London and the Southeast region. The truck is scheduled for operation between 06:00 and 19:00, relying on overnight charging at DSV’s primary depot. With a presence in…

In a strategic move towards diversification and growth, ZeroNox has unveiled a significant achievement with the introduction of its IndiCon platform. Tailored to provide robust support for major players in the industrial and construction sectors, this innovative platform marks ZeroNox’s strategic expansion into these pivotal markets. By doing so, the company aims to not only widen its product distribution reach but also bolster its service partnerships and potential sales avenues. The official launch of the IndiCon platform was inaugurated through a noteworthy partnership pact between ZeroNox and Papé Material Handling. As a prominent name in the realm of comprehensive material…

Amtrak, in partnership with the Washington Department of Transportation (WSDOT), has taken a significant stride in eco-friendly transit by replacing a diesel-powered bus on the Pacific Northwest’s Cascades route with its inaugural electric bus. The new electric bus is set to operate between Seattle and Bellingham, bridging the gap between morning and evening train services on the Cascades route. This initiative aligns with Amtrak’s broader strategy of employing buses nationwide for scheduled connecting services that integrate seamlessly with its train network. The pioneering electric bus, a 45-foot Van Hool CX45e, showcases a 660 kWh Proterra lithium-ion battery system and boasts…

The anticipation surrounding the forthcoming all-electric Rolls-Royce Spectre has been met with overwhelming demand, as orders for the vehicle extend into the year 2025. This resounding success for the renowned British brand underscores the Spectre’s undeniable appeal, a fact that has further solidified its prominence by being unveiled during the prestigious Monterey Car Week. While specific sales figures categorized by region remain undisclosed, the American market is poised to become a pivotal stronghold for this groundbreaking electric luxury automobile. The spotlight at Monterey Car Week fell not only on the Spectre’s electrifying powertrain but also on its unparalleled aesthetics. Presented…

GreenFlux, a Dutch charging software provider, has unveiled a groundbreaking DC-specific algorithm designed to optimize intelligent fast charging. This innovation aims to ensure that the collective power consumption of a cluster of charging stations remains under a predetermined limit automatically. The algorithm’s focus on efficiency renders it particularly appealing to commercial clients. The company has affirmed that the algorithm is already in use within its portfolio and has been successfully deployed on a large scale by various customers. Notably, GreenFlux is renowned for its cloud-based and hardware-agnostic technology, underscoring its versatility across different brands of DC charging stations. By harnessing…

China’s new energy vehicle (NEV) market witnessed a slight decline in sales during the month of July, largely attributed to the traditional lull in demand during this season. While the figures dipped marginally compared to the previous month, the sector’s year-on-year growth maintains a positive trajectory. Retail sales data unveiled by the China Passenger Car Association (CPCA) sheds light on the current state of NEV sales in the country. During the month of July, retail sales of passenger NEVs amounted to approximately 641,000 units, marking a year-on-year increase of 31.9 percent. However, this figure experienced a modest contraction of 3.6…

In a recent development, electric vehicle parts supplier Proterra has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, underscoring the growing difficulties faced by companies in the electric vehicle industry. This move follows a series of challenges including supply chain disruptions, weakening demand, and a lack of funding opportunities. Proterra’s decision to seek bankruptcy protection closely follows Lordstown Motors similar action, further accentuating the tumultuous landscape within the electric vehicle sector. Lordstown Motors had initiated bankruptcy proceedings and initiated plans for its sale after a failed attempt to resolve disagreements regarding an expected investment from Foxconn. The ramifications of Proterra’s bankruptcy declaration…

Following ExxonMobil’s announcement of venturing into lithium mining in May, talks have emerged linking the US oil company with several major players in the automotive and battery industries. According to insider reports, discussions are underway with carmakers Tesla, Ford, and Volkswagen, as well as battery manufacturers SK On and Samsung SDI, along with lithium producer Albemarle. While the negotiations are still in the early stages, Bloomberg views them as indicative of ExxonMobil’s growing interest in the lithium sector. However, the companies involved have neither confirmed nor denied the information. When approached by Bloomberg, Exxon, VW, and SK On declined to…

In a recent development, freight forwarder J.B. Hunt has placed a new order with Nikola Motor for 13 zero-emission trucks, aiming to bolster their commitment to sustainability. The order includes ten battery-electric trucks and three fuel cell-powered vehicles, representing a significant step towards reducing carbon emissions in the transportation sector. Scheduled for delivery starting this month, the heavy-duty trucks will be deployed in various regions, particularly in the Los Angeles metropolitan area and the vicinity of Phoenix, Arizona. The move aligns with California’s ongoing efforts to promote zero-emission transportation, with the Port of Los Angeles and the Port of Long…

In a groundbreaking move to revolutionize electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, seven leading automakers have announced their joint venture company aiming to create an extensive charging network across North America. The BMW Group, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, the Mercedes-Benz Group, and Stellantis have joined forces with the common goal of enhancing the convenience, accessibility, and reliability of EV charging for their electric car customers. According to the announcement, the yet-to-be-named joint venture company plans to launch its first charging stations in the United States in the summer of 2024, with Canadian stations following at a later date. The network’s…

French drivers can now look forward to the arrival of Microlino, the innovative all-electric lightweight vehicle from Swiss automotive company Micro Mobility. Following its successful launch in Germany and Switzerland, the company has set its sights on the French market, with deliveries commencing shortly after a high-profile launch event in Paris. Described as the perfect fusion of a motorbike and a car, the Microlino offers eco-conscious urban mobility at its finest. Starting at 22,990 euros, the vehicle will be available in a limited edition “Pioneer” version, with only 999 units up for grabs. See also: Microlino launches Pioneer Series with…

Cadillac enthusiasts have something to be thrilled about as the 2024 Cadillac Lyriq, the luxury brand’s first foray into the EV market, receives exciting updates and fresh color options. In response to the increasing demand for luxury electric crossovers, Cadillac has added five new exterior colors to the Lyriq’s palette, giving customers more choices than ever before. The new exterior colors include Emerald Lake Metallic, Argent Silver Metallic, Radiant Red Tintcoat, Celestial Metallic, and Nimbus Metallic. Among these, Nimbus Metallic, featuring RPO code G7X and touch-up paint code WA-618G, is an extra-cost option priced at $625. It stands out as…

LG Energy Solution (LGES), a leading South Korean battery cell manufacturer, has recently boosted its order from SQM (Sociedad Química and Minera de Chile), a prominent lithium producer based in Chile. The increase in demand is so substantial that it nearly doubled the quantity of battery-grade lithium carbonate and lithium hydroxide specified in their previous agreement. Initially, in 2021, the two companies had entered into a contract for the supply of 55,000 tonnes of lithium by the year 2029. However, a new deal has now been finalized, elevating the quantity to over 100,000 tonnes of battery-grade lithium carbonate and lithium…

Lexus has announced substantial discounts on its latest electric model, the RZ 450e, in an effort to attract more customers to the brand’s electric vehicle lineup. According to a bulletin sent to dealers, the automaker is offering lease cash incentives of up to $10,000 for the electric SUV. The RZ 450e, which was unveiled last year and recently became available for purchase in the US, is generating interest with its discounted pricing. Sharing a platform with the Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra, the RZ 450e boasts an impressive powertrain. It features a 71.4-kilowatt-hour battery pack that provides an EPA-estimated range…

Hyundai, the South Korean automaker, is continuing its attractive discount offerings for the popular Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6 electric vehicles (EVs) in the United States. In its latest move, Hyundai is targeting existing Hyundai owners in the US by offering a substantial $2,500 discount, as revealed in a dealer bulletin obtained by Cars Direct. Effective from June 28, this discount, known as the Valued Owner Coupon, is available for all versions of the 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6. This loyalty discount is designed to incentivize existing Hyundai owners and can be combined with other purchasing and leasing…

DX, the logistic partner of IKEA, has announced a substantial investment of £3 million towards the acquisition of new electric vehicles for their delivery and logistics partnership with the renowned furniture retailer. This latest funding will enable DX to incorporate 53 electric vans by Maxus into the existing fleet, marking the second round of electric vehicle investments made by DX for IKEA. In autumn 2022, DX initiated a deal with IKEA, pledging to establish a fleet of electric vehicles for home deliveries in Northern Ireland and the United Kingdom within three years. The venture commenced with a £750,000 investment, resulting…

In a significant boost to Faraday Future Intelligent Electric (FFIE.O), the pioneering electric vehicle (EV) startup announced on Tuesday that it has secured a funding commitment of $90 million from its existing investors. This news has ignited a positive market response, with the company’s shares witnessing a notable increase of approximately 5%. ATW Partners, a prominent private equity firm, will spearhead the funding round, while Senyun International will also contribute to the investment. The infusion of capital is specifically designated to facilitate the production and delivery of FF 91, Faraday Future’s highly anticipated luxury electric sports utility vehicle, which has…

Evora, a charming city nestled in Portugal’s southern Alentejo region, is set to make history as it becomes the first city in the country to operate solely on electric buses. With the launch scheduled for July 1st, 23 brand-new electric buses will grace the streets of Evora, marking a significant step towards sustainable and eco-friendly public transportation. This ambitious endeavor comes with an investment of €6.7 million, showcasing Evora’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and embracing clean energy solutions. Although specific details about the existing electric buses are scarce, local reports confirm the landmark procurement without disclosing the manufacturer’s name.…