Author: Sibley Presley

Supernal, Hyundai’s electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) startup, is moving its global headquarters from Washington, D.C., to Irvine, California, in a bid to streamline operations and improve team collaboration. The relocation will affect around 5% of Supernal’s workforce, or approximately 35 to 40 employees, who have been asked to transfer to California. The shift comes a little over a year after Supernal inaugurated its 28,000-square-foot office in Washington, D.C., designed as a hub for its policy and regulatory work. While the D.C. office will remain operational, most of its staff are impacted by the move, with LinkedIn data suggesting…

Germany’s Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) has unveiled a new strategy to establish the country as a hub for drones and electric flying taxis (eVTOL), with plans for the first test routes for air taxis to be operational by 2026. Transport Minister Volker Wissing believes that drones and air taxis will revolutionize air mobility, highlighting the potential of these technologies to transform the transport landscape. The strategy, designed to guide operators in the sector, is set to unfold in four phases through 2032. The first phase will involve the establishment of test routes for air taxis by 2026.…

DB Schenker has expanded its fleet in Germany with the addition of 40 new Volvo FM Electric trucks, marking a significant step in the company’s commitment to sustainable transport solutions. The trucks will be deployed across Germany starting this month to support the logistics operator’s last-mile delivery network. The Volvo FM Electric trucks offer up to 490 kW of power and a range of up to 300 kilometers on a full battery charge. Charging options vary, with a full charge taking up to 9.5 hours using an AC connection, or as little as 2.5 hours with a direct current fast…

Brittany Ferries is set to introduce a hybrid ferry, the Saint-Malo, in February 2025. The vessel will operate in the English Channel, specifically on the route connecting Saint-Malo in France and Portsmouth in the UK. The Saint-Malo is touted as having the largest battery ever installed on a ship, with a 12 MWh capacity. Although the ferry is primarily designed to run on LNG, it can also operate purely on electricity, with the battery providing power mainly for harbor maneuvers. Built at the CMI Jinling shipyard in Weihai, China, the Saint-Malo features a Wärtsilä engine and four battery compartments, installed…

Despite the collapse of the French government, electric vehicle (EV) sales in France reached a significant milestone in November, with EVs comprising over 15% of all new car sales. This surge in EV demand was led by the retro-inspired Renault 5 E-Tech, which claimed the top sales spot. The French government faced a crisis this week following a historic no-confidence vote that ousted Prime Minister Michel Barnier. The unrest contributed to a 12.7% decline in overall car sales compared to the previous year. However, the hybrid and plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) segments performed strongly, showing a 34% increase. Among…

U.S. Postmaster General Louis DeJoy defended the U.S. Postal Service’s (USPS) plans to purchase a growing number of electric delivery vehicles, stating that the decision aligns with the service’s business goals. Speaking at a U.S. House of Representatives hearing on Tuesday, DeJoy emphasized that the USPS’s purchase plan, which includes the acquisition of 66,000 electric vehicles (EVs) by 2028, is financially sound for the service. In 2023, Congress allocated $3 billion as part of a broader climate bill, including $1.2 billion specifically for EVs and related charging infrastructure. DeJoy’s defense comes amidst concerns raised by former President Donald Trump’s transition…

Rivian has opened a new charging outpost in Joshua Tree National Park as part of its expanding Rivian Adventure Network (RAN). The station, which became operational on December 5, 2024, is designed to cater to both Rivian and non-Rivian electric vehicles (EVs). The new facility offers high-speed chargers delivering up to 900 volts, with CCS connectors that are compatible with North American Charging Standard (NACS) vehicles. “Using a new charger design to accommodate any compatible EV in North America, these sites are an important milestone in support of electrifying the entire transportation sector,” Rivian said in a statement. Now open:…

UK-based Electrogenic has introduced a new plug-and-play electric vehicle (EV) conversion kit for the first-generation Mazda MX-5 (Miata), offering an eco-friendly alternative for owners seeking more power. Known for its previous projects converting classic cars like the Land Rover Series, Porsche 911, and Jaguar E-type to electric power, Electrogenic’s latest kit promises a seamless swap for MX-5 enthusiasts. The conversion kit, designed to be simple to install, requires no cutting or drilling, with CAD modeling used to fit components into the existing engine bay and tunnel space. Electrogenic claims that the entire conversion can be completed by a trained mechanic…

Alpine is set to launch an all-new A110, marking a significant shift as the next generation will be fully electric, unlike its predecessor. While the move has raised concerns among some enthusiasts, Renault Group CEO Luca de Meo has assured that the upcoming electric sports car will be lighter than a comparable internal combustion engine (ICE) model, without sacrificing performance. The new A110, confirmed to be under development in mid-2023, will be available in both Coupe and Roadster variants. The vehicle will be built on a bespoke electric platform, similar to the strategy Porsche employs with the 911, using a…

A new regulatory filing has disclosed the battery and range specifications for the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra, which is set to launch early next year. The electric vehicle (EV) will be equipped with a 93.7 kWh battery, offering a range of 520 kilometers, 555 kilometers, 600 kilometers, or 630 kilometers, depending on the configuration. These details were published in a catalog by China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) on December 5. The Xiaomi SU7 Ultra, weighing 2,360 kilograms, includes a 638-kilogram battery pack, resulting in an energy density of approximately 147 Wh/kg. The model is expected to be priced…

Nio has formed a strategic partnership with Mastercard to improve vehicle-related payment services for its users outside of China. The collaboration was announced today in Shanghai, where Nio’s global headquarters is based. The two companies will focus on areas such as user value-added services, payment innovation, data services, consulting, joint marketing, and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) efforts. The partnership will offer Mastercard cardholders exclusive benefits including charging, battery swap, maintenance, car rental, and business travel VIP services. Additionally, the companies plan to explore in-vehicle payment solutions for Nio users, enabling seamless transactions for services such as charging, parking, and…

Ford has launched the all-electric version of its best-selling vehicle in Europe, the Puma. The new electric Ford Puma Gen-E comes with a refreshed design, energy-efficient powertrain, and increased interior space, marking a significant upgrade for the beloved compact crossover. Jon Williams, General Manager of Ford Model E and Blue in Europe, described the Puma Gen-E as “our best ever Puma,” emphasizing that it offers “the most fun-to-drive experience yet.” The electric version features a sleek new front design, inspired by the Mustang Mach-E, with a shield replacing the traditional grille. Other design upgrades include a rear spoiler and new…

Mercedes-Benz has commenced production of the eActros 600 electric semi-truck at its Wörth plant in Bavaria, marking a milestone in Daimler Truck’s electrification efforts. With an all-electric range of up to 500 kilometers (310 miles), the eActros 600 is designed to meet the demands of long-haul trucking in Europe. “The start of series production of our eActros 600 is a further proof of our ambition to transform the industry,” said Karin Rådström, CEO of Daimler Truck. Highlighting the truck’s potential, Rådström added, “Our battery-electric long-haul truck will therefore make a real difference in reducing CO2 emissions from heavy road freight,…

Canada will not be making further investments in Northvolt, the Swedish electric vehicle battery maker, following its bankruptcy filing in the United States on Thursday, according to a Canadian government source. The company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Houston, citing severe liquidity issues. In its petition, Northvolt acknowledged that its financial situation had become “dire.” Northvolt’s Canadian plant, currently under construction in Quebec, was a cornerstone of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s industrial and climate policies. However, despite its strategic importance, the Canadian source stated that additional funding for the company was “not on the…

Ford Motor is ramping up efforts to boost year-end sales of its electric vehicles, introducing significant discounts and added perks for buyers of the F-150 Lightning and Mustang Mach-E models. The company’s newly launched promotion combines financing offers, bonus cash, and free home charging solutions. Under the program, buyers can take advantage of 0% financing for 72 months, coupled with $5,000 in Bonus Cash on 2024 models. Additionally, Ford is providing a complimentary Level 2 home charger, covering the cost of standard installation—a move aligned with its recently introduced “Power Promise” initiative. “We want to show customers the real benefits…

Convergence Energy Services Limited (CESL), an energy and mobility service provider, has introduced a flexible procurement program to supply government ministries and departments with a range of electric vehicle (EV) models. The initiative aims to help meet operational needs through customizable EV options, supporting the government’s shift towards sustainable mobility. Union Minister of Power and Housing & Urban Affairs, Shri Manohar Lal, inaugurated the program, with a target to deploy 5,000 EVs for government officials over the next two years. The plan aligns with India’s broader sustainability goals, which include achieving net-zero emissions by 2070. “The ‘EV as a Service’…

Mihogo has unveiled its upcoming e-bike model, the Air, which features a lightweight design and extended range capabilities. Built with carbon fiber, the Air weighs 49.8 pounds (~22.6 kilograms), making it easy to handle. The bike incorporates a dual-battery system, with a total capacity of nearly 1,000 watt-hours (Wh), providing what Mihogo claims to be one of the longest ranges available in its class. The Air’s carbon-fiber frame is constructed from “Japanese Toray T800” material, supporting a maximum load of 220 pounds (~100 kilograms) and certified by TÜV. Mihogo also equipped the frame with a dual-arm torque sensor, contributing to…

US-based Beta Technologies, a developer of electric aircraft for passenger and freight transport, has announced a successful financing round totaling $318 million. The Qatar Investment Authority (QIA), the sovereign wealth fund of the State of Qatar, was the lead investor in this funding round. In addition to QIA, several of Beta’s major shareholders, including Fidelity Management & Research Company and TPG Rise Climate, have increased their investments in the company. Long-time customer United Therapeutics also participated in the Series C financing round, contributing to Beta’s total capital raised, which now exceeds $1 billion across all funding rounds. The company plans…

French charging infrastructure company Electra has announced plans to install at least 20 fast-charging stations at Burger King locations across Belgium within two years, with expansion plans underway for Switzerland. Electra’s collaboration with the fast-food chain began on October 23 with the opening of its first fast-charging station at a Burger King in Zandhoven, featuring six charging points powered by Alpitronic’s HYC400 hypercharger. Each charging station will include a minimum of four fast-charging points and typically six, with charging speeds up to 400 kW. The stations will remain accessible outside of Burger King’s operating hours, according to Electra, allowing for…

Geely Automobile Holdings has introduced its latest innovation in hybrid technology, the Leishen EM-i system, designed to compete directly with BYD’s well-regarded DM-i system, which is celebrated for its impressive fuel economy. Unveiled during a recent event, the Leishen EM-i is being marketed as a next-generation hybrid system that prioritizes fuel efficiency while catering to mainstream consumers. The Leishen EM-i system boasts significant technological advancements in both its engine and transmission. Geely has highlighted the engine’s remarkable thermal efficiency, which reaches an impressive 46.5 percent. This efficiency is pivotal in delivering enhanced fuel economy, making it an attractive option for…