Author: Sibley Presley

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…

Volvo Cars announced Wednesday it will exercise its option to acquire Northvolt’s stake in their joint battery venture, NOVO Energy, after Northvolt was unable to meet its financing commitments. The joint venture, launched in 2021, aims to establish a gigafactory in Gothenburg, Sweden, focused on producing sustainable batteries for electric vehicles. “Volvo Cars is evaluating any potential impact these developments could have for NOVO Energy and is investigating future scenarios to protect the investment,” the automaker said in a statement, underscoring its commitment to maintaining project momentum. “Any battery production at NOVO Energy is dependent on third-party or other partner…

Ford Motor Company has announced the deployment of a significant software update for its popular electric vehicles, the F-150 Lightning and Mustang Mach-E. This update introduces a seamless end-to-end EV routing experience through Google Maps via Android Auto, marking a notable advancement in Ford’s commitment to enhancing the electric vehicle driving experience for its customers in the United States. The new functionality allows drivers to access critical real-time information regarding their vehicle’s battery levels, charging stops, and estimated charging durations throughout their journeys. This innovative feature aims to alleviate common concerns associated with electric vehicle ownership, such as range anxiety,…

Colombia has announced a $40 billion investment plan aimed at transitioning away from fossil fuel dependence, following a two-year halt on the development of new oil and gas reserves. With oil and coal constituting over 50% of the country’s exports, officials are looking to diversify the economy as these resources are expected to deplete in the coming years. Environment Minister Susana Muhamad, who also presides over COP16 (the United Nations Conference on Biological Diversity), has been a prominent advocate for Colombia’s shift towards sustainability. The country is seeking financial support from industrialized nations and multilateral development banks to offset potential…

A new report from Bloomberg has shed light on alarming safety conditions at Rivian’s factory in Normal, Illinois, where serious workplace injuries have become prevalent. Workers have described severe incidents, including cracked skulls, amputated fingers, and one employee vomiting blue-tinted bile after painting vehicles without adequate safety gear. Since early 2023, the electric vehicle manufacturer has racked up 16 serious citations from the US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), surpassing other automakers in the same period, despite operating only one factory. Rivian’s rapid production ramp-up, fueled by demand for its luxury SUVs and Amazon delivery vans, appears to have…