by Eve Stevens | Dec 9, 2025 | Autos, Energy & Charging |
News
Ford may have walked back its decision to go all-electric in Europe by 2030, but its commitment to electrification persists. Today, Ford announced a landmark alliance with French automaker Renault to co-develop a series of small electric vehicles for the European market.
The strategic collaboration should see jointly developed EVs rolling out as early as 2028, with plans to expand the partnership to include small commercial vehicles.
Small electric EVs have long had a stronghold in the European market, favoured for their affordability, efficiency, and practicality when navigating the smaller and irregular streets of many European capitals.
Ford and Renault hope this focus will give them a competitive edge against Chinese automakers, who have historically focused on larger, mid-size vehicles.
Ford Chief Executive Jim Farley spoke on the significance of the partnership as part of a wider battle to save Europe’s precarious automotive market. In an announcement today in Paris, he said:
“We’re in the fight for our lives and our industry, and [there is] no better example than here in Europe. Together, we can create a powerhouse of light commercial vehicles in Europe. We believe this is a big differentiation compared to the Chinese.”
Ford’s partnership decision was meticulously considered, with Farley admitting the company took a full year to weigh its options before reaching a consensus. Ford reportedly chose Renault thanks to the French automaker’s impressively efficient product cycles, having produced two electric models—the Twingo and the Dacia—in less than two years.
François Provost, Chief Executive at Renault, said:
“[Our] strategy at Renault is to be as competitive, and then to even be better, than our Chinese competitors in Europe.”
The latest electric line-up will be designed by Ford and will use Renault’s Ampere platform, launched as part of Renault’s “Renaultution” strategy and used for the Renault 5. Ford has been clear that it will not sacrifice its brand integrity in the design of its vehicles, emphasising the importance of preserving “distinctive driving dynamics” and “authentic Ford-brand DNA.”
The iconic Ford Fiesta, discontinued since 2023, is expected to make a comeback under the new partnership, debuting as an all-electric model with an estimated retail price of around £23,000.
Ford has asserted that this partnership with Renault will in no way affect its existing alliance with German automaker Volkswagen to co-develop electric vans in Europe.
by Eve Stevens | Dec 4, 2025 | Energy & Charging |
News
OEMs such as Ford and Stellantis have stood in support of Trump’s controversial decision to roll back federal fuel economy rules for passenger vehicles. The decision, made last Wednesday, reverses many of the mandates introduced under the Biden administration that advocated for cleaner, more fuel-efficient vehicles.
Following the rollback of these mandates, known as Corporate Average Fuel Economy rules or CAFE, Americans will no longer be subject to hefty fines for violating these rules, essentially rendering them obsolete.
Once formalised and enshrined in law, the changes will apply to all model-year passenger cars and light trucks from 2022 to 2031.
Alongside this reversal, Trump’s government has also done away with carbon-offsetting legislation that allowed automakers to buy credits from competitors to avoid paying fines, a system that saw Tesla generate billions of dollars.
The reversal marks the Trump administration’s latest effort to erode all legislation aimed at tackling climate change and lowering carbon emissions. Last month, the administration announced it would be awarding new oil and gas drilling permits to projects off the coast of California, in another devastating blow to a unified global climate strategy.
Trump defended the decision in the Oval Office, saying:
“We’re protecting our auto workers, and we’re making it easier for every family to afford high-quality cars. In other words, we’re bringing automobiles back and the manufacturing of automobiles back into this country.”
Many OEMs have spoken out in favour of the decision, most notably Jim Farley, Chief Executive of Ford, who praised Trump on what he sees as a diplomatic win. He said:
“This is a victory of common sense and affordability. We believe that people should be able to make a choice.”
The Chief Executive of Stellantis and a plant manager from General Motors were also in attendance when Trump made the announcement.
Some environmental lobbyists have pushed back against claims that the new legislation will drive down automotive costs, arguing that an influx of fuel-reliant vehicles could drive up gasoline prices over time.
Kathy Harris, Director for Clean Vehicles at the Natural Resources Defense Council said,
“Drivers will be paying hundreds of dollars more at the pump every year if these rules are put in place.”
Until now, measures like CAFE have incentivised EV uptake and supported the United States’ gradual green mobility transition. According to the journal Energy Policy, fuel-saving technologies have saved two trillion gallons of gasoline over the last 50 years.
With EV adoption already slowing due to the loss of federal incentives and the deepening political divide over electric mobility, this policy shift pushes the U.S. further off course in the global push toward cleaner transportation. Although some OEMs celebrate the move as a triumph of consumer freedom, the long-term global costs, environmental, economic, and social, will be far harder to ignore.
by Eve Stevens | Nov 21, 2025 | Autos, Energy & Charging, Fleets |
News
China is accelerating its transition from diesel-powered trucks to electric alternatives at breakneck speed. Once almost entirely dependent on diesel for heavy freight, the country has seen a sharp rise in electric truck adoption, signalling profound changes for fuel consumption and emissions worldwide.
In 2020, diesel trucks dominated new sales across China. Fast forward to 2025, and electric vehicles now represent more than one-fifth of new heavy truck purchases. Analysts predict that this figure could climb beyond half of all new sales within the next year, meaning China’s energy sector will need to dramatically restructure in order to meet new electricity demands.
Heavy-duty trucks play a crucial role in economic activity but are also major contributors to carbon emissions. Historically, the sheer weight of batteries limited the practicality of electric models, making diesel and liquefied natural gas (LNG) appear more viable. However, advances in battery performance and declining costs have tilted the balance, making electric vehicles an attractive and commercially viable choice for fleet operators. Despite higher upfront prices, electric trucks now offer significant lifetime savings due to reduced fuel and maintenance expenses.
Alongside these economic efficiencies, the Chinese government is rewarding electrification efforts through a series of ambitious government incentives including programs that reward owners for trading in older vehicles.
Infrastructure development has further fuelled the shift, with key freight corridors now featuring rapid charging stations, and major cities investing in high-capacity charging hubs capable of powering heavy trucks in minutes. Battery manufacturers are also introducing innovative solutions such as battery-swapping systems, reducing downtime and improving operational efficiency.
As electric trucks gain popularity, China’s demand for diesel is already declining sharply. LNG, once viewed as a cleaner bridge fuel, is also beginning to lose momentum. Industry experts suggest this trend could ripple across international energy markets, reshaping trade flows and reducing fossil fuel dependency in freight transport.
This rapid acceleration towards electrification starkly contrasts with the situation in the U.S which has seen a slowed growth in EV adoption following the end of the EV tax credit. The gap highlights a growing divide in the global drive toward clean mobility.
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by Eve Stevens | Nov 17, 2025 | Autos, Energy & Charging |
News
With the EU’s EV mandate up for debate and the politicisation of electric vehicles casting doubt on the American EV market, the global outlook for EV uptake seems, at first glance, murky.
However, if we look more broadly at the global landscape, the race to electrify is only just beginning. In Latin America, EV adoption is steadily growing thanks to a huge influx of Chinese models from automakers such as Geely and BYD.
These Chinese models retail at around 60% of the price of a Tesla or an EV from legacy manufacturers such as Toyota and Kia.
EV adoption in Latin America, including Mexico and Central America, doubled in 2024 to around 4% and has continued to steadily climb. The International Energy Agency, in its Global EV Outlook 2025, attributed this success to government incentives and the relative affordability of Chinese brands.
BYD leads electric car sales in Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Uruguay, and has recently carved out a considerable foothold in Argentina — the only Latin American country where imports from other regions still outweigh those from Chinese automakers.
Chinese success in the region can be attributed to gradually improving EV infrastructure and the adaptability of Chinese manufacturers, who have worked alongside local dealerships to offer competitive vehicles tailored to regional tastes; in Brazil, for example, BYD has launched the SONG PRO COP30, designed to run on biofuels derived from locally grown sugar cane.
Brazil continues to be the front-runner in EV uptake in the Latin American market, with Mexico following in second position. Peru is making significant headway following last year’s opening of the Port of Chancay, north of Lima, which has cut trans-Pacific shipping times for Chinese vehicles in half. In Chile, the story is much the same; in the first quarter of 2025, the EV market saw 126% growth.
Martin Bresciani, president of Chile’s automotive business chamber CAVEM, spoke on the success of Chinese manufacturers, saying:
“The Chinese have already demonstrated that they match global standards in quality.”
Uruguay represents another country that has firmly embraced Chinese models with Chinese market shares more than doubling in the country since 2023- now at 22%.
Although EVs make up a relatively small slice of the entire automotive market in Latin and Central America, the steady growth of sales remains a reason for optimism in the context of global electrification efforts.
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by Eve Stevens | Nov 14, 2025 | Autos, Energy & Charging |
News
London’s congestion charge is set for one of its biggest shifts in years, with both the cost of entering the zone and the treatment of electric vehicles set to dramatically shift in 2026. The development represents mayor Sadiq Khan’s latest step to incentivize public transportation over personal vehicles.
From January 2, the daily fee will rise from £15 to £18, the first increase since 2020. Transport for London (TfL) says future rises will track Tube fares or inflation to keep public transport from becoming the more expensive choice.
The most contentious change is aimed at electric vehicles. After years of enjoying a full exemption, EVs will soon pay 75% of the standard charge, rising to 87.5% in 2030.
Drivers will need to enrol in TfL’s auto-pay system to access the discount, a lengthy process that may deter some users. Electric vans and battery-powered delivery vehicles will receive a 50% discount if registered for daily payment, while EVs used by car-sharing clubs remain fully exempt in an effort to encourage shared mobility.
Reactions have been split. The AA’s Edmund King described the move as a step backwards, arguing that incentives are still needed to convert hesitant drivers. On the other side, sustainable transport groups welcome the rise, saying London must continue reducing traffic while investing in public transit, walking, and cycling.
Since 2019, the number of EVs in the capital has increased sixfold to more than 116,000 or one-fifth of all registered vehicles, prompting supporters to argue that early-stage subsidies are no longer as crucial.
The congestion charge, introduced at £5 in 2003, has climbed steadily as London attempts to curb gridlock and emissions. TfL warns that freezing the fee would lead to roughly 2,200 additional vehicles entering the zone each weekday next year.
Residents within the Ulez boundary will still receive a 90% discount, and low-income or disabled residents will continue to be exempt. But the broader direction is clear:
London is shifting from promoting EV adoption at any cost to reducing car dependency altogether and championing public transport in its place. For automakers, the shift underscores an evolving urban landscape where electrification is only one part of a wider mobility strategy.
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by Eve Stevens | Nov 11, 2025 | Autos, Energy & Charging |
Opinion
Two years ago, the European Union decided to impose a mandate, banning the sale of all new petrol and diesel cars by the year 2035.
Now, just a decade out from this historic target, the mandate is up for review with the process likely to begin in the coming year.
For EV evangelists and climate activists alike, this potential rollback represents a regressive legislative decision that could slow down the widespread adoption of EVs and jeopardise a successful green transition.
Why is the EV mandate under review?
Since the legislation was passed in the European Parliament, much has changed, both in the EV space and in global politics at large. The seemingly unstoppable EV boom, stoked by rapidly evolving technology and rampant investment, has subsided exposing a slightly more lukewarm reception for electric models.
Relatively low profit margins in EV manufacturing have prompted many traditional OEMs and legacy automakers to refocus on petrol and hybrid models.
Combined with persistently high upfront costs and a lack of robust charging infrastructure, this shift has dampened enthusiasm for EVs, particularly when compared with the wistful optimism of 2023 forecasts.
Geopolitical factors such as the reversal of the EV tax credit under Trump and the disruptive impacts of tariffs have further clouded the outlook, undermining global demand and fragmenting any attempt at a unified international EV strategy.
With the global EV market facing uncertainty, many OEMS have called for a relaxation of the EU’s EV strategy to reflect current market realities.
Antionio Filosa, CEO of Stellantis, urged Europe to rollback on its EV stance, contending that strict regulations were placing a noose on an already squeezed industry.
“If there is a change which is big and urgent in regulation, obviously we will multiply our investment in Europe. What the example of the US shows is that when there is reasonable change in regulation that gives back . . . freedom of choice . . . automakers see there is growth.”
Similarly, Ola Källenius, head of European car industry body Acea and the CEO of Mercedes-Benz, warned that the European Commission would be making “a catastrophic mistake” by standing firm on its current emissions policy, cautioning that overregulation could shrink the automotive market further.
Europe’s second roll-back
The European Parliament has already revised its vehicle emissions policy once before, offering an olive branch to the already struggling European automotive market back in May 2025.
Under the revised legislation European carmakers were granted the option to spread out their compliance with the rules over three years so as to avoid hefty fines. The motion passed with 458 votes in favour, 101 against and 14 abstentions.
Avoiding the EV slowdown
Despite mounting pressure from automakers, many battery manufacturers rely on the EU’s vehicle emission mandate as a means to guarantee long-term investment. Should the EU remove this incentivizing regulation many of the battery makers who strategically moved production to the EU as a direct response to emissions regulation could find themselves stranded in a more hostile EV climate.
And it’s not just battery makers who stand to lose. With Europe already lagging behind China in the global EV race, further backtracking could prove economically disastrous.
China, now the world’s largest automotive market, has emerged as a formidable rival to both the U.S. and Europe in the EV space.
Access to rare earth materials and significantly lower manufacturing costs allow Chinese automakers to undercut legacy OEMs, developing new electric models in as little as 18 months – compared to an average of seven years for American and European manufacturers.
Any relaxation of EU emissions regulation risks deepening this competitive divide, widening the chasm between European and Chinese automakers. Declaring defeat in this space would have repercussions far beyond automotive sales.
The technologies driving EV innovation are also foundational to the broader tech and connectivity industries; failing to compete risks granting China a dominant position across multiple sectors.
The recent Nexperia chip shortage placed a magnifying glass on the disastrous consequences of an over-reliance on Chinese markets for vital components. Rolling back EV innovation and investment in Europe will only serve to increase reliance on the Chinese markets and further weaken global supply chains, leaving the continent more vulnerable to global trade disputes and the impact of international tariffs.
Reasons for EV optimism
Many analysts have accused OEMs of an overly pessimistic outlook on the global EV market. While the U.S. market has been dampened by a fossil-fuel-friendly administration, elsewhere the EV transition is gathering pace. Every second car bought in China last year was a new-energy vehicle and EV investment in Latin American markets is on the rise.
Meanwhile, last month in the UK, EV sales were at a record high, with EVs making up a quarter of the UK’s overall car market- fully electric cars accounted for 25.4% of all new registrations last month. It seems, despite market scepticism, global momentum for EVs is steadily growing.
Given this progress, maintaining strong incentives for the green transition is even more critical than ever. If the EU retreats from its ambitious EV mandate, it risks not only environmental setbacks but also long-term damage to investment in electric vehicles and battery technology, undermining Europe’s competitiveness against China.
Despite industry pessimism, the current slowdown is likely just a temporary dip in an otherwise inevitable shift toward electrification. Whilst geopolitical setbacks have rocked the curve growth, analysts, politicians and scientists alike largely agree on the need to electrify.
The EU must stand firm in its commitment and weather the short-term challenges if it hopes to remain a serious contender in the global automotive market. The road to electrification is not only inevitable, it is a matter of environmental and geopolitical urgency and, let’s face it, a race that Europe simply cannot afford to lose.
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by Eve Stevens | Oct 30, 2025 | Energy & Charging |
News
The cost of owning an EV has continued to be a stumbling block for UK car owners hoping to make the switch to electric. Alongside the high upfront cost of an electric vehicle come costly infrastructure fees, with at-home chargers currently costing in the region of £1,000 to £1,500. In addition to these steep overheads, EV owners in the UK face a complicated charger application process that relies on government approval.
All this could be about to change, as the government has announced plans to reform the EV charging process, making it easier for renters and residents without a private driveway to install their own at-home EV charger. As over 40% of UK properties do not have a driveway, these reforms could provide a much-needed boost to the UK’s EV market.
As well as a reduction in public charging costs, the new reforms could also remove the need for planning permission for cross-pavement charging solutions.
Whilst these reforms are unlikely to remove all associated costs, the new legislation is projected to save residents up to £250 in application fees.
According to the Chief Technical Officer of on-street charging solution firm Kerbo Charge:
“Residents currently have to make two separate applications to enable charging without a driveway — one to the County Council Highways Authority, and then a more cumbersome second application to the District Council Planning Team.”
“What makes this such a barrier to residents,” Whitaker continued, “is not only that one council officer might say ‘yes’ and another ‘no’, but also that the application includes a non-refundable £528 planning fee, complex architects’ diagrams, maps and, in some areas, a mandatory wildlife impact survey — all to fit a device roughly the size of a tin postbox!”
It’s not just the at-home charging process that is undergoing an overhaul; the proposed reforms are also targeting car parks, mandating access to EV chargers in all multi-storey and covered car parks.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said:
“Wherever you park your car, we’re making it fairer, easier, and cheaper to make the switch to electric. These reforms will improve infrastructure for the EV revolution, increase charge points across the country, and open up affordable home charging to thousands more households. It’s good news for drivers and a big boost for the growing British EV industry — cutting costs and supporting jobs to deliver our Plan for Change.”
The proposals represent another step towards the government’s plan for a fully electric transition, whereby the sale of all petrol and diesel vehicles will be banned by 2030. In line with this vision, the government launched the Electric Car Grant earlier this year, offering discounts of up to £3,750 towards the purchase of new EVs. The latest reforms represent another effort to boost the uptake of EVs by removing some of the associated costs and complications.
by Eve Stevens | Oct 23, 2025 | Business, Energy & Charging |
News
Dutch chipmaker Nexperia has warned Japanese automotive customers that it may no longer be able to guarantee supply, heightening fears of new disruptions across the global auto industry.
The Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association (JAMA) confirmed that several Japanese parts suppliers received notifications from the company warning them of the disruption.
JAMA released a statement in response to the episode, saying,
“These semiconductors are essential for electronic control units and other key vehicle systems. This incident could have a serious impact on global production, and we hope for a swift and practical resolution.”
Nexperia, headquartered in Nijmegen in the Netherlands, has become a flashpoint in escalating trade tensions between the Netherlands, the United States, and China. Earlier this month, the Dutch government seized control of the company- previously owned by Chinese parent Wingtech Technology Co.- to safeguard domestic semiconductor supplies.
Beijing responded by imposing new export controls on Nexperia’s China operations, insisting that its subsidiary continues to operate “in an orderly manner” and in compliance with Chinese law. The standoff has effectively divided the company’s European and Chinese units and placed automakers in a precarious position.
Automakers worldwide are assessing their resilience to the disruption to the supply chain. Volkswagen has formed a task force to map vulnerabilities, while Toyota and Honda are monitoring developments closely. Mitsubishi Electric said its reliance on Nexperia is limited and that it is preparing to switch to alternative components if needed.
The crisis comes amid a broader landscape of trade strains. China has threatened tighter export controls on rare earth minerals, vital for electric vehicle motors and batteries. The European Union’s trade chief, Maros Šefčovič, confirmed that Chinese officials will travel to Brussels soon to discuss these restrictions.
Financial analysts warn that the dispute could affect automakers’ earnings outlooks as they prepare to release quarterly results. “If political tensions drag on, the impact could spread across the sector,” said Citi analyst Arifumi Yoshida.
This disruption underscores the fragility of global supply chains and how deeply geopolitical conflicts now shape the economics of car manufacturing.
by Eve Stevens | Oct 14, 2025 | Autos, Energy & Charging |
News
Chinese automaker BYD has announced the launch of a “Super Hybrid” vehicle developed specifically for the Brazilian market.
The new hybrid model comes with biofuel compatibility, enabling users to run the vehicle on any ratio of petrol and ethanol. BYD’s strategic decision responds directly to the highly advanced Brazilian market, which is a global frontrunner in the adoption of this “flex-fuel” technology.
The vehicle, the SONG PRO COP30 model, was launched at an event in Camaçari, Brazil, coinciding with the official inauguration of BYD’s new final-assembly line and ahead of the United Nations climate summit (COP30), commencing in Belem on November 10. The vehicle represents a major step forward in alternative fuel innovation, with 30 models being donated to the summit.
Wang Chuanfu, founder and CEO of BYD, commented on the localization effort, stating:
“This is not just a technological breakthrough- it is a green and sustainable solution tailor-made for Brazil.”
Brazil’s production facility, operational since July 2025, took just 15 months to construct and is now the largest electric vehicle production facility in Latin America.
BYD’s expansion into Brazil is part of a larger company-wide globalization strategy that has seen rapid growth in Latin America and plans for significant expansion in Europe. The company has announced intentions to build production facilities for electric cars and plug-in hybrids in both Turkey and Hungary, with further plans to begin construction in a third European location. Industry sources suggest BYD is considering Spain due to the country’s low manufacturing costs and clean energy network.
Stella Li, BYD Executive Vice President and CEO for the Americas and Europe and the brains behind this expansion effort, commented on this commitment:
“BYD believes in the growth potential of the Brazilian market, has long-term plans for a population that deserves increasingly better vehicles, and will continue to invest to help boost the economy, create jobs, and train the workforce. This factory is 100% Brazilian, created so that Brazilians have access to better, more modern, connected, technological, and sustainable cars.”
by Eve Stevens | Aug 13, 2025 | Business, Energy & Charging, EVs |
News
Following news earlier this week that Elon Musk has been offered $29 billion in shares to remain at Tesla, the company has made the headlines once again this week.
Tesla, valued at over $1 trillion, has announced its intentions to launch a household electricity supplier targeting the UK market.
The venture will rival existing suppliers such as Octopus Energy and British Gas. The application was submitted late last month by Tesla Energy Ventures, the UK based energy subsidiary of the US group.
If approved by Ofgem, Tesla could begin supplying energy to homes and businesses in England, Scotland and Wales as early as next year.
Whilst energy watchdog Ofgem can take up to nine months to approve energy supply licenses of this nature, the decision could be made in just a matter of weeks.
Due to political controversy surrounding Musk, as well as increased competition from Chinese manufacturers, Tesla has sustained heavy losses in the European market over the past year.
UK car registrations of Teslas fell by almost 60% in July of this year, and by 55% in Germany.
Despite the recent decline, Tesla has sold over quarter of a million EVs in the UK- a fact that could work to its advantage as it seeks to expand its customer base in the energy supply sector.
Tesla has operated a similar energy supply model in Texas since 2022, charging customers a flat rate to charge their vehicles during off-peak hours.
The scheme utilizes batteries known as Powerwalls in its design.
Powerwalls
Powerwalls are app-powered, rechargeable lithium-ion batteries that allow users to store energy generated either by solar panels or from the grid in their homes.
This stored energy can then be used to power appliances and devices in the home even during outages.
The latest model, the Powerwall 3, provides greater energy efficiency than its predecessors.
Tesla’s Powerwall is an at-home energy store allowing customers to store energy from solar panels or the grid
Job advertisements in the UK suggest Tesla intends to incorporate Powerwall technology into its UK energy licensing strategy.
As in Texas, it seems likely that UK users will have the option to resell energy back to the grid during peaks times using Powerwall capture technology, depending on local regulations.
As it stands, there is no evidence that Tesla intends to apply for a UK gas license, meaning homes using both gas and electricity will still need to source their gas from an alternative supplier.
by Eve Stevens | Aug 11, 2025 | Autos, Energy & Charging, Fleets |
News
US company, Terbine, has launched its own AI-powered platform to streamline EV infrastructure.
The platform, known as Strata, provides an overview of the EV charging network, only directing vehicles to charging stations that are fully operational and available for use.
Harnessing the power of AI, the platform provides a supervisory tool that addresses the common challenges faced by EV fleets today.
These include broken or faulty charging stations that disrupt operations and increase overall downtime.
CEO of Terbine, David Knight, said,
“With Strata we leverage agentic AI and other sophisticated tools including an advanced policy engine that deals in real-time with data access and ownership rights, regulatory and liability issues, plus other elements needed to create a solution that works for all of the players involved with the EV ecosystem.”
The project attempts to incorporate agents from across the spectrum of EV operations, including consumer, commercial, agriculture, construction and military logistics.
Using data from public chargers, private depot and third-party providers, Strata focuses on creating an interconnected network across wide geographies, providing real-time updates.
Strata relies on advanced sensor fusion techniques, bringing together multiple data streams. These metrics are then processed by AI to predict disruptions before the point of user impact.
The platform could have the capacity to redefine fleet operations. With access to driver-powered apps, Strata can direct drivers or robotaxis to only the chargers that are confirmed to be operational.
It remains to be seen what impact the platform will have on EV operations. If used correctly, it could offer large-scale fleet operators the opportunity to cuts costs and increase efficiency.
Jamie Allison, Terbine Board Member, said in an interview,
“By harnessing Agentic AI at the edge, Strata is building that crucial orchestration layer between infrastructure and machines including vehicles, drones, support infrastructure and more. That’s the ‘STRATA-spheric’ leap needed as we scale the future of mobility.”
by Grace Dawes | Jul 2, 2025 | Autos, Energy & Charging, Fleets, Keynote videos, MOVE, Popular |
Wen Han, Chairman, Founder & CEO of Windrose hosted a keynote talk at MOVE 2025 discussing how he is making electric commercial trucking a reality.
Han highlighted several key themes shaping the future of heavy-duty trucking. Central was the push for a truly global, zero-emission electric truck platform designed for interoperability across markets and trailers.
Range and charging speed emerged in his talk as critical factors, with Windrose breaking records in real-world long-haul performance matching diesel trucks.
Another theme was modular, localised production to adapt to different regions and supply chains.
Watch Han’s full keynote talk below.
by Grace Dawes | Jul 2, 2025 | Autos, Energy & Charging, Keynote videos, MOVE, Popular |
Industry leaders from DHL, Mercedes-Benz High Power Charging, IONITY and NIO gathered at MOVE 2025 to discuss the global accelerating electric vehicle (EV) market and its challenges.
They highlight improvements in EV acceptance, fleet electrification and infrastructure, while noting barriers like limited incentives and charging network gaps.
Panelists emphasise advances in high-speed charging and battery swapping technology as key to enabling long-distance EV logistics.
Watch the full panel discussion below to hear the consensus the panellists came to.
by Grace Dawes | Jul 2, 2025 | Energy & Charging, Keynote videos, MOVE |
In this insightful panel from MOVE 2025, industry leaders from Lytem, Umicore, and Kuehne + Nagel explore how to make EV battery supply chains more ethical, resilient and regionalised.
From lithium-sulfur innovation that avoids cobalt and nickel, to battery material recycling and strategic logistics, the discussion highlights scalable solutions to reduce reliance on global hotspots.
Learn how domestic sourcing, new chemistries and smarter infrastructure can shape the future of clean energy.
Watch the full discussion to hear how these companies are powering a more sustainable supply chain.
by Grace Dawes | Apr 24, 2025 | Energy & Charging, Fleets, Popular, Tech & Data |
Electric fleet charging solutions company Terawatt Infrastructure has opened its first medium- and heavy-duty electric vehicle (EV) charging hub in Rancho Dominguez, California.
Located 12 miles north of the ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles, the charging hub is available for charging electric truck fleets travelling in and out of the largest container ports in the United States.
First customers include Dreaded Trucking, Hight Logistics, PepsiCo, Quick Container Drayage, Southern Counties Express, Tradelink Transport, and WestCoast Trucking & Warehousing.
The site operates a total of 20 pull-through and bobtail DC fast charging stalls and boast a capacity of 7MW – enabling charging for up to 125 trucks per day.
Neha Palmer, CEO and Cofounder of Terawatt, said:
“With the launch of other sites in the Terawatt network – including our upcoming Rialto, CA site in June – fleets can create ‘electric lanes’ between the ports and the Inland Empire, enabling top-up charging that increases fleets’ use of EV assets and drives a better total cost of ownership.”
Terawatt has scaled fleet EV charging sites for a range of vehicles, including electric vans, box trucks, daycabs, and school buses, in addition to launching full-build light-duty fleet sites in Inglewood and San Francisco,
by Grace Dawes | Apr 22, 2025 | Autos, Energy & Charging, Popular, Tech & Data |
Chinese electric vehicle (EV) battery manufacturer CATL has unveiled a new brand for its sodium-ion batteries, dubbed “Naxtra”, which claims to be the world’s first mass produced sodium-ion battery.
The launch is the second-generation release of CATL’s existing Shenxing battery cell with an improved peak 12C charging rate, setting a new global record for super-fast charging technology.
This charging capacity means the cell could offer 520km of range after just a five minute charge.
This announcement comes just a month after the battery manufacturer’s biggest national rival BYD released its own flash-charging platform.
BYD’s new charging system claims to add just 470km of range to EV batteries after a five minute charge, advancing CATL to first place for fast-charging tech.
CATL was the first leading automaker to launch a sodium-ion battery cell in 2021, soon after which the company launched the first-generation of its Shenxing battery in 2023.
The company stated in a press release that sodium is used for its “inherent safety and abundant reserves” as well as reducing dependence on lithium resources.
by Grace Dawes | Apr 15, 2025 | Business, Energy & Charging, Popular |
California-based micromobility company Lime has announced an agreement with sustainable battery recycling and circular materials recovery company Redwood Materials.
The partnership will make Redwood the exclusive battery recycling partner for all Lime cities throughout United States, Germany and The Netherlands.
Redwood will work with Lime to recover and recycle critical battery materials such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, and copper from Lime’s e-bike and e-scooter batteries once they have reached the end of their usable life.
Recovered materials will be reintroduced into the battery manufacturing process, aligning with Lime’s goal of expanding the circularity of its production and end-of-life processes.
“As e-bike and e-scooter adoption continues to grow, so does the need to responsibly recycle the batteries that power them,” said Alexis Georgeson, VP of Government Relations and Communications at Redwood.
“These batteries contain valuable critical minerals that, when recovered and reused, can help build a more sustainable and resilient domestic battery supply chain. Our agreement with Lime ensures that end-of-life batteries from the micromobility sector can power the next generation of electrification.”
Redwood’s recycling processes ensure that more than 95% of the critical materials are recovered and reintegrated into the battery supply chain, helping Lime continue to reduce its environmental impact.
Lime has shared its goal to decarbonise its business with a 2030 net zero target, and has already achieved a -59.5% carbon reduction in 5 years from its 2019 baseline year.
by Grace Dawes | Apr 14, 2025 | Autos, Energy & Charging, Popular |
Swedish commercial vehicle manufacturer Scania has announced the acquisition of the Industrial Division of Northvolt Systems.
The battery maker Northvolt filed for bankruptcy just last month in Sweden, supposedly due to “rising capital costs, geopolitical instability, subsequent supply chain disruptions, and shifts in market demand”.
Scania’s purchase includes production capabilities, a research and development centre and a team of approximately 260 employees.
The company’s Industrial Division develops and manufactures battery systems for heavy industry and off-highway market segments and will become a company partner to Scania’s business unit Power Solutions.
Sara Hermansson, Head of Scania Power Solutions, said:
“Northvolt Systems Industrial Division brings valuable expertise in battery technology and assembly. Their capabilities strengthen our modular approach and support the development of complete electrified solutions for off-road applications. I’m pleased to welcome the team to Scania.”
The acquired business will be a partner to Scania Power Solutions and operate as a stand-alone venture within Scania Ventures and New Business.
by Grace Dawes | Apr 8, 2025 | Business, Energy & Charging, Popular, Smart Cities, Tech & Data |
Photo: Redwood Materials
Redwood has been on a fast-moving path: in the past year, they recycled over 20 GWh of lithium-ion batteries—the equivalent of about 250,000 electric vehicles— and opened the first lithium source and nickel “mine” in the U.S. in over a decade and began construction on what will be the US’ first commercial cathode facility.
With Battery Materials Campuses underway in Nevada and South Carolina, and production scaling, they have decided to open a brand-new research and development centre in San Francisco.
This facility will mark Redwood’s first footprint in the Bay Area. The 15,000 square foot facility, located in the Design District, will be equipped with lab spaces to support innovation across the battery ecosystem, including cathode production, and future product lines.
The company has said its engineering team plays a critical role in designing the machines, systems, and processes that allow them to recycle the vast majority of the U.S.’ lithium-ion batteries, recover over 95% of critical minerals, extend battery life when possible and manufacture battery components at scale domestically for the first time.
Redwood claimed it will still continue to build and scale teams in Nevada and South Carolina.
by Grace Dawes | Apr 3, 2025 | Business, Energy & Charging, Popular, Tech & Data |
Photo: CATL
Chinese battery manufacturer Contemporary Amperex Technology Limited (CATL) haws partnered with Chinese oil company Sinopec to build a battery swapping network across China.
The two companies are aiming to construct at least 500 battery-swap stations by the end of this year and up to 10,000 stations in the long run.
At the ceremony, CAES and QIJI Energy – subsidiaries of CATL – signed Battery Swapping Business Cooperation Agreement with Sinopec.
Both companies will leverage their respective advantages, in which Sinopec, with its nationwide gas station network and energy infrastructure capabilities, and CATL, with its R&D expertise in cutting-edge battery technology and battery swap system.
Yang Jun, CEO of CATL’s battery swapping arm CAES, said:
“The trend toward full electrification in the automotive industry is becoming increasingly clear, and the market is calling for a more complete energy supply network. CATL hopes to make battery swap as convenient as refueling through this cooperation with Sinopec, a mission and vision shared by battery swap players.”
QiJi Energy has worked with major truck manufacturers including Sinotruk, Jiefang, Foton, and DeepWay to co-launch over 30 models featuring chassis battery swapping solutions.
