John B Goodenough, M Stanley Whittingham and Akira Yoshino won the Nobel prize in chemistry for the development of modern lithium-ion batteries that are used in smartphones and vehicles. Due to the industry's transition to electric cars the demand for copper, nickel and cobalt will increase and the concern is that miners won't be able to supply raw materials fast enough. Yoshino stressed the importance of having EV batteries that are recyclable to meet the increasing demands of the industry: “The point is whether EV batteries can be recycled... the cost should pay off if all of waste car batteries in Japan are collected and processed.” Read more
Bosch- Bosch's latest silicone carbide semiconductor helps alleviate range anxiety which often plays a key role in consumers' decision on whether or not to purchase an electric vehicle. Sean Szymkowski from Road Show explains that Bosch's semiconductor "infuses carbon atoms into silicon to create silicon carbide, which in turn, conducts electricity better". Bosch announced that their new product should increase an EV's driving range by 6% . The possible advantage for automakers is that they can pack smaller batteries into their vehicles. In turn, their vehicle will weigh less or have available space for other uses. Read more
Volvo- Polestar, Volvo's flagship brand for EVs and hybrids, has revealed it's pricing for its fully electric Sedan. The Polestar 2 is their response to Tesla's Model 3 due to its 350 miles of range. However, the Polestar is more expensive than its Tesla competitor; in the US, for instance, the Polestar 2 will list for $63,000 whereas Model 3 is currently sold for $38,990. Similarly to Model 3, the Polestar is capable of direct current charging at up to 150 kW and of alternating current charging at up so 11 kW. Read more
Germany- In a join project between Groupe Renault, The Mobility House, Mitsui and Demeter, a new battery storage project will be built in Germany, aiming for an installed capacity of 20MW. Estimates are that the project will be the largest stationary electricity storage system using EV batteries in Germany. The plan is to use both second-life and new EV batteries compiled in containers. Batteries will be provided by Groupe Renault and storage capacity will be sold by The Mobility House and will support network services and industrial storage needs. Read more
Australia- In a government funded collaboration, CSIRO, an Australian federal government agency responsible for scientific research, Delta Electronics and Nissan Australia are testing new EV charging technology that aims to maximize the use of rooftop solar power and minimize grid demand. CSIRO lead researcher to the Centre for Hybrid Energy Systems, Dr Christopher Munnings, said that "This means the cars charge as quickly as possible, using as much sun as possible, without the need to upgrade grid connection." Victorian energy and climate minister, Lily D’Ambrosio added that "This battery smart storage platform means electric vehicle drivers can travel more confidently and enjoy the drive." Read more
China- Nio, Chinese EV maker's sales had a 35.1% surge in sales following past struggles to hit its own guidance in previous quarters. According to Nio founder and CEO, William Li, the increase in deliveries is due to "competitive retail prices." The ES6 SUV and the ES8 (its more expensive seven-seater premium electric SUV) vehicles have an 84 kWh battery pack that extends their range to 316 miles and 276 miles, respectively. Li expects these longer range vehicles to accelerate orders and delivers in the fourth quarter. Read more
Tesla- According to Electric Autonomy Canada, based on federal lobby registration documents, Tesla has purchased Hibar Systems Ltd, an Ontario-based company that specializes in battery manufacturing. This comes amidst a period in which Tesla is making strategic efforts to develop its own battery-making capabilities. Read more
California- With dry weather and windy conditions forecasted in California, Tesla has issued an in-car alert to warn vehicle owners to make sure their cars are fully charged before the electricity outage planned by the California's Pacific Gas & Electric utility. The mass power outrage is ordered to prevent electricity lines from sparking wildfires. Similar action was taken by Tesla during previous hurricanes. Read more
