EV, Battery & Charging News: Volvo, Hyundai ZEVx, StoreDOT, Leviton, Wallbox, BMW, Lime, Optiphase & FLO

In EV, battery and charging news are Volvo, Hyundai ZEVx, StoreDOT, Leviton, Wallbox, BMW, Lime, Optiphase and FLO.

 

Breathe Battery Tech Software for Next Gen Electric Volvos

Volvo Cars has partnered up with Breathe Battery Technologies (Breathe), becoming the first car company to get access to the latest version of its patented, algorithm-enabled charging software for use on our new generation fully electric cars.

By integrating Breathe’s software in Volvo Cars in-house developed battery management platform to optimize and improve the performance of our charging technology, we can provide Volvo customers with even faster charging times and an enhanced overall driving and charging experience.

We will implement the new technology in our new generation fully electric cars, where we expect it will reduce the time it takes to charge your fully electric Volvo from 10 to 80 per cent charging state by as much as 30 per cent*, while maintaining the same energy density and range. Even better: the charging time improvements will last across the full battery life cycle without impacting its health status.

The collaboration with Breathe is the result of a sourcing agreement for its flagship product, Breathe Charge, and represents the latest investment by the Volvo Cars Tech Fund, our corporate venture capital arm. It reflects our ambition to lead the development of premium electric cars and become a fully electric car maker by 2030.

ZEVx to Lauch MCU in Vegas

ZEVx, Inc., a worldwide leader in EV mobile charging, announced it will launch its Mobile Charging Unit (MCU) at the 2024 EV Charging Summit & Expo in Las Vegas on March 20-22. ZEVx MCU technology addresses the insufficient charging infrastructure that has slowed the adoption of electric vehicles.

The ZEVx MCU combines energy management and remote vehicle charging technologies that will deliver on-demand mobile charging to customers using advanced high density battery packs and ZEVx proprietary charging solutions. The company recently completed a pilot program, in which vehicles equipped with ZEVx MCUs successfully provided EV charging across a wide range of vehicles for fleets, rental cars, and roadside rescue.

“As a leader in advanced high density battery pack technology, we are positioned to offer fleets and other service organizations revolutionary charging solutions to operational issues caused by inadequate infrastructure,” said Craig Johnston, Vice President, Product Management of ZEVx. “Utilizing our mobile charging products, companies are now able to offer fully mobile and trailer based stationary charging to fleets and consumers in locations where the electrical infrastructure is unavailable or insufficient.”

The ZEVx MCU can be installed in a vehicle (cargo area), trailer, or bed of a truck and can be used in mobile and stationary charge and Battery Electric Energy Storage (BEES) applications. ZEVx MCUs include up to 480kWh battery capacity coupled with two or more DC Fast Charge output cables, capable of charging multiple vehicles simultaneously (using both the NACS and CCS1 charging standard connectors). Recharging the MCU can be completed using either L2 or L3 charge stations as well as connection to shore power inputs.

Autel Energy, a leading provider of electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions and services, announced the next generation of their acclaimed MaxiCharger AC Elite EV charger series with the release of the G2 Business (commercial) and Home (residential) models. The AC Elite G2 series has been recognized by one of the most prestigious and relevant design competitions in the world, winning the 2024 iF Design Award for best automotive product design.

The AC Elite G2 was specially designed to provide fast, efficient, charging capabilities for a wide range of vehicle brands. With a charging power of up to 19.2kW (80A), it surpasses the charging power of most household chargers at 11kW (50A). Despite its compact appearance, its powerful performance allows it to be used in various settings such as public commercial parking areas, residential areas, hospitals, and service areas. Its design allows for customization through the replacement of the cover, providing customers with diverse design options. Additionally, the clever structural design enables users to install it easily and efficiently.

“Boasting unmatched reliability, streamlined installation, and simplified interface, the AC Elite G2 is positioned to revolutionize the EV charging landscape,” stated Shane Long, Chief Technology Officer of Autel Energy. “It’s engineered with the latest intelligent vehicle technology, wireless networking, and AI-driven optimization features, its guaranteed to free up your capacity.”

StoreDOT Partners with EVE Energy

StoreDot, the pioneer and world leader in extreme fast charging (XFC) battery technology for electric vehicles, announced a significant step forward on the path to commercialization and mass production with its collaborative partnership with EVE Energy.

The agreement, signed today, gives StoreDot access to EVE’s extensive manufacturing footprint and the ability to mass produce its game-changing 100in5 extreme fast charging battery cells. StoreDot will secure manufacturing capacity from EVE to produce its XFC batteries. The company will also license its technology to EVE and continue to pursue licensing agreements with other third parties, in conjunction with creating its own global captive capacity.

The deal will facilitate StoreDot’s cells being produced from EVE’s highly advanced production lines in the future, to be delivered directly to the company’s customer portfolio of global electric vehicle manufacturers.

StoreDot is a world leader in silicon-dominant chemistries that are essential for electric vehicles to be able to charge at extremely high speeds. The company will continue to enhance its partnerships with other automotive manufacturers and manufacturing partners, to scale up its global manufacturing footprint and capacity to support global car makers.

Through its ‘100inX’ product roadmap, StoreDot’s remains on track with production-readiness of XFC cells that can deliver 100 miles charged in 5 minutes this year, 100 miles charged in 4 minutes in 2026 and 100 miles charged in 3 minutes by 2028.

EVE Energy began its relationship with StoreDot in 2017 and announced a significant EVE affiliated investment in the business in 2021. It is now firmly established as one of the world’s leading battery manufacturers and is in the top 10 suppliers of cells for electric vehicles, with close ties to many leading automotive manufacturers. Its global footprint extends to ten sites in China, with facilities under construction or in planning elsewhere in AsiaEurope, and North America.

SiAT & CSAC Partner for Carbon Nanotube Coating

SiAT, a leading Taiwan manufacturer of advanced nanomaterials for batteries, is excited to announce a strategic partnership with Taiwan C.S. Aluminum Corporation (CSAC). This collaboration marks the introduction of carbon nanotube coated aluminum foil, designed to meet the growing demand for faster charging and extended lifespan in lithium-ion batteries, sodium batteries, and supercapacitors.

The new product leverages carbon nanotubes (CNTs), known for their conductivity—ten times greater than that of carbon black—as the carbon coating. This CNT coating not only protects the aluminum foil from corrosion but also strengthens the bond between the electrode materials and the current collector, resulting in a longer battery lifespan. Additionally, the CNT coating reduces interface contact resistance, which enhances discharge rates and overall battery performance.

SiAT has extensive experience and production capacity in the application of CNT nanomaterial dispersion. With well-dispersed nano conductive graphite and CNT-coated particles, SiAT ensures a uniform and precise coating on the aluminum foil, optimizing it for the surface treatment of battery conductive substrates.

CSAC is one of the few global manufacturers capable of developing and producing aluminum foil for batteries—from aluminum ingot alloys to the final product.

Through this partnership, SiAT now offers high-quality, high-strength CNT-coated aluminum foil. Additionally, SiAT can provide customization in foil thickness, coating patterns, and alloy content to meet specific customer requirements.

itselectric with Detachable Cable

itselectric, a Brooklyn-based electric vehicle (EV) charging network, announced that its first generation charger, the “Brooklyn-718″, is the first-ever EV charger with a detachable cable to be certified under UL Standards. This leap in EV charging technology for the North American market can now meet the immediate needs for curbside charging in cities across the United States.

Detachable cable EV chargers are the norm in the EU and UK, where drivers stow the charging cable in their vehicle when the charger is not in use. This design not only allows the charger unit to be compact and durable but also ensures charger uptime. Many US EV drivers are frustrated by limited access to public charging, and this experience is often exacerbated when charging cables are faulty or vandalized. With the detachable cable model, a damaged cable does not result in a downed charger.

Moreover, the detachable cord configuration allows itselectric to avoid installing stranded assets, as the automotive industry transitions from the widely used J1772 standard to the J3400 (also called the Tesla, or NACS connector). Unlike chargers with fixed cables, itselectric’s chargers are evergreen, since drivers are given a cable with a connector that works for their vehicle.

itselectric shares this achievement with its engineering and manufacturing partner, Gyre9, a product development company based in Southbury, Connecticut. In addition to providing their mechanical and engineering expertise, Gyre9 facilitated the certification process, working closely with TÜV Rhineland’s New England and California laboratories. With seven pre-production chargers installed in Brooklyn and Detroit, itselectric has launched a full production run with Gyre9 for delivery and deployment in 2024.

Leviton App-Based Smart Home Charging

Leviton, a leading provider in residential electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) and wireless smart home technology,  announced the launch of a plug-in version of the EV Series Smart Home. Originally launched in January 2023 with hardwired versions only, EV Series Smart Home stations are compatible with the My Leviton App, allowing users to take control of their entire smart home including lighting, load centers, and EV Charging.

“As the EV charging industry continues to grow and expand into new areas, so does Leviton,” said Andrew Taddoni, director of EVSE business development and product management, Leviton commercial & industrial. “The new plug-in charger is just the latest expansion of our portfolio, providing EV owners with the same benefits of our hardwired EV Series Smart Home stations, plus the added benefit of portability and flexibility.”

Using the My Leviton app, users can schedule efficient charging sessions in advance, such as scheduling during off-peak utility hours to save on electricity bills and qualify for many residential rebate and incentive programs. Additionally, users can remotely stop and start charging from anywhere if the vehicle is plugged in, view status, receive fault notifications, and more.

In addition to viewing the EV Series, My Leviton app allows for control of the Leviton Smart Load Center and the Decora Smart™ Wi-Fi® product lines, letting users perform actions such as viewing real-time load center energy consumption and scheduling lighting scenes.

The EV Series can easily integrate with other Leviton electrical infrastructure solutions, including surge protection devices receptacles. Featuring a NEMA 14-50 plug, the EV Series Smart Home plug-in stations require a NEMA 14-50 receptacle, such as Leviton’s new Heavy-Duty EV Charging Receptacles launched in early 2024. In recognition of the rapidly changing EV marketplace and the evolving charger lineup, Leviton has expanded its dedicated EVSE quality and support team, assisting customers with understanding installation requirements, local codes, applications, and rebates and incentives.

Forum Mobility for ONE Electric

Forum Mobility, a leading heavy duty truck charging infrastructure provider, announced that it is the charging solutions partner for the innovative new ONE Electric Truck Program.

The program was developed by Ocean Network Express (North America) Inc., a global container transportation and shipping company, to facilitate the transition to zero-emission vehicles. The program provides small-sized drayage fleets an opportunity to gain real-world experience operating battery-electric trucks on their daily routes through a complimentary three-month lease. BoxLinks, a member of the LX Pantos Group, is ONE’s regional partner and will manage the leasing contract and operations for the program.

Forum Mobility will provide the charging for the Class 8 Volvo VNR electric trucks at the FM Harbor charging depot on 260 Pico Avenue, in the heart of the Port of Long Beach.

“Forum Mobility’s goal is to make the transition to electric trucks easy for carriers of all sizes. We are proud to be selected by the global shipping leader ONE to supply charging at our FM Harbor depot in Long Beach for this innovative project supporting small fleets,” said Matt LeDucq, CEO of Forum Mobility.

“This further supports ONE’s global ambition of achieving zero emissions by 2050. The North American debut of the ONE Electric Truck Program aims to promote the use of zero-tailpipe emission trucks, helping navigate toward a carbon-neutral supply chain,” said Colin Fleming, Senior Manager, Green and Sustainability Planning Team for Ocean Network Express (North America) Inc.

There are over 30,000 drayage trucks in California, 80% of which are operated by small fleets or independent owner operators. By 2035, California policy requires that 100% transition to zero emission vehicles. Forum Mobility is building a network of heavy-duty truck charging depots, in ports and on routes to common freight destinations.  Forum’s staffed and secure depots offer charging, or charging plus a truck together, for a monthly fee.

Forum’s Port of Long Beach charging depot will offer 19 dual-port 360 kW chargers, and six 360 kW single-dispenser chargers, able to charge 44 trucks simultaneously. At full capacity, it will serve over 200 trucks a day. Forum Mobility’s first tranche of eight charging depots, with capacity to charge about 600 trucks simultaneously, are scheduled to come online over the next 10-20 months.

“We want to ensure that anyone running diesel has the ability to benefit from going zero emission. Not everyone is able to build their own charging, and for those, we offer an easy, all-inclusive truck charging service. Forum’s principals have decades of experience building electric infrastructure — we take on the challenges, costs, and operations of infrastructure so truckers and carriers of all sizes can focus on their business and their customers,” said Matt LeDucq, Forum’s CEO./

Wallbox Delivers Pulsar Pros

Wallbox (NYSE: WBX), a leading provider of electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions, today announced the start of deliveries of Pulsar Pro North America in the United States. Pulsar Pro is the latest addition to Wallbox’s award-winning Pulsar family of smart EV chargers, designed specifically for shared spaces like multi-unit residential and commercial properties.

Pulsar Pro takes the powerful capabilities of Wallbox’s Pulsar Plus charger and adds new features optimized for multi-user environments:

  • RFID access control provides intuitive user authentication
  • Dynamic Power Sharing manages energy distribution across up to 50 chargers
  • Mywallbox software or partner platforms thanks to OCPP compatibility enables Pulsar Pro to meet the business needs in any commercial environment
  • ISO 15118 readiness, ensuring secure and future-ready charging capabilities

In addition to its intelligent charging capabilities, Pulsar Pro delivers reliability and ease of use. Its robust casing meets NEMA Type 4 requirements to protect against impacts, water and dust. An advanced proprietary platform enables faster processing and better performance, while a compact, attractive design with halo lighting shows charging status at a glance.

For installers and charge point operators, Pulsar Pro is built to save time and reduce costs. An optional OCPP factory configuration streamlines installation, while Wallbox’s myWallbox business portal enables remote charger management, payment processing, user access controls and reporting. A new partner API also allows for custom integrations and compatibility with demand response programs.

“With EV charging infrastructure becoming essential for multi-family and business properties, we’re excited to deliver a solution truly built for shared spaces,” said Erik Fogelberg, General Manager of North America at Wallbox. “Pulsar Pro exemplifies our mission of making EV charging accessible to everyone, including those living in multifamily homes. Pulsar Pro provides a solution that is efficient, connected and designed specifically to cater for shared spaces.”

Pulsar Pro, the Wallbox charger being used in over 140 multifamily sites as part of the recently announced Washington State Grant, is now available for order through Wallbox’s network of certified installers and distributors across the United States. To learn more, visit wallbox.com.

Pulsar Pro is certified by UL, FCC approved and ENERGY STAR certified.

Wallbox also recently launched Supernova 180, its DC fast EV charger designed with reliability and scalability at its core. Bringing state of the art fast charging to North America, Supernova 180 is Wallbox’s third generation DC fast EV charger designed exclusively for North America, following the successful rollout of Supernova 60 and Supernova 150 in Europe.

BMW Recharges with Shell Recharge

BMW of North America announced the addition of Shell Recharge Solutions as a second eMobility provider, giving customers easy access to Shell Recharge, ChargePoint, EVgo, EVConnect, and Blink charging stations via the My BMW App. BMW drivers can now find, access, and charge at all affiliated locations via their My BMW app, with payments for all five providers automatically processed via the app. With this new agreement, BMW Charging now offers electric vehicle drivers easy and convenient access to one of the largest charging networks in North America with over 100,000 public charging points in the U.S. and Canada.

Shell Recharge Solutions’ virtual Mobility Service Provider (vMSP) not only streamlines the charging experience for BMW customers, but also eliminates the need to create separate accounts, and use separate apps, for each individual charging provider. Through the My BMW app, customers can now enjoy the benefits of both complimentary charging with Electrify America, and the networks of multiple providers across North America with Shell Recharge Solutions.

“Charging is an important part of creating a positive customer experience for the owners of electric vehicles,” said Shaun Bugbee, Executive Vice President, Operations, BMW of North America. “As a premium automaker, BMW’s goal is to also create a premium ownership experience for our customers, which means making the charging process as simple and convenient as possible.”

Shell Recharge is a pay-as-you-go program, so signing up is easy; customers simply need to add a credit card to their account.  Charging at all locations is easy as well; park in front of the charging station, open the My BMW app, click ‘Charge Here’, and all relevant information for the specific charging station will be displayed, including ratings, reviews, and photos provided by Plug Share.

BMW’s current electric vehicle lineup includes the BMW i4 Gran Coupe, BMW i5 Sedan, and BMW i7 Sedan, as well as the BMW iX Sports Activity Vehicle.  The company also offers five plug-in hybrid electric models including the BMW 330e Sedan, BMW 550e Sedan, BMW 750e Sedan, BMW X5 xDrive50e Sports Activity Vehicle and the BMW XM.

Energy Infrastructure Incentives for Commercial Vehicles Opens 4/17

The Energy Infrastructure Incentives for Zero-Emission Commercial Vehicles (EnergIIZE) Hydrogen funding lane will open for two weeks beginning at 9 a.m. Pacific Time on April 17, 2024, and lasting through 5 p.m. Pacific Time on May 1, 2024. This lane, funded by the California Energy Commission (CEC) and administered by CALSTART, follows the Electric Vehicle (EV) Fast Track funding lane application window, which is now closed.

The Hydrogen funding lane offers the highest incentive funding cap of all four EnergIIZE funding lanes, covering 50 percent of eligible equipment and software costs for standard projects, up to $3 million per project. If the applicant also meets certain equity criteria, then 75 percent of eligible equipment and software costs are covered, with the maximum amount rising to $4 million per project. Eligible equipment and software covered for funding includes dispensers, compressors, liquid and gaseous pumps, piping and pipelines, high-pressure storage, chillers, meters, switchgears, and electrical panel upgrades.

To be eligible for funding, applicants must show proof that their projects are intended for medium- or heavy-duty hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, that refueling stations are capable of dispensing 350 or 700 bar, and that they meet ASME, ASTM and NFPA standards.

Applicants can submit applications with supporting documents through an Incentive Processing Center at the opening of the application window. A Sandbox test application portal will be available on the EnergIIZE website beginning on March 25, 2024, to help prospective applicants familiarize themselves with the application process. The How to Apply workshop will be held the following day; prospective applicants are encouraged to register now.

“This is a great opportunity for fleet users and station owners across California to deploy hydrogen fueling infrastructure for medium- and heavy-duty vehicles and equipment at a reduced cost,” said Alyssa Haerle, Director of Infrastructure Incentive Administration, CALSTART. “EnergIIZE is happy to help accelerate the industry forward through this funding program.”

For more information on the four funding lanes from EnergIIZE, see the EnergIIZE website or contact infrastructure@calstart.org.

Mission Possible from Lime

Lime, the world’s largest operator of shared light electric vehicles, Hight Logistics, and Forum Mobility announced a new deal for zero-emissions port-to-hub shipping for all Lime freight arriving in North America through the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach.

Forum Mobility, a leading zero-emission electric truck charging provider, is providing the electric trucks and charging to Hight Logistics, a family-owned drayage provider in Long Beach, CA. In 2023, nearly 50% of all of Lime’s new vehicles and parts globally arrived through Los Angeles ports now covered under the agreement. Lime anticipates the agreement will shift more than 300 port-to-hub shipments to electric, zero-emission trucks annually.

As part of the announcement, Lime is also among the first companies to share its commitment to the World Economic Forum’s Mission Possible Partnership commitment to zero-emission international shipping. Under Lime’s new commitment, 10 percent of the volume of its goods shipped internationally will be on ships using zero-emission fuels by 2030, on the way to 100 percent of shipments by 2040. Lime hopes that as owners of global cargo it can be among a collection of forward-minded businesses driving the investment and innovation to decarbonize the entire logistics sector.

“We’re thrilled to play a leading part in the EV freight transition through this exciting partnership with Hight Logistics and Forum Mobility,” said Andrew Savage, VP for Sustainability at Lime. “EV shipping needs demand signals to really get moving, and given our ambitious climate goals, Lime is happy to provide them. Businesses need to prioritize zero-emission hauling and take their Scope 3 emissions seriously, regardless of the new SEC rule that omitted reporting on these massive emissions. We believe firmly in a carbon-free future and we’re taking these important steps to decarbonize our shipping logistics on our path to achieving our ambitious net zero carbon goals.”

In the last two years, Lime utilized more than 700 truckloads of freight through the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach as it scaled its business and updated its e-scooter and e-bike fleet across North America. As part of the partnership, future shipments will be completed via zero-emissions vehicles. This deal is Lime’s first for zero-emission drayage. It will continue to explore similar agreements globally, in particular with its European shipping hub.

The deal aligns with Lime’s efforts to decarbonize its business, and its 2030 net zero target, validated by the Science Based Targets Initiative, the top organization for corporate carbon target setting. Lime continues to make strides toward decarbonizing across Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions, already achieving a 37% carbon reduction from its 2019 baseline. Lime anticipates a significant further reduction for 2023 and is expected to report on those emissions reductions mid-year.

Lime chose Hight Logistics for its commitment to sustainable freight, competitive pricing and demonstrated ability to provide high-quality drayage services.

“We believe in doing the right thing – and zero-emission trucking is the future in California. Since we made the decision to invest in electric trucks, we’ve had cargo owners seek us out specifically, wanting to lower their climate impact. Hight Logistics is proud to be able to deliver the goods without the emissions,” said Rudy Diaz, CEO of Hight Logistics. “For all cargo owners, if you are looking to decarbonize your supply chain, lower Scope 3 emissions, lower your WAIRE points, or meet climate commitments, our electric truck fleet is ready and growing,” Mr. Diaz added.

Zero-emission heavy duty freight is a relatively new but fast growing sector. Rules passed by the California Air Resources Board in April of 2023 require a gradual shift to zero-emission trucks throughout the state. By 2035, the entire drayage fleet, currently consisting of 33,000 class 8 trucks, must be zero emission.

Forum Mobility is developing a network of charging depots in and around ports and on routes to common freight destinations. Forum’s staffed and secure depots offer charging, or charging plus a truck together, for a monthly fee — providing one-stop electric truck solutions to independent owner operators and large carriers alike.

“Zero-emission freight is a generational change, and Hight and Lime are setting the bar for leadership through action. Forum Mobility’s mission is to ensure that everyone has the ability to benefit from going zero emission. Forum’s principals have decades of experience building electric infrastructure — we take on the challenges, costs, and operations of infrastructure so truckers and carriers of all sizes can focus on their business and their customers. Hight and Lime are driving the future, and we’re proud to support their journey,” said Matt LeDucq, CEO and co-founder of Forum Mobility.

New Optiphase Real-Time Design

Optiphase Drive Systems and OPAL-RT are excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership to advance electric vehicle and system design innovation. Through this strategic alliance, advanced vehicle designers will have access to real-time simulation capabilities that integrate the cutting-edge 5-phase electric motor and drive system technologies developed by Optiphase.

Optiphase developed their advanced 5-phase electric power and control technologies to overcome the limitations and workarounds inherent to 3-phase systems. “When you look at the research and testing data, 5 phases provide the optimal balance of power and reliability with minimized cost and complexity,” said Siavash Sadeghi, CTO for Optiphase. “Even the most innovative 3-phase systems in the market today still use technology from the last century and require redundancy, stacking, or other workarounds to meet the demanding requirements of advanced vehicles.”

Optiphase designs are multi-capable to provide the optimal solution for each application, with outputs from <5 kW to over +1 MW, power densities in excess of 8 kW/kg, and shaft speeds from 1,000 RPM to over +100,000 RPMs, Optiphase technologies outperform in everything from industrial pumps to EVs and aircraft. As key partnerships with industry leaders, like OPAL-RT, continue to grow, Optiphase has found the advantages and adaptability of their technology to have tremendous opportunity for application across markets, including aerospace, defense, marine, specialized ground vehicles, and power generation.

New Front Face from Hyundai Mobis

Fierce global competition is accelerating the advent of the electric vehicle (EV) era by improving electric consumption efficiency (ECE). Alongside the fundamental challenge of enhancing battery performance, various other approaches are being explored continuously, with improvements in aerodynamic performance to reduce air resistance also gaining attention.

Hyundai Mobis (KRX 012330) announced on the 14th that it has developed an “Integrated Front Face Module” that maintains the traditional grille design while reducing air resistance and securing design diversity. The Front Face refers to the front part of the vehicle, where the lamps, grille, and hood are located.

Hyundai Mobis has incorporated various cutting-edge technologies into this integrated module, including an aerodynamic system that reduces air resistance and improves ECE. Notable features include a LiDAR that protrudes outward only during driving for design and sensor protection and an automatic charger retrieval feature that retrieves the charger after charging is completed.

This next-generation EV technology is being lauded as a pioneering example of enhancing performance, design, and convenience and constructing the vehicle’s front end as a total package.

  • A Triple Upgrade in Range Improvement, Design Marketability, and Charging Convenience

The most distinctive feature is a system that automatically opens and closes parts like the grille and hood, reducing air resistance during high-speed driving and improving ECE. This system, which allows the intake of external air and the exhaust of air after heat exchange, improves battery cooling efficiency, and controls the airflow. This combined aerodynamic system extends the electric vehicle’s range by approximately 20 km.

Electric vehicles typically adopt a streamlined design focused on reducing air resistance by eliminating the radiator grille, leading to a somewhat uniform appearance among passenger electric vehicles. Hyundai Mobis has differentiated itself by maintaining the traditional grille design while improving aerodynamic performance. Additionally, integrating design elements such as LED lighting has enhanced marketability. This technology is particularly beneficial for SUV and CUV electric vehicles, where lowering the vehicle height is challenging.

Technologies have also been applied to enhance design cohesion by preventing external contamination and impact on sensors. The LiDAR, hidden inside the grille when not in use, protrudes only during driving, achieving both LiDAR protection and an improvement in the front-end design marketability of the vehicle.

Another standout feature is the semi-automatic charging system. Simply plugging in the charger initiates the process, and after complete charging, the charger retrieval and the closing of the charging area’s cap/cover occur automatically. This feature reduces the inconvenience of users manually finishing during charging, presenting an alternative with better cost-effectiveness than charging robots.

Hyundai Mobis is reinventing itself as a ‘Mobility Solution Provider’ tailored to customers’ needs, focusing on future mobility core technologies represented by electrification, autonomous driving, and IVI. The company is intensifying its efforts to penetrate foreign markets and expand its order book, achieving USD 9.22 billion in orders from global automakers last year, accelerating its long-term growth strategy.

TurnOnGreen/Endliss Power

Inc. (“TurnOnGreen” or the “Company”), announced today a strategic partnership with Endliss Power Inc (“EPI”), a cutting-edge e-commerce and renewable energy company based in San Francisco, California. The collaboration marks a milestone for the Company as it seeks to expand its networked electric vehicle (“EV”) charging infrastructure across North America, leveraging EPI’s expertise in administering and executing power purchase agreements with commercial clients.

Under this partnership, TurnOnGreen and EPI will deliver comprehensive sustainability solutions for installing, operating, and maintaining utility-scale solar power, energy storage systems, and EV charging stations. These solutions will come with minimal up-front costs for commercial customers. This partnership aligns with the growing demand for renewable energy and sustainable mobility and will attempt to support the transition to cleaner transportation across North America.

EPI is a US-based renewable energy solution provider that specializes in distributing clean energy products, including solar panels and energy storage systems. Additionally, EPI is an authorized distributor of solar products from the Chinese electric car maker, BYD.

“We are pleased to partner with Endliss Power to expand our sustainability product portfolio and provide prospective clients with a diverse range of purchasing options for EV charging infrastructure,” said Marcus Charuvastra, President of TurnOnGreen. “Building robust and reliable EV charging infrastructure in this economic climate requires creative partnerships with experienced renewable energy companies.”

According to the Solar Energy Industries Association1, solar accounted for 48% of all new electricity-generating capacity added to the US grid through the first three quarters of 2023. Wood Mackenzie, a global provider of data and analytics for the energy transition, expects the US solar industry to have grown by 55% in 2023 compared to the prior year, according to their latest report/press release.2

TurnOnGreen Chief Executive Officer Amos Kohn stated, “As we embark on this strategic partnership with EPI, we’re aiming to pioneer a path towards a more sustainable future. By combining our expertise and proficiency in EV charging solutions with EPI’s advanced solar and energy storage solutions, we’re striving to deliver more than just a product. Our goal is to offer a holistic, comprehensive solution that addresses both present and future energy needs. This collaboration reflects our dedication to innovation, sustainability, and community engagement.” Mr. Kohn further emphasized, “Together, we’re not just charging vehicles; we’re aiming to drive transformative change.”

RADOX EV-C 2 from HUBER+SUHNER

The performance of high-voltage connection systems in heavy-duty Electric Vehicles (EVs) will no longer be disrupted by shock and vibrations when in use, thanks to the new RADOX EV-C 2 from HUBER+SUHNER.

An upgrade to the EV-C connection system successfully launched in 2019, the RADOX EV-C 2 offers superior reliability and protection from vibrations. It incorporates a precoated thread to ensure greater tightness and higher mechanical resistance, and offers a shorter installation time onto a vehicle, as well as an improved sealing concept and shorter thread run out for thin-wall applications. The materials used in the EV-C 2, have also been carefully selected to become compliant with the latest directive Restriction of Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment RoHS 3 (EU 2015/863).

“The latest developments in EVs have led heavy-duty vehicles such as eBuses and eTrucks to become increasingly commonplace across the globe,” said HUBER+SUHNER Senior Product Manager, Robert Weirauch. “However, the high voltage connection systems used in EVs are often exposed to severe mechanical loads which can negatively affect overall high voltage system integrity, especially during intensive applications in harsh conditions. The new RADOX EV-C 2 reduces the risk of system failures and high voltage hazards caused by vibrations or other mechanical loads”.

The product is the latest in the EV-C portfolio from HUBER+SUHNER, offering the same benefits as its predecessor: best-in-class screen performance, the repelling of external contaminents such as dirt, dust, moisture or chemicals, and the ability to stop cables from becoming pulled or twisted during operation. The EV-C 2 also utilises industry-proven RADOX technology, which uses an electron beam crosslinking process for the cables. Merging this cable technology with the upgraded EV-C 2 provides an optimal connection system tailored for heavy-duty applications.

Offered with Single-core Standard and Flex cables, as well as Multi-core cables, the solution provides wide configuration options for the M20, M25 and M32 interfaces used in EVs. EV-C 2 has been externally validated according to the latest Automotive standards and can be ordered as a high-voltage cable assembly with a range of other validated connectors. The new solution is available now for ordering, and for serial deliveries within Q1 this year.

Most EVS Use Fast FLO When Traveling

FLO, a leading North American electric vehicle (EV) charging company and a smart charging solutions provider, found that a majority of EV drivers rely on DC fast chargers for extended trips according to a recent customer survey. The results, gathered from almost 40,000 EV drivers in the U.S. and Canada, provided insight into EV drivers’ charging habits and the activities they regularly engage in while charging.

Findings from the survey include:

  • DC fast chargers are needed for most EV drivers. 42% of respondents indicated they use them at least once a month and 60% reported they rely on them for extended or multi-city trips.

  • Charging time is not idle time. In a question asking what activities drivers engage in while their vehicle is charging at a fast charger, 51% of EV drivers said they engage with on-site amenities. When asked which activities they prefer to do while charging, 60% of drivers said they use this time to eat or buy refreshments while 19% said they use nearby retail stores to shop.

  • Reliable, public charging infrastructure is necessary. The survey found that 29% of EV owners in the survey did not have a charging station installed at their residence, highlighting the need for reliable public infrastructure. 

  • Owners use a mix of chargers and need access to both. The survey also discovered a diverse use of charging station types, with 35% of users primarily using Level 2 stations, 27% mainly using DC fast charging stations, and 31% relying on a mix of both. This variety underscores the need for a comprehensive network that offers both quick top-ups and longer-stay charging solutions and is designed for drivers who live in a range of building types.

  • Most EV drivers stay local and within the range provided by a single overnight charge. 30% of Canadian respondents reported driving 151 to 250 kilometers per week and 37% of American respondents reported driving between 100 to 200 miles per week.

“FLO’s survey demonstrates the need for more robust charging solutions across North America, enabling drivers to plug in wherever they are—at work, home, or on the go.” said Louis Tremblay, President and CEO of FLO. “Hearing from almost 40,000 EV drivers is extremely informative and points towards the effectiveness of both at home and public charging networks in supporting the day-to-day lives of most EV drivers and providing the best charging experience one session at a time.”

Conducted last year, the survey supports the buildout of FLO’s own-and-operate network of fast chargers.

Businesses will host the chargers that FLO owns and operates. The sites will bring fast charging — a much-desired amenity — to their own customers without most of the expenses, risks or logistics of owning their own charger.

The program will primarily deploy the new dual-port FLO Ultra charger. With up to 320 kW of available power, the FLO Ultra charger will charge most new EVs to 80% in 15 minutes. The station is future capable of up to 500kW when paired with a second FLO Ultra charger. The FLO Ultra’s driver-centric design, reliable performance and ease of use make it the ideal charger for locations that include restaurants, restrooms and other amenities.