Temporary EV Charging for Hurricane Evacuees in FL
The Florida Department of Emergency Management is installed up to temporary EV charging stations along the I-75 evacuation corridor, and one off of I-4. Each is a single port, fast charger with adapters capable of charging all EVs, with a 50 kW power output.
The Alternative Fuels Data Center (AFDC) updated the Alternative Fuel Station Locator to include mobile electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, provided by Garner Environmental Services, along evacuation routes to help EV driving Floridians evacuate.
Nissan Joins ChargeScape
Nissan has entered into an agreement to invest in ChargeScape, a joint venture equally owned by BMW, Ford and Honda focused on electric vehicle-grid integration. Once the transaction is complete, Nissan will become an equal 25% investor in ChargeScape and will roll out ChargeScape’s services to its EV drivers across the U.S. and Canada.
Last month, BMW, Ford and Honda announced the launch of ChargeScape, whose software wirelessly connects to electric vehicles and manages the flow of electrons in line with real-time grid conditions, temporarily reducing demand when the grid is constrained through smart charging (V1G) and even sending energy back into the power grid when needed (V2G). By providing a single platform for power utilities, automakers, and their customers, ChargeScape streamlines the complexity of electric vehicle-grid integration.
ChargeScape unlocks financial benefits for EV drivers by enabling services like managed charging and vehicle-to-grid export. When connected to ChargeScape’s platform, EV drivers who choose to do so can receive financial incentives for temporarily pausing charging during periods of high demand and will eventually be able to sell the energy stored in their vehicle’s battery back to the power grid. Doing so helps grid operators avoid dispatching expensive and often high-emission “peaker plants” when the grid is overloaded.
Nissan’s incorporation into the ChargeScape alliance is of particular significance given its sales of over 650,000 LEAF models, one of the first EVs with the capability to export power back to the grid. Nissan is investing heavily in bidirectional charging (V2X) capabilities for its entire electric fleet, and ChargeScape is currently building virtual power plants composed of bidirectional EVs in California, Texas and other markets.
Clarios Invests in Altris Sodium-Ion Tech
Clarios, a global leader in advanced low-voltage battery solutions, announced a strategic investment in Altris, a pioneer in sustainable sodium-ion battery technology, with the aim of manufacturing low-voltage, sodium-ion (Na-ion) batteries for the automotive sector.
This equity stake builds on a joint development agreement (JDA) between Clarios, producer of one in three of the world’s low-voltage car batteries, and Altris, a leader in sodium-ion cathode material and battery cell technology, focused on low-voltage Na-ion batteries.
Clarios will leverage its expertise in Battery Management Systems (BMS), software, and system integration to design the Na-ion low-voltage automotive battery system to optimize battery performance.
Altris will focus on developing the sodium-ion cell technology for this low-voltage application. Every vehicle, including hybrid electric and fully electric vehicles, requires a low-voltage energy source to power an increased number of software-based functions such as steer-by-wire, break-by-wire, autonomous functions, and enhanced in cabin experiences.
Clarios expects its investment to initially enable Altris to finalize and start pilot production of Na-ion automotive batteries, followed by commercial production beginning in 2026.
The Clarios low-voltage system architecture, comprising multiple networks and battery power sources, is essential for powering critical safety features and ensuring redundancy in vehicle electrical systems. Sodium-ion batteries are well suited to meet these increased power demands. At the same time, they are inherently sustainable and easy to recycle.
The materials used to produce sodium-ion cells – salt, wood, iron and those found in air – are abundant globally and are free from harmful chemicals or minerals mined in conflict zones. Developing Na-ion batteries for vehicles would represent an important advancement in automotive battery technology, while advancing the auto industry’s circularity goals.
Clarios will be a member of the Altris Supervisory Board, overseeing the strategic direction and governance of the partnership. The board will consist of experienced professionals in battery technology, automotive industry trends, and corporate governance. David Patel, Vice President and General Manager Energy Systems at Clarios, will represent Clarios on the Supervisory Board and chair the Technical Committee, which will oversee the development and implementation of sodium-ion battery technology, ensuring compliance with industry regulations and driving innovation in battery design and performance. “The Clarios partnership will enable a leap ahead in high-performance sodium-ion automotive batteries by integrating our technology with Clarios’ superior software embedded in its state-of-the-art battery management systems,” Christer Bergquist, interim CEO of Altris. “Plus, the unmatched global market reach and deep relationships with automakers provides ample opportunities to accelerate commercial deployment.”
Lectron NACS to CCS Adapter
Lectron, a leading provider of electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions, announces the expanded retail availability of its best-selling NACS to CCS adapter, the Vortex Plug. This adapter allows non-Tesla EV owners to charge at the nation’s largest fast charging network.
Previously available only through Lectron’s website, the Vortex Plug can now be purchased at major retailers including Amazon, Walmart, The Home Depot, Best Buy and Lowe’s. With the Lectron Vortex Plug, non-Tesla electric vehicles equipped with CCS1 charging ports can access Tesla Superchargers, opening up access to over 15,000 additional public chargers.
The Lectron Vortex Plug Supercharger to CCS adapter is the result of extensive research and development by Lectron’s team of engineers. It has been independently approved and endorsed by multiple major vehicle manufacturers.
As of October 2024, Ford, General Motors (GM), and Rivian EVs have gained access to Tesla Superchargers. More automakers committed to the North American Charging Standard (NACS) are expected to gain access in 2024 and 2025, including Audi, BMW, Fisker, Genesis, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Lexus, Lucid, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Mini, Nissan, Polestar, Porsche, Rolls-Royce, Scout, Stellantis, Toyota, Volkswagen, and Volvo.
The Lectron NACS to CCS adapter is designed for safe, high-voltage charging in compliance with the J3400 standard. It is rated for 1,000 volts and 500 amps, allowing users to add up to 150 miles of range in just 15 minutes, depending on the vehicle and the Supercharger version.
“The Vortex Plug’s availability at major retailers is a major milestone for Lectron,” said Christopher Maiwald, Lectron CEO. “We’re excited to bridge the gap between charging standards and make Tesla Superchargers accessible to more EV drivers.”
Key Features of the Lectron Vortex Plug NACS to CCS1 Adapter
- Unlocks access to over 15,000 Tesla Superchargers in North America
- Charges up to 150 miles in just 15 minutes
- Includes built-in temperature controls for safe charging
- Compatible with all EVs in the North American Charging Standard
- Rated for 500 amps and 1,000 volts for fast charging performance
The Lectron Vortex Plug NACS Supercharger to CCS Adapter is now available at:
- Lectron
- Amazon
- Walmart
- The Home Depot
- Best Buy
- Lowe’s
StoreDot XFC Milestones
StoreDot, the pioneer in extreme fast charging (XFC) silicon battery technology for electric vehicles (EVs), enters Q4 of 2024 with a string of key milestones and strategic partnerships highlighting the company’s commercialization journey. With five of the top ten OEMs in its current slate of 15 OEM testing programs, StoreDot’s silicon-based XFC battery is production-ready, durable, and charges twice as fast compared to other premium fast-charge models, and with no added degradation.
Over the past months, several major automakers have scaled back their EV production amid signs of a decline in growth. After years of robust demand trajectory, industry insiders fear that a continued market slowdown could derail adoption momentum, particularly in Europe. As EV government subsidies dry up, the main force behind the market slump is drivers’ concerns surrounding lacking charging infrastructure with limited availability of fast charge capabilities, a challenge solved by StoreDot’s advanced battery technology.
StoreDot’s 2024 progress has provided the industry with a proven fast-charge battery solution. The company’s growth momentum is highlighted by its ongoing collaboration with leading OEMs that test and verify the performance of its battery, including a successful vehicle demonstration in a Polestar 5 prototype. The company now confirms that it works closely with at least 5 leading car manufacturers on customizing the technology and fitting it into the manufacturer-specific cell dimensions, to embed the 10 minute charging capability in upcoming models.
By confirming its production-ready, long-range EV batteries can charge in 10 minutes, StoreDot solidifies its market position as the only proven extreme fast-charge battery which doesn’t compromise range or battery health, addressing the market’s #1 concern of ‘time to charge’ as recently stated by Deloitte’s 2024 global automotive consumer study.
With over 100 patents in its IP portfolio, StoreDot’s “drop-in” technology utilizes existing manufacturing equipment and processes across multiple facilities, providing OEMs with a quick-to-market solution with no additional CAPEX.
“We’re proud to check the box on yet another commercial milestone. Partnering with leading OEMs allows us to continue optimizing our XFC technology, while charging from 10-80 percent in only 10 minutes,” says Dr. Doron Myersdorf, CEO and Co-Founder of StoreDot. “At StoreDot we predict that XFC technology will evolve from a premium feature to a standard in all EV models, solving charging and range anxiety.”
Highland Electric & GRID Alternatives Partner for Electric School Bus Training
Highland Electric Fleets, the leading provider of Electrification-as-a-Service (EaaS) for school bus and municipal fleets, has partnered with GRID Alternatives to create a workforce development training program focused on all aspects of electric school bus operations. The partnership aims to create a curriculum that includes critical mechanical and safety training, while making renewable energy technology and education more accessible to traditionally underserved communities.
“At Highland, our top priority is student well-being, while also investing in clean energy jobs and building infrastructure to support our partner communities,” said Duncan McIntyre, CEO of Highland Electric Fleets. “This partnership with GRID Alternatives will help develop a workforce that brings care and expertise to a growing, innovative industry.”
With the growing number of electric school bus fleets nationwide, creating next-generation job training opportunities in a modernized transportation sector is vital. Highland and GRID Alternatives will help ensure that school district transportation, operations, and maintenance teams have the expertise to support and sustain their electric school bus fleets while prioritizing safety through comprehensive training.
“GRID Alternatives is excited to partner with Highland Electric Fleets on its initiative to support school systems nationwide by electrifying their school bus fleets. As GRID continues to work to provide access to clean mobility, the timing of this initiative is perfect. Working alongside our trusted partner ChargerHelp!, GRID will provide foundational training, knowledge, and safety awareness regarding zero-emission vehicles to drivers, mechanics, and other community stakeholders that Highland Electric Fleets is serving,” says Adwale OgunBadejo, VP of Workforce Development at GRID.
In coordination with ChargerHelp!, GRID Alternatives will deliver a comprehensive curriculum tailored to the unique demands of electric school bus fleets. This training program will cover a range of essential skills, including bus operation, maintenance, and safety protocols. By offering targeted education for drivers, mechanics, and support personnel, this initiative ensures that school districts and their teams are fully prepared to manage electric school buses confidently and carefully, fostering a safe, efficient, and sustainable transportation future. The collaboration will equip stakeholders, including bus drivers, technicians, teachers, and other community members, with the information and understanding needed to safely operate and maintain electric school buses as school districts diversify their fleets.
“By prioritizing communities that bear the disproportionate burden of diesel exhaust and on-road air pollution, the transition to electric school buses can contribute to correcting historically inequitable practices. An equitable transition to electric school buses can boost economies and create meaningful, well-paying jobs in many areas nationwide. This aligns with our mission, and we are honored to be a part of this transformative project,” added OgunBAdejo.
About GRID Alternatives
Founded in 2001, GRID Alternatives (GRID) is a national nonprofit that envisions a rapid, equitable transition to a world powered by renewable energy that benefits everyone. Our mission is to build community-powered solutions to advance economic and environmental justice through renewable energy.
Over the last twenty years, GRID has completed the installation of over 91 MW of solar photovoltaics (PV) through 21,000 projects across the country, serving over 31,000 low-income (LI) families and 254 community facilities, generating over $700 million in long-term energy savings for underserved communities.
GRID has provided Zero Electric Vehicle (ZEV) marketing, education, and outreach (ME&O) to thousands of Californians in underserved communities in the Clean Mobility field. As we expand our efforts across the nation, the key to our success with these programs is the ME&O efforts we have led in underserved communities, in which we emphasize the benefits and feasibility of Electric Vehicle (EV) adoption.
XCharge Intros GridLink
XCharge North America, a provider of DC fast charging and battery-integrated electric vehicle (EV) solutions, announces the launch of GridLink, a charging station designed to address the needs of the North American grid. This development represents a significant progression in EV infrastructure, combining rapid charging capabilities with grid support functions.
GridLink can deliver up to 300 kilowatts (kW) of power, allowing EVs to charge in approximately 15 minutes. By integrating a high-capacity battery system with bidirectional technology, GridLink enhances energy management by balancing energy supply and demand, contributing to reduced costs and increased efficiency.
In-House-Developed Battery Technology
GridLink features an in-house-developed energy storage system that utilizes lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries. XCharge North America designed the LFP batteries to prioritize safety, reliability and longevity. The system offers a base capacity of 215 kilowatt-hours, which can be expanded to 430 kilowatt-hours, optimizing performance for various applications.
“GridLink represents a significant advancement in EV charging technology,” said Alex Urist, Vice President of XCharge North America. “With its robust charging capabilities, comprehensive safety features and grid-supporting functions, GridLink is poised to play an important role in the evolution of EV charging stations and their interaction with the energy grid.”
Installation and Integration Flexibility
GridLink is designed to be installed with minimal electrical upgrades. It is compatible with both 208V and 480V electrical systems, providing flexibility for a variety of installation scenarios. This adaptability helps to reduce costs and simplifies the deployment process for operators.
Safety Considerations
The unit is equipped with a range of safety features, including fire suppression systems, smoke detection and thermal event alarms, ensuring secure operation.
Grid Support and Renewable Integration
GridLink contributes to grid stability by offering bidirectional energy flow, which allows it to send energy back to the grid during peak demand. This feature also facilitates the integration of renewable energy sources, supporting the development of a more resilient and sustainable energy infrastructure as EV adoption increases.
“GridLink marks a significant step forward for EV charging in North America,” said Aatish Patel, Co-founder and President of XCharge North America. “By delivering 300 kW of power and introducing grid-forming capabilities from the battery discharge, we’re not just improving charging speeds — we’re transforming how EV service equipment interacts with the grid. This technology will make fast charging more accessible and help stabilize our energy infrastructure as EV adoption grows. It addresses the unique challenges of the North American market, paving the way for a more electric future.”
For more information about GridLink and its capabilities, visit https://www.xcharge.us/product/gridlink.
About XCharge North America
XCharge North America specializes in high-power EV charging and battery-integrated solutions tailored for the North American electrical grid. With a focus on innovation and sustainability, XCharge North America is committed to advancing the future of electric mobility through cutting-edge technology and thoughtful design.
Nikola Corporation (Nasdaq: NKLA), a global leader in zero-emissions transportation and energy supply and infrastructure solutions, via the HYLA brand, has expanded in the southern Calif. market with the introduction of the “Next Generation Truck” (NGT) division of GTS Group as its newest sales and service dealer.
The dealership, located at 14578 Valley Boulevard in Fontana, will sell both Nikola Class 8 trucks – battery-electric and hydrogen fuel cell electric and assist customers with securing local, state and federal incentives.
ChargePoint Home Charger Installation
-ChargePoint (NYSE: CHPT), a leading provider of networked charging solutions for electric vehicles (EVs), today announced that drivers who purchase a ChargePoint Home Flex residential charger in the United States will be able to include a simple, affordable, and straightforward home installation with their purchase. The new service provides a frictionless “one stop shop” for an EV driver to purchase and install a home charger.
Through the program, which is available exclusively on ChargePoint’s website, drivers who choose home installation only need to answer three simple questions about their home to be provided with an immediate quote and date for installation. This eliminates the need to find an electrician, schedule a pre-installation visit to get a quote, or separate the charger purchase from the installation process. ChargePoint leverages its network of certified installation partners to handle the service, eliminating the need for drivers to find and vet an electrician themselves. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 80% of charging happens at home, and through this program, ChargePoint is enabling a more convenient experience.
“Making charging easy for drivers, particularly first-time EV owners, is critical to the adoption of electric vehicles,” said JD Singh, Chief Customer Experience Officer at ChargePoint. “This quotation and installation service, incorporated into the charger purchase, streamlines a traditionally cumbersome experience. ChargePoint now simplifies everything from quotation to installation with a single in-person touch point, the installation itself.”
The ChargePoint® Home Flex Level 2 charger, an Amazon best seller in the U.S. and Canada, can be installed indoors or outdoors. It comes with a 23-foot charging cable to support a variety of parking configurations and/or charging port locations on a particular EV. Using the ChargePoint mobile app, drivers can schedule charging times when energy is cheapest, adjust their charging speed, and get reminders to plug in. Home Flex can also connect with Amazon’s Alexa or Apple’s Siri for easy voice assistance to check charging status, start or stop charging, review charging activity, and more. The ChargePoint mobile app enables access to more than one million places to charge globally across public, private, and roaming ports, making it a single resource for all EV charging needs.
EVgo & Delta Electronics Partner for EV Charging Architecture
EVgo Inc. (NASDAQ: EVGO) (“EVgo” or the “Company”), one of the nation’s largest public fast charging networks for electric vehicles (EVs), announced that it has entered into a new memorandum of understanding (MOU) with longtime technology partner, Delta Electronics, Inc. (“Delta”), a global leader in power management and a provider of IoT-based smart green solutions, to jointly develop next-generation EV charging architecture. This new charging architecture is designed to provide EVgo with more control over the full customer experience while bolstering reliability and delivering increased cost savings and enhanced energy efficiency.
Under the agreement, EVgo and Delta will expand their years-long collaboration to develop state-of-the-art fast chargers that will center on the customer experience. This will include several design features ranging from advanced software, all-in-one power electronics, contactless payment interface, ultra high-power 400kW dispensers, and extended cable length that allows for more maneuverability to easily reach any charge port location on all EV models, supporting EVgo’s commitment to serve all EV drivers, regardless of the make or model of their vehicle.
“EVgo is committed to delivering a superior experience for our customers and we continue to advance long-term solutions to maximize convenience and improve reliability,” said Dennis Kish, President of EVgo. “As the next step in our evolution, EVgo will leverage our learnings and experience from working with over one million customers across the U.S. to develop this next-generation charging architecture in collaboration with Delta Electronics with the goal of increasing consumer confidence in public EV infrastructure and supporting broader adoption of electric vehicles nationwide.”
Austin Tseng, President of Delta Electronics (Americas), said, “Delta looks forward to collaborating further with EVgo as we pioneer the future of EV charging infrastructure by redefining the customer experience, enhancing charger reliability, and advancing energy conservation. Delta’s core competencies in high-efficiency power electronics and system integration will be key to this endeavor.”
The new charging architecture will also include key features to enhance energy efficiency and power distribution across sites by taking EVgo’s dynamic power sharing to the next level. Designed to align with battery advancements in coming years, EVgo’s next-generation charging technology will allow dynamic power sharing across as many as six charging stalls at a time. This extended power sharing ability enables EVgo to implement a variety of station configurations to suit a specific site’s needs, which will be critical as the Company continues to focus on building larger stall footprints to maximize customer experience and serve the growing number of EV drivers on the road.
EVgo expects to complete final design and rigorous interoperability testing in its Innovation Lab and deploy these new chargers by the second half of 2026. As part of this next evolution of EVgo’s charging architecture, the Company will also enhance its charger firmware and software capabilities to enable more detailed error codes and a more flexible interface to improve maintenance, reset times, and the overall customer experience.
These innovations will deliver faster, more efficient charging sessions by taking advantage of each vehicle’s unique charging curves, reducing energy consumption and costs while meeting the evolving needs of drivers. EVgo aims to lower its gross capital expense per stall by 30% while increasing peak power delivery by nearly 20 percentage points.
This co-development effort is happening in tandem with ReNew™ program, focused on creating a holistically better customer experience for EV drivers. Through ReNew, EVgo recently launched new diagnostic tools and capabilities to bolster reliability, continues to streamline the payment process with enhancements to Autocharge+, and is proactively addressing legacy equipment on its network while it invests in developing the charging infrastructure to come.
With these expansive investments in customer-centric hardware, firmware and software solutions, EVgo is continuing to build out a nationwide fast charging network to power an all-electric transportation future.
For more information about the EVgo network, visit www.evgo.com.
Nissan V2G in UK & Europe
Nissan announced it will launch affordable on-board bi-directional charging on selected electric vehicles from 2026. The initiative forms a key step towards its vision of creating a sustainable energy ecosystem.
The project progresses the commitment made in Nissan’s business plan, The Arc, delivering differentiated innovation that enables the EV transition, while unlocking new revenue streams. It also supports the company’s long-term vision, Ambition 2030, to create a cleaner, safer, and more inclusive world.
The Vehicle to Grid (V2G) technology, which allows EV owners to use electricity stored in their car’s battery to power their homes, or sell it back into the grid, will launch in the UK initially, followed by other markets in Europe.
The project is underpinned by Nissan’s extensive experience in V2G, with around 40 pilot projects conducted worldwide throughout the past decade.
Following a successful year-long project at The University of Nottingham, UK, Nissan has become the first car company to gain G99 Grid code certification with an AC-based solution**, needed to supply electricity into the UK national energy supply.
Under the banner of Nissan Energy, the company’s aim is to roll-out V2G technology across markets in Europe and beyond, empowering consumers with either AC or DC-based V2G solutions, in alignment with local infrastructure and regulatory requirements.