Aviloo Study, Fraunhofer, IKEA, General Motors, Xiaomi and much more

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has set new CO2 fleet emission standards for passenger cars and vans up to 3.8 tons for the years 2027 to 2032, requiring emissions to be reduced by 49% from 2026 levels by 2032. This means manufacturers must stay under a fleet average of 170 grams of CO2 per mile by 2027 and 85 grams of CO2 per mile by 2032. Additionally, the EPA is calling on OEMs to reduce nitrogen oxide and particulate matter emissions.

At the same time, the U.S. Department of Energy has announced $750 million in funding for 52 hydrogen and fuel cell projects across 24 states. The focus is primarily on boosting domestic production of fuel cells and electrolyzers, especially for heavy commercial vehicles. The Department of Energy expects to create U.S. production capacities for 14 gigawatts of fuel cells and 10 gigawatts of electrolyzers, aiming to power around 15% of the medium and heavy trucks sold annually and produce an additional 1.3 million tons of clean hydrogen per year.

A recent analysis by battery diagnostics company Aviloo has shed light on the energy requirements for heating and cooling in electric vehicles and their impact on range. The study examined 14 different electric vehicles, which were first cooled to 0 degrees Celsius under the same environmental conditions. Then, the interiors were heated to 22 degrees Celsius in automatic mode, with the heating left on for two hours. The findings reveal that while air conditioning in summer and heating in winter provide comfort in the vehicle, they increase energy consumption and can significantly reduce the range of an electric vehicle, especially at lower outdoor temperatures. After the first hour of heating, the energy consumed ranged between 1.5 and 2.5 kWh, with an average of 2.07 kWh. After another hour, it increased to between 2.7 and 4.5 kWh. Notably, for city driving, the heating energy after 60 minutes accounted for an average of 35% of the total consumption, according to Aviloo. On highway trips, the driving consumption is generally higher, covering much larger distances in 60 minutes, with the heating energy accounting for about 10%. In August and September 2023, Aviloo also cooled test vehicles from 28 and 35 degrees Celsius down to 22 degrees using air conditioning. Here, an average cooling of 10 degrees showed a consumption of 1.6 to 2.2 kWh after 60 minutes.

The Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits IIS has developed a method for inspecting EV batteries using X-rays. This testing system allows for a detailed examination of battery cells and modules without the need for disassembly. Using the AIR system, which is intended to function like a car wash, vehicles can be easily and quickly scanned, batteries included, according to Fraunhofer IIS. This technique offers advantages not only in quality control during production but also opens new possibilities in damage assessment and valuation of electric vehicles after accidents. A particularly notable feature is the ability to accurately assess the condition of the battery, thus avoiding unnecessary replacements or disposals.

To boost global electric mobility, the IKEA Foundation has donated $100 million to the "Drive Electric Campaign." This worldwide initiative aims to fast-track the deployment of electric vehicles with a focus on developing and emerging countries, enhancing access to clean and sustainable mobility in areas where the need is greatest but resources are scarce. The donation will primarily support advocacy and campaigns for the transition to electric mobility in countries across Africa, Latin America, and Southeast Asia, as part of a program named the “Leapfrogging Partnership.”

General Motors (GM) has patented an innovative approach to enhance battery cooling and performance in electric vehicles. By developing battery cells in unique shapes reminiscent of Tetris blocks, GM aims to create more efficient cooling channels that allow for better heat dissipation. The patented technology includes L- and C-shaped cells that can be arranged to create cavities between them. These cavities provide space for cooling channels, ensuring more uniform cooling of the battery cells, thus improving their lifespan and performance.

Xiaomi has officially launched its first electric car, the SU7, in China. The SU7 is now available for order at a price of approximately €27,600. This roughly five-meter-long sedan comes in various models, including a 220-kW rear-wheel drive and a 495 kW all-wheel drive. The SU7 offers three battery options from different suppliers, with the base version using a 73.6-kWh battery with LFP cells from BYD, aiming for a range of 700 kilometers, acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds, and a top speed of 210 km/h. The LFP battery is also designed to operate at 400 volts, while the other versions feature 800-volt systems. Higher-end models, the SU7 Pro and SU7 Max, promise even greater ranges and performance. The SU7 Pro, a rear-wheel drive model, is equipped with an NMC battery from CATL, boasting a capacity of 94.3 kWh and a range of 830 kilometers. The flagship Xiaomi SU7 Max model comes with all-wheel drive, 495 kW of power, and a 101 kWh battery from CATL, aiming for a range of 800 kilometers. The abbreviation SU stands for "Speed Ultra."

Nio has initiated mass production of its 900-volt electric drive system, named "Thunder," according to a report from Car News China. Set to debut in the Nio ET9, this system promises improved performance through its lighter and more compact motors. The ET9's front and rear axle motors are reported to be 30% lighter and significantly shorter than previous models. Enhanced cooling systems and a high power density in the motors are expected to increase efficiency and longevity. The ET9 is said to feature the world's first 925-volt W-Pin synchronous permanent magnet electric motor, delivering a peak power of 340 kW. The Nio ET9 is anticipated to start deliveries in early 2025.

Genesis recently introduced two new concept vehicles, the Neolun Concept and the GV60 Magma Concept, at the Genesis House in New York. The Neolun Concept, an all-electric SUV concept model, is said to epitomize the ultimate in "hospitality" with rotating front seats, electrically extendable sills, and an innovative heating system. The GV60 Magma Concept, on the other hand, aims to represent a new dimension of performance and luxury, embodying passion and fascination. According to Genesis, the development of the Neolun Concept was inspired by Korea's famous moon-shaped porcelain vessels, considered symbols of timeless design and sophisticated craftsmanship, as stated by Luc Donckerwolke, Chief Creative Officer at Genesis.

In the UK, Motability Operations and Callum Designs have crafted an electric vehicle tailored for wheelchair users, combining accessibility with electric mobility. Named eVITA, the vehicle is designed to offer easy access and a safe, comfortable ride for those using wheelchairs. It's expected to feature a 50 kWh battery and two charging ports at the front or rear, with an estimated range of about 200 miles (approximately 322 kilometers).

The eVITA is also designed with a split rear hatch to facilitate easy wheelchair entry. The battery placement ensures a level floor from the rear hatch to the first row, allowing a wheelchair to be parked behind the driver and front passenger. Callum Designs notes that the vehicle's height has been adjusted so wheelchair users are at a similar height to other passengers, fostering a sense of connection. Additionally, a modular "Utility Bar" provides wheelchair users easy access to features like infotainment, heating, and air conditioning. Other highlights include accessible storage solutions, drink holders, charging ports for devices, and coat hangers.

Polestar is set to launch the Polestar 7 in 2027 as the successor to the Polestar 2, according to Polestar CEO Thomas Ingenlath in a statement to the British car portal Autocar.

Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer Xpeng has announced its market debut in Germany. Starting in May, German customers will be able to test drive and order the P7 sedan, the G9 SUV, and the coupe-style electric SUV, the Xpeng G6.

Tesla has produced its 6 millionth electric vehicle, the company announced on X (formerly known as Twitter).