HVO100, Volkswagen, Porsche, Kia, BYD and more

The European Union has ambitious plans to boost battery cell production to promote electric mobility. In an analysis for the German magazine Automobilwoche, Fraunhofer ISI estimates that Europe will build production capacities totaling 2,114.45 gigawatt-hours (GWh) by 2030. These figures represent maximum production capacities. According to the institute, it is crucial to ensure demand security, develop supplier structures, create economic production conditions, and secure reliable access to skilled workers. The researchers indicate that Europe will still rely on battery cell imports for the next five years. However, by 2030, Europe could start exporting batteries if production quantity, quality, cost, and sustainability goals are met. 

The German government has mandated that gas stations have to provide charging stations starting in 2028. Large gas station providers will be required to offer at least one fast-charging point with a minimum output of 150 kilowatts from January 1, 2028. The goal is to create around 8,000 additional fast-charging points “at gas stations or in their immediate vicinity.” This measure aims to ensure a basic supply of fast-charging infrastructure and build confidence in electric mobility. This mandate is part of the “Masterplan Ladeinfrastruktur II”, enacted in 2022. Initially, the plan was for at least 75 percent of gas stations to have fast chargers with a minimum capacity of 150 kW by the end of 2026. However, this target has been adjusted, and the deadline extended to 2028.  

HVO100 is available at German gas stations now. HVO100 is a synthetic diesel made primarily from sustainable waste and residue materials like used cooking fats. These residues are converted into hydrocarbons through a catalytic reaction with hydrogen, making the fuel similar to fossil diesel. HVO100 can be offered purely or blended with conventional diesel, providing a better climate balance and lower emissions of particulate matter and nitrogen oxides. However, in Germany the cost of HVO100 is about 20 Euro cents higher than that of conventional diesel. To avoid confusion, HVO100 is labeled with the additional designation XTL, which stands for Power-to-Liquid fuels. The nationwide rollout of HVO100 in Germany will happen gradually. 

China plans to invest over 765 million Euros in the development of solid-state batteries, according to Reuters. This government-led project will involve six leading companies, including battery manufacturers CATL and WeLion, as well as automakers BYD, FAW, SAIC, and Geely. 

At the same time, Nissan has announced plans to begin solid-state battery production in 2025. The first of these batteries are expected to be completed next year at a pilot plant under construction in Yokohama, Japan. The start of mass production of solid-state batteries is currently scheduled for 2029. 

Additionally, the Chinese automotive giant SAIC aims to begin mass production of pure solid-state batteries with an energy density of over 400 Wh/kg by 2026, with plans to use them in its IM Motors models starting in 2027, according to the company’s new strategic plan. 

Volkswagen has announced plans to develop an exceptionally affordable electric vehicle and bring it to market by 2027. The model is planned to cost around €20,000 and aims to promote entry-level electric mobility in Europe. The company emphasizes that this vehicle will be produced independently with a high degree of European localization. Oliver Blume stated, "This is about entry-level electric mobility from Europe for Europe." A partnership with Renault for the joint production of small electric cars was recently abandoned after lengthy negotiations. 

Porsche has introduced the new 911 Carrera GTS, now equipped with an innovative hybrid drive. The new model's 3.6-liter boxer engine is complemented by a "T-Hybrid System," which uses an integrated electric motor in the exhaust turbocharger. This system allows the boost pressure to build instantly, enhancing the vehicle's responsiveness and dynamics. The new 911 Carrera GTS is expected to deliver 398 kW (541 HP) and 610 Nm of torque, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.0 seconds. The top speed is projected to be 312 km/h. The hybrid powertrain also contributes to reducing CO₂ emissions without significantly increasing the vehicle's weight. 

Kia has unveiled the new EV3, a compact electric SUV specifically designed for the European market. The vehicle features a 150 kW front motor and is expected to offer a range of up to 600 kilometers (372.8 miles). It comes with a 58.3 kWh battery for the standard model and an 81.4 kWh battery for the long-range version. The standard model accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 60 mph) in 7.4 seconds, while the long-range version takes 7.7 seconds. 

Chinese automaker BYD is ramping up its efforts in Europe, focusing on electric compact cars. The company announced plans to produce B-segment vehicles at its first EU factory in Hungary starting in 2025. BYD has confirmed that the Seagull, a small electric car, will launch in a European version next year. Additionally, the Ocean M, an electric compact car concept, has been introduced and might also come to Europe. Currently, the BYD Dolphin is the smallest European model from the brand. Alongside its all-electric models, BYD is bringing its first plug-in hybrid to Europe. The Seal U DM-i SUV will be available from June 2024, offering an electric range of 75 to 120 kilometers, depending on the variant. 

Cadillac has introduced its new all-electric SUV, the Optiq, designed specifically for the European market. The E-SUV will be available for sale in ten regions worldwide, including Europe, the USA, Canada, Mexico, Central America, China, and the Middle East. With a wheelbase of 2.94 meters (115.7 inches) and an 85 kWh battery, the Optiq promises an estimated range of about 483 kilometers (300 miles) (EPA) or over 500 kilometers (311 miles). The Optiq will come standard with electric all-wheel drive, providing 220 kW (300 HP) and 480 Nm (354 lb-ft) of torque. Production is set to begin in late fall. 

Trinity has introduced its second electric motorcycle, the Panthera Aero. This model is set to achieve a maximum power of 11 kW (14.8 HP) and a top speed of 90 km/h (56 mph). With the optional Performance Line, the power can be increased to 16 kW (21.5 HP), reaching a top speed of 100 km/h (62 mph). The Panthera Aero features a four-speed transmission specifically developed for electric propulsion. It offers three battery options with capacities of 40, 50, or 60 Ah, with the largest battery providing a riding time of up to three hours. 

New Zealand company Vessev has unveiled the electric hydrofoil boat VS-9, which aims to revolutionize water-based passenger transport. The nine-meter-long (29.5 feet) boat can carry up to 10 passengers at a speed of 25 knots (46.3 km/h, 28.8 mph) and offers a range of 50 nautical miles (92.6 km, 57.5 mi). The VS-9 is set to be certified and integrated into the commercial operations of Fullers360, New Zealand's largest ferry operator, later this year. 

German system manufacturer Brose has announced a partnership with British sharing provider Beryl. Beryl will now use Brose E-Bike's environmentally friendly remanufactured drives. At the start of the cycling season, Brose delivered its largest order to the UK to date, consisting of refurbished "Drive CAlu" motors. These motors will be used in Beryl's city e-bike fleet. Brose launched its remanufacturing program in 2021 to enhance the sustainability of its products. According to Brose, remanufacturing saves about 50% of CO2 emissions per unit compared to producing new parts. Beryl's order alone will save 15.1 tons of CO2. Brose uses components from drives that were returned before the warranty expired. These parts are inspected, cleaned, and supplemented with new parts by service technicians to create a refurbished drive. 

A recent study by the Fraunhofer Institute for Systems and Innovation Research (ISI) shows that Germany could triple the share of cycling for trips up to 30 kilometers by 2035. This would result in a 34% reduction in local traffic emissions. The study, commissioned by the General German Bicycle Club (ADFC), indicates that expanding bike lanes, providing good connections to buses and trains, and creating bike-friendly municipalities could save 19 million tons of CO2 equivalents annually. 

Automaker Neta and battery producer CATL have agreed on a comprehensive strategic partnership from 2025 to 2034, making CATL Neta's preferred partner for electric vehicle batteries. The two companies also plan to collaborate in areas such as zero carbon, CIIC (CATL Integrated Intelligent Chassis), battery swapping, V2G (Vehicle to Grid), battery recycling, and market development.