Volkswagen, Hyundai, Kia, BMW, HydroRide, Suppliers, Bugatti and more

BMW has announced that it will bring back the new X3 as a plug-in hybrid (PHEV). The new X3 PHEV combines a four-cylinder gas engine with a powerful electric motor, enabling improved electric range and overall efficiency. This relaunch is part of BMW's comprehensive strategy to offer a wider range of electrified vehicles. BMW is using cutting-edge battery technology to maximize the vehicle's range and performance.

Hyundai and Kia have reached an agreement with Chilean company SQM (Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile) to source lithium for electric vehicle battery production. This long-term partnership secures the supply chain for the South Korean automakers and supports their electric vehicle production plans. SQM primarily extracts lithium from Chilean salt flats. Additionally, SQM is investing in expanding capacity in China and Australia to meet the growing global demand for lithium.

ArcFox, the electric car brand of Chinese manufacturer BAIC, has introduced the all-electric Alpha S5 sedan for the Chinese market. The Alpha S5 will be available in three powertrain variants, priced from 176,800 to 216,800 yuan (approx. 22,700 to 27,800 Euros). The versions are based on an 800-volt silicon carbide platform. The top-of-the-line 650Ultra version features all-wheel drive with 390 kW and accelerates from 0 to 60 mph (0 to 100 km/h) in 3.7 seconds. It offers state-of-the-art technology and a comfortable interior. 

Swiss company HydroRide has unveiled an innovative hydrogen e-bike called the HydroRide H2. With its 180-watt fuel cell, this model offers a range of up to 37 miles. A unique feature is the hydrogen generator, which allows users to produce hydrogen at home in just five hours and refill the e-bike's tank in a matter of seconds. This eliminates the long charging times of conventional e-bikes. HydroRide is also planning an H2 scooter.

Taiwanese auto parts supplier Delta Electronics has announced its entry into the bicycle industry, with plans to produce high-quality components for e-bikes. With this strategic diversification, the leading auto supplier aims to capitalize on the growing electric bicycle market. Advanced drive systems, batteries, and other key components for modern electric bikes are planned. Delta Electronics intends to transfer its expertise and technological innovations from the automotive industry to the bicycle sector.

Bugatti has officially unveiled the new Tourbillon. This exclusive vehicle, which will cost over € 3.8 million ($4.1 million), combines a V16 engine with three electric motors, achieving an impressive total output of 1,800 hp. The Tourbillon accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 2 seconds and reaches 400 km/h (248 mph) in under 25 seconds. The 25 kWh battery allows for an all-electric range of about 60 kilometers (37 miles). Particularly noteworthy is the 800-volt system used in this plug-in hybrid. While a fully electric model from Bugatti is not expected until 2030, this is clearly a step towards sustainable mobility.

British folding bike manufacturer Brompton, in collaboration with metal manufacturer Hydro, has developed the world's first fully recycled bicycle rim. The rims are made from 100 percent recycled post-consumer aluminum and are produced in a sustainable process that begins in Germany and ends at the Brompton factory in London. This innovation is an important step towards Brompton's goal of developing a net-zero folding bike by 2050. The new rims are expected to be available in larger quantities by the end of 2024.

Ampersand, an electric motorcycle manufacturer, has formed a partnership with BYD to source advanced battery cells for its vehicles. This collaboration aims to advance the electrification of motorcycle transportation in Africa and reduce CO2 emissions. BYD will serve as the main supplier of batteries, while Ampersand plans to significantly expand its production capacity.

The Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Engineering and Automation (IPA), along with industry partners, has developed a new process for the scalable production of solid-state batteries. The EMSiG project focused on ceramic solid electrolytes such as lithium aluminum titanium phosphate (LATP). The researchers developed a process in which powders are dry-layered and then compressed under high pressure and low temperatures. This process allows for the production of multiple layers in one step, reducing production costs and increasing scalability. The project was supported by the German state of Baden-Württemberg with over one million euros.

Volkswagen plans to invest $5 billion in U.S. electric car maker Rivian to strengthen its position in the electric vehicle market and challenge Tesla. Through this strategic partnership, Volkswagen aims not only to expand its presence in the U.S. market but also to benefit from Rivian's innovative technologies and production capacities. The competition with Tesla is set to intensify through joint developments and an expanded model range. The goal is to jointly achieve technological leadership in the field of electric vehicles and set new standards in electromobility.

Swiss company Synhelion has opened the world's first production facility that produces sustainable fuels from solar energy and biogas. The plant uses a series of mirrors to concentrate sunlight and generate extremely high temperatures of up to 2,732 degrees Fahrenheit. This heat is used to convert CO2 and water into synthetic fuels through a thermo-chemical process. Biogas serves as an additional energy source to maximize efficiency. These fuels, known as e-fuels, can be used as a replacement for conventional kerosene, diesel, and gasoline, and can thus be used in aircraft, vehicles, and other combustion engines.

Porsche Engineering works on digital battery twin: Porsche Engineering is developing a digital twin for batteries to optimize their lifespan and performance. 

Ferrari opens new factory - also for the first electric model: Ferrari has opened a new factory that will also produce the company's first electric model. 

New engine brand Preeto introduces itself: The new engine brand Preeto has introduced itself at Eurobike and plans to revolutionize the e-bike motor market. 

Volkswagen and Škoda integrate ChatGPT into vehicles: Škoda has announced plans to integrate ChatGPT AI technology into their vehicles to enhance the user experience. This follows Volkswagen's strategy, which also confirmed the integration of the AI chatbot some time ago.