CUPRA, Valeo, Mercedes-Benz, GM, Redwood, Uber, Baidu, Riese & Müller, AZL

At the start of the Volkswagen Group Media Event on September 7 at IAA MOBILITY, CUPRA will reveal the production version of its all-electric CUPRA Raval. The next day, on September 8, the brand will debut a completely new, previously undisclosed concept car in the IAA Open Space. Also featured there: the exclusive TRIBE EDITIONS of the CUPRA Formentor, CUPRA Leon, CUPRA Leon Sportstourer, and CUPRA Terramar. 

In addition to these models, visitors to the CUPRA Open Space’s Electric World Area will also be able to experience the all-electric CUPRA Tavascan and CUPRA Born. Meanwhile, the CUPRA City Garage in Munich will showcase the CUPRA Terramar TRIBE EDITION alongside the CUPRA Tavascan. 

At IAA MOBILITY 2025 in Munich, Valeo will present its holistic vision for software-defined vehicles. The spotlight will be on advanced driver assistance and automated driving technologies, including the Valeo SCALA™ 3 LiDAR for Level 3 automation, and Valeo Assist XR for remote support and predictive maintenance. Valeo will also introduce smart mini-LED signal lights, adaptive ADB headlights, and immersive in-cabin innovations like a steer-by-wire wheel and vital signs monitoring. 

In the EV space, Valeo plans to present its Ineez™ AC charger with V2G capability, a modular high-voltage onboard charger, and a thermal management system that can increase range by up to 24%, according to the company. 

Mercedes-Benz High-Power Charging has announced a strategic partnership with Federal Realty Investment Trust to develop 500 fast-charging points across the US, accessible to EV drivers of all brands. The first wave of 20 locations is expected to go live in 2026 and includes retail centers like Camelback Colonnade in Phoenix (AZ), Lawrence Park Shopping Center in Broomall (PA), and Pembroke Gardens in Pembroke Pines (FL). Each site is slated to feature an average of ten charging stations, equipped with Alpitronic HYC400 hyperchargers capable of delivering up to 400 kW. 

General Motors and Redwood Materials have signed a memorandum of understanding to deploy both second-life and new EV batteries in stationary energy storage systems, including grid-scale applications for AI data centers. GM will contribute used battery packs and collaborate with Redwood to integrate newly produced units. In June, Redwood launched Redwood Energy, a dedicated subsidiary focused on second-life battery storage. 

Uber has announced a strategic partnership with Baidu to offer its Apollo Go robotaxis outside of China and the US through the Uber app. Launches are planned for 2025 in Asia and the Middle East, with additional regions like Europe and Oceania—including Switzerland and Turkey—to follow. Within the app, users will be able to choose between human drivers and autonomous robotaxis. 

Premium e-bike manufacturer Riese & Müller has launched do-it-yourself repair kits for its high-end e-bikes in collaboration with accessory partners. These kits allow customers to independently replace wear-and-tear components like brake pads or tires, and come complete with instructions and tools. The kits also enable users to repair smaller damages to covers, saddles, or bags on their own or via local services. 

 

The Aachen-based AZL – Center for Integrative Lightweight Production has launched a new test method for evaluating the fire safety of EV battery housings. The approach simulates high-temperature fires combined with controlled particle impacts to mimic real-world conditions. The goal is to assess various cell chemistries (e.g., LFP, NMC) and evaluate materials under realistic stress. The nine-month research project targets automotive and aerospace manufacturers, aiming to provide benchmark data for certifications and design guidelines—ultimately enhancing safety in e-mobility and beyond.