Hyundai, Kia, Zeekr, ChargePoint, Volvo, MG

At their "Heat Tech Day" in Seoul, Hyundai and Kia revealed their latest thermal technologies aimed at improving energy efficiency and comfort in electric vehicles under extreme weather conditions. 

One of the key innovations is a nano-cooling film applied to vehicle windows to significantly reduce interior temperatures during hot weather. Tests have shown that this film can lower the inside temperature of a vehicle by up to 12.5 degrees Celsius. Unlike traditional tinting films, the nano-cooling film not only cools incoming infrared radiation but also allows heat to escape from the vehicle’s interior. 

In addition to the nano-cooling film, Hyundai and Kia also introduced a radiant leg heater and a new metal-coated glass technology. The radiant heater is designed to warm the lower body of passengers within three minutes while saving up to 17% of energy compared to conventional heating systems. The metal-coated glass heater can remove frost and moisture from the windshield in under five minutes, greatly improving safety and visibility in cold weather. 

Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer Zeekr has introduced its new electric SUV, the Zeekr 7X. Following the Zeekr 007, the 7X is the company’s second mass-market model and is designed primarily for families. 

The Zeekr 7X is built on the 800-volt version of Geely's SEA platform and offers two powertrain options: a rear-wheel-drive version with 310 kW and an all-wheel-drive model with an additional 165-kW motor on the front axle. The top motor configuration accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds. 

In terms of battery capacity, Zeekr offers two choices: a 75 kWh LFP battery providing up to 605 kilometers of range and a 100 kWh NMC battery with up to 780 kilometers of range (CLTC). The smaller battery can be charged from 10% to 80% in just 10.5 minutes. 

The Zeekr 7X also features advanced technologies, including two Nvidia chips, a LiDAR system, multiple HD cameras, and millimeter-wave radars. The cockpit is equipped with dual screens and an infotainment system powered by a Qualcomm chip. 

ChargePoint has introduced a new AI-powered system for diagnosing issues at its charging stations. The system is designed to enhance the reliability and efficiency of the charging infrastructure by identifying and resolving problems before they cause disruptions. 

This AI system uses machine learning to analyze data from thousands of charging stations, identifying patterns that signal potential issues. When a problem is detected, the system can automatically take corrective actions or alert the maintenance team for intervention. This proactive approach to maintenance is expected to reduce downtime and improve the availability of charging stations for users.

Volvo has announced that it will begin delivering its new all-electric SUV, the EX90, in September 2024. As the flagship model of the Swedish brand, the EX90 represents the start of a new era of fully electric vehicles for Volvo. The vehicle is a key part of Volvo’s plan to offer an all-electric lineup by 2030. 

Built on the new SPA2 (Scalable Product Architecture 2) platform, the EX90 is expected to offer a range of up to 600 kilometers. It will be powered by two electric motors delivering up to 380 kW (517 horsepower) and a maximum torque of 910 Nm. This powertrain enables the EX90 to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds.

British-Chinese automaker MG has announced plans to release an electric vehicle with a solid-state battery by 2025. Solid-state batteries differ from traditional lithium-ion batteries by using a solid electrolyte, which not only allows for higher energy density but also reduces fire risks. MG’s upcoming model is expected to offer a range of over 800 kilometers, significantly surpassing the range of current electric vehicles with similar battery capacity. 

MG plans to introduce this solid-state battery in a new model specifically designed for the European market. In addition to its long range, the vehicle is expected to feature fast charging capabilities, enhancing both convenience and everyday usability for drivers.