E.ON, Audi, Renault, KIT, Škoda Motorsport, Hyundai, Bosch

Energy giant E.ON has calculated the potential of electric cars as energy storage units. Already today, “BiDi-ready” electric cars in Germany could power around 1.75 million households. According to the company, 166,000 electric vehicles in Germany currently support this innovative technology, enabling EVs not only to charge but also to feed electricity back into the grid, serving as storage units for homes or the power grid. E.ON's analysis was based on the current fleet in Germany, assuming an average battery size of 61 kWh and estimating that 60% of the battery capacity would be available at night. This yields a storage potential of nearly 5,500 megawatt-hours (MWh) for bidirectional charging, as E.ON has calculated. 

Audi has introduced a new development model that breaks away from traditional vehicle development structures. The new approach aims to establish flat leadership and broad organizational structures, reducing interfaces and streamlining decision-making. Starting in early 2025, a “clear separation between strategy, control, and implementation” will be established. Portfolio and product strategy will be consolidated into one organizational unit, while the operational series will manage project responsibility and vehicle development. Technical development will be responsible for system and function development within the vehicles. 

The Spanish government is pushing forward with significant financial support for local battery production. As part of the PERTE program (Strategic Project for Economic Recovery and Transformation), billions are being invested in the development and expansion of production capacities. Stellantis will receive €133 million in subsidies for a potential battery cell factory at its Figueruelas plant near Zaragoza, and PowerCo, Volkswagen’s battery subsidiary, will receive €152 million for a battery factory in Sagunt. 

Renault is unveiling its vision for a family vehicle, the Emblème, which features a combined battery and fuel cell drivetrain. Developed by Renault, its electric vehicle brand Ampere, and 20 partners, the vehicle aims to minimize CO2 emissions throughout its lifecycle. The Emblème will debut at the Paris Motor Show on October 14. It incorporates recycled materials with a low carbon footprint, natural materials, renewable energy-based production processes, and circular economy principles. Renault claims the CO2 equivalents are reduced by 90% compared to a conventional vehicle, with just 5 tons of CO2 emitted over the entire lifecycle. The Emblème features a 160 kW motor, a 40 kWh battery, a 30 kW fuel cell, and a hydrogen tank capable of holding 2.8 kg of H2. 

The Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) has opened the world’s first agile battery cell production facility, designed to rapidly adapt to different battery cell requirements. The facility uses a highly flexible, robot-based automation system, achieving a level of flexibility previously only possible with manual cell production. Scientists at KIT developed this system in partnership with Exyte, creating specialized robot cells that serve as localized dry rooms (microenvironments) to protect moisture-sensitive battery materials. The facility also features a "digital twin," a virtual representation of the production system that allows for AI-driven optimization of all processes. 

Škoda Motorsport has converted its Enyaq Coupé RS into a race car. The Enyaq RS Race concept features a wider track, lower ground clearance, and lightweight bio-composite materials already tested in motorsports, such as the Škoda Fabia RS Rally2. With 250 kW of power, a combined energy consumption of 14.8–20.1 kWh/100 km, and an 82 kWh battery, the Enyaq RS Race accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in under five seconds and has a top speed of 180 km/h. 

Hyundai and Waymo have announced a strategic partnership focused on developing autonomous vehicles. The collaboration aims to combine Hyundai’s manufacturing expertise with Waymo’s autonomous technology. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 will be the first test vehicle, equipped with Waymo's sixth-generation autonomous technology and eventually integrated into Waymo’s fleet. Hyundai will deliver the Ioniq 5 with specific autonomous modifications, such as redundant hardware and electric doors. 

Bosch has introduced the latest generation of its Performance Line CX drive unit for e-bikes, boasting improved performance and new features. With a maximum power output of 600 watts, 85 Nm of torque, and up to 340% support, the fifth-generation "Drive Unit" sets new standards for power, dynamics, and smooth riding. The new unit also features enhanced pedal input measurement, using sensors that register over 1,000 data points per second, and an optimized noise and weight reduction system. 

Nissan has joined ChargeScape, the joint venture formed by BMW, Ford, and Honda, to create a low-cost platform for integrating EVs into the grid in North America. 

Kia has electrified its iconic Pride compact car to mark the company’s 80th anniversary in the UK. The electric version features an 80 kW motor and two small batteries, each with a 10 kWh capacity. However, the vehicle will remain a one-off. 

Tesla has introduced a rear-wheel-drive Model 3 in Europe, offering an extended range of up to 702 kilometers on a single charge. 

Uber continues to expand its electric mobility strategy, now operating over 180,000 electric vehicles in its global fleet, according to the company.