ICCT Study, Hyundai, BAIC, Honda, Nissan and more

A new study from the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) reveals that global raw material reserves and planned battery production capacities are adequate to meet global e-mobility goals through 2030. 

In particular, announced production capacities in the U.S. and EU are projected to exceed the 2030 demand, according to the study's authors. Even considering only projects with a high likelihood of realization, the EU could cover 72% of its demand, while the U.S. could meet 103%. The study also highlights that reserves of critical materials like lithium, nickel, and cobalt should suffice to meet demand. 

Hyundai Motor and its Chinese partner BAIC are investing $1.1 billion into their joint venture, Beijing Hyundai. The goal is to develop and produce products tailored to the needs of Chinese consumers, particularly electric vehicles, starting in 2025. 

The investment aims to bolster Hyundai’s position in the world’s largest automotive market and increase sales. Despite declining sales in recent years, this move underscores Hyundai’s commitment to the Chinese market. 

Japanese automakers Honda and Nissan are reportedly exploring a merger to strengthen their position in the global automotive market. 

If realized, the merger would create the world’s third-largest automaker, behind Toyota and Volkswagen. The two companies announced a strategic partnership in March 2024, including joint development of electric vehicles, which could pave the way for a full merger. 

A recent study by DEKRA shows that electric vehicle batteries have a longer lifespan than previously thought. 

Based on over 25,000 "state-of-health" tests, even high-mileage batteries were found to be in good condition. For example, Jaguar I-Pace models with mileage ranging from 180,000 to 260,000 kilometers showed battery health levels of 95–97%.

Mercedes-Benz has received approval from the German Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA) to deploy its "Drive Pilot" system for highly automated driving on highways at speeds of up to 95 km/h. 

This system, classified as SAE Level 3, allows drivers to engage in other activities while the car takes over driving tasks. The S-Class and EQS models featuring this technology are expected to hit the German market in spring 2025. 

Škoda has released design sketches of the facelifted Enyaq and Enyaq Coupé. The updated models feature a redesigned front end with the illuminated "Tech-Deck Face," replacing the traditional Škoda grille. 

Additionally, improved aerodynamics aim to increase the range of these electric SUVs. With these updates, Škoda seeks to continue the Enyaq's success story and advance the electrification of its lineup. 

Researchers from Stanford and the University of Toronto have developed a method for artificial intelligence (AI) to detect drivers’ alcohol levels using voice recordings. 

In a study with 18 participants, the AI analyzed voice pitch and frequency before and after alcohol consumption, achieving 98% accuracy. This technology could potentially be integrated into vehicles to identify intoxicated drivers and prevent the car from starting. 

However, further research with larger sample sizes is needed to confirm the method's reliability.