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Technologies, issues and policies for sustainable mobility.en-USdaily22024-03-28T04:00:00-07:00T&E: One in four EVs sold in Europe this year will be made in China
https://www.greencarcongress.com/2024/03/20240328-techina.html
Almost a fifth (19.5%) of electric vehicles sold in Europe last year were made in China and this is on track to reach a quarter (25%) in 2024, according to new analysis by environmental NGO Transport & Environment (T&E). The forecast comes as the EU is considering import tariffs to...<p>
Almost a fifth (19.5%) of electric vehicles sold in Europe last year were made in China and this is on track to reach a quarter (25%) in 2024, <a href="https://www.transportenvironment.org/discover/one-in-four-evs-sold-in-europe-this-year-will-be-made-in-china-analysis/">according</a> to <a href="https://www.transportenvironment.org/discover/how-europe-can-use-tariffs-as-part-of-an-industrial-strategy/">new analysis</a> by environmental NGO Transport & Environment (T&E). The forecast comes as the EU is considering import tariffs to counter subsidies for China’s EV industry. T&E said ramping up production of mass-market electric cars and investing in the European battery supply chain is the only way for EU carmakers to compete with Chinese brands, but tariffs would also help localize EV manufacturing.
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While Chinese imports into Europe have largely been Tesla, Dacia and BMW cars produced there, T&E projects that Chinese brands could reach 11% of the European EV market in 2024 and 20% in 2027. The conservative projection assumes a linear growth in Chinese OEM market share based on the last two years, though BYD alone is targeting 5% of the European electric car market by 2025.
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<p><a class="asset-img-link" href="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aeb7bc200b-pi" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=1000,height=877,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aeb7bc200b img-responsive" alt="China-made-sales-transparent" title="China-made-sales-transparent" src="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aeb7bc200b-500wi" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a><br /></p>
<blockquote><p><em>Tariffs will force carmakers to localize EV production in Europe, and that’s a good thing because we want these jobs and skills. But tariffs won’t shield legacy carmakers for long. Chinese companies will build factories in Europe and when that happens our car industry needs to be ready.</em><div align="right">—Julia Poliscanova, senior director for vehicles and emobility supply chains at T&E</div></p></blockquote>
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Raising the EU tariff on all vehicle imports from China to 25% would make medium-sized sedans and SUVs more expensive than their European equivalents—making the case for EU manufacturing, the T&E analysis finds. Compact SUVs and larger cars imported from China are expected to remain slightly cheaper with such a tariff.
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However, the EU should not aim to shield its carmakers from meaningful competition, which would limit the offer of affordable electric cars for Europeans, T&E said. It is crucial that a higher tariff is accompanied by a regulatory push to increase production of EVs, including electrification targets for company car fleets by 2030 on top of the agreed 100% clean car goal in 2035, T&E said.
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<p>Investments in lithium-ion batteries are also at risk as cells manufactured in China are at least 20% cheaper than in Europe, and Chinese battery-makers are ahead on technology and supply chains. The US is also attracting battery investments through generous subsidies. </p>
<p>T&E said industrial measures—such as subsidies for clean and circular manufacturing and “Made in EU” targets—are needed to create a pull for local cell production. As neither of these are currently in place, tariffs for battery cells should be considered. Compared to the US and China, the EU currently has the lowest battery cell tariffs. </p>
<blockquote><p><em>Batteries are the new solar. China is ahead and its state backed companies have huge overcapacity. If we are serious about a diverse and resilient battery supply chain in Europe, we need to put our money where our mouth is right now. We’re not going to get a second chance.</em><div align="right">—Julia Poliscanova</div></p></blockquote>
ChinaElectric (Battery)EuropeMarket BackgroundPolicymmillikin2024-03-28T04:00:00-07:00QuantumScape begins customer shipments of Alpha-2 prototypes
https://www.greencarcongress.com/2024/03/20240328-qs.html
QuantumScape Corporation, a developer of next-generation solid-state lithium-metal battery technology, has started customer shipments of Alpha-2 prototype battery cells, fulfilling a goal for 2024. Alpha-2 prototypes are a significant milestone on the roadmap to deliver QSE-5, QuantumScape’s first planned commercial product. QuantumScape entered the automotive qualification process in December 2022...<p>
QuantumScape Corporation, a developer of next-generation solid-state lithium-metal battery technology, has <a href="https://ir.quantumscape.com/resources/press-releases/news-details/2024/QuantumScape-Begins-Customer-Shipments-of-Alpha-2-Prototypes-a-Key-Goal-for-2024/default.aspx">started</a> customer shipments of Alpha-2 prototype battery cells, fulfilling a goal for 2024.
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Alpha-2 prototypes are a significant milestone on the roadmap to deliver QSE-5, QuantumScape’s first planned commercial product. QuantumScape entered the automotive qualification process in December 2022 after shipping A0 prototypes to customers. Alpha-2 prototypes integrate many of the company’s significant component improvements made over the last year.
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The six-layer Alpha-2 prototype is more energy-dense than the earlier 24-layer A0 prototype. This is primarily due to higher-loading cathodes (i.e., packed with more active material) and more efficient packaging that optimizes the materials and space within the cell. The packaging improvements include tighter internal margins, thinner current collectors, and a slimmer design, all of which are integral to the final product.
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As an intermediate step between the A0 and the QSE-5 B0 prototypes planned for later this year, Alpha-2 cells feature the main functionality of the QSE-5 and are an opportunity for customers to test key performance parameters and prototype-level reliability.
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While Alpha-2 prototypes are being tested in customer labs, QuantumScape is working to integrate those component-level improvements into the planned QSE-5 cells, which will consist of 24 layers and use electrolyte-separators produced using the faster Raptor equipment and process.
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<blockquote><p><em>The Alpha-2 shipments represent an important milestone on our path to commercialization. Customer feedback is the most critical input in the product development cycle as it provides insight into areas that need improvement and strengthens collaboration. The faster we can get new product iterations into customers’ hands, the faster we get to production. We are very encouraged by the initial Alpha-2 performance results and excited about the first QSE-5 cells we expect to manufacture later this year.</em><div align="right">—Dr. Siva Sivaram, president and CEO of QuantumScape</div></p></blockquote>
<blockquote><p><em>The improvements in energy and power densities demonstrated by the Alpha-2 prototypes indicate that QSE-5 can push the boundaries of solid-state battery performance. We continue to advance our anode-free, solid-state battery in performance and maturity with methodical execution on our milestones.</em><div align="right">—Tim Holme, co-founder and CTO of QuantumScape</div></p></blockquote>
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The company will continue to build and ship Alpha-2 prototypes to automotive customers over the coming months while focusing on reliability improvements and ramping up production. QuantumScape’s remaining key goals for 2024 include ramping up the Raptor production process, beginning low-volume QSE-5 prototype production, and preparing for high-volume production of its solid-state electrolyte-separator using the Cobra equipment and process, which is set to begin in 2025.
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BatteriesElectric (Battery)Market BackgroundSolid-statemmillikin2024-03-28T03:30:00-07:00Porsche and Applied Intuition announce strategic partnership on software
https://www.greencarcongress.com/2024/03/20240328-porsche.html
Porsche AG and Applied Intuition, a Silicon Valley-based vehicle software supplier, announced a strategic partnership. The common goal is the joint development in different fields of automotive software while maintaining software ownership and reducing dependencies on black-box suppliers. This reduces complexity and increases implementation speed. Porsche says that the partnership...<p>
Porsche AG and <a href="https://appliedintuition.com">Applied Intuition</a>, a Silicon Valley-based vehicle software supplier, <a href="https://newsroom.porsche.com/en/2024/innovation/porsche-vehicle-software-applied-intuition-35659.html">announced</a> a strategic partnership. The common goal is the joint development in different fields of automotive software while maintaining software ownership and reducing dependencies on black-box suppliers. This reduces complexity and increases implementation speed.
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<p>Porsche says that the partnership will help it utilize expertise to develop, deploy, and update vehicle software to provide unique consumer experiences. </p></p>
<blockquote><p><em>Applied Intuition has been an important software partner for us and will help us to better understand software in every part of the vehicle. Testing may then be done software-based and earlier in the development process. With that, we can iterate faster and focus on building the best possible consumer experiences. This additional cooperation will strengthen Porsche's software know-how, complementing and supporting activities within the Volkswagen Group.</em><div align="right">—Michael Steiner, Member of the Executive Board Research and Development of Porsche AG</div></p></blockquote>
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In the latest generation of vehicles, software is becoming increasingly important. It is essential to regularly integrate and update software components purchased from different vendors.
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<blockquote><p><em>Software and AI development is very different from traditional hardware-driven automotive development. Integrating and updating different software and AI components can be especially challenging, and that is where our expertise comes in as an AI-first software company.</em><div align="right">—Qasar Younis, Co-Founder and CEO of Applied Intuition</div></p></blockquote>
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Porsche will use the solution along with software best practices and continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD) processes to deploy and manage software to future vehicles through an off-board platform. A professional set of tools supports the end-to-end software validation, ranging from software-in-the-loop (SIL) to hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) and vehicle testing.
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The collaboration with Applied Intuition has enabled Porsche to design the software of its future vehicles with specific customer solutions and integrates seamlessly into Porsches successful value-enhancing investments into technology.
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Market BackgroundSoftwaremmillikin2024-03-28T03:00:00-07:00EPA seeking input on lead exposure from lead wheel weights
https://www.greencarcongress.com/2024/03/20240328-epa.html
The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is asking the public for information on the potential ways in which people might be exposed to lead through the use of wheel weights. Lead exposure can have devastating impacts to human health and can be especially harmful to developing children. The Advance Notice...<p>
The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is <a href="https://www.epa.gov/chemicals-under-tsca/epa-seeks-input-lead-exposure-lead-wheel-weights">asking</a> the public for information on the potential ways in which people might be exposed to lead through the use of wheel weights. Lead exposure can have devastating impacts to human health and can be especially harmful to developing children.
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<p>The <a href="https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2024-03/prepubcopy_5398-05_lww_anprm_fr_document_esignature_admin_verified_2024-03-26_1.pdf">Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM)</a> requests information that could be used in a future rulemaking to consider potential human health concerns, including those for children, associated with lead wheel weights. This information will help EPA determine if the use of lead wheel weights poses unreasonable risk to human health and the environment. </p>
<p><p>If unreasonable risk is found, EPA will initiate a proposed rulemaking under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) to address the unreasonable risk. This action also furthers EPA’s commitment to protect all people from lead with an emphasis on high-risk communities as outlined in the EPA Strategy to Reduce Lead Exposures and Disparities in US Communities. </p>
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Wheel weights are used to correct imbalances in the weight distribution of motor vehicle wheels. Lead is the primary component of many wheel weights, though alternatives such as steel, zinc alloy and plastic-metal composite are now widely available. Workers and other people, including children, may be exposed to lead released through the manufacturing, processing, distribution, use or disposal of these wheel weights. Additionally, people may be exposed when lead dust from these products is tracked into homes and other indoor places. Lead exposure can cause irreversible and life-long health effects.
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In May 2009, the Ecology Center, Sierra Club and others raised concerns about lead exposure to children from lead wheel weights in a TSCA section 21 petition, which EPA granted, requesting that EPA “establish regulations prohibiting the manufacture, processing, and distribution in commerce” of lead wheel weights. In August 2023, these petitioners sought a writ of mandamus the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit to direct EPA to conclude a rulemaking regulating lead wheel weights.
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The Agency developed this ANPRM in response to concerns raised by the petitioners. EPA is asking interested parties to submit scientific studies about how lead wheel weights are used, the possible ways in which people could be exposed to lead, and information about alternatives to lead wheel weights, among other topics.
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EPA will accept written comments on the ANPRM for 30 days following publication via docket EPA-HQ-OPPT-2024-0085 at www.regulations.gov.
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HealthMarket BackgroundRegulationsmmillikin2024-03-28T02:30:00-07:00Cox Automotive deploying VIN-specific used EV battery health solution across Manheim locations
https://www.greencarcongress.com/2024/03/20240328-cox.html
Cox Automotive is rolling out across Manheim the used car industry’s only solution that will measure EV battery health for each specific VIN. In addition, the company is expanding LotVision's capabilities of reporting battery health for each unique vehicle. Both enhancements give wholesale buyers and sellers the information they need...<p>Cox Automotive is <a href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/cox-automotive-deploying-industry-first-vin-specific-ev-battery-health-solution-across-manheim-locations-302101161.html">rolling out</a> across Manheim the used car industry’s only solution that will measure EV battery health for each specific VIN. </p>
<p>In addition, the company is expanding LotVision's capabilities of reporting battery health for each unique vehicle. Both enhancements give wholesale buyers and sellers the information they need to make more informed and confident decisions. </p>
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Cox Automotive’s VIN-specific solution, developed by its EV Battery Solutions team, uses Manheim’s LotVision technology to assess the battery in each unique vehicle quickly and automatically transmit in-depth battery health information to condition reports (CRs) and vehicle detail pages (VDPs) on Manheim.com. </p>
<p>Created in partnership with Cox2M, the commercial IoT business line within Cox Communications, LotVision is a wireless tracking device placed in a vehicle that helps dealers, transporters and team members accurately locate vehicles on Manheim lots to within 10 feet. </p>
<p>Cox Automotive’s decade-long history of assessing EV battery state of health has shown that while most used EV batteries are relatively healthy, the outliers tend to be significantly degraded, highlighting the importance of measuring each individual vehicle. </p>
<p>Cox Automotive firmly believes that VIN-specific battery state of health will be the new standard in the industry—a perspective formed by its deep knowledge and expertise in the automotive industry. With this VIN-specific solution, Cox Automotive is leading the industry in EV battery health and demonstrating its commitment to protecting clients from the inevitable outliers, ultimately fueling a more transparent and confident buying and selling experience. </p>
<p><strong>How it works.</strong> To measure battery health on each vehicle quickly, Manheim is leveraging its innovative LotVision devices which are already in use across all 76 locations in the US. First used for geolocating vehicles on its lots, LotVision devices are installed in all vehicles with an OBD II port at check-in.</p>
<p>With a simple firmware update, these devices can be used to capture EV battery health information in minutes and they can transmit that information automatically to Manheim CRs and VDPs, where battery health information will be prominently displayed when the listing goes live on Manheim.com. </p>
<p>Information to be displayed will include a battery health score (0-100%) that represents the remaining battery capacity captured directly from the vehicle, alongside detailed vehicle-specific information that aims to empower buyers in making informed decisions such as warranty information, battery chemistry, charging cable presence and more. </p>
<p>Because the LotVision devices remain installed while a vehicle is on a Manheim lot, they will also report on each vehicle’s current state of charge. </p>
<p>Manheim has been preparing for the influx of EVs into the wholesale marketplace. Since 2019, Manheim has invested more than $200 million in EV infrastructure and process improvements. Manheim now offers sellers more than 800 EV chargers, safe storage and access to 850+ trained technicians who can safely handle, service and dispose of EV batteries. </p>
<p>In 2023, approximately 48,000 EVs were sold in the Manheim Marketplace, a 58% increase year-over-year. The company expects that number to double in 2024 and continue increasing in the coming years. In April, clients will begin seeing the expanded battery health information on Manheim CRs and VDPs across most makes and models. </p>
BatteriesElectric (Battery)Market Backgroundmmillikin2024-03-28T02:00:00-07:00Second Global ABB Automotive Manufacturing Outlook Survey reveals concern for rising European energy costs and US labor rates
https://www.greencarcongress.com/2024/03/20240328-abb.html
New global research commissioned by ABB Robotics and industry specialists Automotive Manufacturing Solutions (AMS) has revealed that the rising cost of energy in Europe and escalating US labor rates are becoming major challenges for the automotive industry. ABB Robotics’ second annual barometer survey of the automotive industry showed that more...<p>New global research commissioned by ABB Robotics and industry specialists Automotive Manufacturing Solutions (AMS) has <a href="https://new.abb.com/news/detail/113856/prsrl-auto-industry-points-to-rising-european-energy-costs-and-us-labor-rates-as-key-challenges">revealed</a> that the rising cost of energy in Europe and escalating US labor rates are becoming major challenges for the automotive industry.</p>
<p><a href="https://new.abb.com/products/robotics/campaigns/abb-ams-automotive-manufacturing-outlook-survey">ABB Robotics’ second annual barometer survey</a> of the automotive industry showed that more than half (53%) of all European respondents cited rising energy costs as one of their top-three concerns, compared to only 38% of those in Asia. In North America, 63% say rising labor costs are their single biggest concern, perhaps amplified by recent union negotiations which secured double-digit pay increases for their members. </p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" href="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aae63e200c-popup" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aae63e200c img-responsive" alt="IMG_0604" title="IMG_0604" src="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aae63e200c-500wi" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a><br /></p>
<p><strong>Doubts on viability of EV production deadlines remain high.</strong> ABB’s first Global Automotive Manufacturing Outlook Survey questioned industry experts as to whether legislative timetables to move to pure electric vehicle production were achievable. This year’s survey returned to the subject and showed a drop in the number of respondents who strongly believed the transition could be realized, from 11% to just 8% this year. </p>
<p>More than half (53%) still believe the targets will never be met, compared to 59% the previous year.</p>
<p><strong>Specific skills shortages offer insights.</strong> One reason for doubt over EV production deadlines may lie in concerns regarding key skills shortages. Over half (54%) of all respondents saw specific skills shortages as having a major impact on manufacturing, with European (52%) and Asian (58%) participants singling out EV and battery expertise as their primary areas of concern. </p>
<p><strong>Supply chain disruption highlighted.</strong> The survey also highlighted how supply chain disruption caused by global instability, which has often resulted in component shortages and production delays, remains a key industry concern. More than a third (35%) of all respondents highlighted this issue, with a sharp increase amongst respondents in North America (51%) where it was cited as the region’s top manufacturing challenge. </p>
<p>The ABB survey gathered opinions on a range of topics from a comprehensive mix of nearly 400 industry experts from vehicle manufacturers and suppliers at all levels of management and engineering as well as other key professionals throughout the automotive manufacturing world. </p>
ManufacturingMarket Backgroundmmillikin2024-03-28T01:30:00-07:00Volkswagen of America announces offer structure for 2025 ID.7
https://www.greencarcongress.com/2024/03/20240328-id7.html
Volkswagen of America, Inc., announced the offer structure for the 2025 ID.7, the first all-electric Volkswagen in the near-luxury sedan segment. The ID.7 will be offered stateside in two trims—Pro S and Pro S Plus—with an 82 kWh battery and 282 horsepower and 402 pound-feet of torque on rear-wheel drive...<p>Volkswagen of America, Inc., <a href="https://media.vw.com/en-us/releases/1792">announced</a> the offer structure for the 2025 ID.7, the first all-electric Volkswagen in the near-luxury sedan segment. The ID.7 will be offered stateside in two trims—Pro S and Pro S Plus—with an 82 kWh battery and 282 horsepower and 402 pound-feet of torque on rear-wheel drive models; all-wheel-drive models will have maximum horsepower of 335. </p>
<p>Range and pricing will be announced closer to launch in Q3.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" href="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aeb5a2200b-popup" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aeb5a2200b img-responsive" alt="IMG_0603" title="IMG_0603" src="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aeb5a2200b-500wi" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a><br /></p>
<p>Volkswagen’s IQ.DRIVE advanced driver assistance technology is standard, and features hands-on semi-automated capability, including driver-initiated lane changes. In addition, all ID.7 models feature Park Distance Control, Park Assist Plus with Memory Parking, and Area View.</p>
<p>Pro S Plus models level up the ID.7 experience with additional premium content. These high trims ride on 20-inch wheels and feature DCC adaptive damping and dynamic steering. They will feature premium massage Climatronic seats, with a new automatic heating and ventilation function and an upgraded massage function. Audiophiles will appreciate the 700-watt harman/kardon sound system with 14 speakers, including a front center speaker and a trunk-mounted subwoofer. </p>
Electric (Battery)Market Backgroundmmillikin2024-03-28T01:00:00-07:00Delivery of RIZON electric trucks begins
https://www.greencarcongress.com/2024/03/20240328-rizon.html
The first batch of Daimler Truck’s all-electric RIZON trucks—Class 4-5 battery-electric trucks focused on urban delivery (earlier post)—are now on the streets of America following deliveries to customers in California. More units are scheduled to be handed over throughout March of 2024. The initial deployment of RIZON trucks includes a...<p>The first batch of Daimler Truck’s all-electric RIZON trucks—Class 4-5 battery-electric trucks focused on urban delivery (<a href="https://www.greencarcongress.com/2023/04/20230429-rizon.html">earlier post</a>)—are now on the streets of America following <a href="https://www.rizontruck.com/news/2024/03/27/first-all-electric-rizon-trucks-hit-streets-in-america/">deliveries</a> to customers in California. More units are scheduled to be handed over throughout March of 2024. </p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" href="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aae4d4200c-popup" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aae4d4200c img-responsive" alt="IMG_0602" title="IMG_0602" src="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aae4d4200c-500wi" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a><br />
<a class="asset-img-link" href="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aefed3200d-popup" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aefed3200d img-responsive" alt="IMG_0602" title="IMG_0602" src="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aefed3200d-500wi" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a><br /></p>
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The initial deployment of RIZON trucks includes a diverse range of customers embracing sustainable transportation solutions:</p>
<ul><li><p><strong>LA Sanitation & Environment (LASAN):</strong> As the lead agency for the City’s environmental programs and initiatives, LASAN is deploying seven e18L RIZON trucks with stake bed bodies to facilitate the delivery of home trash bins to Los Angeles residents.</p></li>
<li><p><strong>Goodwill Industries of San Diego County:</strong> Supporting its Southern California donation centers and thrift stores, Goodwill is integrating an e18L RIZON dry van box truck into its fleet to bolster logistics efficiency.</p></li>
<li><p><strong>Diamond Environmental:</strong> Southern California-based equipment rental and onsite services company, Diamond Environmental, is deploying four e18L RIZON trucks to deliver and service portable restrooms, enhancing efficiency and reducing emissions in the communities it serves.</p></li>
<li><p><strong>Ecorecycling:</strong> To transport thousands of pounds of clothing and book donations from the local community to its sorting warehouse, Ecorecycling is deploying three e18L RIZON dry van trucks into its Northern California routes.</p></li>
<li><p><strong>Velocity Truck Rental & Leasing:</strong> To provide California businesses with accessible zero-emission commercial vehicle solutions, Velocity has five e18L RIZON box trucks available for immediate rental or lease.</p></li></ul>
<p>California established an ambitious goal of achieving zero-emission fleets operating in-state by 2035, 2040, or 2045, depending on the truck type and size under the Advanced Clean Fleets rule (ACF).
Currently, RIZON trucks are one of the fastest ways for businesses to comply with ACF. </p>
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Vehicles in stock can be delivered to dealers depending on their availability. The lead time on production orders will vary on body applications due to the body build production queue. </p>
<p><strong>$60,000 Baseline Incentives Available in California.</strong> Customers can take advantage of a $60,000 baseline incentive per vehicle through the California Air Resource Board’s (CARB) Hybrid and Zero-emission Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Project (HVIP). Using HVIP’s Innovative Small Fleet program, some fleets are eligible for an additional $60,000, making RIZON chassis more affordable than a comparable diesel chassis. </p>
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As RIZON’s dealer network expands into other states and sales regions, RIZON will keep customers apprised of local incentive opportunities. </p>
<p>RIZON trucks are suited to urban and last-mile deliveries and routes of up to 160 miles per day. They support a versatile mix of configurations suitable to each customer’s unique requirements that include box trucks, flatbeds, stake beds, reefers, and other body types. </p>
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They feature an electric power take-off (ePTO), which is controllable from the cab and allows for specialized equipment such as reefer belt drives and hydraulic pumps. </p>
<p>RIZON is Daimler Truck’s ninth, and newest, brand and represents its dedication to zero-emission transportation. The brand and its trucks were announced to the public for the first time during the Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo in May of 2023, in Anaheim, California. </p>
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The class 4 and 5 medium-duty battery-electric vehicles, ranging from 15,995 up to 17,995 lbs. in gross vehicle weight (GVW), can run from 75 -110 miles (for M size variant with 2 battery packs) to 110 -160 miles (L size variant with 3 battery packs) on a single charge. </p>
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RIZON trucks are capable of being charged by two types of battery charging systems: DC Fast Charging (via CCS1 connector), and less expensive Level 2 AC Charging (via J1772 connector). This flexibility means customers can expect to charge their truck today while being ready for DC Fast chargers in the future. </p>
Electric (Battery)Market Backgroundmmillikin2024-03-28T00:30:00-07:003M invests in hydrogen electrolyzer manufacturer EVOLOH
https://www.greencarcongress.com/2024/03/20240327-3m.html
3M has invested in EVOLOH, a company working to scale up manufacturing of multi-megawatt liquid alkaline electrolyzers to make green hydrogen affordable and efficient. The low-cost production of green hydrogen is key to the world reaching its climate goals and the investment is part of 3M’s ongoing commitment to materials...<p>
3M has <a href="https://news.3m.com/2024-03-26-3M-invests-in-hydrogen-electrolyzer-manufacturer-EVOLOH">invested</a> in <a href="https://evoloh.com">EVOLOH</a>, a company working to scale up manufacturing of multi-megawatt liquid alkaline electrolyzers to make green hydrogen affordable and efficient.
</p>
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The low-cost production of green hydrogen is key to the world reaching its climate goals and the investment is part of 3M’s ongoing commitment to materials science-based climate tech solutions, the company said.
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<blockquote><p><em>3M is excited about our investment in EVOLOH and the potential collaboration opportunities between our companies. 3M has the opportunity to leverage our long-standing expertise in high volume membrane electrode assembly and shares EVOLOH’s vision to make clean and affordable hydrogen available around the world. 3M’s investment in EVOLOH fits well with the work 3M is doing to help support the hydrogen economy and move the planet toward a clean energy transition.</em><div align="right">—Mark Copman, senior vice president, 3M New Growth Ventures</div></p></blockquote>
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EVOLOH takes an innovative approach to manufacturing electrolyzers with core components that do not require precious metals or rare earth materials and are made from abundant materials such as steel, plastic and aluminum. That means lower cost electrolyzer modules for users, as well as lower costs for installation and maintenance.
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<p>Nautilus is EVOLOH’s pure water electrolyzer stack, designed from the ground up with the system integrator in mind and using only earth-abundant materials. Nautilus offers packaged stack modules of 10 and 20 tonnes per day with the smallest footprint in the industry.</p>
<p>The Nautilus stacks use low-cost power electronics and do not require corrosive electrolytes. EVOLOH’s Nautilus stacks are very compact, and can be built into modules of 24 megawatts, making them ideal for large industrial applications.</p>
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3M Ventures, the venture capital arm of 3M, recently participated in EVOLOH's $20 million Series A fundraising round, which will help the company scale up its manufacturing abilities. The round was led by Engine Ventures, with participation from a subsidiary of NextEra Energy Resources as well.
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The investment in EVOLOH is just one of several 3M initiatives to enhance hydrogen technologies. Other examples include the development of a high-performance catalyst technology used in proton exchange membrane water electrolysis. Also, 3M and HD Hyundai Korea Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (KSOE) have signed a joint research project agreement to develop large liquid hydrogen storage tanks using 3M glass bubbles—a high-strength, low-density hollow glass microsphere.
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HydrogenHydrogen ProductionMarket Backgroundmmillikin2024-03-27T03:30:00-07:00Volvo CE pioneers e-shuttle service to cut transport emissions
https://www.greencarcongress.com/2024/03/20240327-vovloce.html
In a continued commitment to enhance sustainability within their operations, Volvo CE and Volvo Trucks have teamed up with logistics firm Capelle Transports to pilot an electric shuttle delivery solution. The e-shuttle service has been designed to not only reduce CO2 emissions during the first transport leg of construction machines...<p>In a continued commitment to enhance sustainability within their operations, Volvo CE and Volvo Trucks have teamed up with logistics firm Capelle Transports to <a href="https://www.volvoce.com/global/en/news-and-events/news-and-stories/2024/volvo-ce-pioneers-e-shuttle-service-to-cut-transport-emissions/?utm_source=news-and-stories&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=e-shuttle-service">pilot</a> an electric shuttle delivery solution. </p>
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The e-shuttle service has been designed to not only reduce CO<sub>2</sub> emissions during the first transport leg of construction machines from the Volvo CE factory in Belley, France, but also increase efficiency by optimizing the loading of each truck trailer that leaves the yard. </p>
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Usually, Volvo Compact Excavators are distributed from Belley to customers using a conventional truck. With the trial set-up, the machines have been transported from Belley to a logistics center near Lyon using a 100% electric Volvo FH Electric truck, fully optimizing the loading capacity. From Lyon, the excavators could be more easily dispatched to continue the journey to the customer. </p>
<p>Volvo Group has the ambition to reduce its indirect Scope 3 emissions by 30% by 2030, a target validated by the Science Based Targets initiative. The trial also proves that a holistic net zero value chain requires innovative collaborations and tailored solutions that are a step beyond the initial introduction of electric technology. </p>
<blockquote><p><em>This project contributes to reduced CO<sub>2</sub> emissions during the initial transportation of our products and is another milestone in our efforts to achieve a more sustainable operation. In addition, since transporters have been able to pick up our machines more frequently, we have seen a reduction in the amount of stock in our yard.</em><div align="right">—Hui-I Tsai, Head of Global Outbound Logistics at Volvo CE</div></p></blockquote>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" href="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aea2e4200b-popup" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aea2e4200b img-responsive" alt="IMG_0601" title="IMG_0601" src="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aea2e4200b-500wi" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a><br /></p>
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The solution has been demonstrated by loading compact excavators—which could have included Volvo CE’s zero-emission solutions such as the EC18 Electric, ECR18 Electric and ECR25 Electric—onto electric trucks for the first leg of their journey. The e-shuttle service has been operating between Belley and a logistics center near Lyon. </p>
Electric (Battery)Market Backgroundmmillikin2024-03-27T03:00:00-07:00Report highlights Africa hydrogen opportunity
https://www.greencarcongress.com/2024/03/20240327-africah2.html
Developing renewable hydrogen production in Africa would allow African nations to meet domestic electricity needs while becoming a major exporter to supply growing global demand, according to a new report released by the Hydrogen Council. The Hydrogen Council is a global CEO-led initiative that brings together leading companies with a...<p>Developing renewable hydrogen production in Africa would allow African nations to meet domestic electricity needs while becoming a major exporter to supply growing global demand, <a href="https://hydrogencouncil.com/en/the-africa-hydrogen-opportunity-for-a-just-transition/">according</a> to a new report released by the Hydrogen Council. </p>
<p>The Hydrogen Council is a global CEO-led initiative that brings together leading companies with a united vision and ambition for hydrogen to accelerate the clean energy transition.</p>
<p>The <a href="https://hydrogencouncil.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Hydrogen-Council-Africa-Hydrogen-Opportunity-.pdf"><em>Africa Hydrogen Opportunity</em></a>, co-authored by McKinsey & Company, highlights that Africa is exceptionally well-positioned to produce renewable hydrogen and derivatives thanks to its world-class solar, wind, geothermal and hydropower resources. </p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" href="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aeee58200d-popup" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aeee58200d img-responsive" alt="IMG_0600" title="IMG_0600" src="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aeee58200d-500wi" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a><br /></p>
<p><p align="center" style="FONT-SIZE: 12px; FONT-FAMILY: Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Source: <a href="https://hydrogencouncil.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Hydrogen-Council-Africa-Hydrogen-Opportunity-.pdf"><em>Africa Hydrogen Opportunity</em></a></p><hr style="width:50%" /></p>
<p>Cost-effective renewable hydrogen production could accelerate deployment of renewable power for domestic use across the continent supporting industrial development and just transition. At the same time, scaling up renewable hydrogen export industries in African countries could capture a significant share of the expected global market, mobilizing cumulative investment of $400 billion. </p>
<p>The hydrogen industry can create some 13 million job-years for African countries by mid-century, according to the report. In South Africa alone, the hydrogen economy could add 3.6% to South Africa’s GDP by 2050 and create more than 370,000 jobs, as highlighted by the Ministry of Science and Innovation of South Africa at the Hydrogen Council’s recent meeting in Johannesburg. Global hydrogen leaders and decision-makers from the region gathered to advance solutions for accelerating hydrogen economy in the region. </p>
<p>However, the report finds higher financing costs alongside infrastructure and skilled labour availability are currently an obstacle in Africa compared to other regions, making the expected hydrogen production cost of African countries higher than those in the Middle East and Australia. Stakeholders could consider taking one or multiple of several actions to reduce cost of financing, leading to increased chance of project success.</p>
<blockquote><p><em>Unlocking Africa’s renewable hydrogen potential will require coordinated efforts across public and private sectors. By working together to create a supportive economic and legal framework that helps mitigate risk and enables investment, we can realize the economic benefits while accelerating the energy transition worldwide.</em> <div align="right">—Sanjiv Lamba, CEO of Linde and Co-Chair of the Hydrogen Council</div></p></blockquote>
<blockquote><p><em>Developing a hydrogen economy is an opportunity for a just transition in Africa that ensures nobody is left behind – one that drives sustainable economic growth, creates millions of new jobs, increases access to affordable clean energy. With the right investments and public-private collaboration, African nations can leverage their world-class renewable resources to meet domestic needs and become exporters, all while ensuring communities see the benefits through workforce development, value-added industries and energy security.</em> <div align="right">—Fleetwood Grobler, President and CEO of Sasol</div></p></blockquote>
AfricaHydrogenHydrogen ProductionMarket Backgroundmmillikin2024-03-27T02:30:00-07:00Autocar partners with Rocsys on hands-free charging for electric terminal trucks
https://www.greencarcongress.com/2024/03/20240327-autocar.html
Autocar, LLC, a manufacturer of severe-duty vocational trucks, is collaborating with Rocsys, a developer of hands-free charging solutions for electric vehicles, to bring hands-free charging capabilities for Autocar’s electric terminal tractors. This alliance marks a first with the operational deployment of terminal tractors powered by hands-free charging at distribution centers,...<p>Autocar, LLC, a manufacturer of severe-duty vocational trucks, is <a href="https://www.autocartruck.com/news/autocar-llc-and-rocsys-join-forces-in-hands-free-charging-for-electric-truck-fleets/">collaborating</a> with <a href="https://www.rocsys.com">Rocsys</a>, a developer of hands-free charging solutions for electric vehicles, to bring hands-free charging capabilities for Autocar’s electric terminal tractors. </p>
<p>This alliance marks a first with the operational deployment of terminal tractors powered by hands-free charging at distribution centers, inland ports and other logistics facilities. </p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" href="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aea263200b-popup" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aea263200b img-responsive" alt="IMG_0598" title="IMG_0598" src="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aea263200b-500wi" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a><br /></p>
<blockquote><p><em>Providing hands-free charging for Autocar customers means they won’t have to piecemeal charging solutions together when they purchase EV trucks from us. All they need will come in one package – ‘always up’ EV trucks combined with non-manual charging set up for them onsite. By eliminating the need for manual intervention, hands-free charging ensures uninterrupted and efficient charging operations round the clock, enhancing fleet productivity and sustainability.</em><div align="right">—Andrew Taitz, Chairman of Autocar</div></p></blockquote>
<p>Autocar and Rocsys have already secured a pilot order from an Autocar National Account customer for support of its logistics operations.</p>
<p>Crijn Bouman, CEO and Co-founder of Rocsys, noted that hands-free charging not only streamlines charging processes but also minimizes wear and tear on charging cables and connectors, ensuring reliable and rapid charging for electric fleets. </p>
<p>Rocsys solutions are compatible with any high-power DC charging station utilizing a CCS-1 charging connector, facilitating seamless integration with existing charging infrastructure. Rocsys utilizes a combination of soft robotics, computer vision technology, and advanced AI to create a seamless charging process. Throughout the pilot, Rocsys will capture hundreds of images that their system will use to work towards a 99% successful plug-in rate before the delivery to customers. </p>
Electric (Battery)Heavy-dutyInfrastructureMarket Backgroundmmillikin2024-03-27T02:00:00-07:00ZF has already produced 1,000 CeTrax lite Electric Commercial Vehicle Drive units
https://www.greencarcongress.com/2024/03/20240327-cetrax.html
Volume production of ZF’s CeTrax lite electric drive for light commercial vehicles (earlier post) started in April 2023; ZF has now announced that it has already produced its first thousand units. The ramp-up in volume production was steeper than planned because demand from the customer ISUZU increased. The drive is...<p>Volume production of ZF’s CeTrax lite electric drive for light commercial vehicles (<a href="https://www.greencarcongress.com/2023/04/20230413-zf.html">earlier post</a>) started in April 2023; ZF has now announced that it has already <a href="https://press.zf.com/press/en/releases/release_67523.html">produced</a> its first thousand units. The ramp-up in volume production was steeper than planned because demand from the customer ISUZU increased. </p>
<p>The drive is used by ISUZU to power the latest generation its light distributor truck, the ISUZU ELF EV. Further volume production is set to start imminently this year. </p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" href="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aea1d7200b-popup" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aea1d7200b img-responsive" alt="IMG_0597" title="IMG_0597" src="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aea1d7200b-500wi" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a><br /></p>
<p>The electric central drive for light commercial vehicles continues the success story of its "big brother" CeTrax, which went into volume production in 2020. The central drive, which is also produced at the ZF Friedrichshafen location, is mainly used in buses with orders from customers in South Korea, the USA, Australia, and Europe. </p>
<p>The new CeTrax 2 dual electric central drive will be manufactured from Friedrichshafen from this year on. </p>
<p>A feature of ZF’s CeTrax concept is that the all-electric central drive is suitable for electrifying existing commercial vehicle platforms. In this way, manufacturers can expand their portfolio towards purely electric vehicles without having to make further significant alterations to their design platforms. </p>
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As the volume production of the large CeTrax, which has also been manufactured in Friedrichshafen since 2020, shows, this concept is particularly attractive for manufacturers of city buses, as well as for special vehicles operating in ports and logistics centers. Electrification with CeTrax lite offers just as much potential for small delivery trucks, city buses or special vehicles, which are mainly used for the last mile deliveries to consumers and therefore are suited to operate in low-emission zones of inner-city environments. </p>
<p>CeTrax lite is an all-electric drive with a peak output of 150 kW that sits centrally in the vehicle frame—the space normally occupied by the conventional transmission in combustion vehicles. The key customer is the Japanese commercial vehicle manufacturer ISUZU, which has been supplying its ELF EV vehicles equipped with CeTrax to customers worldwide since October 2023. </p>
<p>ZF is able to generate a high level of production and added value for the CeTrax lite because many of its components will also be manufactured by ZF at other locations for final assembly in Friedrichshafen, including Schweinfurt and Auerbach. </p>
Electric (Battery)Market BackgroundMotorsVehicle Systemsmmillikin2024-03-27T01:30:00-07:00BASF launches AdBlue ZeroPCF on the market as the first AdBlue product with reduced carbon footprint
https://www.greencarcongress.com/2024/03/20240327-basf.html
BASF is now the first manufacturer to offer AdBlue as a ZeroPCF variant with a certified CO2 footprint (product carbon footprint = PCF) of <0.05 kg per kilogram of AdBlue. This value includes the amount of CO2 emitted in connection with the product during production up to the site gate...<p>BASF is now the first manufacturer to <a href="https://www.basf.com/global/en/media/news-releases/2024/03/p-24-156.html">offer</a> AdBlue as a ZeroPCF variant with a certified CO<sub>2</sub> footprint (product carbon footprint = PCF) of <0.05 kg per kilogram of AdBlue. This value includes the amount of CO<sub>2</sub> emitted in connection with the product during production up to the site gate (“cradle-to-gate”). </p>
<p>The market standard for fossil products in Europe is at least 0.4 kg. </p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" href="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aea134200b-popup" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aea134200b img-responsive" alt="IMG_0596" title="IMG_0596" src="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aea134200b-500wi" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a><br /></p>
<p>The PCF reduction of AdBlue ZeroPCF by BASF is achieved through the use of renewable energies and raw materials based on a mass balance approach and has been certified by TÜV Rheinland on the basis of ISO standard 14067:2018. REDcert2, a certification system for biomass, also certifies that AdBlue ZeroPCF by BASF meets the required mass balance specifications. </p>
<p>AdBlue ZeroPCF by BASF is now available for industrial customers such as freight forwarders or the automotive industry as a tanker train product, enabling them to reduce their scope 3.1 footprint. For end customers’ diesel vehicles, AdBlue ZeroPCF by BASF is available in all standard packaging sizes, such as the five-liter canister. </p>
<p>AdBlue ZeroPCF by BASF is a further step on the sustainability roadmap of BASF’s Monomers division which was announced last year. This envisages developing at least one circular solution for every major product line by 2025. </p>
DieselEmissionsEnginesMarket Backgroundmmillikin2024-03-27T01:00:00-07:00SK On, Ferrari strengthen battery partnership
https://www.greencarcongress.com/2024/03/20240327-skon.html
SK On, a leading global electric vehicle battery manufacturer, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Italian luxury sports carmaker Ferrari to reinforce their partnership and to lead innovation in cell technology. Under the MoU, the two sides plan to share expertise in respective areas to expand their technological...<p>SK On, a leading global electric vehicle battery manufacturer, <a href="http://eng.sk-on.com/company/press_view.asp?idx=142&page=1&schtxt=&CompanyCode=011">signed</a> a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Italian luxury sports carmaker Ferrari to reinforce their partnership and to lead innovation in cell technology. </p>
<p>
Under the MoU, the two sides plan to share expertise in respective areas to expand their technological collaboration and exchange valuable insights. The latest partnership is expected to help SK On and Ferrari explore new possibilities and potential solutions to advance cell technology. </p>
<p>
SK On, currently the only battery supplier to Ferrari, has been providing battery cells for Ferrari’s most powerful models since 2019, starting with the marque’s first range supercar and PHEV, the SF90 Stradale and its open-top variant, the SF90 Spider. </p>
<p>SK On’s batteries have been also powering the 296 GTB and the 296GTS PHEVs that were launched in 2021 and in 2022, respectively. </p>
BatteriesMarket BackgroundVehicle Manufacturersmmillikin2024-03-27T00:46:00-07:00Farasis and FAW form strategic partneship to collaborate on new energy commercial vehicle applications
https://www.greencarcongress.com/2024/03/20240326-faradis.html
Farasis Energy and FAW Jiefang Automobile Co., Ltd., a leading commercial vehicle manufacturer in China, will partner on commercial vehicle applications. Both companies will collaborate closely on commercial vehicle semi-solid-state and solid-state battery projects for light-, medium- and heavy-vehicle platforms, and specific scenarios such as long-haul transportation, urban logistics, and...<p>Farasis Energy and FAW Jiefang Automobile Co., Ltd., a leading commercial vehicle manufacturer in China, will <a href="https://en.farasis.com/index/news/cid/33">partner</a> on commercial vehicle applications. Both companies will collaborate closely on commercial vehicle semi-solid-state and solid-state battery projects for light-, medium- and heavy-vehicle platforms, and specific scenarios such as long-haul transportation, urban logistics, and municipal engineering. </p>
<p>The goal of this cooperation is to create new energy vehicle products that are more competitive in the market and leading in industry technology. </p>
<blockquote><p><em>Farasis Energy focuses on product and technical advantages. We will provide FAW Jiefang with high-quality products with market competitiveness, accelerate technological innovation in the field of new energy vehicles, verify products with the market and lead the new energy transformation. Together we will create a new blueprint for the development of the new energy vehicle industry.</em> <div align="right">—Chen Binbo, General Manager Farasis Energy</div></p></blockquote>
<p>Farasis Energy is a developer and manufacturer of high-performance lithium-ion battery technology and pouch cells for electric mobility and other sustainable power storage solutions. Founded in 2002 by Dr. Keith Kepler and Dr. Yu Wang in California, the company now operates research and development centers in China, Germany, and the United States. </p>
<p>There are currently two production facilities in Ganzhou and Zhenjiang (China), with further production facilities being built by 2025, thereby increasing total planned capacity to 145 GWh/a. A new battery plant is also being built in Gemlik (Turkey) with the establishment of the Siro joint venture between Turkish electric car manufacturer Togg and Farasis Energy, which produces modules and packs since March 2023. </p>
<p>In addition to Togg, its major strategic partners also include companies such as Mercedes-Benz and Geely. </p>
BatteriesChinaElectric (Battery)Market Backgroundmmillikin2024-03-27T00:30:00-07:00Biofuel and Ag Groups call on EPA to issue E15 emergency waiver
https://www.greencarcongress.com/2024/03/20240327-e15.html
Growth Energy, Renewable Fuels Association, National Corn Growers Association, American Farm Bureau Federation, National Farmers Union, and National Sorghum Producers sent a letter to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) calling on Administrator Michael Regan to act swiftly on an emergency waiver for E15 sales. New and ongoing conflicts across the...<p>Growth Energy, Renewable Fuels Association, National Corn Growers Association, American Farm Bureau Federation, National Farmers Union, and National Sorghum Producers sent a <a href="https://growthenergy.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/EPA-2024-Emergency-Waiver-Letter-Final-03.26.2024.pdf">letter</a> to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) <a href="https://growthenergy.org/2024/03/26/biofuel-groups-epa-e15-waiver/">calling</a> on Administrator Michael Regan to act swiftly on an emergency waiver for E15 sales. </p>
<blockquote><p><em>New and ongoing conflicts across the globe continue to pose risks to the United States’ transportation energy supply. In addition to the conflict in Ukraine, now extending into its third year, the recent unrest and volatility in the Middle East present additional challenges to American energy security. In particular, attacks on shipping in the Red Sea have already had a disruptive effect on the transit of fuel in the region, raising the specter of constrained supply and increased gasoline prices at home.</em> <div align="right">—Letter to the EPA</div></p></blockquote>
<p>To remedy the ongoing disruptions to global energy markets, stabilize gasoline prices for American consumers, and support domestic energy security, the authors urged EPA to authorize the summer sale of gasoline blended with up to 15% ethanol quickly. </p>
<p>E15 (UNL 88) is a fuel blend made of gasoline and 15% ethanol. The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has approved its use in all cars, trucks, and sport utility vehicles (SUVs) made in model year 2001 and newer—representing more than 96% of all vehicles on the road today. </p>
<p>E15 can be found at more than 3,400 gas stations across the country and to date, Americans have driven more than 100 billion miles on this fuel blend. In 2022 and 2023, consumers choosing E15 experienced average cost savings of 10-30 cents per gallon, with some locations offering over $1 off per gallon. </p>
EthanolFuelsMarket BackgroundRegulationsmmillikin2024-03-27T00:16:00-07:00Nissan launches new business plan: The Arc
https://www.greencarcongress.com/2024/03/20240326-arc.html
Nissan Motor Co. launched The Arc, its new business plan which is focused on a broad-based product offensive, increased electrification, new approaches to engineering and manufacturing, the adoption of new technologies, and the use of strategic partnerships to increase global unit sales and improve profitability. The plan is positioned as...<p>Nissan Motor Co. <a href="https://global.nissannews.com/en/releases/240325-02-e">launched</a> The Arc, its new business plan which is focused on a broad-based product offensive, increased electrification, new approaches to engineering and manufacturing, the adoption of new technologies, and the use of strategic partnerships to increase global unit sales and improve profitability.</p>
<p>The plan is positioned as a bridge between the Nissan NEXT business transformation plan running from fiscal 2020 through fiscal 2023 and Nissan Ambition 2030, the company’s long-term vision. The new plan is split into mid-term imperatives for fiscal years 2024 through 2026, and mid-long-term actions to be carried out through 2030. </p>
<p>Under the two-part plan, Nissan will first take actions to ensure volume growth through a tailored regional strategy and prepare for an accelerated transition to EVs, supported by a balanced electrified/ICE product portfolio, volume growth in major markets and financial discipline. </p>
<p>Through these initiatives Nissan aims to lift annual sales by 1 million units and increase its operating profit margin to more than 6%, both by the end of fiscal year 2026. </p>
<p><p>This will pave the way for the second part of the plan aimed to enable the EV transition and realize long-term profitable growth, supported by smart partnerships, enhanced EV competitiveness, differentiated innovations and new revenue streams. By fiscal year 2030, Nissan sees a revenue potential of ¥2.5 trillion (US$16.5 billion) from new business opportunities.<p></p>
<p><strong>Balanced product portfolio.</strong> Nissan plans to launch 30 new models over the next three years, of which 16 will be electrified, and 14 will be ICE models, to meet the diversified customer needs in markets where the pace of electrification differs. Nissan plans to launch a total of 34 electrified models from fiscal year 2024 and 2030 to cover all segments, with the model mix of electrified vehicles expected to account for 40% globally by fiscal year 2026 and rise to 60% by the end of the decade. </p>
<p><strong>Ensuring market growth through a tailored regional strategy.</strong> In key regions and markets, Nissan’s actions by fiscal year 2026 (unless otherwise indicated) include:</p>
<p>Americas:</p>
<ul><li><p>Increase across-region sales by 330,000 units (in fiscal year 2026 and compared to fiscal year 2023) and invest 200 million USD in integrated customer experience in the US.</p></li>
<li><p>In the US and Canada: Launch seven all-new models.</p></li>
<li><p>In the US: Refresh 78% of passenger vehicle line-up for Nissan brand and launch e-POWER and plug-in hybrid models.</p></li>
</ul>
<p>China:</p>
<ul><li><p>Refresh 73% of Nissan-brand models and launch eight new-energy vehicles (NEVs), including four Nissan-branded models.</p></li>
<li><p>Target 1-million-unit sales in fiscal year 2026, representing an increase of 200,000 units.</p></li>
<li><p>Start vehicle exports in 2025; Aim for 100,000 unit level.</p></li>
<li><p>Continue to optimize production capacity with local partners.</p></li>
</ul>
<p><p>Japan:<p></p>
<ul><li><p>Refresh 80% of passenger model line-up, launching five all-new models.</p></li>
<li><p>Achieve a 70% electrified level in passenger vehicle line-up.</p></li>
<li><p>Increase sales by 90,000 units (compared to fiscal year 2023) to 600,000 units in fiscal year 2026.</p></li>
</ul>
<p>Africa, Middle East, India, Europe and Oceania:</p>
<ul><li><p>Increase across-region sales units by 300,000 units (in fiscal year 2026 and compared to fiscal year 2023).</p></li>
<li><p>In Europe: Launch six all-new models; achieve 40% EV passenger-vehicle sales mix.</p></li>
<li><p>In the Middle East: Launch five all-new SUVs.</p></li>
<li><p>In India: Launch three all-new models and become a hub for exports, at a level of 100,000 units.</p></li>
<li><p>In Oceania: Launch a 1-ton pickup and introduce a C crossover EV.</p></li>
<li><p>In Africa: Launch two all-new SUVs and expand A-segment ICE vehicle.</p></li></ul>
<p><strong>EV competitiveness.</strong> The product offensive will be supported by new development and manufacturing approaches aimed to make EVs more affordable and increase profitability. By developing EVs in families, integrating powertrains, utilizing next-generation modular manufacturing, group sourcing, and battery innovations, Nissan aims to reduce the cost of next-generation EVs by 30% (when compared to the current model Ariya crossover) and achieve cost-parity between EVs and ICE models by fiscal year 2030. </p>
<p>In the area of family development alone, the cost of subsequent vehicles—those developed based on the main vehicle in the family—can be reduced by 50%, the variation of trim parts reduced by 70% and development lead time shortened by four months. By adopting modular manufacturing, the vehicle production line will be shortened, reducing the production time per vehicle by 20%. </p>
<p>Under the Arc plan, more plants in Japan and overseas will adopt the Nissan Intelligent Factory concept, with the Oppama and Nissan Motor Kyushu plants in Japan, the Sunderland Plant in the UK and Canton and Smyrna plants in the US starting the adoption from fiscal year 2026 through 2030. Meanwhile the EV36Zero production approach will be extended from Sunderland in the UK to plants including Canton, Decherd and Smyrna in the US, and Tochigi and Kyushu in Japan from fiscal year 2025 through 2028. </p>
<p><strong>New technologies.</strong> The plan includes proposals to accelerate the evolution of vehicle intelligence technologies such as next-generation ProPILOT driver-assistance system, which realize door-to-door autonomous driving technology from on-highway to off-highway, private premises, and parking.
</p>
<p>
Nissan will offer enhanced NCM Li-ion, LFP and all solid-state batteries to provide diversified EVs to meet different customer needs. Nissan will significantly enhance NCM Li-ion batteries, reducing quick-charging time by 50% and increasing energy density by 50% compared to the Ariya. LFP batteries, to be developed and produced in Japan, will be launched that will reduce cost by 30% compared to the Sakura EV minivehicle. New EVs with enhanced NCM Li-ion, LFP and all-solid-state batteries will be launched in fiscal year 2028. </p>
<p><strong>Strategic partnerships.</strong> Nissan will harness strategic partnerships to stay competitive and offer a global portfolio of products and technology. Nissan will continue to leverage the alliance with Renault and Mitsubishi Motors in Europe, LATAM, ASEAN and India. In China, Nissan will fully utilize its local assets to meet the needs of China and beyond; and explore new partnerships in Japan and the US. Batteries will be developed and sourced with partners to bring 135 gigawatt hours of global capacity. </p>
Electric (Battery)Market BackgroundVehicle Manufacturersmmillikin2024-03-26T03:00:00-07:00Polestar 3 cuts its carbon footprint to 24.7 tCO₂e by reducing aluminum and battery related emissions
https://www.greencarcongress.com/2024/03/20240326-polestar.html
The total cradle-to-gate carbon footprint of Polestar’s first electric performance SUV, Polestar 3, is lower than that of the smaller Polestar 2 when it was launched in 2020 at 24.7 tCO2e versus 26.1 tCO2e. The majority of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions stem from the extraction and processing of various materials...<p>The total cradle-to-gate carbon footprint of Polestar’s first electric performance SUV, Polestar 3, is <a href="https://media.polestar.com/global/en/media/pressreleases/681849">lower</a> than that of the smaller Polestar 2 when it was launched in 2020 at 24.7 tCO<sub>2</sub>e versus 26.1 tCO<sub>2</sub>e. </p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" href="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aab915200c-pi" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=1385,height=869,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aab915200c img-responsive" alt="681847_20240325_Polestar_3_LCA" title="681847_20240325_Polestar_3_LCA" src="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aab915200c-500wi" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a><br /></p>
<p>
The majority of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions stem from the extraction and processing of various materials for three components: aluminum, steel, and batteries. The <a href="https://www.polestar.com/dato-assets/11286/1711122810-polestar-3_lca_report_2024_final_2024-03-22.pdf">Lifecycle Assessment (LCA) report for Polestar 3</a> shows that material production and refining contribute 68% of its cradle-to-gate carbon footprint of which aluminum represents 24%, iron and steel 17% and battery module production 24%. </p>
<p>Polestar aims to implement existing solutions, advocate for emerging solutions, and actively address what is currently considered unsolvable. Existing solutions may involve purchasing aluminum produced using renewable electricity, emerging solutions could include steel made with renewable energy, and entirely new solutions may relate to electronics, tires, and thermoplastics. </p>
<p>
The approach to meeting the ambitious cradle-to-gate target for Polestar 3 took learnings from the carbon footprint reductions of Polestar 2. Consequently, 81% of Polestar 3’s total aluminum mass production, the Li-ion battery cell module production as well as anode and cathode material production use 100% renewable electricity. By doing this, 8.5 tCO<sub>2</sub>e have been eliminated. </p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" href="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aed806200d-popup" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aed806200d img-responsive" alt="681846_20240325_Polestar_models_LCA_comparisons" title="681846_20240325_Polestar_models_LCA_comparisons" src="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aed806200d-500wi" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a><br /></p>
<p>
Manufactured initially at Volvo Cars’ Chengdu factory in China, additional production is slated to start in South Carolina in the middle of 2024. Both manufacturing plants use 100% renewable electricity. A separate LCA will be produced for cars produced in this factory. </p>
<blockquote><p><em>The majority of a vehicle’s greenhouse gas emissions stem from extracting and processing materials. As we accelerate the adoption of electric cars, there is a lot we can do to reduce their production-related emissions and strengthen the role of innovations and of electric cars as a climate solution, Polestar 3 is a testament to that.</em><div align="right">—Fredrika Klarén, Head of Sustainability at Polestar</div></p></blockquote>
<p>
Comprehensive transparency about the environmental impact of the car is offered by the LCA report. The LCA has been calculated using three different electricity mixes and a 200,000 km lifetime distance driven. The methodology to assess the electricity in use phase has been updated and now includes more realistic scenarios from the IEA (International Energy Agency) which take into account increased shares of renewables, underscoring their potential for reducing the car’s emissions during the use phase.
</p>
<p>
For the first time in any Polestar LCA, vehicle maintenance is included in the calculations. The car’s cradle-to-grave carbon footprint ranges between 28.5 - 44.5 tCO<sub>2</sub>e depending on the electricity used to charge the vehicle during its lifetime.
</p>
<p>
The LCA report, conducted in accordance with ISO 14067:2018, is the first Polestar LCA report that has been reviewed by a third party, the global strategic, environmental, and engineering consultancy Ricardo plc.
</p>
Electric (Battery)Lifecycle analysisManufacturingMarket Backgroundmmillikin2024-03-26T02:30:00-07:00Ford Performance Cobra Jet EV demonstrator sets second drag racing world record
https://www.greencarcongress.com/2024/03/230240326-cobra.html
The Ford Performance Cobra Jet EV demonstrator broke the world record for the fastest quarter-mile pass with a full bodied-drag car with a blistering time of 7.759 seconds at 180.14 miles per hour at the National Hot Rod Association Winter Nationals. It’s the second time the Cobra Jet EV Demonstrator...<p>The Ford Performance Cobra Jet EV demonstrator <a href="https://media.ford.com/content/fordmedia/fna/us/en/news/2024/03/23/twice-as-nice--mustang-super-cobra-jet-1800-sets-another-world-r.html">broke</a> the world record for the fastest quarter-mile pass with a full bodied-drag car with a blistering time of 7.759 seconds at 180.14 miles per hour at the National Hot Rod Association Winter Nationals. </p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" href="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3ae8793200b-popup" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3ae8793200b img-responsive" alt="IMG_0590" title="IMG_0590" src="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3ae8793200b-500wi" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a><br /></p>
<p>It’s the second time the Cobra Jet EV Demonstrator has made history with NHRA, following its original record of 8.128 seconds at 171.97 miles per hour set back in 2021. </p>
<p>The achievement was the result of numerous innovations, from slashing the battery system’s weight by more than 40% to fine-tuning the suspension geometry. </p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" href="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aed7c2200d-pi" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=1642,height=1094,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aed7c2200d img-responsive" alt="09-SuperCobraJet1800" title="09-SuperCobraJet1800" src="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aed7c2200d-500wi" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a><br /></p>
<p>The Super Cobra Jet 1800’s journey from concept to record-breaker involved significant upgrades over the previous 1400-horsepower version. Among these were a custom control strategy and a cutting-edge lightweight battery system, born from the collaboration between Ford Performance and <a href="https://mleracecars.com">MLe Racecars</a>. </p>
<p>The Super Cobra Jet 1800 utilizes the same four PN-250-DZR inverters coupled to two double-stacked DS-250-115 motor pairings as before, but now attached to a new transmission from Liberty and powered by an entirely redone, lighter weight battery system designed by Ford Performance and MLe Racecars. </p>
<p>The power is sent to an MLe Racecars-revised rear end featuring improved suspension geometry from PMR and larger Mickey Thompson drag radials to optimize launches.</p>
<p>The dedication to innovation extended to a blank page redesign of the battery system, achieving a 30% power increase. </p>
<p>Everything is managed by Ford Performance proprietary control software running on AEM-EV hardware, with a new data acquisition system, dash and power distribution system all designed in-house.</p>
Electric (Battery)Market BackgroundMotorsportmmillikin2024-03-26T02:00:00-07:00DOE renews R2R consortium with focus on high-volume manufacturing of clean hydrogen technologies
https://www.greencarcongress.com/2024/03/20240326-r2r.html
The US Department of Energy’s (DOE) Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technologies Office (HFTO) is renewing the Roll-to-Roll (R2R) Consortium of national laboratories to develop “roll-to-roll” processes that will reduce the cost of manufacturing electrolyzers and fuel cells. The R2R Consortium aims to advance efficient, high-throughput, and high-quality manufacturing processes to...<p>The US Department of Energy’s (DOE) Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technologies Office (HFTO) is <a href="https://www.energy.gov/eere/fuelcells/articles/doe-national-laboratory-consortium-advance-high-volume-manufacturing?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery">renewing</a> the Roll-to-Roll (R2R) Consortium of national laboratories to develop “roll-to-roll” processes that will reduce the cost of manufacturing electrolyzers and fuel cells. The R2R Consortium aims to advance efficient, high-throughput, and high-quality manufacturing processes to accelerate domestic manufacturing and reduce the cost of durable, high-performance fuel cell and electrolyzer systems. </p>
<p>R2R originally launched as a manufacturing consortium in 2016 by DOE’s Advanced Manufacturing Office in response to feedback from industry stakeholders seeking broad collaboration on a range of clean energy technologies. Now, through Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) funds, R2R will focus exclusively on clean hydrogen. </p>
<p>The R2R Consortium is funded by BIL provisions 815 and 816 dedicated to advancing electrolysis technologies and improving manufacturing and recycling capabilities for clean hydrogen systems and components and will complement projects selected under HFTO’s funding opportunity Bipartisan Infrastructure Law: Clean Hydrogen Electrolysis, Manufacturing, and Recycling. </p>
<p>The R2R Consortium is led by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and includes Argonne National Laboratory (ANL), Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL), and Sandia National Laboratories (SNL). </p>
<p>High-throughput manufacturing of fuel cells and electrolyzers is critical for supporting market acceleration of clean hydrogen technologies. Roll-to-roll manufacturing can reduce costs by increasing process efficiency and reducing material waste, but there are challenges related to materials synthesis, coating, drying, and quality control that need to be addressed to scale up these processes for industry adoption. </p>
<blockquote><p><em>Our overarching goal is to de-risk and accelerate US manufacturing of high-performance, durable, and low-cost fuel cells and electrolyzers. The consortium’s activities will focus on understanding the science of the manufacturing processes themselves to achieve target rates, yields, and product quality.</em><div align="right">—Scott Mauger, R2R Consortium director and senior scientist at NREL</div></p></blockquote>
<p>The core labs in the R2R Consortium will conduct research, development, and demonstration activities in six topic areas, each led by a lab (listed in parentheses) with existing capabilities and expertise focused in that area. The first three topics address manufacturing challenges that are critical for the growth of the hydrogen industry, and the second three are cross-cutting activities that will integrate with the research on manufacturing challenges: </p>
<ul><li>Materials Scale-Up Science (ANL)</li>
<li>Fabrication Process Science (SNL)</li>
<li>Quality Control (NREL)</li>
<li>Characterization (LBNL)</li>
<li>Advanced Computing (SNL)</li>
<li>Techno-Economic Analysis (NREL).</li></ul>
<p>The consortium plans to support industry efforts through cooperative research and development agreement projects, with more details to be announced in the coming months. </p>
<p>An industrial advisory board will also provide guidance on the consortium’s research objectives and topics and foster engagement between the broader R2R industry and fuel cell and electrolyzer manufacturers and materials suppliers. </p>
<p>
R2R activities will also complement the work of other HFTO consortia: Hydrogen from Next-generation Electrolyzers of Water (H2NEW) and Million Mile Fuel Cell Truck (M2FCT). The R2R Consortium will develop processes and pathways to scale up materials and components developed by H2NEW and M2FCT and will work closely with both consortia to ensure relevant metrics, methods, and protocols are used.</p>
Fuel CellsHydrogenHydrogen ProductionManufacturingMarket Backgroundmmillikin2024-03-26T01:30:00-07:00HyAxiom, Doosan Fuel Cell SOFC stack passes DNV environmental testing for maritime application
https://www.greencarcongress.com/2024/03/20240326-hyaxiom.html
Fuel cell and hydrogen solutions providers HyAxiom, Inc. (HyAxiom) and Doosan Fuel Cell Co., Ltd. (DFCC) announced their Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) cell stack has passed a critical environmental test by Det Norske Veritas (DNV), the classification society and a recognized advisor for the maritime industry. This is the...<p>Fuel cell and hydrogen solutions providers HyAxiom, Inc. (HyAxiom) and Doosan Fuel Cell Co., Ltd. (DFCC) <a href="https://hyaxiom.com/hyaxiom-and-doosan-fuel-cell-are-world’s-first-to-pass-solid-oxide-fuel-cell-components-environmental-testing-for-maritime-application/">announced</a> their Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) cell stack has passed a critical environmental test by Det Norske Veritas (DNV), the classification society and a recognized advisor for the maritime industry. </p>
<p>This is the first SOFC cell stack to pass such a test; the stack is a core component of the marine SOFC under development by HyAxiom and DFCC. </p>
<p>
Electrical equipment installed on vessels must pass extreme environmental testing under actual operating conditions, including temperature, humidity, vibration, inclination and electromagnetic interference. </p>
<p>The next milestone will be to achieve overall SOFC certification and conduct full-scale demonstrations. </p>
<p>
HyAxiom and DFCC signed a consortium agreement in 2022 with Shell PLC and HD Korea Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering, an intermediate holding company in the shipbuilding sector of HD Hyundai Group. The consortium aims to develop, manufacture and install a 600 kW SOFC Auxiliary Power Unit (SOFC APU) on a Shell-chartered LNG vessel, which will undergo a year of testing in 2025 to demonstrate the technology’s ability to reduce carbon emissions from maritime transport, a sector which is vital to trade and economies worldwide but is considered hard-to-abate. </p>
<p>
Last year, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) approved an amendment to its greenhouse gas emissions goal, which now aims to reach net-zero GHG emissions from international shipping by or around 2050, along with a commitment to ensure an uptake of alternative zero and near-zero GHG fuels by 2030. This strategy, along with the economics of carbon and fuel reduction, sets the stage for HyAxiom’s and DFCC’s SOFC technology. </p>
<p>
HyAxiom and DFCC are developing and manufacturing solid oxide fuel cell technology in collaboration with <a href="https://www.ceres.tech/news/ceres-sofc-technology-offers-a-highly-differentiated-and-fuel-flexible-solution-for-maritime/">Ceres</a>, a leading developer of clean energy technology. </p>
<p>As a core technology provider, HyAxiom is a key pillar in the Doosan Group’s
hydrogen vision. HyAxiom’s flagship product, the PureCell M400, is based on proprietary phosphoric acid fuel cell (PAFC) technology. The world’s first and largest hydrogen fuel cell power plant (50 MW) running on direct hydrogen, which entered commercial service in 2020 in Korea, is powered by a hydrogen-fueled variant of the PureCell M400.</p>
Fuel CellsHydrogenMarket BackgroundPorts and Marinemmillikin2024-03-26T01:00:00-07:00BYD produces 7 millionth new energy vehicle
https://www.greencarcongress.com/2024/03/20240326-byd.html
On 25 March, BYD rolled off its 7 millionth new energy vehicle, the DENZA N7, at its Jinan factory in China. NEVs include plug-in hybrids and battery-electric vehicles. BYD reached the production of 1 millionth NEV in May 2021 and rapidly multiplied this figure threefold within 18 months, then surpassed...<p>On 25 March, BYD rolled off its 7 million<sup>th</sup> new energy vehicle, the DENZA N7, at its Jinan factory in China. NEVs include plug-in hybrids and battery-electric vehicles. </p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" href="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3ae8483200b-popup" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3ae8483200b img-responsive" alt="IMG_0587" title="IMG_0587" src="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3ae8483200b-500wi" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a><br /></p>
<p>BYD reached the production of 1 million<sup>th</sup> NEV in May 2021 and rapidly multiplied this figure threefold within 18 months, then surpassed 5 million units in 9 additional months. In just 7 months from this mark, BYD accelerated to the 7 million milestone, showcasing a robust end-to-end supply chain and the effect of scale. </p>
<p>In 2023, BYD’s cumulative annual sales of NEVs rose to 3.02 million units. A variety of models from its extensive brand portfolio consistently led sales rankings within their individual categories. </p>
<p>BYD expanded its global footprint in 2023, witnessing a surge in overseas new energy passenger car sales that exceeded 240,000 units—a 337% year-on-year growth—making it the top Chinese exporter of NEVs in 2023. </p>
<p>BYD’s new energy passenger vehicles have been introduced to 64 countries and regions globally, with strategic investments in manufacturing facilities in Thailand, Brazil, Uzbekistan, and Hungary. </p>
<p>Founded in 1995 as a rechargeable battery maker, BYD now boasts a diverse business scope covering automobiles, rail transit, new energy, and electronics, with more than 30 industrial parks in China, the United States, Canada, Japan, Brazil, Hungary, and India. </p>
Electric (Battery)ManufacturingMarket BackgroundPlug-insmmillikin2024-03-26T00:30:00-07:00Foxconn invests in smart EV company Indigo; SmartWheels
https://www.greencarcongress.com/2024/03/20240326-indigo.html
Indigo Technologies, a robotics-focused Smart EV OEM with road-sensing SmartWheels invented by team out of MIT, received a strategic investment from Hon Hai Technology Group (Foxconn). Indigo develops light utility EVs designed for sustainable ride hail, delivery and autonomous transportation services. Foxconn’s Chief Strategy Officer for Electric Vehicles Jun Seki,...<p>Indigo Technologies, a robotics-focused Smart EV OEM with road-sensing SmartWheels invented by team out of MIT, received a strategic <a href="https://indigotech.com/foxconn-strategic-investment/">investment</a> from Hon Hai Technology Group (Foxconn). Indigo develops light utility EVs designed for sustainable ride hail, delivery and autonomous transportation services. </p>
<p>Foxconn’s Chief Strategy Officer for Electric Vehicles Jun Seki, who was former CEO of Nidec and COO of Nissan,
joins Indigo’s Board of Directors. </p>
<p>According to Foxconn, this will support the vision to turn an MIT invention into a global innovation with commercial adoption. Partnered with the largest TNCs, DNCs and FMCs, Indigo’s EV software and hardware solutions with TaaS Transport-as-a-Service package will include fleet transport operations and manage autonomous fleet mobility on public roads. </p>
<p>Road-sensing SmartWheels robotics hardware and software fully integrates drivetrain and suspension as a tech package to enable a new vehicle
architecture, making lighter, more efficient EVs. </p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" href="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aab743200c-popup" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aab743200c img-responsive" alt="IMG_0588" title="IMG_0588" src="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aab743200c-500wi" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a><br /></p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" href="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3ae8647200b-popup" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3ae8647200b img-responsive" alt="IMG_0589" title="IMG_0589" src="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3ae8647200b-500wi" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a><br /></p>
<p>Indigo’s first SmartWheels-powered EV, the FLOW, will have more
usable cabin space, a lower flat floor, a smoother ride experience and better unit economics than any vehicle of its class, the company claims. The FLOW will have 180 cubic feet of space, approximately 200
miles of range, be priced near $37,000 and is expected to hit US roads in late 2026. </p>
<p>
Indigo will also deliver a smaller Smart EV called the DASH with the latest telematics and
sensors connected to its cloud software to help fleets lower risks and total-cost-of-ownership
while improving service experiences. The DASH will have 90 cubic feet of space, 140 miles of
range, be priced near $27,000 and will be in trial 2H 2024, with volume delivery early 2025. </p>
Electric (Battery)Market Backgroundmmillikin2024-03-26T00:16:00-07:00Hyundai Motor Group co-hosts 2024 Korea-Africa Business Forum to foster partnerships for sustainable development
https://www.greencarcongress.com/2024/03/20240326-hmg.html
Hyundai Motor Group co-hosted a 2024 Korea-Africa Business Forum today in Seoul in partnership with the Centre for Sustainable Structural Transformation (CSST) at SOAS University of London and the Korea-Africa Foundation. The forum discussed how Korean and African stakeholders can work together as strategic partners for sustainable development amidst ongoing...<p>Hyundai Motor Group <a href="https://www.hyundai.com/worldwide/en/newsroom/detail/0000000617">co-hosted</a> a 2024 Korea-Africa Business Forum today in Seoul in partnership with the Centre for Sustainable Structural Transformation (CSST) at SOAS University of London and the Korea-Africa Foundation. </p>
<p>The forum discussed how Korean and African stakeholders can work together as strategic partners for sustainable development amidst ongoing geopolitical uncertainty. </p>
<blockquote><p><em>Africa holds immense potential for strong partnerships and sustainable development. Through this forum, we have set the stage for cooperation between South Korea and African nations, and facilitated a fruitful discussion on how to make Korea a truly forward-looking partner for Africa.</em><div align="right">—Ken Kim, Executive Vice President of HMG Business Intelligence Institute</div></p></blockquote>
<p>Participants from Africa included Rob Davies, the Former South African Minister of Trade and Industry and high-level members from Morocco’s Agency for Nuclear and Radiological Safety and Security (AMSSNuR); Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) of South Africa; African Minerals Development Centre (AMDC); South African Chamber of Commerce in South Korea; and United Nations University. Also in attendance were key African dignitaries, including ambassadors and embassy officials from 9 African countries. </p>
<p>
Representatives from Korea and SOAS CSST included Ken Kim, Executive Vice President of HMG Business Intelligence Institute; Ha-Joon Jang, Research Professor of Economics and co-director of CSST, SOAS University of London; Woon-Ki Lyeo, President of the Korea-Africa Foundation; and Soon-Young Hong, Executive Director of the Export-Import Bank of Korea. </p>
<p>
The forum consisted of a closed session in the morning, where key participants came together to discuss the vision and multi-pronged action plan for Korea-Africa economic cooperation. In the afternoon, an open session was held to explore private-sector cooperation in areas such as energy transition leveraging green hydrogen and critical minerals, and digitalization and supply cooperation strategy. </p>
<p>The participants discussed Africa’s energy transition, South African green hydrogen commercialization strategy, investments in alternative energies, Africa’s digitalization progress and its importance for sustainable industrialization, and the challenges and opportunities of a green transition in Africa. </p>
<p>
The Group’s participation in the forum is a continuation of the collaboration with SOAS to facilitate dialogue and research about Africa, following an initial announcement made in February this year.</p>
AfricaMarket BackgroundVehicle Manufacturersmmillikin2024-03-26T00:01:00-07:00Svitzer targets methanol-fueled MAN 175DF-M engine for tug application
https://www.greencarcongress.com/2024/03/20240326-svitzer.html
MAN Energy Solutions and Svitzer have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) focused on the development of a methanol-fueled version of the MAN 175D engine, designated 175DF-M (Dual Fuel-Methanol). (Earlier post.) The MoU targets the finalization of a field-test agreement based on which a dual-fuel engine and plant equipment will...<p>MAN Energy Solutions and Svitzer have <a href="">signed</a> a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) focused on the development of a methanol-fueled version of the MAN 175D engine, designated 175DF-M (Dual Fuel-Methanol). (<a href="https://www.greencarcongress.com/2023/11/20231128-175d.html">Earlier post</a>.) The MoU targets the finalization of a field-test agreement based on which a dual-fuel engine and plant equipment will be installed on board one of Svitzer’s newbuild tugs. </p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" href="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d39fe50a200c-pi" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=903,height=651,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d39fe50a200c img-responsive" alt="Man-12v175d-engine_thumbnail" title="Man-12v175d-engine_thumbnail" src="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d39fe50a200c-500wi" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"></a><br></p>
<p>Svitzer has a long-standing relationship with MAN Energy Solutions, especially recently with the MAN 175D engine. In 2023, Svitzer selected the high-performance MAN 175D engines for its new TRAnsverse tug design. </p>
<p><p>The next phase leading to the signing of the field-test agreement will focus on details of the fuel-supply system, engine-room design, exhaust after-treatment and engine-performance optimization.<p></p>
EnginesMarket BackgroundMethanolPorts and Marinemmillikin2024-03-26T00:01:00-07:00REE Automotive P7-C receives CARB certifications: Phase 2 GHG and ZEP
https://www.greencarcongress.com/2024/03/20240325-ree.html
REE Automotive Ltd., an automotive technology company and provider of full by-wire electric trucks and platforms, which recently announced FMVSS (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards) and EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) certification (earlier post), has received two certifications from California Air Resources Board (CARB) on the Class 4 P7-C chassis cab....<p>
REE Automotive Ltd., an automotive technology company and provider of full by-wire electric trucks and platforms, which recently announced FMVSS (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards) and EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) certification (<a href="https://www.greencarcongress.com/2024/01/20240111-ree.html">earlier post</a>), has received two certifications from California Air Resources Board (CARB) on the Class 4 P7-C chassis cab.
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The two certifications include <b>(1)</b> Phase 2 Greenhouse Gas (GHG) covering the complete vehicle; and <b>(2)</b> the new Zero Emission Powertrain (ZEP) certification. In addition to California, several other states are expected to adopt the Phase 2 GHG and ZEP requirements in the coming years.
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<p><a class="asset-img-link" href="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aaa0fd200c-pi" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=1000,height=667,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aaa0fd200c img-responsive" alt="REE P7-C Class 4 Electric Chassis Cab - REECorner" title="REE P7-C Class 4 Electric Chassis Cab - REECorner" src="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3aaa0fd200c-500wi" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a><br /></p>
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CARB certification is a requirement for eligibility for several state incentives, which combined with federal can total more than $100,000 per vehicle depending on customer location. California and several other states have indicated plans to adopt the Advanced Clean Truck Regulation, a manufacturers sales requirement to sell growing percentages of electric trucks, and requires ZEP certification.
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<blockquote><p><em>This is an important milestone since now Powered by REE vehicles can receive more than $100,000 incentive funding which makes it even easier for fleets to electrify. We believe that this cost savings, combined with our REEcorner and x-by-wire technology’s ability to lower total cost of ownership, will boost even further the strong demand we see for our P7 lineup.</em><div align="right">—Daniel Barel, CEO and co-founder of REE Automotive</div></p></blockquote>
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REE’s P7-C has already achieved FMVSS and EPA certification, making it the first US FMVSS certified fully by-wire vehicle.
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Electric (Battery)mmillikin2024-03-25T05:00:00-07:00Adamas: EV parc in China growing 10 times faster than in US
https://www.greencarcongress.com/2024/03/20240325-adamas.html
In China, EV registrations, including plug-in and conventional hybrids, soared by 92% in January compared to the same month last year, according to Adamas Intelligence. At just under 765,000 units, more EVs were sold in China during the first month of 2024 than the next 19 countries combined. Every third...<p>In China, EV registrations, including plug-in and conventional hybrids, soared by 92% in January compared to the same month last year, <a href="https://www.adamasintel.com/china-ev-parc-growing-ten-times-faster-than-us/">according</a> to Adamas Intelligence. At just under 765,000 units, more EVs were sold in China during the first month of 2024 than the next 19 countries combined. Every third passenger vehicle sold in China in January was electrified. </p>
<p>In terms of GWh of battery power in newly sold vehicles, China grew the size of its EV parc in January 2024 at more than twice the rate it did in January 2023. At 30.2 GWh, the country was responsible for 57% of global battery capacity deployment during the month and more than 91% in the Asia Pacific region.</p>
<p><a class="asset-img-link" href="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3ae6754200b-popup" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=640,height=480,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3ae6754200b img-responsive" alt="IMG_0584" title="IMG_0584" src="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3ae6754200b-500wi" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a><br /></p>
<p>Total GWhs added to roads in Europe in December were down 39% compared with the same month the year before. However, the region, led by the UK and France, which overtook Germany as the number one and two markets in Europe last year, recovered at the beginning of 2024 with the combined battery capacity of EVs sold during January up 33% year on year. </p>
<p>In the Americas, the EV market was suppressed by a decidedly bad month in the US with all EVs sold in January sporting just under 8.0 GWh of battery capacity. January’s year-on year-growth in the US barely reached double digits. </p>
<p>The US now also constitutes just 85% of the market in the Americas in GWh terms, down from more than 92% in January 2023. That is after second and third placed Canada and Brazil doubled and quadrupled battery capacity deployment in January, respectively. </p>
ChinaElectric (Battery)Market Backgroundmmillikin2024-03-25T00:30:00-07:00European Council give final approval on the critical raw materials act
https://www.greencarcongress.com/2024/03/20240325-crma.html
The European Council adopted the regulation to establish a framework to ensure a secure and sustainable supply of critical raw materials, better known as the Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA). This is the last step in the decision-making procedure. Following the Council’s approval the European Parliament’s position, the legislative act...<p>
The European Council <a href=”https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2024/03/18/strategic-autonomy-council-gives-its-final-approval-on-the-critical-raw-materials-act/”>adopted</a> the regulation to establish a framework to ensure a secure and sustainable supply of critical raw materials, better known as the Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA). This is the last step in the decision-making procedure.
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<p>Following the Council’s approval the European Parliament’s position, the legislative act has now been adopted. After being signed by the President of the European Parliament and the President of the Council, the regulation will be published in the Official Journal of the European Union and will enter into force on the twentieth day following its publication.</p>
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The CRMA introduces clear deadlines for permit procedures for EU extracting projects, allows the Commission and member states to recognize a project as strategic, requires supply-chain risk assessments, requires member states to have national exploration plans and ensures the EU’s access to critical and strategic raw materials through ambitious benchmarks on extraction, processing, recycling and diversification of import sources.
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<blockquote><p><em>With the Critical Raw Materials Act we want to turn the challenges of our dependencies into strategic autonomy and an opportunity for our economy. This legislative act will boost our mining sector, enhance our recycling and processing capacities, create local and good quality jobs, and ensure that our industry is up and ready for the digital and green transitions.</em><div align="right">—Jo Brouns, Flemish Minister for Economy, Innovation, Work, Social Economy and Agriculture</div></p></blockquote>
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The final text adopted identifies two lists of materials (34 critical and 17 strategic) that are crucial for the green and digital transitions, as well as for the defence and space industries. The CRMA establishes three benchmarks for the EU’s annual consumption of raw materials: 10% from local extraction; 40% to be processed in the EU and 25% to come from recycled materials.
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To facilitate the development of strategic projects, member states will create single points of contact at the relevant administrative level and at the relevant stage in the critical raw materials value chain.
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Extraction projects will receive their permits within a maximum period of 27 months, while recycling and processing projects should receive their permits within 15 months, with limited exceptions aimed at ensuring a meaningful engagement with the local communities affected by the projects and a proper environmental impact assessment in complex cases.
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Large companies manufacturing strategic technologies (i.e. producers of batteries, hydrogen or renewable generators) will carry out a risk assessment of their supply chains to identify vulnerabilities.
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The Critical Raw Materials Act, together with the Net Zero Industry Act and the Reform of the electricity market design, is one of the flagship legislative initiatives under the Green Deal Industrial Plan that was presented by Commissioner Thierry Breton on 1 February 2023. The Council adopted the negotiation mandate on 30 June, and the two co-legislators reached a provisional agreement on 13 November 2023.
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EuropeMarket BackgroundMaterialsMiningRegulationsmmillikin2024-03-25T00:16:00-07:00i-charging boosts blueberry CLUSTER and PLUS power capacity from 600 kW to 900 kW
https://www.greencarcongress.com/2024/03/20240325-blueberry.html
i-charging, a provider of innovative electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions, announced that the blueberry CLUSTER and the blueberry PLUS which already offered power of up to 600 kW can now both be delivered with an increased power capacity of 900 kW. Both versions of the blueberry family can now be...<p>
i-charging, a provider of innovative electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions, <a href="https://i-charging.pt/news-blueberry-900-kw/">announced</a> that the blueberry CLUSTER and the blueberry PLUS which already offered power of up to 600 kW can now both be delivered with an increased power capacity of 900 kW.
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<p><a class="asset-img-link" href="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3ae716e200b-popup" onclick="window.open( this.href, '_blank', 'width=911,height=601,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0' ); return false"><img class="asset asset-image at-xid-6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3ae716e200b img-responsive" alt="02.-blueberryPLUS" title="02.-blueberryPLUS" src="https://bioage.typepad.com/.a/6a00d8341c4fbe53ef02c8d3ae716e200b-500wi" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></a><br /></p>
<p>Both versions of the blueberry family can now be supplied with any total power in steps of 50 kW up to a maximum of 900 kW. The blueberry PLUS can charge 2 vehicles sharing the power between them with dynamic power allocation while the CLUSTER allows up to four vehicles to share the charger total power. </p>
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The CLUSTER when configured with at least 800 kW is a solution for the German market as it can share the power between 4 outputs and still meet the 200 kW minimum requirement while allowing any output to reach any power up to 500 A output current. </p>
<p>The PLUS with at least 400 kW and 2 outputs keeps being a very good solution for that requirement as well. Both are ideal for public charging as well as for fleet charging, as both have dynamic allocation and optimize the use of the available power while reducing the TCO and the total time to charge. </p>
<p>Both have EICHRECHT module B and module D certifications including bank card direct payment option, are certified Plug&Charge by Hubject, and can accept any other payment means such as RFID, APP or autocharge. </p>
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The blueberry’s increased power capacity with the ability to charge multiple vehicles simultaneously at high speeds not only accelerates the charging process but also enhances convenience and efficiency for electric vehicle owners. </p>
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The enhanced blueberry CLUSTER and blueberry PLUS with 900 kW power capacity are now available. </p>
Electric (Battery)InfrastructureMarket Backgroundmmillikin2024-03-25T00:08:00-07:00