Latest news on Electric Vehicles, Batteries, and Charging: Rivian, Electrify America, Quasar, Harbinger, EV Connect, 24M, Trojan Battery featured, along with updates from Boston and Transtex.
Headline: Revolutionary Lithium-Sulfur Batteries Promise Faster Charging, Longer Range, and Improved Safety for Electric Vehicles
The world of electric vehicles (EVs) is witnessing an exciting period of innovation, with researchers focusing on overcoming the challenges of lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries. These batteries, theoretically offering five times the energy density of lithium-ion batteries, could pave the way for lighter, longer-range EV battery packs.
Kia EV9 and Quasar 2 Bi-directional Charger Enable Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) Functionality
Meanwhile, the Kia EV9 is set to benefit from the Quasar 2 bi-directional charger, which allows for Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) functionality. Wallbox has announced the pre-order availability of this charger, ensuring seamless integration with the EV9.
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. Launches Electric Golf Carts
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. has announced the launch of its new electric golf carts, the G30Es and G31EPs, in Japan by June 2025. The G30Es features an electromagnetic guidance system, while the G31EPs is manually operated, offering versatility for golfers.
Trojan Battery Company Introduces Lithium-Ion Battery Pack for Low-Speed Recreational Vehicles
Trojan Battery Company has unveiled the Trojan Lithium OnePackTM Extended Range (XR), a lithium-ion battery pack designed for low-speed recreational vehicles (LSEVs). This new pack offers up to 75 miles per charge, outperforming standard 105Ah lithium batteries by 30 miles.
TRANSTEX Launches Electric Auxiliary Power Unit for Trucking Fleets
TRANSTEX has launched the DClimate Lithium ProTM, a lithium-ion powered electric Auxiliary Power Unit (eAPU) designed to enhance reliability, reduce emissions, and lower operating costs for trucking fleets.
Electrify America Expands Public Charging Network
Electrify America's expansion in 2024 resulted in over 16 million charging sessions and a 65% increase in energy delivered. The company continues to grow its public charging network across North America.
Researchers at Florida International University Develop Lithium-Sulfur Battery with Improved Lifespan and Efficiency
Researchers at Florida International University have developed a lithium-sulfur battery that demonstrates 92% retention after 500 charging cycles. The addition of platinum nanoparticles has significantly improved the battery's lifespan and efficiency.
Advancements in Li-S Battery Technology
Current Li-S battery research is addressing practical barriers through material innovation, protective engineering, and cell design refinements. Rapid charging, enhanced safety, and improved energy density are just some of the benefits being pursued. Key advancements include:
- Rapid Charging: Li-S batteries capable of fully charging in just 12 minutes are being developed.
- Catalytic Materials and Advanced Cathodes: The use of metal oxides, single-atom catalysts, graphene, and carbon nanotubes improves sulfur conversion reactions and suppresses the shuttle effect.
- Addressing Dendrite Formation: Protective surface coatings and engineered 3D lithium structures are being used to stabilize the lithium and extend battery life and safety.
- Higher Energy Density Potential: Li-S batteries could offer significantly more energy per pound than conventional lithium-ion cells.
- Improved Electrolytes and Separator Technologies: Highly concentrated electrolytes and better separators help contain polysulfides and enable rapid ion transport.
- Quasi-Solid-State and Novel Sulfur Forms: Novel electrode designs, including quasi-solid-state cathodes and using monoclinic gamma-sulfur, reduce the shuttle effect and improve cycle stability.
- Research and Industry Collaboration: Multi-year, industry-sponsored research projects are exploring cell components, materials, and structures to unlock durable, high-energy Li-S battery systems for commercial EV applications.
EV Connect Secures Certification for EV Charging Management Solutions
EV Connect, a leader in EV charging management solutions, has secured OCPP 2.0.1 certification for both the Core and Advanced Security modules from the Open Charge Alliance (OCA).
Boston Unveils Behind-the-Meter Public Curbside EV Charger
Boston has partnered with Brooklyn-based itselectric to unveil the nation's first behind-the-meter public curbside electric vehicle (EV) charger in Roslindale. The detachable cable-based EV charger model avoids costly utility upgrades and allows property owners to earn revenue from charging fees.
Leasing of Electric Vehicles on the Rise
The leasing of electric vehicles is on the rise, with over 50% of new EV purchases being leases in Q4 2024. This trend suggests a growing acceptance of EVs as a mainstream transportation option.
- In the realm of science, environmental-science and industry, research and development are constantly shaping the future of health-and-wellness, with a primary focus on improving lifestyle and personal-growth through advancements in technology.
- The market for fitness-and-exercise equipment is evolving, with more companies integrating technology to create smart gadgets like smartphones, enhancing users' health and wellness.
- Personal-finance is also increasingly tied to the finance sector, with investments in clean technology like electric vehicles (EVs) and environmental-science becoming popular choices for potential returns.
- The food-and-drink industry is striving to adopt more sustainable practices to reduce its environmental impact, contributing to the overall health of the planet and promoting a culture of health-and-wellness.
- Home-and-garden businesses are offering energy-efficient appliances, such as electric cars and EV chargers, to cater to the growing demand for eco-friendly solutions in people's daily lives.
- The education-and-self-development sector is embracing the revolution in EVs, integrating courses on electric vehicles, smartphones, and other high-tech gadgets into their curriculum.
- The travel industry is undergoing a transformation, with an emphasis on environmentally friendly transportation options like electric vehicles and electric-vehicles charging stations, making travel safer, more efficient, and less harmful to the environment.
- The innovation in EVs is trickling down to other industries, such as business and business-intelligence, where companies are looking for ways to adopt more sustainable practices and reduce environmental footprint.
- The finance landscape is evolving to accommodate the rise of clean-energy vehicles, with lenders offering loans and leases for electric cars and home EV chargers, making these options more accessible to the general public.
- The rise of EVs is influencing the automotive industry, leading to the development of new models, features, and technologies, such as electric-vehicle batteries, autonomous driving, and advanced AI systems, to provide an exceptional and eco-friendly driving experience.
