Electric Vehicle, Battery, and Charging Updates: Genesis, Coulomb Solutions, Orange EV, BodeEV, Rivian, and Verdek Make Headlines
In the rapidly evolving world of electric vehicles (EVs), recent developments are poised to revolutionize the industry. From groundbreaking battery technology to innovative charging solutions, these advancements are set to redefine the EV landscape.
Battery Innovations
Researchers at the US Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory have made a significant breakthrough, developing a new lightweight battery that can charge up to 80% in just 10 minutes while boasting higher energy density and using less critical metals like copper and aluminum [1]. This development addresses both fast-charging capability and supply chain sustainability concerns.
Engineers have also devised a method for improving battery performance in harsh conditions. By creating laser-drilled pathways in the anode and applying a lithium borate-carbonate coating, batteries can now charge up to 5 times faster in freezing temperatures and maintain 97% capacity after 100 rapid charge cycles in cold weather [3]. This innovation improves EV usability in cold climates and can be integrated into existing manufacturing processes.
Charging Infrastructure
The introduction of the Megawatt Charging Standard (MCS) allows for capacities up to 3.75 megawatts, enabling ultra-fast charging particularly suited for heavy-duty electric trucks. This standard supports charging of 350 kW stations every 60 kilometers on the core TEN-T network in Europe, significantly reducing charging time and boosting the viability of electric freight [2].
Smart charging technologies and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) systems are also gaining traction. Smart charging solutions enable cloud connectivity for better energy management and convenience, while V2G systems allow bidirectional energy flow between EVs and the grid, enhancing energy stability and user benefits [2].
Key Players
Companies like Hyundai are already leveraging fast-charging technology in vehicles such as the Ioniq 6 [4]. Meanwhile, Virta leads in the commercialization of V2G and smart charging solutions. Various consortia are also driving the development of MCS and TEN-T charging infrastructure [2].
Fleet Adoption
These innovations enhance the practicality and economics of large EV fleets, especially in logistics and heavy transport, where fast charging and reliable battery performance in diverse conditions are critical.
Key Companies and Stakeholders
- Oak Ridge National Laboratory (battery innovation)
- Virta (V2G and smart charging solutions)
- Hyundai (fast-charging vehicles like the Ioniq 6 [4])
- Various consortia behind MCS and TEN-T charging infrastructure [2]
Expanding Infrastructure
Companies like Verdek LLC are making significant strides in expanding EV charging infrastructure. Recently, they have completed projects in Staten Island, NY, Austin, TX, and are currently installing in the Bronx.
Promoting Sustainability
In a bid to reduce emissions, ABF Freight is expanding its fleet of Orange EV terminal trucks as part of its commitment to sustainability. Meanwhile, Rivian has spun off its micromobility business into a new independent company named Also Inc., which will focus on developing small, lightweight electric vehicles to address global transportation challenges.
It's important to note that despite accounting for only 3% of vehicles on the road, heavy-duty trucks are responsible for 30% of road transport CO2 emissions and 86% of NOX pollution. Addressing this issue is crucial in the fight against climate change.
Offering Incentives
Genesis is offering free NACS adapters to U.S. EV owners who purchased their vehicle on or before January 31, 2025. From the 2026 model year onward, Genesis EVs will come with a built-in NACS port. BodeEV Install & Service Inc., a new U.S.-based EV installation, operation, and maintenance company, aims to address critical industry challenges, such as slow installations and neglected or broken chargers across the country.
These technological leaps together point toward a near-future EV ecosystem characterized by ultra-fast charging, improved battery longevity and cold-weather performance, expanded smart grid integration, and stronger support for commercial and fleet electric vehicle adoption.
[1] https://www.ornl.gov/news/ornl-researchers-develop-battery-technology-enables-80-fast-charging-in-10-minutes [2] https://www.chargedevs.com/2022/03/21/mcs-ten-t-fast-charging-network-europe/ [3] https://www.anandtech.com/show/17698/battery-researchers-develop-lithium-sulfur-battery-for-extreme-cold-weather-use [4] https://www.hyundaiusa.com/vehicles/ioniq/ioniq-6/
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- The Oak Ridge National Laboratory's development of a lightweight battery with faster charging capabilities and higher energy density could potentially revolutionize the electric vehicle industry, especially for cars prone to harsh weather conditions.
- Smart charging solutions and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) systems, such as those commercially available from Virta, are expected to play a significant role in enhancing energy stability and usability of electric vehicles, particularly in large fleet operations.
