BMW's manufacturing facility in Spartanburg, South Carolina, is gearing up to start producing battery modules for electric vehicles by December. This localized production is a crucial step in the automaker's strategy to bolster its EV manufacturing capabilities within the United States. The move is expected to support forthcoming electric models from BMW.
BMW is considering establishing a battery pack assembly plant in Woodruff, South Carolina, to support its experimental iX5 Hydrogen fuel cell vehicle. This potential domestic production move signals BMW's commitment to localized manufacturing, especially for its niche hydrogen fuel-cell program. Such an investment could significantly bolster the U.S. EV battery supply chain.
BMW Group Plant Woodruff in South Carolina is gearing up for series production of high-voltage batteries to power the new fully-electric BMW iX5. This facility utilizes advanced manufacturing techniques, including AI-supported processes and virtual reality, to assemble battery modules and packs for upcoming EV models.
TDK has unveiled its new EP21 series of flat-wire double chokes, designed specifically for common-mode filtering applications in DC-DC converters. These surface-mount devices can handle up to 35 amps, making them suitable for the demanding low-voltage electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) protection circuits found in electric vehicles.
Avery Dennison Performance Tapes has published a new guide to help engineers and decision-makers navigate the complexities of EV battery design and manufacturing. The "EV battery electrical insulation design guide" focuses on the use of dielectric tapes, including their Volt Tough portfolio, as a critical solution for electrical insulation within battery systems.
Researchers at the U.S. Department of Energy's Argonne National Laboratory have discovered that a nanometer-thin magnesium oxide coating can significantly improve the stability of sulfide-based solid-state electrolytes. This breakthrough could be crucial for advancing next-generation solid-state batteries, which promise greater energy density and safety for electric vehicles.
SABIC has launched two new polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) compounds specifically engineered for insulating high-voltage power modules in electric vehicles. These materials, LNP THERMOCOMP OFM76XXP and OFM76EXP, are designed to support 800V and higher traction inverters, facilitating faster charging and overall enhanced EV performance.
Beijing has restricted exports of critical rare earth materials to 14 European companies specializing in advanced chemicals and electric motors. This move highlights China's strategic leverage in the global supply chain for EV components.
Hyundai is collaborating with the Healthy Seas initiative to address marine pollution by recovering discarded fishing nets, or 'ghost nets,' from the ocean. This partnership focuses on not only cleaning up our seas but also transforming this recovered plastic waste into sustainable components for Hyundai's Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6 electric vehicles. The initiative highlights a circular economy approach towards environmental stewardship and EV manufacturing.
Effective thermal management is crucial for the performance and lifespan of high energy-density EV batteries. This report highlights key advancements in thermally conductive adhesives and gap fillers that efficiently transfer heat from battery cells to cooling systems. These innovations help prevent overheating, ensuring safer and more durable battery packs for electric vehicles.
The Critical Materials Crossroads Engine, spearheaded by the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC), has been awarded up to $160 million by the US National Science Foundation. This significant funding aims to establish a regional ecosystem in the U.S. for producing essential metals and advanced materials crucial for electric vehicle batteries, semiconductors, and other high-tech applications. The initiative seeks to reduce the nation's reliance on imported critical minerals for EV manufacturing.
Battery material startup Sila Nanotechnologies has successfully raised $300 million to scale up its manufacturing of silicon anode materials. These advanced anodes promise to increase electric vehicle range by up to 20%, with initial applications set for Mercedes-Benz and Panasonic battery cells.
AMADA WELD TECH has upgraded its SIGMA LS laser micromachining subsystem, which is used in EV battery production. The new version features a motorized beam delivery head and flexible mounting options, making it more adaptable for integration into automated manufacturing lines. The motorized focusing capability allows for precise, automated adjustments during the high-precision laser processes critical for EV battery components.
The mining and resource extraction required for electric vehicle batteries and components places significant strain on the planet. This article argues that relying on corporate goodwill for sustainable practices is insufficient and calls for a fundamental shift in how we approach environmental protection in the EV era.
A significant partnership between electronics recycler ERI and rare earth recycling specialist Cyclic Materials aims to recover critical minerals from e-waste in the U.S. This collaboration is set to establish one of the largest domestic supplies of recycled rare earths, crucial for EV battery production. By diverting these materials from landfills, the initiative promises a more sustainable and secure supply chain for the burgeoning electric vehicle industry.
Researchers are developing a proactive 'cradle-to-crisis' strategy to enhance electric vehicle battery safety and performance. This innovative approach focuses on predicting and managing thermal runaway events by studying battery materials from their inception through potential failure, aiming for more robust and reliable power sources for EVs.
Amazon has entered into an agreement with Electrovaya to integrate the company's Infinity battery technology into its extensive material handling operations. This partnership signifies a move towards enhancing efficiency and sustainability within Amazon's logistics network through advanced battery solutions. The scope of this collaboration could potentially broaden to include robotics and energy storage applications for the e-commerce giant.
The electric bicycle industry is keenly eyeing sodium-ion batteries as a potential game-changer. These next-generation power cells promise substantial cost reductions, improved safety profiles, and a decreased reliance on scarce materials such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel, addressing key pain points in current battery technology.
The United States is actively seeking to shore up its domestic critical mineral supply, essential for EV battery production, amid geopolitical and economic uncertainties. A recent forum convened industry leaders, academics, and government officials to strategize on boosting domestic mining, processing, and recycling capabilities. This collaborative effort aims to reduce reliance on foreign sources and establish a more resilient supply chain for the nation's electric vehicle future.
The National Laboratory of the Rockies (NLR) has signed new agreements with the State of Alaska and the University of Alaska Fairbanks. These partnerships aim to advance research and development in critical minerals and energy technologies crucial for the burgeoning EV battery industry. The focus will be on leveraging Alaska's natural resources to support domestic supply chains for EV manufacturing.
A new report from the National Laboratory Roundtable (NLR) highlights essential strategies to secure North America's critical mineral supply chains, crucial for both electric vehicle batteries and grid infrastructure. The report emphasizes the interconnectedness of these sectors from raw material extraction to final energy delivery. By focusing on domestic sourcing and advanced processing, NLR aims to reduce reliance on foreign entities and bolster energy independence.
NASA's annual Invention of the Year award has recognized a new internal short-circuit device developed by its researchers. This innovation is designed to help engineers better understand and mitigate battery failures, which could lead to significant safety improvements for electric vehicle batteries and beyond.
Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed a novel motor drive design capable of canceling common-mode voltage and neutral-point current. This innovation, still in the simulation phase, could significantly enhance the longevity and efficiency of multi-phase electric motors, particularly in demanding heavy-duty transportation sectors.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) has issued a warning that China's increasing restrictions on rare earth exports could jeopardize $6.5 trillion worth of Western industries, including critical EV battery and motor manufacturing. These curbs underline growing concerns about the global supply chain's over-reliance on China for essential minerals needed in the energy transition.
LibertyStream Infrastructure Partners has launched a fully automated Gen 6 system for direct lithium extraction. This advanced technology is now supporting lithium carbonate production at its initial operational site, crucial for manufacturing lithium-ion batteries. The company's innovation aims to enhance the supply of essential materials for the rapidly growing electric vehicle sector.
Vishay Intertechnology has unveiled a new automotive optocoupler, the VOMHA43A, which significantly reduces the package width from 4.4 mm to 3.6 mm. This compact component is designed to enhance efficiency and space-saving within electric vehicle (EV) battery management systems. With a robust 707 Vpeak isolation voltage, it is specifically tailored to meet the demands of 400 V EV battery architectures.
Bosch has finalized its $225 million acquisition of a semiconductor facility in Roseville, California, marking the German supplier's first chip production site in the United States. This move is poised to strengthen the domestic supply chain for critical automotive components, including those essential for electric vehicles (EVs). The plant has already commenced sample production, with full operations expected to ramp up in the coming years.
Hyundai Motor Group and SK On have commenced operations at their new $5 billion EV battery manufacturing plant in Bartow County, Georgia. This facility will supply battery cells for Hyundai's nearby Metaplant America, supporting the automaker's rapidly expanding electric vehicle production in the United States.
Critical materials producer Energy Fuels is set to acquire Vacuumschmelze (VAC), a leading rare earth magnet maker, in a $1.9 billion deal. This strategic acquisition aims to establish a fully integrated "mine-to-magnet" supply chain across North America, from raw material extraction to finished product. The move is poised to bolster domestic production of essential components for electric vehicle motors and other advanced technologies.
Hyundai Motor Group, in partnership with SK On, has officially inaugurated a significant $5 billion electric vehicle battery manufacturing facility in the United States. This new plant is a cornerstone of Hyundai's strategy to expand its EV production capabilities within North America and increase its market share in the rapidly growing sector.
Bosch has commenced sample production of silicon carbide (SiC) power semiconductors at its new chip fabrication facility in Roseville, California. This marks Bosch's first semiconductor manufacturing presence in the U.S. and will bolster the supply of critical components for electric vehicle powertrains. The facility, which received support from federal CHIPS funding, represents a significant investment by the company in domestic automotive technology.
A recent analysis of multiple Tesla Model 3 battery variants after 62,000 miles reveals that models equipped with CATL's LFP (lithium iron phosphate) battery packs experienced the least degradation. This study offers valuable insights into the long-term performance and durability of different battery chemistries used in popular EVs.
A recent analysis of nearly 10,000 real-world EV battery tests indicates that Tesla Model 3 vehicles equipped with LFP (lithium iron phosphate) battery packs maintain their charge capacity more effectively than those using nickel-based chemistry. The study found that LFP-powered Model 3s by CATL averaged 93.3% battery health after exceeding 62,000 miles, surpassing all nickel-based variants in the dataset. This suggests significant long-term durability advantages for the LFP technology.
Researchers from Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) and Southern Methodist University (SMU) are collaborating on a new solid-state battery design. Their focus is on developing nanoscale films for the interface between the lithium metal anode and the solid electrolyte, a critical step towards improving the performance and safety of next-generation EV batteries. This research could pave the way for more efficient and durable solid-state batteries in electric vehicles.
Bosch has begun sample production at its new semiconductor plant in Roseville, California, marking a significant step towards bolstering its U.S. manufacturing footprint. This facility will produce silicon carbide (SiC) power semiconductors, critical components for electric vehicle inverters that directly impact range and charging efficiency.
Graphite One has partnered with an engineering firm to advance its Conneaut, Ohio, battery anode production facility. This collaboration aims to establish 25,000 tonnes of domestic synthetic graphite capacity annually by late 2028, bolstering the crucial supply chain for EV batteries. This represents a significant step towards securing critical materials for electric vehicle manufacturing within North America.
Sodium-ion battery technology is emerging as a compelling alternative to traditional lithium-ion, and UNIGRID is at the forefront with its new Na+Casa residential battery. Following successful installations in European homes, the company is now preparing for a strategic entry into the U.S. market. This development signals a potential shift in the home energy storage landscape with a more abundant and cost-effective battery chemistry.
The nascent advanced battery recycling industry is encountering significant hurdles as two prominent facilities in the United States recently ceased operations. These closures highlight the challenges in scaling up novel recycling technologies crucial for a sustainable EV battery supply chain.
Rare earth minerals, crucial for EV motors and other high-tech applications, extracted from a U.S. mine are currently being shipped to Asia for processing. This situation highlights the ongoing challenges in establishing a fully domestic supply chain for these critical materials, despite efforts to reduce reliance on foreign processing capabilities.
Lexus is developing an all-electric successor to its iconic LFA supercar, aiming to replicate the original's engaging driving feel without relying on a V10 engine. The new EV is expected to be the first production Lexus to feature advanced solid-state batteries, promising enhanced performance and range.
Momentum Technologies has chosen Aquatech's PEARL process to enhance domestic U.S. production of critical battery materials and rare earth elements. This collaboration combines Momentum's Membrane Solvent Extraction (MSX) technology with Aquatech’s refining platform, which is capable of processing over 100,000 tons of lithium annually. The partnership aims to streamline the refining of crucial components for EV batteries within the United States.
The Nissan Leaf largely shaped public perception of EV battery degradation due to its early battery technology limitations. While the Leaf's battery health issues were notable, modern electric vehicles have significantly advanced battery management systems and chemistries that mitigate similar concerns. This historical context helps explain lingering consumer anxieties, even as current EV batteries demonstrate much greater longevity and performance.
Flux Power has launched SkyEMS 3.0, an enhanced energy-management platform for lithium-ion battery packs. This latest version introduces customizable dashboards and AI-driven analytics, providing operators with detailed insights into battery charging, performance, and degradation. The update aims to optimize battery usage and longevity across industrial and commercial fleets.
MG plans to introduce its first plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) featuring semi-solid-state battery technology, starting with the MG ZS PHEV in 2027. This move signals a significant step in battery innovation for the automaker's electrified lineup. The new battery tech will also be deployed across two additional PHEV SUV models.
A new update from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) highlights the severe risks of deep-sea mining to unique mollusk species living near hydrothermal vents. Over half of these specialized creatures, which have adapted to extreme seafloor environments, could face extinction if mineral extraction proceeds. This warning underscores the ecological consequences of pursuing new sources for materials, some of which are critical for EV batteries.
Scientists at MIT have made a significant breakthrough in solid-state battery technology, addressing a critical flaw that has hindered their widespread adoption. Their new research offers a solution to prevent the formation of metallic dendrites, which can cause short circuits and compromise battery lifespan and safety.
EVelution Energy is establishing a solar-powered facility in Yuma County, Arizona, dedicated to producing battery-grade cobalt sulfate. This domestic production site aims to bolster the North American EV battery supply chain by processing significant quantities of cobalt hydroxide feedstock annually. The plant underscores an effort to localize critical mineral processing for electric vehicle batteries.
A 2023 Tesla Model 3 equipped with a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack reportedly experienced a 10% capacity degradation after just 26,000 miles. While not critically poor, this level of wear is more significant than frequently advertised for LFP batteries, which are often cited for their exceptional longevity.
The electric vehicle industry is increasingly exploring sodium-ion battery technology as a compelling alternative to traditional lithium-ion cells. These batteries, which avoid critical materials like lithium, nickel, and cobalt, offer a promising pathway to reduce costs and dependence on scarce resources, accelerating the adoption of more affordable EVs globally.
Chinese battery manufacturer Gotion High-Tech is suing Green Charter Township in Michigan for breach of contract, seeking millions in damages. The lawsuit stems from the township's alleged failure to uphold agreements crucial for the development of Gotion's planned $2.3 billion EV battery component plant, which has been delayed due to local political opposition and permitting issues.
