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Sat, Oct 38 items
0 of 8 readToday's focus: China targets mass-produced solid-state batteries by 2030, but CATL warns affordability remains a challenge; LG Energy Solution will supply 46-series cylindrical cells for Mercedes' next-gen EVs.
China targets mass-produced solid-state batteries by 2030, CATL warns on cost
Beijing wants large-scale production of solid-state batteries, but CATL, the world's biggest EV battery maker, warns that making the technology affordable is another matter.
Why it mattersSolid-state batteries are seen as the next-generation technology; the timeline and cost will shape EV industry competition.
LG Energy Solution to supply 46,100 round cells to Mercedes
According to a media report, LG Energy Solution will supply novel 46mm-diameter, 100mm-height round cells for Mercedes-Benz's next-gen EVs, with deliveries set to begin in 2028.
Why it mattersThe 46-series cylindrical format is a new-generation battery; this order shows Mercedes' battery supply strategy.
FedEx orders 2,000 electric trucks in $300M deal
FedEx has ordered 2,000 all-electric box trucks from US startup Harbinger in a deal reportedly worth more than $300 million, with expected diesel savings of $800 million.
Why it mattersThis record-setting commercial truck electrification deal shows a logistics giant's confidence in the economics of electric trucks.
2027 Cadillac Escalade IQ gets NACS port and faster home charging
The 2027 Cadillac Escalade IQ gets a Tesla-style NACS charging port and faster home charging; all 2027 GM EVs will come from the factory with NACS ports.
Why it mattersGM's full shift to NACS means Tesla's charging standard is further cementing itself as the North American industry standard.
South Korea's Water to open 23 fast-charging sites with 400 kW chargers
Water, the EV charging brand of South Korean renewable energy company Brite Energy Partners, plans to open 23 new fast-charging sites along highways, with the first already open ahead of an October start.
Why it mattersThe expansion of 400 kW fast-charging helps ease range anxiety for long-distance EV travel in South Korea.
Tesla sales are down, but doing better than some competitors
Tesla sales fell slightly in the third quarter, but its performance remains relatively solid compared with some competitors.
Why it mattersAmid slowing EV demand, Tesla's relative resilience offers a reference point for industry confidence.
Renault opens UK orders for updated Scenic and Megane E-Tech
Renault has opened UK orders for updated Scenic E-Tech and Megane E-Tech models, priced from £33,245 and £28,245 respectively, including the full £3,750 UK Electric Car Grant.
Why it mattersUnder the UK subsidy, Renault's updated pricing will affect its competitiveness in the UK EV market.
Jeep Recon EV manages just 160 miles in real-world highway range test
The Jeep Recon EV has removable doors and 670 combined horsepower, but managed just 160 miles in a real-world highway range test, less efficient than advertised.
Why it mattersReal-world range below advertised figures could hurt consumer confidence in this off-road electric SUV.