Schaeffler has developed a new P2 (parallel, two-clutch) high-voltage hybrid module -designed to fit between the internal combustion engine and transmission – that can transmit engine torques of up to 800 N·m (590 lb-ft) without having to incorporate an expensive clutch. The P2 consists of an electric machine and an automated disconnect clutch, which is… Read more »
The EV charging scene is in its infancy, and industry observers offer a wide range of opinions as to the best locations and pricing models for public chargers. Georgia Power is betting that EV drivers will travel to its company offices to pay for charging. The utility has opened 11 new public charging stations, the… Read more »
Last month’s Frankfurt auto show was positively crackling with EV news, as Audi, BMW and Porsche presented concept EVs, Mitsubishi showed its 2016 Outlander PHEV, and several suppliers touted tech advances. However, the comparatively low-key presence of electric trendsetter Tesla – which was showing red, white and blue Model S but no Model X –… Read more »
BASF is expanding its range of engineering plastics for electric and hybrid vehicles. Tailor-made Ultramid and Ultradur materials are now available for equipping vehicle-interior and -exterior high-voltage plug-in connectors with precisely fitting characteristics. Plastics used for connectors in vehicles must meet stringent requirements regarding flame retardancy, color stability and electrical isolation. High-voltage connectors are typically… Read more »
The developing VW scandal has highlighted the lengths to which some automakers will go to find an alternative to electrification. Some industry gadflies have speculated that Volkswagen might opt to redeem itself by becoming a (sorely needed) leader in the electromobility field. “With hydrocarbon combustion we’ve hit the limits of physics,” Elon Musk told Auto… Read more »
Network operator ChargePoint has partnered with Constellation, a provider of energy management services, to allow businesses to purchase ChargePoint charging stations – including installation and service – through their existing Constellation electricity or gas supply agreements. Constellation’s Efficiency Made Easy program enables its commercial and industrial supply customers to implement various types of energy efficiency… Read more »
There’s a lot of future potential baked into Tesla’s stock price, but many stock pundits believe it’s headed even higher. Jefferies analyst Dan Dolev recently raised his price target for TSLA to $365.00, based on his belief that the company will be successful at lowering battery costs, and that this will improve its gross margins…. Read more »
Plug-in vehicles are on a roll – as of this month, there are now a million on the world’s roads, according to an estimate by the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT). However, that’s still a tiny fraction of the two-billion-strong global vehicle fleet. EV adoption will have to ramp up quickly to have an… Read more »
The 2016 Chevrolet Volt is a tour de force of engineering, a substantial step forward over its predecessor (see our cover story in the current issue of Charged). However, some EV industry observers fear that unless GM follows up on the technical improvements with some meaningful marketing, an area in which EV-makers have fallen short… Read more »
Dutch charging network operator Fastned has partnered with Nissan to offer two years of free fast charging to new LEAF buyers. The EV Carefree package, which will be standard with new LEAFs sold in the Netherlands, includes a replacement vehicle for holidays, a service package and a home charging system, as well as two years… Read more »
