EV Battery and Charging News: onsemi, VW, Fermata Energy, StoreDot, Ampup, Lucid, Addionics, Toyota, ChargePoint & Blink

In electric vehicle, battery and charging news are onsemi, VW, Fermata Energy, StoreDot, Ampup, Lucid, Addionics, Toyota, ChargePoint & Blink.

onsemi Supplies Power Boxes to SSP VW

onsemi  announced it has signed a multi-year deal with Volkswagen Group to be the primary supplier of a complete power box solution as part of its next-generation traction inverter for its Scalable Systems Platform (SSP). The solution features silicon carbide-based technologies in an integrated module that can scale across all power levels – from high power to low power traction inverters to be compatible for all vehicle categories.

“By offering a complete power system solution that encompasses the entire power sub-assembly, we provide Volkswagen Group with a single, simplified modular and scalable platform that maximizes efficiency and performance for their vehicle lineup,” said Hassane El-Khoury, president and CEO of onsemi. “This new approach allows for the customization of power needs and the addition of features for different vehicles without compromising on performance, all while reducing cost.”

Based on the EliteSiC M3e MOSFETs, onsemi’s unique power box solution can handle more power in a smaller package which significantly reduces energy losses. The inclusion of three integrated half-bridge modules mounted on a cooling channel will further improve system efficiency by ensuring heat is effectively managed from the semiconductor to the coolant encasement. This leads to better performance, improved heat control, and increased efficiency, allowing EVs to drive further on a single charge. By using this integrated solution, Volkswagen Group will be able to easily transition to future EliteSiC-based platforms and remain at the forefront of EV innovation.///

New EV Charging Map

Tens of millions of Americans are expected to hit the highways this summer for road trips, often to state or national parks. For many drivers, 2024 marks their first year behind the wheel of an electric vehicle.

A new interactive map from U.S. PIRG Education Fund, Environment America Research and Policy Center and Frontier Group helps those newbies, as well as early adopters of EVs, find state and national parks where they can plug in their electric vehicles while enjoying nature.

“Park systems across the country are making it easier for EV owners to ‘recharge where you recharge,’” said U.S. PIRG Education Fund’s Chief Operating Officer for Program Andre Delattre. “That means we can all leave air pollution behind when we go to enjoy the wonders of the great outdoors. That’s a win-win-win for our health and the health of the wildlife and landscapes that draw us to parks in the first place.”

The interactive map highlights more than 260 large state and national parks across the country with EV chargers either in them or nearby. It also shows the progress made by several states in making the great outdoors accessible to people driving electric vehicles.

Transportation is the United States’ No. 1 source of the pollution that is causing the world to warm, and shifting to electric vehicles can dramatically reduce that pollution. Climate change threatens the health of our forests and ecosystems, and is irrevocably changing the character of America’s most beloved natural places.

“The premise of the National Park system was to preserve everything from purple mountains’ majesty to fruited plains. Climate change is threatening that. Glacier National Park, for example, has one-sixth as many glaciers as it did in 1850 and the last glaciers may be gone by 2030,” said Environment America Research & Policy Center’s Executive Director Lisa Frank. “Visiting these parks by EV is one way we can help preserve them for future generations, and EV chargers in parks and gateway towns make it possible.”

The number of charging stations around the country is ramping up. Nearly one out of every five EV charging ports available nationwide at the end of 2023 had been installed in the previous year.

“Thanks to private and public investments — often supported by the Inflation Reduction Act — we can count on new EV chargers en route to and within our destinations, making summer road trips, and every trip we take, that much easier,” said Frontier Group Associate Director and Senior Policy Analyst Tony Dutzik. “Going for a walk in the woods is a great way to let go of the anxieties of daily life. With more places to recharge EVs, range anxiety is one more worry that EV drivers can leave behind.”

See map.

Fermata Energy & NSF

Fermata Energy is proud to announce its advisory role in a prestigious three-year research initiative funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF). The project, Electric Vehicle Integration to power infrastructure by Behavioral, Economics, and Sociotechnical modeling (E-VIBES), is led by an interdisciplinary team at the University of Colorado-Denver, North Carolina State University, Gettysburg College, and Colorado Smart Cities Alliance. It aims to enhance the resilience and efficiency of America’s infrastructure through Vehicle-Grid Integration (VGI) system development.

This NSF-funded research, under the Strengthening American Infrastructure (SAI) program, seeks to transform how energy and information flow between electric vehicles (EVs) and the electric grid. Addressing the pressing issues of frequent power outages and rising energy costs, this initiative leverages the potential of EVs as backup power sources, cost-saving tools, and supports grid stability and renewable energy integration.

Key Research Areas:

Economic, Behavioral, and Technical Concepts: Developing a comprehensive VGI system.
User-Friendly VGI Services: Identifying pricing mechanisms and institutional arrangements.
Power Flow Studies: Ensuring the grid can handle VGI and optimizing EV charging and discharging.
Socio-Economic Disparities: Understanding consumer willingness and equitable benefit distribution.
Machine Learning and Data Analysis: Creating models to predict VGI adoption and usage patterns.

Fermata Energy will provide expert guidance on the development and implementation of VGI systems, ensuring that the project benefits from cutting-edge industry insights and practical experience. This collaboration enhances the potential for real-world application and impact.

“The integration of electric vehicles into our energy grid is poised to revolutionize energy management,” said Tony Posawatz, CEO of Fermata Energy. “Our role in this research will ensure that Vehicle-Grid Integration systems are not only innovative and efficient but also accessible and beneficial to all, bridging socio-economic gaps in energy access.”

This award, supported by the Directorate for Social, Behavioral, and Economic (SBE) Sciences, reflects NSF’s commitment to advancing research with significant intellectual merit and broad societal impacts.

“Collaborating with Fermata Energy has provided a vital link between our research and real-world application,” said Serena Kim, Project Co-Lead at North Carolina State University. “By leveraging insights from V2X system users, owners, and potential adopters, we are addressing critical challenges in energy pricing, EV ownership costs, and regulatory frameworks to support the wider deployment of V2X systems. This partnership allows us to develop solutions that are not only technologically advanced but also sustainable and equitable, ensuring a more resilient energy future for all communities.”

StoreDot XFC Tech Forecast

StoreDot, the pioneer and world leader in extreme fast charging (XFC) silicon battery technology for electric vehicles (EVs), forecasts that XFC technology is becoming a mainstream feature required by all EV drivers, after initially entering the market as a premium offering in high-end EVs.

StoreDot’s vision aligns with growing consumer expectations for shorter charging times and longer range, which will drive XFC to become a necessary industry standard. As the EV market evolves, the company sees XFC technology following the path of other innovative automotive features, starting as a premium offering before becoming ubiquitous.

The concept of extreme fast charging is already enhancing the appeal and marketability of EVs with drivers expecting it in their vehicles and opting for XFC-compatible models, giving premium automotive brands a competitive edge. However, as more drivers experience its convenience, it’s expected to become a key factor in purchasing decisions across all EV segments.

Other predictions about XFC made by StoreDot are that it will make the EV option much more appealing to drivers that don’t have access to home or workplace charging and will allow OEMs to offer EVs with smaller battery packs, empowering them to offer vehicles with a more attractive price tag and a lighter weight. In addition, fast charging infrastructure utilization and ROI is expected to increase as EV adoption with XFC capabilities is widely adopted.

Dr Doron Myersdorf, CEO of StoreDot, said:

“XFC will become mainstream as it meets drivers’ expectations for shorter charging times and a longer range. But it doesn’t stop with the driver; it’ll benefit the entire ecosystem. It will make EVs more desirable, and some OEMs will offer it as a customizable feature like an extended range premium option. This desirability is crucial for OEMs, especially when facing EV demand fluctuations and addressing consumer concerns about infrastructure and charging times. Importantly, our XFC technology doesn’t compromise battery life or performance and as consumers realize this, XFC adoption will accelerate. We continue to work closely with leading brands on delivering fast adoption and a shorter time to market for our XFC technology and are excited about it entering the mass market.”

StoreDot’s proven ‘100in5’ XFC battery technology, using silicon-dominant anodes, can maintain high energy densities comparable to conventional lithium-ion batteries, while also enabling ultra-fast charging rates and long cycle life.

As XFC technology matures, StoreDot is preparing to meet future demand across the entire EV market. The company remains firmly on track with production-readiness of its XFC cells that deliver 100 miles charged in 5 minutes this year. It aims to deliver 100 miles charged in 4 minutes in 2026 and 100 miles charged in 3 minutes by 2028.

Ampup Partners with EVSE for Street Light Charging in LA

AmpUp, the most reliable and comprehensive electric vehicle (EV) charging software platform, and EVSE, a Division of Control Module Inc., which designs and manufactures unique, patented, retractable-cable EV charging stations and support equipment, today announced an expanded deployment for the Los Angeles Bureau of Street Lighting (LABSL) providing Level 2 EV chargers for an additional 150 existing streetlight poles throughout LA communities.

EVSE offers a unique light pole-mounted EV solution that can be installed on existing or new structures to save installation costs, enable curbside charging, and utilize precious right-of-way resources. This solution can lower installation costs by up to 70% compared to ground-mounted stations by eliminating digging-related construction and reducing the need for electrical wiring. Installed above grade at 10 feet, the solution reduces vandalism, vehicular damage, tripping hazards, and cable damage. The 25-foot cable descends upon activation and retracts when unplugged from the vehicle.

With a proven track record of over a decade, EVSE’s American-made EV solutions have demonstrated exceptional reliability across thousands of installations serving hundreds of utilities and municipalities nationwide, establishing it as a trusted industry leader.

“Pole-mounted chargers make EV charging more accessible to a broader population, including those living in multi-unit dwellings or areas where traditional charging stations are scarce,” said Dean Spacht, vice president of sales and marketing of EVSE. “While our patented retractable cable design addresses the city’s urban safety and vandalism concerns, AmpUp’s platform adds reliability and a crucial layer of grid intelligence. Their demand response feature allows for managed loads during peak demand, supporting grid stability. The EVSE-AmpUp team delivers a smart, secure urban charging solution that serves EV owners and contributes to overall energy management in cities.”

Pole-mounted EV chargers are an excellent charging solution for Los Angeles, with its high population density, especially in urban areas where parking is often limited to on-street only. These convenient chargers provide a solution for residents who drive EVs and only have access to on-street parking. In a city where space is at a premium, elevated streetlight or utility pole-mounted chargers save valuable ground space that traditional EV charging stations would otherwise occupy.

LABSL oversees the city’s complex lighting infrastructure, featuring over 220,000 lighting poles. The LABSL streetlight EV charging program began with a mayoral target to install 10,000 EV chargers throughout the city, alongside a BSL initiative to replace existing bulbs with energy-efficient LEDs. The bulb switch significantly reduces electricity demand for lighting, freeing up capacity for other uses such as EV charging. The chargers are integrated into the existing streetlight infrastructure, utilizing 240-volt electrical service without requiring upgrades.

By integrating EV charging within existing streetlights, LABSL aims to support the mandate set by the Mayor’s Sustainable pLAn, which targets a 25% increase in EV adoption by 2025 (adding 100,000 new electric vehicles), 80% by 2035, and 100% by 2050.

Lucid Group Partners with Graphite One

 Graphite One Inc. (TSXV: GPH) (OTCQX: GPHOF) (“Graphite One”, “G1” or the “Company”), planning a complete domestic U.S. supply chain for advanced graphite materials, announced today that it has entered into a non-binding supply agreement (the “Supply Agreement“) with Lucid Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: LCID) (“Lucid“), maker of the world’s most advanced electric vehicles, for anode active materials (“AAM“).

“We are committed to accelerating the transition to sustainable vehicles and the development of a robust domestic supply chain ensures the United States, and Lucid, will maintain technology leadership in this global race,” said Peter Rawlinson, CEO and CTO at Lucid. “Through work with partners like Graphite One, we will have access to American-sourced critical raw materials, helping power our award-winning vehicles made with pride in Arizona.”

Addionics Funding from GM Ventures & Deep Insight

Addionics, a global leader in battery technology, announced its Series B funding round of $39 Million. The round was co-led by GM Ventures and Deep Insight, with participation from Scania, along with new and returning strategic investors. The funds will be used to bolster the company’s manufacturing capabilities and advance global business engagements. The investment will allow Addionics to build up teams across the globe, and expand its manufacturing and commercialization efforts, including advancing the construction of its planned US-based giga-factory for the production of Addionics 3D Current Collectors.

Addionics is the leading manufacturer of 3D Current Collectors, which drive significant battery manufacturing and performance benefits. With better heat dissipation throughout the electrodes, batteries using Addionics provide faster charging time, increased power, and improved stability, resulting in better-performing batteries at a lower cost. The added benefit of the Addionics drop-in solution allows manufacturers to seamlessly integrate the 3D Current Collectors allowing for cost-effective production and rapid deployment.

Toyota Starts 5th Gen Hybrid Transaxle in WV

Toyota West Virginia is celebrating the start of production for the fifth-generation hybrid transaxle, a core part of Toyota’s multi-pathway approach to electrification. Assembly of the new transaxles is a result of more than $300 million in investments at the plant announced in 2021 and 2022.

“Toyota West Virginia is on the leading edge of our company’s electrified future,” said David Rosier, Toyota West Virginia President. “The new hybrid transaxle is a testament to our teams’ know-how, expertise and determination to assemble the highest quality products for our customers. This significant achievement would simply not be possible without them.”

This milestone reflects the dedication of the more than 2,000 team members at the Mountain State facility and showcases Toyota’s commitment to electrification and long-term job stability in the U.S.

“I’m excited to be part of this team, and we all understand how important this project is,” said Shanell Spears, team leader on the hybrid transaxle line. “As the plant continues to grow and change, it’s obvious Toyota is committed to the people who work here and wants to make our community the best that it can be.”

The fifth-generation hybrid transaxle is part of the all-new Toyota Camry and Corolla Cross. Hybrid electric vehicles are a key component of the company’s portfolio approach to vehicle electrification. Toyota believes that a diverse array of products will provide all customers a role in reducing carbon emissions. Since 2021, Toyota has announced new investments totaling more than $18.6 billion into its U.S. manufacturing operations to support electrification efforts.

“We are so proud of what Toyota has been able to accomplish, and their commitment to West Virginia means so much,” said Gov. Jim Justice. “Toyota has allowed West Virginia to be at the forefront of innovation in cutting-edge technology. We’ve already seen such incredible success, and now, we’re excited to see everyone aiming for even greater heights. I’m so grateful to Toyota for believing in West Virginia, because they have played a massive role in our state’s economic success.”

Toyota West Virginia represents a $2 billion investment and assembles both engines and drivetrain components for Toyota’s North American operations. It is the only Toyota plant in North America to build the fifth-generation hybrid transaxle. Over the past 28 years, Toyota West Virginia has donated more than $10 million to philanthropic causes across the region.

One Million ChargePoints

ChargePoint (NYSE: CHPT), a leading provider of networked charging solutions for electric vehicles (EVs), now enables drivers access to charge at more than one million places across public, private and roaming ports in North America and Europe. Additionally, more than 10 billion electric miles have been enabled by the ChargePoint network to-date.

As EV sales continue to grow, more drivers will need places to charge. Via the ChargePoint mobile app, ChargePoint enables drivers to find, use, and pay for charging at their relevant charging stations. With more than one million places to charge, ChargePoint is delivering a seamless charging experience anywhere its drivers live, work, and play.

“With more EVs on the road, ensuring drivers have access to reliable charging everywhere they need it is imperative,” said Rick Wilmer, CEO of ChargePoint. “Enabling access to more than one million ports, on a network that has enabled more than ten billion electric miles to be driven, underscores ChargePoint’s commitment to delivering a world-class driver experience.”

The ten billion electric miles ChargePoint has enabled is the equivalent of driving around the world more than 400,000 times. Further, the network has enabled around four billion of those miles in the last year alone, a proof point that demand for EV charging continues to scale.

ChargePoint believes that the electrification of transportation, and delivering a world-class driver experience, is simultaneously good for the planet and good for business. The company estimates that drivers on its network have avoided more than 410 million gallons of gasoline, and more than 2.2 million metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions as a result.

NASPO Picks Blink

Blink Charging Co. (NASDAQ: BLNK) (“Blink” or the “Company”), a leading global manufacturer, owner, operator and provider of electric vehicle (EV) charging equipment and services, has been selected as an official supplier in NASPO ValuePoint’s new EV Charging Station Portfolio.

Spearheaded by the State of Maryland and funded through NASPO’s emerging markets initiative, this portfolio aims to provide public entities nationwide with electric vehicle charging solutions to meet the rising demand for EV infrastructure.

NASPO ValuePoint, the cooperative purchasing division of the National Association of State Procurement Officials (NASPO), facilitates cooperative public procurement solicitations nationwide.

This new portfolio offers a comprehensive range of suppliers, manufacturers, and product options for Level 2 and DC Fast Charge EV charging stations, along with value-added services such as installation, maintenance, repair, training, and software support. The contracts are structured to allow for the easy addition of new technologies and devices as the market evolves, ensuring public entities stay at the forefront of this rapidly advancing field.

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