As automotive technology advances toward fully autonomous driving, the limitations of traditional flat and domain-based electronic architectures are becoming increasingly apparent. This whitepaper, crafted by Molex subject matter experts, explores how connector miniaturization plays a pivotal role in enabling next-generation automotive system designs, specifically within zonal architecture frameworks that promise improved scalability, reduced cabling complexity, and enhanced vehicle performance.
Zonal architectures represent a transformative shift, where localized gateways replace centralized domain controllers to optimize data flow, reduce wire harness weight, and support the growing demands of ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems). To realize the full potential of this architecture, high-performance miniature connectors are essential. These connectors must offer high data transmission rates, withstand extreme automotive environments, and support high-volume, automated assembly—all while maintaining signal integrity and mechanical reliability.
Molex addresses these needs with a robust portfolio of interconnect solutions, including 0.50 mm high-speed floating board-to-board connectors, DuraClik™ wire-to-board systems, SlimStack™ FPC-to-board and board-to-board connectors, and Easy-On FFC/FPC products. Each is engineered to perform under high temperatures, shock, and vibration, with advanced features such as wide mating alignment, retention forces of up to 50N, and blind-mating capabilities that enhance assembly efficiency and reliability.
Heilind Electronics, as a strategic distribution partner of Molex, ensures rapid product access, design-in support, and supply chain assurance. Stocking one of the industry’s broadest inventories of interconnects, Heilind is uniquely positioned to help automotive engineers accelerate development timelines and meet the increasing performance, miniaturization, and sustainability targets of modern vehicle platforms.
Together, Molex and Heilind deliver the solutions, support, and scale required to connect the future of mobility.
General Motors and LG Energy Solution will manufacture low-cost lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) batteries in the U.S.
The automaker will convert part of its Spring Hill, Tennessee, manufacturing plant to incorporate LFP battery assembly.
The next-generation Chevy Bolt EV and one trim of the Silverado EV will be powered by LFP batteries.
General Motors’ electric vehicle plans are already paying dividends. With a dozen models across multiple segments, the automaker is breaking sales records and chipping away at Tesla’s market share. And despite the expiration of federal tax credits and a generally hostile regulatory environment for EVs, GM isn’t letting off the throttle.
GM said on Monday that it will upgrade its Spring Hill, Tennessee, factory to incorporate the local production of low-cost lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) batteries for its EVs. The Spring Hill battery factory is owned by Ultium Cells, a joint venture between GM and Korean battery giant LG Energy Solution, which is also the main battery supplier for several major car companies in the U.S., including Hyundai, Kia, Toyota and Rivian, among others.
Across the industry, lower-cost LFP batteries are seen as key to more affordable EV options. The largest single cost on any EV is its battery, and lowering those costs should bring car prices down as well.
Photo by: General Motors
LFP is a low-cost alternative to nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) cells, which are both expensive and leave a considerable environmental impact in their production. While they generally offer lower energy density, LFP cells are safer, more durable and increasingly competitive on range, especially in China, where they now power over 80% of the country’s EVs.
GM has confirmed that both the Chevy Silverado EV and the next-generation Chevy Bolt EV will use LFP batteries. However, it didn’t comment on whether the packs for those vehicles will be produced at Spring Hill. The new Bolt EV is expected to enter production later this year and reach customers in early 2026—about two years before local LFP production begins. GM also said the LFP-powered Silverado EV will offer around 350 miles of range and cut $6,000 in costs.
The conversion of the battery assembly lines will begin by the end of this year and production will start by the end of 2027. GM is targeting “significant cost savings” on the pack level with LFP batteries compared to today’s lithium-ion packs with high-nickel chemistries.
2026 Chevrolet Bolt EUV Rendering Front
Though LFP cells were originally developed in the U.S. at the University of Texas at Austin, they were commercialized and scaled rapidly in China. Chinese battery makers such as BYD and CATL have since led in refining and advancing the technology. Korean firms like LGES were comparatively slower to adopt LFP but are now trying to catch up.
The chemistry is also undergoing a renaissance in the U.S. Ford plans to produce LFP cells at its BlueOval Battery Park Michigan, for future low-cost EVs and Tesla recently expanded its LFP facility in Sparks, Nevada, for energy storage applications.
For now, the GM-LGES joint venture is the largest producer of battery cells in North America, outpacing even Tesla. GM is also investing in next-generation chemistries, including lithium-manganese-rich (LMR) batteries for full-size trucks and SUVs, which are expected to enter production by early 2028. The automaker is also working on silicon anodes and exploring solid-state technologies in its R&D labs.
The Spring Hill factory builds both GM’s gas cars and EVs under one roof. It also has a battery assembly line and manufactures the Cadillac Lyriq, Vistiq and the Acura ZDX.
Correction: This article erroneously said that the Honda Prologue is made at Spring Hill. It’s made at GM’s Ramos Arizpe plant in Mexico. We regret the error.
Have a tip? Contact the author: suvrat.kothari@insideevs.com
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We recently received the Bluetti Elite 200 V2 to review, and we put it to the test. We plugged in all kinds of devices, and even half of a home, and the Elite 200 V2 was up to the task! Let’s start with a video of my retired engineer friend testing it out with me, and then I’ll get back to a written summary, including further testing done after this video was produced.
As you can see in that video, it took us 30 minutes to charge the battery from 54% to 75%. We then tested out plugging in a bunch of different devices, including a hair dryer, a drill, a fan, and more.
We then went one big step further. Russ (my retired engineer friend) has a 4-circuit manual transfer switch installed at his house, able to take 15 amps normally or even up to 20 amps if needed. The transfer switch can transfer 4 circuits from the house to a portable power source — in this case, the Bluetti Elite 200 V2. The 4 circuits he has wired here are for the internet, the refrigerator, the living room, and the master bedroom. In the master bedroom, he has a portable air conditioner (you can currently get something similar from Home Depot for $400), and he turned it on for the test. In the living room, a TV was on. After switching the power over to the Bluetti Elite 200 V2, it handled all of these circuits and the devices plugged into them superbly! We had no issues at all.
We left those circuits powered by the Bluetti system and then plugged a bunch of devices into the other power ports again. We finally reached the system max, passed it, and the system kicked off to protect itself — as it should. The system max is 2,600W, but we pushed it up to 3,300W in order to overload it and see what happened. After it shut itself off, we just had to hit the reset button and it was ready to use appropriately again.
The Elite 200 V2 is available at $699 (59% off), with an extra 5% off using code: CLEANTECH, exclusively for CleanTechnica readers from July 8–11! Get yours here!
On a later date, we conducted more testing of the system, including charging it up with Bluetti portable solar panels. Here are some key notes:
Charging from an electricity outlet: The power station was brought down to 0% and charged to 100% in approximately 1 hour and 52 minutes.
Charging from two Bluetti solar panel arrays:
12:00 pm — started at 25% charge at start
Initial output was 520–550 watts
12:40 pm — reached 40%
1:05 pm — reached 50%, output was at 600 watts
Cloud cover dropped solar wattage to 245 watts. (As clouds roll through, the wattage goes up and down — from 125 watts up to 600 watts.)
2:25 pm — reached 80%
3:39 pm — reached 100%.
After getting to a full 100% charge, plugged into 6,000 watt portable AC unit, compressor drew 7.2 amps at 119.7 volts, 953 watts. Ran this for 45 minutes and drained the battery down to 61%.
At 61% charge, unplugged portable AC unit, plugged in Keurig coffee machine.
Had a draw of 11.2 amps, 1,345 watts, and 119.2 volts.
Ran two each of small, medium, and large cups at 2 minutes each.
Drew the battery down to 56%.
Temperature at power station was 110.8 degrees F and unit remained very quiet nonetheless.
Unit heated up to 116.2 degrees F but remained very quiet.
At 45% charge, plugged in:
TV
Apple TV box
60W lamp
Plugged in iPhone 16 Pro
Draw was minimum of 133 watts, .9 amps, and left on for 3 hours, eventually reaching 40% charge.
Unplugged all items but left power station on. After 12 hours, unit was down to 34%, meaning there is an internal power draw (minimal) when left on.
Below are some pictures from our testing, but I think it’s most useful to watch the video for the full demo.
Moe info about the Bluetti Elite 200 V2 can be found on its webpage, of course. Click there for more info, but here are some core highlights:
High-Capacity Power: With 2,073.6Wh capacity and 2,600W output, the Elite 200 V2 delivers impressive power to keep devices fully charged all day long!
Versatile Applications: Powers up to 9 devices simultaneously — perfect for fueling your essentials during RVing, camping, and road trips.
Advanced Battery Management: The AI-BMS (Battery Management System) monitors battery performance in real-time, guaranteeing safe and reliable power whenever it’s needed.
TurboBoost Charging: Reaching 80% charge in just 1.1 hours, ensuring sufficient power on hand before heading out.
Built for Safety: Feel confident with automotive-grade battery cells and a robust safety system to ensure reliable performance.
Extended Warranty: Enjoy a 5-year warranty and dedicated customer support that’s always ready to help.
Overall, it’s a great system, it’s easy to use, it’s compact yet powerful, and we don’t have any complaints. So, I think we can offer a full endorsement if this is the energy capacity and power capacity system you’re interested in.
The Elite 200 V2 is available at $699 (59% off), with an extra 5% off using code: CLEANTECH, exclusively for CleanTechnica readers from July 8–11! Get yours here!
When searching for a used car, buyers often find themselves navigating a labyrinth of options. With countless makes and models available, determining which car best suits individual needs and preferences can be quite a daunting process. While price and mileage are often the first factors that come to mind, there are several integral features that can help a used car stand out as a great find. Understanding these features aids in making an informed decision and ensures that you receive the best value for your investment.
Reliability and Maintenance History
One of the most critical aspects of assessing a used car is its reliability. A vehicle’s history can offer valuable insights into its long-term performance capabilities. Checking the car’s maintenance records is important. Vehicles that have had regular services performed, such as oil changes, brake inspections and replacements for worn parts are more likely to remain dependable for longer periods. Prospective buyers should consider how well-suited the car is to their typical driving habits. A reliable sedan may serve well for city commuting, while a sturdy truck might be better for those who need to haul heavy loads. By focusing on these factors, you can ensure you’re investing in a vehicle that will stand the test of time.
Consider looking for used cars that come with a certified pre-owned status. Many manufacturers offer certification programs that ensure the car has passed specific inspections. These vehicles usually include an extended warranty, giving buyers peace of mind regarding potential defects that could arise shortly after purchase. This added benefit, combined with documented maintenance history, greatly enhances the likelihood of finding a great deal.
Fuel Efficiency
In an era where fuel prices can quickly drain budgets, fuel efficiency is a significant feature that cannot be overlooked. The miles per gallon (MPG) rating is often indicative of a vehicle’s running costs and sustainability for family or individual needs. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, making choices that favor fuel-efficient vehicles can save drivers significant expenses over the car’s lifespan. Many used cars already come equipped with fuel-efficient engines or hybrid technology, and buyers can maximize their investment potential by researching and finding models known for outstanding fuel economy.
Smaller cars and hatchbacks typically have higher fuel efficiency ratings compared to larger models. Families looking for larger vehicles may benefit from exploring their options in the three-row used SUV inventory that allows for both functionality and efficiency. Popular models in this category have been engineered to provide added space without compromising fuel efficiency, making them an ideal solution for buyers seeking versatility.
Safety Ratings and Features
Safety features are paramount when considering a used vehicle. The modern market increasingly demands cars with advanced safety technologies such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warnings and automatic emergency braking. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), vehicles equipped with such features substantially reduce the risk of accidents, protecting the driver and all other occupants on the road.
Prospective buyers should check the safety ratings offered by reputable agencies and explore review ratings from other drivers. The general structure and design of a used car can contribute to its safety. Trucks and SUVs usually provide higher driving positions, which offer great visibility, while sedans may have superior crash-test ratings due to their lighter build. Buyers should weigh these attributes alongside their safety priorities, ensuring they select a vehicle that aligns with their lifestyle while maximizing protective features for their families.
Interior Quality and Amenities
While a car’s exterior often catches the eye, its interior quality is just as important, if not more so. The materials used within the cabin can impact aesthetics and comfort, and durability. Buyers should test everything from the feel of the seats to the quality of the dashboard materials and the ergonomics of controls. Features such as a well-designed infotainment system can greatly enhance driving enjoyment. Models equipped with touchscreen navigation, Bluetooth connectivity and smartphone integration often create a more streamlined driving experience.
Amenities such as heated seats, climate control and even premium audio systems can add to a vehicle’s appeal. Think about your lifestyle when evaluating these aspects. Families that often travel long distances may prioritize features like spacious seating and entertainment options. Those looking for fun, sporty drives might gravitate toward models with unique, high-tech offers that make every journey memorable.
Resale Value
An often-overlooked aspect of purchasing a used car is its projected resale value. Some brands and models tend to hold their value better than others, largely due to their reputation for reliability and demand in the market. Research by Kelley Blue Book reveals that brands like Toyota and Honda frequently top the charts for vehicles with the best resale value. Prospective owners should consider long-term ownership costs and evaluate how a car’s depreciation will affect them financially, as vehicles typically lose value as they age. When investing in a used car, understanding its potential resale value provides insight into the investment. Cars that possess desirable attributes, from styling to performance and safety ratings, often command higher prices when resold. These considerations can serve short-term needs and may offer financial advantages if circumstances change, or if a buyer decides to upgrade in the future.
Warranty and Service Options
Lastly, warranty options play a critical role in distinguishing a standout used vehicle from the rest. Extended warranties offer a safety net against unexpected repairs that others may not cover. Many dealerships provide warranties, particularly for certified pre-owned vehicles. They often cover the fundamental components of the car, ensuring peace of mind if any issues arise following the purchase.
Potential buyers should assess local dealership services and support availability. Picking a used car from a brand that has strong dealership support can enhance the customer experience and ensure better maintenance service accessibility.
The availability of parts significantly reduces the chances of long downtimes due to repairs. Having a reliable point of contact becomes crucial when navigating post-purchase support and service necessities. Keeping these points in mind allows buyers to make informed decisions that encompass both immediate and future needs.
Each of these features can serve as benchmarks during your search for a used car, helping you sift through the sea of options and find the best deal that matches your unique requirements. The investment made in a vehicle should reflect its value and reliability as you start to explore your choices. Pay attention to these features, and you will greatly enhance the possibility of driving away with a used car that stands out as a true gem.
The post Key Features That Help a Used Car Stand Out as a Great Find first appeared on Clean Fleet Report.
Source link by Clean Fleet Report
Author Emma McCarthy
#Key #Features #Car #Stand #Great #Find
Panasonic has reportedly delayed its plan to ramp up production at its new battery factory in Kansas due to low demand from Tesla, its primary customer.
Since 2022, Panasonic has planned to build a new battery cell factory in Kansas.
The Japanese manufacturer had become a major player in batteries for electric vehicles through its partnership with Tesla to build batteries at Gigafactory Nevada.
It has since gained a few other customers, but Tesla remains its number one customer for EV battery cells, and it is expected to be the primary customer of battery cells coming from the new Kansas plant.
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However, we now learn that Panasonic is delaying its plans for the factory.
Nikkei reports that Panasonic is delaying its plan to ramp up to full production by March 2027 due to expected lower demand from customers:
Tesla supplier Panasonic Holdings has backpedaled on its internal goal for electric vehicle battery production at a U.S. factory in the state of Kansas, Nikkei has learned. While the Japanese electronics giant was initially aiming for full production of an annual 30 gigawatt-hours by the end of March 2027, it will postpone the target date.
Production is expected to start soon with an official ribbon-cutting set for next week.
The plan was to produce 30 GWh of 2170 battery cells, Tesla’s primary battery format, but it’s now unclear when Panasonic plans to ramp up to that production capacity amid expected demand slump for EVs in the US with the removal of the tax credit starting in Q4 2025.
Electrek’s Take
Panasonic has done well by supplying Tesla. It was the first battery manufacturer to give Tesla a chance back in the day, and it propelled the company into a major EV battery manufacturer.
However, it’s now backfiring somewhat, as Tesla’s demand has slowed significantly.
Among Tesla’s large markets, the US remains its healthiest, with sales declining in Europe and China. However, it is expected to decrease further without the tax credit, starting in Q4.
Tesla could get a significant hit, and Panasonic would need to find other buyers for its batteries coming out of Kansas.
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Federal Realty Investment Trust has selected Mercedes-Benz High-Power Charging (HPC) to install over 500 EV fast charging stalls across at least 50 of its open-air retail properties nationwide, beginning in 2026.
The initial deployment phase targets 20 Federal Realty retail centers in Arizona, Pennsylvania, Florida and Connecticut. Each selected location will have up to 10 charging stalls with charging speeds of 400 kW and compatibility with all EV brands. The agreement targets retail locations to capitalize on established properties that already attract strong consumer traffic.
“We view this partnership as a strategic inflection point for EV infrastructure deployment in retail real estate,” said Don Wood, President & Chief Executive Officer of Federal Realty. “By aligning with Mercedes-Benz, we’re introducing a forward-looking amenity that enhances the customer experience and reinforces the long-term strength of our portfolio. The structure of the deal is just as innovative as its scale, designed to create lasting value for our business and our communities.”
“Scaling reliable, high-speed EV charging requires more than just technology—it takes partners who understand place, quality, and the customer journey,” said Andrew Cornelia, President & Chief Executive Officer of Mercedes-Benz HPC North America. “Federal Realty’s properties are destinations in their own right, and this collaboration enables us to deliver a seamless charging experience at some of the most desirable locations in the country.”
BMW Motorrad’s futuristic electric scooter just got its first real refresh since beginning production in 2021. The BMW CE 04, already one of the most capable and stylish electric maxi-scooters on the market, now gets a set of upgraded trim options, new aesthetic touches, and a more robust list of features that aim to make this urban commuter even more appealing to riders looking for serious electric performance on two wheels.
The BMW CE 04 has always stood out for its sci-fi styling and high-performance drivetrain. It’s built on a mid-mounted liquid-cooled motor that puts out 31 kW (42 hp) and 62 Nm of torque. That’s enough to rocket the scooter from 0 to 50 km/h (31 mph) in just 2.6 seconds – quite fast for anything with a step-through frame.
The top speed is electronically limited to 120 km/h (75 mph), making it perfectly capable for city riding and fast enough to hold its own on highway stretches. Range is rated at 130 km (81 miles) on the WMTC cycle, thanks to the 8.9 kWh battery pack tucked low in the frame.
But while the core performance hasn’t changed, BMW’s 2025 update focuses on refining the package and giving riders more options to tailor the scooter to their taste. The new CE 04 is available in three trims: Basic, Avantgarde, and Exclusive.
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The Basic trim keeps things clean and classic with a Lightwhite paint scheme and a clear windshield. It’s subtle, sleek, and very much in line with the CE 04’s clean-lined aesthetic. The Avantgarde model adds a splash of color with a Gravity Blue main body and bright São Paulo Yellow accents, along with a dark windshield and a laser-engraved rim. The top-shelf Exclusive trim is where things get fancy, with a premium Spacesilver metallic paint job, upgraded wind protection, heated grips, a luxury embroidered seat, and its own unique engraved rim treatment.
There are also a few new tech upgrades baked into the options list. Riders can now spec a 6.9 kW quick charger that reduces the 0–80% charge time to just 45 minutes (down from nearly 4 hours with the standard 2.3 kW onboard charger). Tire pressure monitoring, a center stand, and BMW’s “Headlight Pro” adaptive lighting system are also available as add-ons, along with an emergency eCall system and Dynamic Traction Control.
BMW has kept the core riding components in place: a steel-tube chassis, 15-inch wheels, Bosch ABS (with optional ABS Pro), and the impressive 10.25” TFT display with integrated navigation and smartphone connectivity. The under-seat storage still swallows a full-face helmet, and the long, low frame design means the scooter looks like something out of Blade Runner but rides like a luxury commuter.
With these updates, BMW seems to be further cementing the CE 04’s role at the high end of the electric scooter market. It’s not cheap, starting around €12,000 in Europe and around US $12,500 in the US, with prices going up from there depending on configuration. However, the maxi-scooter delivers real motorcycle-grade performance in a package that’s easier to live with for daily riders.
Electrek’s Take
I believe that the CE 04’s biggest strength has always been that it’s not trying to be a toy or a gimmick. It’s a real vehicle. Sure, it’s futuristic and funky looking, but it delivers on its promises. And in a market that’s still surprisingly sparse when it comes to premium electric scooters, BMW has had the lane mostly to itself. That may not last forever, though. LiveWire, Harley-Davidson’s electric spin-off brand, has teased plans for a maxi-scooter-style urban electric vehicle in the coming years, but as of now, it remains something of an undefined future plan.
Meanwhile, BMW is delivering not just a concept bike but a mature, well-equipped, and ready-to-ride electric scooter that keeps improving. For riders who want something faster and more capable than a Class 3 e-bike but aren’t ready to jump to a full-size electric motorcycle, the CE 04 hits a sweet spot. It delivers the performance and capability of a commuter e-motorcycle, yet with the approachability of a scooter. And with these new trims and upgrades, it’s doing it with even more style.
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Author Micah Toll
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BIDITUP Auctions and Heritage Global Partners will host a webcast auction on July 9–10, 2025, featuring surplus assets from a Tier 1 EV battery and energy systems manufacturer in Detroit, Michigan. The event will include late-model production equipment, R&D instrumentation, and facility infrastructure—much of it unused or recently installed.
Key EV battery production assets include a 2023 TRUMPF PFO33-2 laser welding system with Trudisk 3000 (unused), a 2023 TANAC pouch-cell battery assembly line, and dual G&G Lamistar electrode coating lines. Additional equipment includes battery can cutters, adhesive dispensing systems, and thermo chillers from SMC and Duksan.
The auction also features 2023 Instron test systems, Jeio Tech environmental chambers, and glove boxes for lab and thermal testing. EV component lots include factory-sealed Tesla and Ford motors, a Tesla Powerwall 2 system, and unused ChargePoint CT4020 dual-head chargers.
Support equipment includes rotary thermal dryers, explosion isolation valves, heavy-duty lift systems, HVAC units, and electrical infrastructure. Assets will be sold from a single onsite location in Detroit.
Like new / brand new machinery • 2023 Trumpf laser welding system – PFO33-2 with Trudisk 3000 – unused • Raycus RFL-C2000H laser welding station • (2) SMC HRS-150-A thermo chillers – new in box • 2023 Duksan Cotran & T-Water laser chillers • York 60-ton industrial chiller
EV battery manufacturing & engineering • 2023 Tanac pouch-cell battery assembly line – fully integrated • Dual G&G Lamistar electrode coating lines • Battery can cutters, taping stations, pneumatic compression fixtures • Dürr Ecocram adhesive supply system
R&D, lab, & thermal testing • 2023 Instron testing & temperature systems • Jeio Tech walk-in temp/humidity chambers • Braun & Innovative Technology glove boxes • Vacuum ovens, biosafety cabinets, Keithley SourceMeter – many new units
Drying & air systems • 2023 RTR rotary thermal regeneration dryer
EV powertrains & components • Factory-sealed Tesla and Ford EV motors • Tesla Powerwall 2 battery system – 13.5 kWh • ChargePoint CT4020 dual head commercial EV chargers – unused
Heavy lifting & material handling • Tandemloc ElectroLoc lift systems – 84,000 & 95,000 lb • Bison C-Lift, electric forklift lifters, vehicle lifts
The Xiaomi SU7 and recently launched YU7 both use the same self-developed Modena platform.
The brand says the upside-down cells allow for better packaging and improved safety in the event of a crash.
CATL and Xiaomi came up with a special electrolyte to counteract the effects of gravity since the cells are upside down
The quest for battery safety is an endless endeavor, with many manufacturers working on the problem. Electric battery fires are generally rare, but the phenomenon’s rarity doesn’t mean that manufacturers will throw caution to the wind; no, battery protection and thermal runaway mitigation take many forms. Like BYD’s blade battery, which usually has thin, blade-shaped cells that, in theory, make thermal runaway less likely if a cell becomes punctured.
Xiaomi has its own solution. While in Beijing on a Tour of Xiaomi’s factory, it revealed one of the clever ways it tries to mitigate the phenomenon of thermal runaway and make driving safer:
By mounting its battery cells upside down.
The Xiaomi SU7 comes with a choice of two batteries (not counting the low-volume, super high-performance SU7 Ultra). The base model SU7 standard (single motor, RWD) gets a battery made by BYD subsidiary FinDreams. The real story, however, is the batteries on the mid-level Pro and top-level Max trims. Both packs were built by battery giant CATL and specially designed to meet the needs of the SU7.
Like many new design EVs, the SU7’s Modena chassis is a cell-to-body design. Meaning, the top of the battery pack is actually integral to the structure of the car. Yet, in a cutaway view of the car’s chassis, the floorpan (and top of the battery case) reveals all of the cells against the floor, with no connectors showing. Instead, the cells point downward, with each contact facing the road, not the cabin.
Photo by: Xiaomi
The idea is that in the event of a crash or thermal runaway, any fire or force would be directed downward, not upward, to the occupants.
Xiaomi’s representatives insist that this was more challenging than flipping some off-the-shelf cells from CATL, sticking them underneath the SU7, and calling it a day. It’s more complicated than that because the cells are upside down. The battery electrolyte is affected by gravity in ways a traditional setup would not be. Also, the contacts are facing the road and are now potentially subject to corrosion that standard battery cells would not be. To counter both, CATL and Xiaomi took a few steps. The electrolyte has been specially formulated to work well when upside down, while all of the metal contacts on each cell use anti-corrosive metal to stave off any issues. Add in the aerogel insulation on each cell, and Xiaomi’s cars are fully protected from battery fires, or at least they are in theory. No mitigation is completely foolproof.
Photo by: Kevin Williams/InsideEVs
The upside-down cells along with the structural battery pack is part of the reason why the SU7 is explicitly car-shaped. Integrating the upside-down cells and engineering a “minimalistic wiring system” is how Xiaomi gave the car such a thin floor. The SU7 has the same proportions and dimensions sd a contemporary gas-powered combustion car, avoiding the chunky car-on-top-of-a-battery look inherent to less sophisticated EV designs from other EV manufacturers. Compared to a lot of other EV models, the Xiaomi SU7 looks positively low-slung.
Currently, this tech is on the SU7 sedan, but it will show up in the recently launched YU7 crossover, too which shares the same self-developed Modena platform.
If you’re in China, the SU7 is already on sale, while the YU7 is expected to go on sale this summer. Xiaomi plans on exporting its cars to markets outside of China by 2027.
Contact the author: Kevin.Williams@InsideEVs.com
Source link by Battery Tech – News and Trends | InsideEVs
TQ, the German force behind some of the lightest and quietest e-bike motors on the market, just took a leap forward – again. Barely weeks after debuting the lightweight HPR60 e-bike drive system, the company has introduced the HPR40, now claiming the title of the lightest and most efficient mid-drive motor in the world.
Tailored for road and gravel e-bikes, the HPR40 clocks in at just 1.17 kg (2.6 lb). That means it has slashed nearly half the weight of the previous HPR60, which weighed 1.92 kg (4.2 lb).
Despite being smaller, it still delivers a respectable 40 Nm of torque and up to 200W of peak power, making it ideal for riders seeking subtle assist rather than brute force. This isn’t about raw horsepower; it’s about efficiency and seamless integration.
Don’t expect to see it on the next 750W Lectric or Aventon, but look for it on higher-end gravel and road e-bikes where riders are looking for a modest boost instead of a powerful burst.
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Unlike motors that have been rebadged from their original use on mountain bikes or commuters, TQ designed the HPR40 from scratch for lighter frames, aiming to remain nearly invisible on a bike’s bottom bracket and with controls hidden inside the handlebar. The result is a drive system that blends into the bike like a whisper, offering performance without the bulk.
At the heart of the HPR motor is TQ’s Harmonic Pin-Ring Transmission, which is a refined drivetrain rearranged to live fully inside a bike in place of the bottom bracket. This clever design eliminates noisy gears, reduces friction, and lets the motor engage instantly with zero lag. While that might sound like many mid-drives we regularly see from manufacturers like Bosch, TQ’s is so small and so deeply integrated that it’s barely visible to a casual observer.
The HPR40 pairs with a 290Wh battery that weighs just 1.46 kg (3.2 lb) and is hidden inside the downtube. There’s also a water bottle-sized 160 Wh range extender available, keeping total system weight under 2.7 kg (6 lbs). That’s one of the lightest fully integrated e-bike systems out there.
Control comes via a hidden handlebar remote hidden under the handlebar tape, and a sleek end-cap LED display keeps essentials in view without disrupting aesthetics. This stripped-down interface reinforces TQ’s philosophy: get out of the rider’s way. Or as New Atlas humorously described it, “it’s almost as if the company is daring riders to start a fresh round of mechanical doping scandals.”
TQ’s HPR40 isn’t just a fancy new drive system in a display booth, it’s already built into the new Canyon Endurace:ONFly, a sub‑10 kg (22 lb) e-road bike that tips the scales at just 9.9 kg. The Endurace:ONFly marries TQ’s whisper-soft assist with Canyon’s aerodynamic finesse, offering riders a bike that feels analog but rides electric.
The HPR40’s high torque density means riders can double their pedaling output with a modest 200 W boost. That translates to better climbs, longer rides, and a natural ride feel, all without the compromises of heavier systems. Considering that many riders can put out around 200W of constant power by themselves, the effect is like having a tandem rider along helping out, except that he only weighs 6 pounds.
The move shows that not every drive maker is merely chasing horsepower and torque figures. Instead, by merging elegant design, noticeable yet natural power, and light weight, TQ is proving that electric assistance doesn’t have to scream. It can whisper.
Electrek’s Take
Here’s the real story: the HPR40 isn’t just a technical footnote, it’s a signal. It shows that electric bike engineering is transitioning from brute force toward a future that also includes invisible, intuitive power systems. For riders chasing the delicate line between analog feel and electric assist, this is a breakthrough.
And considering that many riders are reaching an age where their mind wants to do the kind of rides that their body might no longer be capable of, systems like these can keep those riders in the saddle for longer. That’s many more years of keeping the good times rolling (and keeping the body young by continuing regular exercise).
Now the question is whether other brands will follow suit. Will we see this ultra-light motor trickle down into commuter e‑bikes or adventure-ready gravel rigs? If so, the day when an e‑bike feels exactly like a bike, but gives you a little assist when you need it most, just got much closer.
TQ is playing a long game: subtle, smart, and purpose-built. The HPR40 is merely the first move, and if this is any indicator, the next wave of e-bikes may feel less electric and more… old school?
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Source link by Electrek
Author Micah Toll
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