As electric vehicles gain traction, the quest for sustainable energy sources accelerates. Innovations in battery technology, like sodium-sulphur and advanced ethanol blends are reshaping how we power EVs. This evolving landscape promises cleaner, more efficient energy solutions, driving the future of green transportation. And, in this world of electric vehicles, AI is a game-changer. Imagine a futuristic powertrain where machine learning fine-tunes every component for peak performance and battery systems predict their lifespan with precision. The role of AI in designing next-generation electric powertrains goes beyond incremental improvements. This technology doesn’t just enhance the ride; it transforms transportation, heralding a new era of efficiency and innovation. In this week's ETAutoTech newsletter we bring you stories curated from the world of EVs and the evolving energy sources to power EVs.
Natron's USD 1.4 bn sodium-ion battery boost
Natron Energy is set to transform the battery industry with a $1.4 billion investment in a North Carolina plant, boosting its sodium-ion battery output by 40 times. This expansion aims to challenge lithium dominance and address supply issues, with the state offering grants and reimbursements to support the venture. Read more to find out.
Natron plans USD 1.4 bn sodium-ion battery plant in North Carolina
IIT-Delhi's sodium battery breakthrough
Researchers at IIT Delhi have unveiled a breakthrough in sodium-sulphur (RT-Na/S) batteries, addressing dendrite growth issues with an iodide-based additive. This innovation promises a more sustainable and efficient alternative to lithium-ion batteries, using abundant materials like sodium and sulphur, and is poised for electric vehicles and grid applications. Here is the detailed report.
IIT Delhi study to help develop alternative to lithium-ion batteries
WeRide gets driverless permit
China-based WeRide has secured a California permit to test driverless vehicles with passengers, marking a significant step toward its USD 5 billion IPO. While the company navigates US regulatory hurdles and a potential ban on Chinese tech, it will operate 12 vehicles in San Jose, though rides remain free and uncharged. Know the detailed story here.
California allows Chinese robotaxi firm WeRide to test with passengers
Chinese startup WeRide debuts on NYSE
WeRide, a top Chinese autonomous driving startup, is set to debut on the NYSE amid US-China tensions. The IPO seeks USD 440 million despite potential bans on Chinese tech. With geopolitical risks and strained relations complicating its path, WeRide aims to attract investors and navigate a challenging market landscape. Read more here.
A Chinese autonomous driving startup is about to go public in the US
India's ethanol blend
India's plan to blend 20% ethanol in petrol by 2025 will boost sugarcane use, aiming for 990 crore liters annually. Crisil Ratings reports that increased ethanol production from both grains and sugarcane will help balance sugar inventories and improve millers' cash flows, reducing reliance on crude oil imports. Here is the complete report.
Govt's 20% ethanol blending goal in ESY 2025 will need more sugarcane: Report
Aptiv expands Chennai plant
Aptiv has invested INR 45 million to expand its Chennai plant, focusing on advanced safety and cockpit controllers for India's evolving auto market. The expansion will double the workforce to 230 and boost production of cutting-edge components. Future plans include targeting global markets and scaling up exports. Read the detailed article.
Aptiv expands Chennai plant with USD 45 mn investment
That’s all we have in this week’s edition of the ETAutoTech newsletter. We hope you found the content-mix useful. Please do share your feedback, suggestions on sumantra.barooah@timesinternet.in
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