Daily EV news · Global · 7 July 2026
EV Charging
Shell PLC bets on faster highway charging across its Recharge network
Shell PLC is investing in faster highway charging as part of its Shell Recharge EV charging network strategy. The report, surfaced via Ad-hoc-news.de, indicates the energy major is prioritising speed upgrades at motorway locations to improve the driver experience.
Why it matters
Shell's focus on higher power highway chargers signals growing competition for en route charging contracts and raises the bar for CPOs bidding on motorway service area concessions.
Iberdrola and BP Pulse joint venture migrates 2,500 Iberian chargers to Driivz platform
The Iberdrola and BP Pulse charging joint venture is moving its approximately 2,500 fast and ultra-fast charging stations in Spain and Portugal to Driivz's software platform. The Israeli provider will supply API-based architecture, dynamic energy management, and an integrated analytics layer offering real-time transparency on availability, uptime, hardware performance, and charging behaviour. The platform is designed to support future innovations including vehicle to grid and smart charging capabilities.
Why it matters
The migration signals a major software procurement decision for one of the Iberian Peninsula's largest fast-charging networks, with Driivz positioning its data and automation tools as critical infrastructure for scaling operations. For CPOs managing revenue-generating assets at scale, the choice underscores the strategic importance of backend platforms that deliver operational intelligence and support emerging grid services.
Iberdrola (es) · BP Pulse (global) · Driivz (global) · Source
Electric Vehicles
BYD eBus 12 electric city bus quietly expands across global routes
BYD's eBus 12, a 12 metre electric city bus, is reportedly expanding its presence on transit routes worldwide. The development was reported by Ad-hoc-news.de, though specific new deployment figures or city names were not detailed in the available excerpt.
Why it matters
BYD's growing electric bus footprint signals expanding public transit electrification demand, which often correlates with depot charging infrastructure procurement opportunities for CPOs and contractors serving municipal fleets.
Kia reports record 1.63 million first half 2026 sales driven by full EV range from entry SUVs to PV5 van
Kia sold over 1.63 million vehicles in the first half of 2026, its highest total since 1962, with four consecutive months of year on year growth attributed to region specific electrified strategies. In the UK, fully electric vehicles accounted for about 30 per cent of sales with 18,241 registrations, supported by a lineup spanning the EV2, EV3, EV4, EV5, EV6, EV9 SUVs and the PV5 van. Four Kia models, the EV2, EV3, EV4 and PV5 Passenger, qualify for the maximum Government Electric Car Grant.
Why it matters
The breadth of Kia's EV range, from affordable entry models to commercial vans, demonstrates how a full product ladder can capture fleet and public sector demand, especially where grant eligibility applies. Procurement teams evaluating charging infrastructure should note the rising share of mass market EVs in mixed use cases, from passenger cars to light commercial vehicles.
Rivian launches 75-million-share offering to raise approximately $1.5 billion for R2 vehicle programme
Rivian Automotive has initiated a public offering of 75 million shares aimed at raising roughly $1.5 billion in capital. The funds are earmarked for the company's R2 vehicle development and production push, representing a significant capital raise for the electric vehicle manufacturer as it scales its model lineup beyond current offerings.
Why it matters
The capital injection signals Rivian's commitment to expanding its EV portfolio with the R2 platform, which could increase demand for charging infrastructure as the manufacturer grows its vehicle fleet. For CPOs and infrastructure developers, tracking OEM funding rounds helps anticipate future charging network requirements and partnership opportunities.
Bentley names first EV the Torcal ahead of imminent launch
Bentley has confirmed its inaugural battery electric vehicle will be called the Torcal, signalling the model's arrival is near. The announcement marks a milestone in the luxury marque's electrification strategy, though no technical specifications or production timelines have yet been disclosed. The news comes as premium manufacturers accelerate EV rollouts to meet regulatory deadlines.
Why it matters
High end EV launches typically drive demand for premium charging infrastructure at dealerships, luxury hotels and private estates. Bentley's entry into the battery electric segment may prompt CPOs to upgrade hardware and payment systems to serve ultra luxury customers expecting concierge level charging experiences.