Daily EV news · Global · 13 July 2026
EV Charging
Chroma launches 8000 test system for ISO 15118-20 and liquid-cooled EV charging
Test equipment maker Chroma has introduced the Chroma 8000 EV and EVSE automated test system, designed for simultaneous multi-connector testing of DC charging equipment, EV compatibility validation and liquid-cooled high-current charging tests. Paired with the Chroma 80713 simulator, the system supports testing against both ISO 15118-2 and ISO 15118-20 requirements, enabling interoperability and communication protocol validation across both versions of the standard. ISO 15118-20 extends the mainstream ISO 15118-2 framework with support for Plug and Charge, wireless power transfer, bidirectional power transfer, Megawatt Charging System applications, Dynamic and Scheduled charging modes, and Transport Layer Security 1.3.
Why it matters
The system addresses critical testing needs for next-generation charging infrastructure, including liquid-cooled high-power charging and bidirectional capabilities that enable vehicle-to-grid services. For CPOs and equipment procurers, validated ISO 15118-20 compliance ensures interoperability with emerging EV models and grid-responsive charging strategies.
NatPower builds global EV charging platform
NatPower is developing a global electric vehicle charging platform, as reported by Port Strategy. The company is positioning itself to deliver charging infrastructure across multiple markets.
Why it matters
A new global charging platform signals potential procurement opportunities for hardware suppliers, installers and technology partners seeking to participate in large scale international rollouts.
Zaptec and Polestar extend charging partnership for two years, adding Baltics and non-European markets
Norwegian charging firm Zaptec and vehicle maker Polestar have signed a two year partnership extension to supply smart chargers to Polestar customers across existing European markets plus new territories including the Baltics and regions outside Europe. The companies will also continue joint development work on bi-directional charging and vehicle to grid technology, building on two years of collaboration across Polestar's European footprint.
Why it matters
The deal signals sustained OEM bundling demand for home charging hardware and shows how vehicle manufacturers are locking in multi-year supply agreements that span new geographies. Zaptec's retained position with Polestar gives the Norwegian supplier a foothold in emerging V2G product development alongside a major EV brand.
EV charging cable market forecast to reach 5.63 billion dollars by 2033
MarketsandMarkets projects the global EV charging cable market will grow from 2.01 billion dollars in 2026 to 5.63 billion dollars by 2033, representing a compound annual growth rate of 15.8 per cent. The research firm attributes growth to accelerating electric vehicle adoption, expanding public and private charging infrastructure investments, and increasing deployment of high power charging solutions across home, fleet, and highway fast charging applications.
Why it matters
The forecast signals sustained procurement demand for charging cables as network operators scale infrastructure, with technical advances in conductor materials, thermal management, and connector designs enabling higher charging capacities. CPOs and installers can expect continued supplier innovation focused on durability, flexibility, and safety to support ultra fast charging deployments.
EV Awards 2026 opens submissions with new category for charging startups
The EV Awards 2026 has opened its submissions process, with organisers confirming that charging startups will be honoured this year. The announcement was reported by 매일경제 (Maeil Business Newspaper) via Google News.
Why it matters
Recognition programmes like these can raise the profile of emerging charging companies, potentially helping them attract investment, partnerships and procurement opportunities in a competitive market.
Electric Vehicles
BYD unveils 1,500+ hp electric supercar undercutting Porsche 911 Turbo S on price and performance
BYD has launched an electric supercar delivering over 1,500 horsepower, positioned as both faster and cheaper than the Porsche 911 Turbo S. The vehicle marks BYD's push into the high performance EV segment, expanding beyond its mass market and commercial vehicle portfolio. Pricing and acceleration figures position it competitively against established premium sports car brands.
Why it matters
The move signals intensifying competition in premium EV segments, potentially influencing charging infrastructure requirements for high performance vehicles at luxury destinations and motorsport venues. BYD's vertical integration in batteries and powertrains may set new cost benchmarks that reshape procurement expectations across performance EV categories.
Lexus LFA electric supercar prototype debuts at Goodwood with simulated V-8 sound
Toyota's luxury brand unveiled a working prototype of the all-electric Lexus LFA at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, featuring a low-slung design and artificial V-8 engine noise. The supercar is being developed alongside Toyota's GR GT and GR GT3 race cars, sharing most structural components but replacing the combustion engine with a battery electric powertrain. Toyota expects the LFA to be the first vehicle equipped with its solid-state batteries, targeting practical use around 2028, though the company has repeatedly delayed this technology over recent years.
Why it matters
If Toyota delivers on solid-state batteries by 2028, the technology could reshape EV charging infrastructure requirements with faster charging speeds and higher energy density, potentially reducing dwell times at charging sites. The repeated delays highlight ongoing uncertainty around next-generation battery timelines that CPOs and site hosts must factor into long-term infrastructure planning.
Ferrari, BMW and Stellantis shift to aluminium wiring for EVs as copper hits 15,000 dollars per tonne
Ferrari, BMW and Stellantis are following Tesla and Chinese manufacturers in adopting aluminium wiring for electric vehicles, driven by copper prices that reached 15,000 dollars per tonne in early 2026. Aluminium currently trades around 3,100 dollars per tonne, creating a price ratio above 4.2 to 1 that makes substitution economically compelling for automakers. JPMorgan estimates this shift already affects approximately 2 per cent of global copper demand in 2026.
Why it matters
The move to aluminium wiring by major OEMs will influence component specifications and supply chains for charging infrastructure, where copper remains standard in cables and connectors. Procurement teams may face pressure to evaluate aluminium alternatives if the copper price premium persists, though charging equipment faces different technical constraints than vehicle harnesses.
EV battery longevity fails to lift used electric vehicle prices
Despite evidence that electric vehicle batteries are proving durable in real world use, residual values for used EVs remain depressed compared to internal combustion equivalents. The disconnect between improving battery performance data and persistent price weakness in the second hand market continues to challenge total cost of ownership calculations. Business Model Analyst reported the trend via Google News.
Why it matters
Weak used EV prices undermine fleet business cases and lease residuals that underpin many charge point operator site agreements, while also complicating asset finance for depot charging infrastructure tied to vehicle lifecycles.
Zeekr 7GT beats BMW iX3 in first 2026 Euro NCAP tests under tougher protocols
The Zeekr 7GT achieved a five star Euro NCAP rating, scoring 79% for Safe Driving, 89% for Crash Avoidance, 93% for Crash Protection and 95% for Post Crash Safety, outperforming the BMW iX3 (73%, 83%, 86% and 95% respectively) in the first tests under revised 2026 protocols. The new Euro NCAP framework, the first major revision in 17 years, now includes four categories and a 2,000 kilometre real world driving simulation across France and Spain. Zeekr Europe CEO Lothar Schupet called the result an important milestone for the all new 7GT.
Why it matters
Fleet buyers and charge point operators evaluating vehicle safety credentials for corporate EV deployments now have comparative data under stricter 2026 Euro NCAP standards, with the Zeekr 7GT demonstrating measurably higher crash avoidance and protection scores than the established BMW iX3. The tougher testing regime may influence procurement decisions where safety performance is a tender requirement.
Skoda Elroq vRS electric SUV matches 1980s supercar acceleration with 5.4 second sprint
Skoda UK has released a drag race film showing its new Elroq vRS electric SUV competing against 1980s supercars, demonstrating how EV performance has evolved. The dual motor all wheel drive model produces 340PS and 545Nm of torque, accelerating from 0 to 62mph in 5.4 seconds, making it the fastest production Skoda to date. The performance focused electric SUV combines sports chassis and Dynamic Chassis Control with everyday practicality.
Why it matters
The Elroq vRS illustrates how mainstream electric SUVs now deliver performance previously limited to exotic sports cars, potentially expanding the appeal of EVs to performance oriented fleet buyers and retail customers. As electric vehicle acceleration becomes a standard selling point rather than a premium feature, charging infrastructure providers may see increased demand from performance EV owners seeking rapid charging to match their vehicles' capabilities.
Renault Master E-Tech gains new features, battery updates and more versatile conversions
Renault has announced updates to its Master E-Tech electric van, introducing new features, battery improvements and expanded conversion options. The enhancements aim to make the platform more adaptable for commercial operators and fleet buyers. Details of specific battery capacity changes or conversion partnerships were not disclosed in the available information.
Why it matters
Fleet operators evaluating electric LCV platforms for depot charging infrastructure will need to assess how the updated Master E-Tech specifications affect charging load profiles and conversion lead times. The broader conversion options may also influence site design for mixed-use commercial charging hubs.