Daily EV news · Global · 14 July 2026
EV Charging
Hidden technology driving rapid expansion of EV charging networks
An article published via MSN explores the underlying technologies enabling the fast rollout of electric vehicle charging infrastructure globally. The piece examines how behind the scenes systems and platforms are accelerating network deployment at scale.
Why it matters
Understanding the enabling technology stack, from software platforms to grid integration tools, is critical for CPOs and contractors seeking to accelerate site delivery and win procurement contracts in an increasingly competitive market.
Global electric car charger market report published covering forecasts and innovation trends
EIN News has released a comprehensive market report on the electric car charger sector, covering industry forecasts, technological innovations and market outlook. The report provides analysis of the global EV charging infrastructure landscape. No specific market size figures or forecast periods were disclosed in the available excerpt.
Why it matters
Market intelligence reports help procurement teams and charge point operators benchmark their strategies against industry trends and identify emerging technology directions for infrastructure planning.
JLR switches charging service from Plugsurfing to DCS
Jaguar Land Rover has moved its in-vehicle charging service away from Plugsurfing to DCS (Digital Charging Solutions). The switch affects JLR drivers globally who access public charging networks through the vehicle's integrated payment and roaming platform.
Why it matters
The move signals a shift in OEM roaming partnerships and may influence which charge point operators prioritise integration with DCS to retain access to JLR's customer base. Procurement teams should monitor whether similar manufacturer migrations follow, potentially reshaping the competitive landscape for eMSP platforms.
JLR · Plugsurfing · DCS · Source
Electric Vehicles
Geely Aegis Golden Brick battery hits 1,093kW peak charging in certified tests, charging 10 to 80 per cent in 5.5 minutes
Geely's Aegis Golden Brick battery has achieved a peak vehicle side charging input of 1,093kW in state certified testing overseen by the China Automotive Technology and Research Center, according to ifeng. The 95kWh lithium iron phosphate pack, built on a 900 volt architecture, charged from 10 to 80 per cent in 5.5 minutes while maintaining cell temperatures at a maximum of 64°C, one degree below China's 65°C regulatory ceiling. The result positions the technology against BYD's second generation Blade battery in the race for ultra fast charging among Chinese automakers.
Why it matters
The certified 1,093kW peak demonstrates that thermal management advances are enabling charging speeds that will require charge point operators to deploy higher power infrastructure beyond today's typical 350kW units. Procurement teams planning network upgrades must now account for battery technologies capable of accepting over 1MW, reshaping hardware specifications and grid connection requirements for competitive ultra rapid charging corridors.
Dacia CEO outlines electrification strategy amid affordability pressures and Chinese competition
Dacia CEO Katrin Adt discussed the brand's approach to electrification while maintaining affordability, including the launch of the new Striker crossover. The interview covered challenges from Chinese competitors and fuel price volatility impacting budget conscious European customers. Adt addressed how Dacia plans to balance growth ambitions with its core value proposition during the transition to electric vehicles.
Why it matters
Budget EV brands shape charging infrastructure demand in price sensitive markets, influencing CPO site selection and pricing strategies. Understanding how mainstream manufacturers electrify their fleets helps predict where mass market charging capacity will be needed across Europe.
BYD reports over 1,000 global pre-orders for new Denza Z EV amid booming demand
BYD has announced that global pre-orders for its new Denza Z electric vehicle have exceeded 1,000 units, describing demand as booming. The Denza brand, a BYD subsidiary focused on premium EVs, is expanding its international footprint with the Z model launch. This rollout velocity signals growing appetite for BYD's higher-end electric offerings beyond its core markets.
Why it matters
Strong early demand for the Denza Z indicates potential infrastructure requirements in new markets as BYD scales premium EV distribution globally. Procurement teams and charge point operators should monitor Denza's expansion trajectory to anticipate charging network needs for this vehicle segment.
Covestro and BYD form strategic partnership for mobility, energy and advanced technologies
Materials science company Covestro and Chinese automotive and battery manufacturer BYD have announced a strategic partnership covering mobility, energy and advanced technologies. The collaboration will span multiple sectors, though specific project details and investment figures were not disclosed in the announcement. Both companies operate globally, with particular focus on the Chinese market.
Why it matters
BYD's vertical integration across EVs, batteries and charging infrastructure means partnerships with materials suppliers like Covestro could influence component costs and supply chains for charging hardware. The deal signals deeper collaboration between automotive OEMs and materials firms, potentially affecting procurement timelines and specifications for charge point operators sourcing BYD linked equipment.
BMW iX5 to skip Neue Klasse platform in favour of existing CLAR architecture
BMW has confirmed its upcoming iX5 electric SUV will not adopt the new Neue Klasse platform, instead using the existing CLAR architecture that underpins current combustion and electric models. The decision allows BMW to bring the iX5 to market sooner while the Neue Klasse platform, designed specifically for electric vehicles with improved efficiency and charging speeds, rolls out across other model lines from 2025 onwards.
Why it matters
The platform choice signals BMW's phased electrification strategy and may influence charging infrastructure requirements, as Neue Klasse vehicles are expected to support higher charging rates than current CLAR based models. Charge point operators planning for premium OEM demand should anticipate a mixed fleet with varying technical specifications through the late 2020s.
Thick film heaters on steel gain traction in Asia for EV battery thermal management
Charged EVs published a sponsored whitepaper on 14 July 2026 examining thick film heaters on steel (HoS) as an emerging battery heating technology for electric vehicles. The paper argues HoS systems offer higher power density, faster thermal response, and reduced size and weight compared to conventional heat pumps, cartridge heaters, or PTC ceramic heaters, with adoption growing in Asian markets. A case study demonstrates the technology's application in cold climate battery management.
Why it matters
Procurement teams specifying battery thermal management systems for EV platforms may see HoS technology appear in supplier proposals as an alternative to established heating architectures, particularly for projects targeting cold weather performance or weight reduction.
Driventic launches VEDS 1.5 electric drivetrain for buses and trucks with lighter inverter and faster installation
Driventic, a Voith spin-off active since November 2025, has started production of the VEDS 1.5 electric drive system for commercial vehicles. The update features a 22 kg drive inverter with integrated management unit, automotive-compliant connectors for quicker fitting and maintenance, and motors rated at 240 kW or 320 kW continuous power with peak output to 390 kW. The company reports it has supplied more than 4,000 VEDS units to bus and truck makers since the platform debuted in 2019.
Why it matters
Lighter, faster to install drivetrains can lower assembly costs and downtime for fleet operators, while the automotive cybersecurity certification may ease procurement approvals. The 4,000-unit install base signals proven supply for OEMs tendering medium and heavy-duty electric platforms.
Volkswagen Group reviews EV line-up as Audi and Porsche models face potential discontinuation
Volkswagen Group is conducting a strategic review of its electric vehicle portfolio that could lead to the discontinuation of certain Audi and Porsche EV models. The review forms part of broader cost-cutting measures across the group as it reassesses its electrification strategy. No specific models or timelines have been confirmed in the available information.
Why it matters
Fleet operators and charging infrastructure planners tracking OEM commitments should monitor which platforms survive, as discontinued models may signal shifts in charging demand patterns and vehicle availability for procurement pipelines.
Volkswagen · Audi · Porsche · Source
Porsche ends combustion Macan production in July, electric only until 2028 ICE successor
Porsche will cease production of the petrol Macan at the end of July 2025, leaving only the battery electric variant on sale despite the ICE model outselling the EV in the first half of 2026 (19,695 ICE units versus 15,620 electric units out of 35,315 total Macan deliveries). The decision follows the withdrawal of the ICE Macan from European sale in early 2025 due to stricter cybersecurity and safety rules under the European General Safety Regulation, which would have required costly electronic architecture upgrades. No new combustion or hybrid crossover is planned until 2028, when a successor based on the next generation Audi Q5 platform will arrive, with the Macan name now reserved exclusively for the electric series.
Why it matters
The production halt underscores how regulatory pressure can accelerate OEM electrification timelines even when ICE variants still command higher sales, potentially driving faster fleet turnover and charging infrastructure demand. Porsche's four year gap before a new ICE crossover arrives signals a strategic bet on electric uptake, relevant for CPOs planning network capacity around premium SUV segments.
Volvo V60 Recharge plug-in hybrid offers 88 km electric range in estate format
Volvo Car AB markets the V60 Recharge as a midsize premium estate with a plug-in hybrid powertrain combining a 2.0 litre petrol engine and a rear-axle electric motor. The latest T8 variant delivers up to around 350 hp and offers an electric-only range of up to roughly 88 kilometres on WLTP, with a floor-mounted lithium-ion battery that preserves cargo space. Charging at home on an AC wallbox typically takes several hours, with Volvo noting most owners plug in overnight.
Why it matters
The V60 Recharge underscores demand for home and workplace AC charging infrastructure as plug-in hybrids become a bridge technology in the premium segment. Fleet and residential charging operators should note the overnight charging pattern Volvo highlights, which shapes utilisation profiles for lower-power AC installations.
Alliance for Automotive Innovation reports EV model count falling as charging infrastructure lags demand in Q1 2026
The Alliance for Automotive Innovation's Q1 2026 state by state analysis shows the number of available EV models has declined, while charging stations struggle to keep pace with demand. EV market share rose in 26 US states but fell in 23 states and the District of Columbia compared with Q4 2025. The report includes light duty powertrain market share data from 2016 to 2026 and research indicating optimised charging could save EV drivers hundreds of dollars annually.
Why it matters
The widening gap between charging infrastructure supply and EV demand signals procurement opportunities for charge point operators and highlights the financial case for grid optimised charging solutions. State level market share volatility may influence where CPOs prioritise new site deployments.
Range Rover Velar electric variant positioned to compete with BMW iX3 and Volvo EX60
Land Rover is developing an electric version of the Range Rover Velar to rival the BMW iX3 and Volvo EX60 in the premium electric SUV segment. The announcement signals the brand's continued expansion into battery electric vehicles within its core model range, targeting the competitive mid-size luxury EV market.
Why it matters
A new premium electric SUV from Land Rover will drive demand for workplace and destination charging infrastructure at upmarket retail, hospitality and commercial sites. Fleet operators and charge point operators serving premium vehicle owners may need to expand capacity as luxury marques electrify their lineups.
Range Rover · BMW · Volvo · Source
BMW reports sales resilience driven by new electric model
BMW has limited sales damage through the introduction of a new electric vehicle model, according to recent reports. The automaker's performance suggests that fresh EV product launches are helping stabilise volumes amid broader market challenges. The development highlights how established manufacturers are using new battery electric models to maintain competitive position.
Why it matters
For charging operators, BMW's EV sales momentum signals sustained demand for public and workplace infrastructure. Procurement teams should note that legacy OEMs expanding their electric fleets will drive charging utilisation and may influence site selection and capacity planning decisions.
Farizon launches SV Sport electric van with 1,350 kg payload and UK-designed styling package
Farizon has introduced the SV Sport, an electric commercial van developed with UK converter CPD Bodies, offering up to 1,350 kg payload capacity. Based on the SV L1H1 model, the variant adds a Britain-manufactured styling package including redesigned bumpers, side skirts, a rear spoiler, and standard 20-inch alloy wheels, while retaining the base model's electric powertrain and cargo volume. Customers can choose from finishes including Matte Black, Matte Green, Bright Orange, and Vampire Red.
Why it matters
The launch signals Farizon's push into style-conscious fleet segments, with the CPD Bodies partnership enabling UK-specific customisation that may appeal to operators seeking brand differentiation in electric LCV tenders. The 1,350 kg payload figure positions the SV Sport competitively for last-mile and urban delivery contracts where load capacity remains a key procurement criterion.
Polestar 4 SUV variant to launch 2 September with 536 bhp and 391 mile range
Polestar will unveil a more upright SUV version of its 4 crossover on 2 September, targeting rivals including the BMW iX3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC Electric. The model will offer rear and four wheel drive powertrains with up to 536 bhp, a maximum official range of 391 miles, and 400V architecture supporting charging at up to 200 kW. Built in Busan, South Korea, the vehicle emphasises flexibility and practicality with versatile storage capabilities, and orders open in September.
Why it matters
Fleet operators and charge point operators gain clarity on charging infrastructure requirements for a new mid market electric SUV entering a competitive segment. The 200 kW charging capability and 391 mile range will inform site planning and power delivery specifications for networks targeting Polestar customers.
Suzuki plans sub £20,000 city EV for 2027 to compete with Twingo as UK sales jump 43%
Suzuki will launch a sub £20,000 electric city car in 2027 and a third EV in 2029 as part of its UK expansion plan under the zero emission vehicle mandate. The brand's sales grew 43% in the first five months of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025, pushing market share back over 1% after sales slumped to 18,000 units in 2025. The recovery is led by the £19,000 Swift hatchback, which sold 6,000 units in Q1 2026, alongside the new eVitara EV.
Why it matters
A major manufacturer committing to affordable sub £20,000 EVs signals growing competition in the accessible city car segment, which could accelerate demand for workplace and residential charging infrastructure. Suzuki's 43% UK sales growth under the ZEV mandate demonstrates that brands offering both affordable EVs and ICE models can drive volume, potentially influencing charge point deployment strategies in retail and fleet sectors.
US EV sales stabilise while global markets accelerate
Electric vehicle sales in the United States are entering a normalisation phase after earlier rapid growth, while markets outside the US continue to experience strong acceleration. The divergence highlights differing adoption curves across regions, with global EV uptake maintaining momentum even as the American market matures.
Why it matters
Charge-point operators must adjust deployment strategies to match regional demand patterns, prioritising infrastructure expansion in high-growth international markets while optimising utilisation in maturing US networks. Procurement teams should factor these geographic trends into long-term capacity planning and equipment sourcing decisions.
Grid & Energy
Toyota Industries verifies bidirectional on-board charger for Vehicle to Grid technology
Toyota Industries has successfully verified a bidirectional on-board charger that enables AC power supply from battery electric vehicles to grids, based on ISO standards. The technology establishes a foundation for Vehicle to Grid (V2G) adoption, allowing BEVs to discharge power back to the electrical grid.
Why it matters
V2G capability transforms EVs into distributed energy resources, creating new revenue streams for fleet operators and requiring grid operators to integrate bidirectional charging infrastructure into procurement specifications. The ISO-compliant approach signals potential standardisation that could accelerate V2G deployment across charging networks.
NextGO Epi raises 2 million euros to scale gallium oxide wafer production for faster EV charging
Berlin deeptech startup NextGO Epi has closed a 2 million euro pre-seed round led by Vireo Ventures, with participation from Ultratech Capital Partners, IBB Ventures and angel investor Boris Habets. The 2025 spin-off from the Leibniz-Institut für Kristallzüchtung is Europe's only producer of gallium oxide epitaxial wafers, materials that underpin next-generation power electronics. The company says its technology can cut electric vehicle charging times from 60 minutes to 10 minutes while reducing manufacturing costs.
Why it matters
Gallium oxide semiconductors promise step-change improvements in charging speed and cost, directly affecting the economics and user experience of public charging infrastructure. CPOs and equipment makers will watch whether NextGO Epi can deliver industrial volumes that make sub-15-minute top-ups commercially viable across networks.