Daily EV news · Global · 13 October 2026
EV Charging
Charging Robotics launches wireless EV charging platform for robotaxis and autonomous fleets
Charging Robotics, a 51% owned subsidiary of Nasdaq listed biotech firm Clearmind Medicine, has launched a wireless EV charging platform for robotaxis, autonomous fleets and automated parking facilities, announced on 12 October. The system uses resonant inductive power transfer to deliver up to 10kW at up to 95% efficiency, moving electricity across an air gap without physical connectors. Clearmind agreed in September to buy its majority stake for US$2.5 million and provide a further US$1.5 million loan at 4% annual interest.
Why it matters
The platform addresses a key operational challenge for autonomous vehicle fleets by eliminating the need for plugs, robotic arms or precise docking, potentially reducing infrastructure complexity and labour costs for CPOs targeting robotaxi and fleet operators. The technology could open procurement opportunities in automated parking facilities where traditional charging methods are impractical.
Electric Vehicles
Stellantis to unveil electric Citroen 2 CV concept at Paris Motor Show
Stellantis announced it will reveal a battery electric version of the Citroen 2 CV at this year's Paris Motor Show. The original 2 CV, produced from 1949 to 1990, sold more than 5 million units as a simple, affordable post war vehicle. The new concept is described as a modern response to future mobility challenges.
Why it matters
A mass market electric revival of an iconic affordable car could signal Stellantis's strategy for accessible EV pricing, potentially influencing charging infrastructure demand in urban and budget conscious markets where low cost electric vehicles gain traction.
VW confirms next generation ID. Buzz will use SSP platform to cut costs and improve charging
Volkswagen CEO Thomas Schäfer told Auto Express at the Paris Motor Show that the next ID. Buzz will move from the MEB platform to the SSP architecture, which supports 800 volt systems and could enable charging from 5% to 80% in roughly 12 minutes. Schäfer acknowledged the current model is on the wrong cost base, limiting sales, and said SSP platform sharing across VW Group plus cheaper LFP batteries should reduce development and manufacturing costs, though no price targets were set.
Why it matters
Faster charging infrastructure and lower vehicle costs could expand the commercial and fleet appeal of electric vans, while the shift to 800 volt architecture signals where OEMs expect public charging networks to invest. Platform consolidation across VW Group may also influence component procurement volumes and supplier strategies for the next wave of electric commercial vehicles.
BMW tests second generation iX1 on dedicated EV platform with Neue Klasse design
BMW's entry level electric SUV, the iX1 introduced in 2022, has been spotted testing at the Nürburgring with a redesigned exterior adopting the Neue Klasse styling. The next generation model will be built on BMW's dedicated Neue Klasse EV platform rather than sharing architecture with the petrol powered X1, and forms part of 40 new or refreshed models BMW plans to launch through 2027. The prototype shows a slimmer, minimalist front design moving away from the traditional oversized kidney grille.
Why it matters
The shift to a dedicated EV platform signals BMW's commitment to purpose built electric vehicles, which typically offer better packaging and efficiency for charging infrastructure planning. As an entry level model, the iX1's evolution could influence charging demand patterns at lower price points in the SUV segment.
Toray tests prototype film capacitor at 150 degrees C for air cooled EV inverters
Materials company Toray has tested an inverter at 150 degrees C using a prototype film capacitor made with a proprietary heat resistant dielectric film, developed with Nagoya University and supported by Japan's NEDO through a fiscal 2023 project. Thermal simulations indicate the heat resistant capacitors could halve the size of heat dissipation structures in power control units for electric vehicles and flying cars. Toray and the university plan to develop and evaluate the film for commercialisation in 150 degrees C film capacitors.
Why it matters
Smaller, lighter power control units enabled by high temperature capacitors could reduce system costs and weight for EV manufacturers, particularly relevant for emerging electric aviation applications where thermal management constraints directly affect range and payload capacity.
BYD unveils seven-seater EV that charges in just nine minutes
BYD has launched the ATTO 8 electric SUV at the Paris Motor Show, featuring a 115kWh second-generation Blade Battery that charges from 10 to 97 per cent in nine minutes using the company's new Flash Charging technology. The vehicle offers up to 405 miles of range and 764bhp, with European sales planned for early next year. BYD plans to install 3,000 Flash Charging stations across Europe by the end of 2027, with the first UK installations scheduled for this year.
Why it matters
The rollout of 3,000 proprietary Flash Charging stations across Europe by 2027 represents a significant infrastructure procurement opportunity and signals a shift towards manufacturer-specific ultra-rapid charging networks. CPOs and site hosts will need to assess whether to accommodate BYD's proprietary technology alongside existing networks as the brand expands its European market presence.
BMW unveils Concept 7 Protection with BayB security standard for mid-tier corporate market
BMW has introduced the Concept 7 Protection, a security vehicle based on the M760e xDrive flagship sedan, targeting private and corporate customers requiring protection below full high-security VR6 standards. The concept uses bulletproof glass, ballistic steel and fibre-reinforced composites in door overlaps and glazing, with modified rear triangular windows for additional armour and a non-opening panoramic roof with composite layering. BMW positions this as a more budget-appropriate alternative to its 7 Series Protection and X5 Protection VR6 models, which use heavy-duty engineering for heads of state and VVIPs.
Why it matters
The launch signals BMW's push into a mid-tier armoured vehicle segment, potentially opening procurement opportunities for corporate fleets, diplomatic missions and organisations seeking protection without full VR6 certification costs. Fleet operators and security vehicle suppliers may face new competitive pressure as OEMs target the gap between standard executive transport and full high-security armoured cars.
Citroen unveils electric 2CV Fourgonnette concept for light commercial use
Citroen has revealed the 2CV Fourgonnette concept, a modern electric interpretation of its classic commercial van aimed at tradespeople, small businesses and delivery operations. The concept builds on the original model's principles of simplicity, affordability and practical design, reimagined as a light commercial vehicle for contemporary urban logistics. Citroen positions the study as a counterpart to its 2CV passenger concept, emphasising accessible electric mobility and functional design over complexity.
Why it matters
The concept signals potential future demand for simpler, lower cost electric vans in the last mile delivery and small business segments, which could influence charging infrastructure requirements for lighter commercial fleets. If brought to production, such vehicles may drive procurement of lower power, more distributed charging solutions tailored to urban commercial operators.