Daily EV news · Global · 18 October 2026
Electric Vehicles
Gore launches MultiVent battery vent combining pressure equalisation and thermal runaway evacuation in single component
W. L. Gore & Associates has introduced the GORE Battery Vents MultiVent Series, an integrated vent for EV and energy storage battery packs that equalises pressure, blocks moisture and evacuates gas during thermal runaway. The device delivers airflow of 1,200 L/h at 100 mbar, up to six times that of alternative venting options, and moisture ingress under 20 mg per day at 22°C and 50% relative humidity, less than one tenth that of many dual vents. The vent combines Gore membrane technology with valve technology acquired from Vernay Laboratories in 2026, mounting through a single opening to replace dual stage vents, separate evacuation valves and desiccants.
Why it matters
The integrated design reduces component count, validation requirements and sealing complexity for battery pack designers, potentially lowering warranty costs linked to moisture intrusion, corrosion and sensor faults. Higher airflow performance may allow pack designs with fewer vent points, simplifying procurement specifications for OEMs and energy storage system integrators.
Geely unveils 1,100 kilowatt battery and 2.2 megawatt charger at Ningbo event
Geely Auto Group demonstrated its Ultra Short Blade battery accepting up to 1,100 kilowatts of charging power at an event in Ningbo, China, where it also revealed a 2.2 megawatt charger. A Lynk & Co 10 vehicle charged from 10% to 97% in 8 minutes and 40 seconds during the demonstration. The technology contrasts with Western manufacturers currently capped at 600 kilowatts, with projects announced at 750 kilowatts, whilst models like the Lucid Gravity and Porsche Cayenne Electric peak at 400 kilowatts.
Why it matters
The 2.2 megawatt charger specification sets a new infrastructure benchmark that charge point operators and equipment suppliers may need to plan for as Chinese manufacturers expand globally. Geely's claim of handling megawatt level charging without accelerated degradation, if validated, could shift procurement requirements for ultra rapid charging hardware beyond current 350 kilowatt to 600 kilowatt standards.
Omoda Jaecoo offers up to 15% discount on J5 electric SUV for Uber drivers
Omoda Jaecoo has launched a discount programme offering up to 15% off the J5 EV for eligible Uber Pro Gold, Platinum and Diamond driver partners. The J5 EV, a mid size SUV launched in late 2025, has sold over 11,000 units so far in 2026 and features a 58.9 kWh LFP battery with 402 km WLTP range and a 155 kW motor. The initiative aims to increase EV adoption in the rideshare sector, with discounts also available on hybrid models including the J7 and Omoda 9.
Why it matters
The programme signals a targeted fleet electrification strategy that could accelerate commercial EV uptake and create predictable charging demand patterns at rideshare hubs. For charging operators, partnerships with rideshare focused OEMs may unlock dedicated fleet charging contracts as drivers seek reliable infrastructure to support discounted EV purchases.
Policy & Market
Australian vehicle data shows rapid EV uptake risks financial losses for petrol and diesel car owners
September vehicle figures in Australia revealed battery electric sales rose 118% year on year, while petrol only sales fell 36% and diesel declined 18%, with overall deliveries up 1.8%. The analysis warns that the speed of the transition to EVs may cause dramatic value declines for oil based cars, creating financial difficulties for owners reliant on finance, particularly as debts were written against assumptions of continuing oil dependence. The piece argues that access to capital and equitable distribution of benefits must be central to electrification policy.
Why it matters
Rapid depreciation of petrol and diesel vehicles could affect fleet operators and consumers with financed assets, while the shift to cheaper EVs offers protection from oil price volatility. Policymakers and charge point operators may need to consider financial transition support as the market substitutes drivetrains rather than simply expanding.