Daily EV news · US · 7 May 2026
EV Charging
Blink's 56,000 US charging ports to gain plug-and-charge via Emobi partnership
Blink Charging has partnered with Emobi to enable plug-and-charge functionality across its network of 56,000 EV charging ports in the United States. The integration will allow drivers to authenticate and pay automatically without using apps or RFID cards. Electrek reported the announcement, which aims to streamline the charging experience for users of Blink's public infrastructure.
Why it matters
Plug-and-charge adoption reduces friction at public chargers, a key factor in site utilisation and driver satisfaction that influences CPO revenue and future procurement decisions. The rollout across a major US network signals growing interoperability standards that procurement teams should expect when evaluating hardware and software vendors.
Three Midwest manufacturers form Dielectric Manufacturing Group, targeting EV busbar and components market
Three manufacturing firms in the US Midwest have established the Dielectric Manufacturing Group to supply busbars and related components for the electric vehicle sector. The collaboration, reported by Charged EVs, aims to serve the growing demand for high voltage electrical distribution systems in EVs. No production volumes or investment figures were disclosed in the announcement.
Why it matters
The formation signals new domestic supply capacity for critical EV charging infrastructure components, potentially offering procurement teams an alternative source for busbars used in charging hardware and vehicle power systems. Midwest manufacturing partnerships may also reduce lead times and logistics costs for North American CPOs and OEMs.
Michigan resumes EV charger rollout after court forces release of 51 million dollars in federal funds
Michigan's Department of Transportation will install 60 new EV charging stations along major travel routes over the next three years, following a federal judge's order that compelled the Trump administration to release 51 million dollars in National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure programme funding held back for more than a year. The state remains far behind its target of 100,000 chargers by 2030, with drivers reporting persistent difficulty finding available charging points even in major cities like Detroit and Chicago.
Why it matters
The funding release unlocks a three year pipeline of 60 station installations for Michigan's highway corridors, offering procurement opportunities for CPOs and equipment suppliers. However, the state's shortfall against its 100,000 charger goal signals ongoing demand for large scale deployment contracts beyond the current federal programme.
Electric Vehicles
Hendrickson launches Electraax electric drive axle for Classes 6 to 7 trucks and buses
Hendrickson has introduced its first electric drive axle, the Electraax system, developed with Driventic for Classes 6 to 7 trucks and buses. The integrated unit combines motor, inverter, gearbox and axle in a single package, delivering up to 94% system efficiency to extend range and reduce energy consumption. The lightweight, modular design uses a single speed gearbox with full regenerative braking, targeting applications including school buses and last mile delivery routes.
Why it matters
The Electraax system addresses key medium duty electrification challenges around battery size, payload capacity and cost, offering fleets a more efficient powertrain option. Its simplified architecture and high efficiency could influence procurement decisions for operators seeking to electrify Classes 6 to 7 vehicle fleets.
Kia cuts 2026 EV6 prices by up to 5,900 dollars and adds Plug and Charge across US range
Kia has reduced pricing on its 2026 EV6 electric crossover line in the United States, with cuts ranging from 5,000 dollars on the entry Light SR (now starting at 37,900 dollars before destination charges) to 5,900 dollars on the top GT-Line AWD (now 53,000 dollars). The updated model year adds Plug and Charge capability and includes a dual-voltage charging cable as standard across all trims, with DC fast-charger adapters provided in ZEV states. Kia said the repricing, alongside the launch of its new EV3 SUV, aims to make EVs more accessible to buyers.
Why it matters
Lower EV pricing and standardised Plug and Charge support may accelerate adoption and increase utilisation at compatible charge-point networks. The move signals intensifying competition among automakers to drive volume, which could influence infrastructure investment priorities and interoperability standards in the US market.