Daily EV news · US · 16 July 2026
EV Charging
ChargePoint upgrades Navigator tool to help local authorities plan public EV charger rollouts
ChargePoint has enhanced its Navigator digital planning tool, which now combines site selection, planning intelligence, rollout monitoring and connections guidance with real-time dashboards and visualisation tools. The platform provides local authorities with insight on connection costs, eligibility and timelines for individual chargers. Currently 108 local authorities use ChargePoint Navigator, up from 82 in May 2025, with 94% customer satisfaction reported. The solution is free and available to all 133 local authorities in UK Power Networks' licence area, and is also used by SP Energy Networks, Transport for Wales and Northern Ireland Electricity Networks.
Why it matters
The upgraded tool addresses a critical planning bottleneck for local authorities deploying public charging infrastructure, offering integrated site assessment and grid connection intelligence in one platform. With adoption growing from 82 to 108 councils in recent months, Navigator is becoming a de facto standard for UK public charging procurement and rollout management.
Electric Vehicles
Honda discontinues Prologue EV in US after two years, leaving no electric models on sale
Honda confirmed it will end sales of the Prologue crossover later in 2025 after the 2026 model year, removing its only remaining EV from the US market. The General Motors built model follows the discontinued Acura ZDX and the cancelled 0 Series SUV programme. Honda cited a significant shift in customer demand for EVs over the past 18 months and said the decision aligns product offerings with market conditions and long term goals.
Why it matters
The withdrawal leaves a major OEM with zero EV supply in the US, signalling weaker near term charging demand from Honda drivers and potential hesitation among CPOs planning infrastructure around legacy brand commitments. Policy shifts under the Trump administration, including eased clean car regulations and lost tax credits, are accelerating manufacturer exits from unprofitable EV lines.
Chip Motors unveils $15,000 electric low-speed vehicle with 100-mile range and NACS port
Miami-based Chip Motors has launched Chip, a four-seat electric low-speed vehicle priced from $15,000, with a 25 mph top speed and claimed 100-mile range. The vehicle charges overnight on standard 110V outlets, in a few hours on 240V, and features a NACS port for Level 2 public charging. Reservations are open for $250 deposits, with deliveries scheduled for 2027.
Why it matters
The inclusion of a NACS port on a low-speed vehicle signals potential demand for Level 2 infrastructure in residential and community settings where LSVs operate. As this segment grows, charge point operators may see opportunities in neighbourhoods, campuses and mixed-use developments with 35 mph or lower speed limits.
BMW recalls nearly 30,000 US plug-in hybrids over starter fire risk
BMW is recalling 29,119 plug-in hybrid vehicles in the United States due to a potential fire risk linked to the engine starter system, affecting 2016 to 2020 model-year 330e, 530e and 740Le variants. The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration states water ingress can cause corrosion in the electrical relay, potentially leading to overheating and short circuits even when vehicles are parked with ignition off. BMW will replace the engine starter free of charge, with owner notification letters expected on 28 August 2026.
Why it matters
Fleet operators and workplace charging hosts with BMW PHEVs in their portfolios should verify affected VINs and ensure vehicles are parked away from structures until repairs are completed. The recall highlights ongoing safety considerations for mixed-fleet charging infrastructure planning, particularly where PHEVs share depot or workplace charging facilities.
MIT researchers identify solution to dendrite formation in solid state batteries
A recent study from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology addresses dendrite formation, a persistent technical obstacle preventing solid state batteries from reaching mass production. Dendrites are microscopic lithium metal spikes that form during charge and discharge cycles, potentially causing short circuits in solid electrolyte batteries. No consumer electric vehicle equipped with solid state battery technology is currently available for purchase.
Why it matters
Solid state batteries promise greater range, faster charging and elimination of fire risk compared to conventional lithium ion cells. Solving the dendrite problem could accelerate commercialisation timelines, affecting future charging infrastructure requirements and vehicle specifications for CPOs planning long term deployments.