BYD, Stellantis, Skale D, Volkswagen, Yuccie

According to SNE Research, global production capacity for electric vehicle batteries increased by 27.2% in 2024, reaching 894.4 gigawatt-hours (GWh). The ranking is led by the Chinese battery manufacturer CATL with a production volume of 339.3 GWh, followed by BYD with 153.7 GWh. South Korea’s LG Energy Solution secured third place with 96.3 GWh. The report highlights that rising production is driven by the expansion of new factories and the growing adoption of LFP battery technology, which is known for its longer lifespan and lower costs.

BYD is expanding its advanced "God's Eye" driver assistance system to compact cars, allowing more vehicle classes to benefit from this innovative technology. Previously available only in high-end models, the system includes lane-keeping assistance, emergency braking assistance, and a semi-automated highway driving program. Plus, "God's Eye" enables fully automated parking. BYD offers three variants of the system: The top model, God’s Eye A, is the DiPilot 600, which uses three LiDARs and is mainly used by the ultra-luxury brand Yangwang. God’s Eye B is the DiPilot 300, which utilizes a single LiDAR and is primarily found in the Denza brand as well as some BYD premium vehicles. The more affordable models feature the C-version, called DiPilot 100, which utilizes cameras and image recognition technology instead of LiDAR.

Stellantis has filed a patent in the U.S. for a new technology designed to optimize heat management in electric vehicles. The so-called "battery exhaust" system is designed to expel excess heat from the battery, stabilizing its operating temperature. This helps extend battery life and optimize charging performance. The hot air is expelled through a special outlet. Stellantis also plans to use the system to generate artificial engine sounds to enhance the driving experience and improve pedestrian safety.

In the "SkaleD" project, five research partners are developing a process for directly coating electrodes in industrial battery cell production. The focus is on a new technology for direct electrode coating that aims to reduce production costs and material consumption. The research consortium will adjust and improve the entire process chain, particularly the coating width, process speed, and related optimizations of equipment technology and formulations. Additionally, the project will attempt the first-ever simultaneous double-sided coating, which could significantly increase process speed.

Volkswagen has revealed the side view of its new entry-level electric compact car. The model is expected to offer a cost-effective alternative within the ID. family, with a starting price of under €20,000. According to Volkswagen, it will have a range of up to 217 miles (350 km) (WLTP) and will be based on the MEB Entry platform. The production version of the model is expected to launch in 2027, with Volkswagen positioning their entry-level EV as the core model in its urban e-mobility strategy.

Yuccie has launched a new e-bike brand aimed at a young, urban audience. The Yuccie e-bikes combine minimalist design with modern technology. The models are expected to offer a range of up to 75 miles (120 km), feature a belt drive, and come with a fully integrated battery. The official launch is scheduled for the second quarter of 2025, with prices starting at around €3,200.