Mobility Monitor 2025, Fraunhofer, Toyota and more

According to Mobility Monitor 2025, published by acatech – the German Academy of Science and Engineering – openness to electric vehicles is growing again in Germany. 43% of those surveyed said they could imagine buying an EV, up eight percentage points from the previous year. When asked whether EVs would become the dominant drive technology in the future, 48% answered yes – up from 42% in 2023. Support is especially strong among younger respondents, with 55% of those aged 18–24 in favor.

The Mobility Monitor is based on a representative survey of around 2,000 people in Germany. Climate protection remains a top concern: 72% of respondents consider sustainable mobility important or very important. At the same time, there’s a clear desire for technology-neutral solutions – 60% of respondents support the further development of various climate-friendly drive technologies, not just battery-electric vehicles.

The Fraunhofer Battery Research Fabrication Alliance (FFB) has taken a major step forward in battery cell manufacturing. Using artificial intelligence, the goal is to optimize battery cell production. At the “FFB PreFab” pilot line in Münster, Germany, AI-supported processes can now be tested in a near-industrial environment.

This smart production control aims to reduce material waste, minimize rejects, and improve power efficiency. The data gathered from these trials will help make battery cell factories in Europe more scalable and cost-effective. In doing so, Fraunhofer FFB hopes to contribute to Europe’s leadership in battery technology and accelerate the transition to electric mobility through affordable and sustainable cell production.

The Fraunhofer Institute for Industrial Mathematics (ITWM) has kicked off a new research project focused on understanding and optimizing battery aging. The goal is to extend battery lifespan and maintain performance over longer periods. By using mathematical modeling and simulations, researchers aim to better understand the aging process and influence it in targeted ways. Ultimately, the project aims not only to increase energy storage efficiency but also to enhance overall sustainability.

According to Nikkei Asia, Toyota plans to significantly expand its global EV production. By 2027, the company aims to launch around 15 EV models and produce roughly one million electric vehicles annually. Currently, Toyota manufactures five EV models in Japan and China. To reduce risks related to tariffs, currency fluctuations, and delivery times, the company is exploring production in countries like the US, Thailand, and Argentina.

Toyota also plans to establish a fully-owned subsidiary in Shanghai dedicated to developing and manufacturing EVs and batteries for its luxury brand Lexus. Production is expected to begin in 2027 with an initial capacity of about 100,000 vehicles per year.

Bridgestone Corporation unveiled a new concept for lunar rover tires at the 40th Space Symposium in Colorado Springs. Traditional rubber tires are unsuitable for the Moon’s harsh environment, which includes extreme temperatures, intense UV radiation, and vacuum conditions. Bridgestone’s solution involves durable, long-lasting wheels with metal treads and flexible support structures.

The company is developing two versions: a lightweight model with fewer spokes for small rovers, and a more rugged, long-lasting version for mid-size lunar vehicles.

Smart has revealed the Brabus version of its all-electric SUV, the #5. This performance-focused model features a more dynamic design and upgraded specs. It offers all-wheel drive with a total system output of 475 kW (646 hp) and a peak torque of 710 Nm (524 lb-ft), accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h (0–62 mph) in just 3.8 seconds. The top speed is 210 km/h (130 mph). Thanks to a 100 kWh battery, the #5 Brabus has a range of up to 540 kilometers (335 miles).

Chinese EV manufacturer BYD has celebrated the European debut of its premium brand Denza. Originally a joint venture with Mercedes-Benz and now fully owned by BYD, Denza is entering the market with the all-electric Z9 GT sport wagon and the D9 van.

The Z9 GT will feature three electric motors with a combined output of 710 kW (965 hp), capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h (0–62 mph) in just 3.4 seconds. A plug-in hybrid version with a system output of 640 kW (870 hp) will also be available. The all-electric version is slated for launch at the end of 2025, with the hybrid model to follow in early 2026.