Rimac, Acura, Yanfeng, LG Energy Solution, Nio, Waymo and more

Rimac Automobili has taken the Rimac Nevera, already known as one of the fastest electric cars in the world, to the next level with the introduction of the Nevera R. This new model is an enhanced version of the original hyper-GT, boasting an incredible 1,571 kW (2,140 horsepower) and an astonishing 0 to 100 km/h acceleration time of just 1.81 seconds.

The Nevera R has been specifically engineered for even better cornering stability and performance. Rimac has optimized the battery system and further refined the torque vectoring of the all-wheel-drive system (R-AWTV). The car also features new brakes and an aggressive aerodynamic package that increases downforce by 15 percent and aerodynamic efficiency by ten percent, contributing to its enhanced performance.

Honda’s luxury brand Acura has unveiled a new electric vehicle concept that showcases the future design and technological direction of the brand. This SUV coupe, whose name has yet to be announced, is set to launch in 2025 and will be Acura’s second all-electric model, expanding its portfolio. The Acura Performance EV concept features a sleek, sporty design with a long wheelbase and 23-inch wheels. The vehicle's design is inspired by modern superyachts and is based on a new electric architecture developed by Honda specifically for the company’s upcoming Zero-EV lineup. Honda plans to produce this new SUV coupe at its Marysville, Ohio plant, with market availability expected in 2026.

Chinese automotive supplier Yanfeng has introduced a new interior concept for electric vehicles that aims to fundamentally transform how we experience cars. Yanfeng's approach focuses on making vehicle interiors not only functional but also comfortable and adaptable. The concept highlights the integration of technology and the flexibility of the interior to suit different usage scenarios.

The design includes a combination of smart surfaces, flexible seating configurations, and a central control panel that provides both the driver and passengers with access to all essential vehicle functions. The controls are operated via intuitive touch and gesture inputs, and the interior can be transformed into various modes depending on the need—ranging from a workspace to a relaxing retreat during autonomous drives.

LG Energy Solution (LGES) plans to introduce a dry electrode pilot line by the end of 2024. The dry electrode process developed by LGES is intended for both cathode and anode production and is designed to be independent of the particle size of the materials used. Unlike traditional wet processes, which use organic solvents, the dry electrode process allows for direct coating, which reduces energy consumption and can lower production costs by up to 30 percent. LGES intends to install the pilot line at its Ochang plant in South Korea and have it operational by the end of 2024.

Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer Nio has introduced an innovative car-to-car charging cable. This cable allows one electric vehicle being charged with up to 40 kW directly from another one. This technology could provide a flexible solution in situations where traditional charging infrastructure is unavailable.

Nio’s car-to-car charging cable is particularly useful in emergencies or for use in remote areas where conventional charging stations are hard to reach. The ability to charge directly from another vehicle could alleviate range anxiety for many EV drivers and open up new possibilities for energy sharing between vehicles.

Waymo, a subsidiary of Alphabet, has introduced the sixth generation of its robotaxi technology. This latest iteration of the "Waymo Driver" reduces the number of cameras from 29 to 13 and the number of lidar sensors from five to four, all while maintaining high safety standards. The new sensor suite offers a 360-degree view with a range of up to 500 meters, functioning effectively both day and night and in various weather conditions.

The updated sensors are designed to be not only more powerful but also more cost-effective. Waymo plans to implement this technology in vans from the Chinese manufacturer Zeekr, specifically developed for Waymo. These vehicles are already being tested in San Francisco, though still with a safety driver onboard. Currently, Waymo conducts over 100,000 paid robotaxi rides per week across the U.S.

Can-Am is set to make its comeback in 2025 with two all-electric motorcycles: the Can-Am Pulse and the Can-Am Origin. These models are poised to usher in a new era for the brand, which found success with its motorcycles 50 years ago. Now, Can-Am is embracing electric mobility, aiming to appeal to both seasoned riders and newcomers.

The Can-Am Pulse is designed for urban commuting, featuring a minimalist design and a 10.25-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay support. In contrast, the Can-Am Origin is built for off-road adventures, boasting rugged suspension and higher ground clearance. Both models will be equipped with a powerful Rotax E-Power motor and offer a range of up to 160 kilometers. The charging time from 20% to 80% is expected to be 50 minutes, with production slated to begin in the fourth quarter of 2024.

Lamborghini has unveiled the new Temerario, the successor to the Huracán. The Temerario is powered by a "mega-hybrid" system that combines a powerful V8 engine with an electric drivetrain, delivering a combined output of over 1,000 horsepower. This immense power allows the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in under three seconds, while also being capable of driving up to 50 kilometers purely on electric power. The design of the Temerario stays true to Lamborghini's traditional lines but has been further refined to maximize aerodynamic efficiency while accommodating the hybrid powertrain. Cutting-edge technologies like a regenerative braking system and an innovative energy management system are also incorporated to enhance the vehicle's efficiency and recharge the batteries during driving.

Serve Robotics, a spin-off from Uber focused on autonomous delivery robots, is expanding its partnership with Uber Eats. The Nvidia-backed startup plans to deploy up to 2,000 of its delivery robots across several markets in the U.S. These robots will deliver orders directly to customers' doorsteps. They will autonomously navigate the streets of Los Angeles, utilizing advanced sensors and artificial intelligence to avoid obstacles and ensure safe delivery to their destinations.