Articles tagged with "electric-vehicle-charging"
Google Maps now lets you access Gemini while walking and cycling
Google has introduced a new hands-free feature in Google Maps that allows users to interact with its AI assistant, Gemini, while walking or cycling. This update enables users to ask real-time, conversational questions—such as inquiries about nearby attractions, amenities along their route, estimated arrival times, or even sending text messages—without needing to stop or type. The feature supports multi-turn conversations, enhancing navigation by providing personalized, context-aware assistance to keep users informed and safe on the move. It is currently available worldwide on iOS where Gemini is supported and is gradually rolling out on Android. This enhancement is part of Google’s broader strategy to shift Google Maps from static directions to dynamic, AI-powered navigation. Recent updates include a Gemini-powered “know before you go” tips section offering practical information like reservation advice and parking suggestions, an improved Explore tab for discovering trending local spots, and an EV charger availability prediction feature. These developments reflect Google’s commitment to integrating advanced AI capabilities into Maps, improving user experience, and competing
IoTsmart-navigationAI-assistantelectric-vehicle-chargingreal-time-dataautonomous-featuresconversational-AIPhotos: World’s first self-powering travel trailer lets campers live fully off-grid
At CES 2026, California-based Evotrex introduced the PG5, the world’s first self-powered travel trailer designed to enable fully off-grid living without the need to plug into campsite power. Central to its design is a 43-kilowatt-hour lithium-iron-phosphate battery supplemented by 1.5 kilowatts of solar power from roof panels and an onboard Horizon gas generator providing up to 225 kilowatt-hours per tank. This combination offers nearly 270 kilowatt-hours of usable energy, with solar and regenerative charging maintaining battery levels and the generator reserved for backup. The PG5 supports standard outlets for tools and camping gear, includes a front-mounted NACS connector for charging electric vehicles without unhitching, and can supply up to 12 kilowatts of emergency power to homes. The trailer features smart monitoring via an onboard tablet that tracks power, water, and fuel levels, and uses an off-grid calculator to optimize energy use by adjusting heating, cooling, and charging automatically
energyoff-grid-powersolar-energylithium-iron-phosphate-batteryelectric-vehicle-chargingregenerative-chargingsmart-monitoringThe 22 top clean tech and energy startups from Disrupt Startup Battlefield
The article highlights 22 leading clean tech and energy startups selected from TechCrunch’s annual Startup Battlefield pitch contest, which narrows thousands of applicants to 200 top contenders across various categories. These startups showcase innovative technologies aimed at sustainability and energy efficiency. Notable examples include AraBat, which uses a bio-based recycling process to recover critical metals from spent lithium-ion batteries using plant waste instead of toxic chemicals, and Aruna Revolution, which produces compostable menstrual pads from agricultural by-products, eliminating plastics and harmful substances. Other standout companies include CarbonBridge, which develops bioreactors for microbial gas fermentation to convert waste gases like methane and CO₂ into valuable molecules more efficiently than traditional methods, and Carbon Negative Solutions, which uses AI to transform industrial waste into carbon-negative cement compatible with existing equipment. Additionally, COI Energy operates a marketplace for enterprises to trade excess energy capacity, optimizing grid usage, while Coral offers an AI and blockchain-powered platform for automated carbon accounting and credit tracking. The startups collectively represent cutting-edge
energyclean-technologybattery-recyclingAI-energy-managementelectric-vehicle-chargingultracapacitorscarbon-negative-materialsSweden launches wind-powered car park built from old turbine blades
Sweden has launched the Niels Bohr car park in Lund’s Brunnshög district, a pioneering facility constructed using 57 recycled wind turbine blades from the decommissioned Nørre Økse Sø wind farm operated by Vattenfall. These blades, typically difficult to recycle due to their composite glass and carbon fiber materials, were repurposed as non-load-bearing “curtain walls” covering much of the building’s façade. The five-story car park offers 365 spaces, including 40 electric vehicle charging points, and features sustainability elements such as solar panels on the roof and pollinator-friendly plants on the façade. Architect Jonas Lloyd emphasized the project’s role as a symbol and practical example of sustainability and circular economy principles. For Vattenfall, one of Europe’s largest wind energy developers, the project demonstrates that large-scale circular solutions can meet cost, safety, and scheduling demands. The company has committed to recycling 100% of its turbine blades by 2030 and has banned
energyrenewable-energywind-turbine-bladesrecyclingsustainable-architecturesolar-panelselectric-vehicle-chargingLargest Tesla Supercharger Hub Opens — Is Powered By Solar - CleanTechnica
Tesla has officially opened its largest Supercharger hub in Lost Hills, California, featuring 164 V4 Supercharger stalls capable of delivering over 300 kW each. This new charging station is notable for being primarily powered by an 11 MW solar array combined with 10 Megapacks providing 39 MWh of energy storage, making it mostly off-grid. The hub addresses a critical charging infrastructure gap along the San Francisco to Los Angeles corridor, where utility grid connections were not expected to be available in time to meet growing demand. By leveraging its own solar generation and battery storage, Tesla was able to complete the project in under eight months, bypassing typical delays associated with permitting and grid access. The location, about 146 miles north of Los Angeles, includes 12 stalls designed to accommodate EV drivers with trailers, enhancing usability for a broader range of vehicles. Although there is a small utility grid connection, it is primarily reserved for future expansions, with the hub relying on solar power for nearly all its
energysolar-powerTesla-Superchargerelectric-vehicle-chargingbattery-storagerenewable-energyoff-grid-energy-systemFastned Keeps Redefining What A Charging Station Can Look Like - CleanTechnica
Fastned has consistently pushed the boundaries of what an electric vehicle charging station can be, evolving from simple, single chargers placed inconveniently to large, highly visible, and user-friendly stations. Over its first five years, Fastned’s design progressed from an iconic wave form to a flexible tree canopy structure adaptable to various station sizes. Recently, Fastned unveiled a new station concept that includes not only charging facilities but also a convenience store and rest area, signaling a shift toward offering more comprehensive services beyond just electricity. The latest innovation from Fastned is the development of the first indoor charging station, planned for Aberdeen, Scotland. This indoor facility addresses the challenges of harsh weather conditions common in the region, such as cold, wet, and windy environments, by providing a sheltered space for customers. The design includes a charging hall and rest area, enhancing user comfort and convenience. This novel approach is expected to inspire other Scottish cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh to follow suit, potentially sparking a regional competition to adopt similar infrastructure
energyelectric-vehicle-chargingFastnedcharging-stationsrenewable-energysustainable-transportationclean-technologyGreen GSM Partners With Xentro Motors For Electric Vehicle Fleet In Philippines - CleanTechnica
Green GSM, an electric ride-hailing service under the Vingroup GSM ecosystem, has partnered with Philippines-based AMRC Renewable Corporation/Xentro Motors through a memorandum of understanding to supply 2,000 VinFast electric vehicles for ride-hailing operations in the Philippines. This follows Green GSM’s launch of an all-electric taxi service in Metro Manila in June 2025, which started with 2,500 VinFast Nerio Green vehicles and represented a $500 million initial investment as part of a planned $1 billion commitment over three years. Under the new agreement, the first 1,000 vehicles have been secured, with the remainder to be delivered within two years, operating under the co-branded name “Green Xentro powered by Green GSM” in Metro Manila and other urban centers, pending regulatory approvals. The partnership aims to accelerate electric vehicle adoption in the Philippine ride-hailing market by leveraging local infrastructure and operational expertise. Xentro Motors will provide access to its Xentro Malls network for pick-up
electric-vehiclesEV-fleetride-hailingsustainable-mobilityelectric-vehicle-chargingclean-energytransportation-innovationXCharge North America’s GridLink Wins “Battery Charging Technology Solution of the Year” in 2025 AutoTech Breakthrough Awards Program - CleanTechnica
XCharge North America (XCharge NA), a subsidiary of XCHG Limited, announced that its GridLink system won the “Battery Charging Technology Solution of the Year” award in the 2025 AutoTech Breakthrough Awards. GridLink is a battery-integrated DC fast charging solution designed to enhance EV charging infrastructure by acting as both a high-power charger and a distributed energy resource. It stores cleaner, cheaper power during off-peak hours and supplies it back to the grid during peak demand, helping utilities avoid overloads and outages. Its advanced features include a 10A active balancer, triple liquid-cooled plates for battery longevity, multi-sensor warnings, and UL 9540A-compliant fire protection, ensuring safety and reliability. GridLink addresses key challenges in EV adoption, particularly the high cost and grid instability of conventional fast chargers in rural and remote areas. It offers ultra-fast charging up to 300 kW even where the grid is unstable, supported by onboard battery storage and bid
energybattery-technologyelectric-vehicle-charginggrid-stabilityrenewable-energy-integrationenergy-storagesustainable-transportationCross-Country Electric Vehicle Road Trips Showcase E-Mobility Readiness In South Africa - CleanTechnica
The article highlights a significant milestone in South Africa’s electric vehicle (EV) transition, showcased through a 4,000 km cross-country road trip involving six fully electric vehicles (BEVs) and several plug-in hybrids (PHEVs). Organized around the 90th anniversary of South Africa’s Automotive Business Council and the South African Automotive Week 2025 in Gqeberha, the trip connected major cities like Johannesburg, Durban, and East London. The participating EV models included a diverse range such as the BYD Sealion, Leapmotor B10, Mini Cooper SE, and Volvo EX30 Cross Country, reflecting the growing variety and affordability of EV options in the South African market. Notably, the Leapmotor vehicles are anticipated to be officially launched soon, offering more accessible EV choices for consumers. The road trip also demonstrated the maturity and expansion of South Africa’s EV charging infrastructure, including innovative off-grid solar-powered charging hubs like the one in Wolmaransstad, North West, capable of
electric-vehiclese-mobilityelectric-vehicle-chargingsolar-energybattery-storagerenewable-energySouth-Africa-energy-infrastructure6 New Electric Buses Will Transport Passengers To Edinburgh Airport - CleanTechnica
Stagecoach East Scotland has introduced six new fully electric Volvo BZL buses to operate on the JET747 route, which runs between Halbeath Park & Ride in Fife and Edinburgh Airport, covering a 16-mile distance with an average journey time of 40 minutes. This route is heavily used, carrying around 10,000 passengers weekly during peak season, including both airport travelers and staff. These electric buses are the first to provide direct and frequent fully electric service between Fife and Edinburgh Airport terminals, complementing other electric services like Ember’s coach and tram connections. The move to fully electric buses aligns with Stagecoach’s broader strategy to reduce carbon emissions, improve air quality, and offer a quieter, more comfortable ride. The new buses will be charged at the Dunfermline depot, which has supported a fully electric city network since early 2023, with additional charging infrastructure planned at Halbeath Park & Ride. Across Scotland, Stagecoach operates over 150 fully electric buses and
electric-buseszero-emissionspublic-transportationclean-energyelectric-vehicle-chargingsustainable-transportScotland-energy-transitionSiemens SiCharge Flex Can Supply Up To 1.68 MW Of Power - CleanTechnica
Siemens has introduced the SiCharge Flex, a new megawatt-capable charging system that can deliver up to 1.68 MW of power, the highest known charging capacity currently available. The system is designed to dynamically allocate power among multiple charging points in real time, adjusting the output to individual vehicles based on their charging needs. For example, if one vehicle’s charging rate slows down as its battery nears full capacity, the system can redirect power to another vehicle, optimizing the overall charging efficiency without exceeding the total 1.68 MW limit. This flexibility addresses the variable charging rates of electric vehicles (EVs), which depend on factors such as battery temperature and manufacturer settings to ensure safety and battery health. The SiCharge Flex system supports both CCS and MCS charging standards and can accommodate multiple charging points—up to six CCS or four MCS plugs per system, or combinations thereof. It features a compact design with high power density (up to 656 kW/m²) and allows
energyelectric-vehicle-chargingSiemens-SiCharge-Flexmegawatt-charging-systembattery-management-systempower-distributionelectric-mobilityBattery startup Moxion went bankrupt. Now its founder is back to ‘finish what we started’
Battery startup Moxion Power, which aimed to replace diesel generators at festivals and construction sites, went bankrupt just over a year ago after raising significant funding but ultimately failing to sustain operations. The company laid off more than 400 employees and shut down. Now, Moxion’s co-founder Paul Huelskamp and several former employees have launched a new startup called Anode, with the goal of “finishing what we started.” Anode recently secured $9 million in seed funding led by Eclipse, with investor Jiten Behl, formerly Rivian’s chief growth officer, backing the venture due to his experience recognizing the lack of charging infrastructure for electric vehicle fleets. Anode differentiates itself by focusing on integrated hardware, including a specially designed inverter and a smaller, more easily transportable mobile battery optimized for markets like EV charging, construction sites, and live events. Unlike Moxion, which tried to handle manufacturing in-house, Anode plans to use contract manufacturers to reduce complexity and costs. The
energybattery-technologyelectric-vehicle-chargingportable-powerstartupclean-energyenergy-infrastructureConnectDER Introduces IslandDER Home Energy Storage Solution - CleanTechnica
ConnectDER has introduced IslandDER, a home energy storage solution designed to simplify the integration of rooftop solar, EV chargers, and residential storage batteries without costly electrical panel upgrades. Many older homes, especially those built before the 1980s, have 100 amp service panels that cannot handle these modern energy demands, often requiring expensive upgrades to 200 or 400 amps. IslandDER addresses this challenge by offering meter socket adapters (MSAs) that install easily between the utility meter and meter socket, incorporating all necessary components such as voltage sensing, current transformers, and an isolation switch (Microgrid Interconnect Device) in one unit. This eliminates the need to modify the breaker panel, reducing installation time and cost significantly. The IslandDER device is UL listed and NEC certified, ensuring safety and compliance. It enables safe islanding—disconnecting the home from the grid during outages to protect utility workers—while allowing homeowners to use solar and battery power for backup. Unlike other meter collar products that require using a
energyhome-energy-storagesolar-powerdistributed-energy-resourceselectric-vehicle-chargingresidential-energy-backupmicrogrid-technologyEaton & ChargePoint Launch Breakthrough Ultrafast DC V2X Chargers and Power Infrastructure to Accelerate the Future of EV Charging - CleanTechnica
Eaton and ChargePoint have jointly launched an ultrafast DC vehicle-to-everything (V2X) charging architecture called ChargePoint Express Grid, powered by Eaton. This innovative solution delivers up to 600 kW for passenger EVs and megawatt-level charging for heavy-duty commercial vehicles, addressing grid constraints and enabling cost-effective scaling of EV charging infrastructure. The modular design reduces capital expenditures by 30%, occupies 30% less space, and lowers operational costs by up to 30% compared to existing solutions. By integrating onsite renewables, energy storage, and vehicle batteries with local energy markets, the system helps fleets reduce fueling costs and can assist utilities in balancing the electric grid when deployed at scale. The solution will debut at the RE+ trade show in September 2025, with availability for select customers in North America and Europe starting in early 2026 and deliveries in the second half of the year. Eaton will provide custom-engineered, site-ready power infrastructure options, including
energyelectric-vehicle-chargingV2X-technologypower-infrastructurerenewable-energy-integrationenergy-storagegrid-managementAnker SOLIX F3000 Portable Power Station - CleanTechnica Tested - CleanTechnica
The Anker SOLIX F3000 is a portable power station with a capacity of 3,072 watt-hours (just over 3 kWh), housed in a compact, cooler-sized unit featuring iron phosphate (LFP) batteries known for longevity and stability. Priced at $2,599, it offers a cost of under $1,000 per kilowatt-hour and includes wheels and a handle for portability. Users can expand its capacity by adding an optional BP3000 expansion battery, doubling storage. The unit is designed with weather-resistant port covers and supports a variety of charging options, including optional adapters for NEMA TT-30 and J1772 EV charging, making it suitable for RVs, vans, and home backup use. Additional accessories like a Double Voltage Hub and Bi-Directional Inlet Box facilitate easy integration into home electrical systems. In testing, the SOLIX F3000 demonstrated robust performance, powering high-demand appliances such as a Vitamix blender and supporting EV chargers,
energyportable-power-stationbattery-storagelithium-iron-phosphateelectric-vehicle-charginghome-backup-powerAnker-SOLIX-F3000Lynkwell Selected by Southern California Public Power Authority to Provide Electric Vehicle Charging Network Management & Expansion Services - CleanTechnica
Lynkwell has been awarded a three-year contract by the Southern California Public Power Authority (SCPPA) to provide electric vehicle (EV) charging station load management and network support services. SCPPA, a Joint Powers Authority consisting of eleven municipal utilities and one irrigation district, serves over five million Californians and supplies 16% of California’s power, including managing more than 800 public and private EV charging stations. The contract involves managing, monitoring, and optimizing SCPPA’s existing and future Level 2 and DC Fast Charging infrastructure through Lynkwell’s ViaLynk™ software platform and associated services. Lynkwell’s offerings include software subscription access, network integration services, custom feature development tailored to individual utility needs, and regulatory reporting support such as California’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard compliance. Their platform is distinguished by a fully U.S.-based team, OCPP 2.0.1 open protocol certification ensuring hardware compatibility and enhanced security, and partnerships with global roaming networks
energyelectric-vehicle-chargingload-managementnetwork-supportcharging-station-management-systemclean-energyinfrastructure-expansionLeapmotor C10 BEV Real-Life Stories - CleanTechnica
The Leapmotor C10, a Chinese electric vehicle brand partly owned by Stellantis, has been available in Australia for eight months and has garnered positive real-world feedback from owners. Users appreciate its affordability, spaciousness, and comfort, with one owner reporting a total of 1,400 km driven at an average consumption of 17.3 kWh/100 km and a realistic range of around 360 km at highway speeds. The vehicle’s 70 kWh battery offers a manufacturer-indicated range of approximately 440 km based on mixed driving habits. Owners find the charging capabilities adequate for typical travel needs, with some benefiting from favorable electricity plans that allow overnight charging. The Leapmotor app enhances the user experience by providing features like phone-as-key, state of charge monitoring, and preconditioning. While the C10 performs well overall and offers good climate control including seat ventilation, some users have noted minor issues with driver assistance systems such as lane-keeping and adaptive cruise control, which can be jerky
electric-vehiclesLeapmotor-C10battery-electric-vehicleEV-rangeelectric-vehicle-chargingautomotive-technologyclean-energyPoll: Two-thirds of Canadians favour developing clean energy over fossil fuels, while 85% wish to maintain or increase federal climate action - Clean Energy Canada
A recent survey by Abacus Data for Clean Energy Canada reveals strong Canadian support for prioritizing clean energy development over fossil fuels. Two-thirds (67%) of respondents favor investing in clean energy projects such as critical minerals, renewable power, and energy storage, compared to 33% who prefer conventional fossil fuel projects like oil, gas, and LNG. While both sectors are seen as important to Canada’s economy over the next decade, clean energy holds a slight edge, especially among those who view one sector as "very important." This reflects a broad consensus that clean energy will play a crucial role in the country’s future. Support for federal climate action remains robust amid ongoing climate challenges, with 85% of Canadians wanting the government to maintain or increase efforts to combat climate change. Only 14% believe the government should reduce its climate initiatives. This support spans regions and political affiliations, including 72% in Alberta and 70% of Conservative supporters. Younger Canadians (ages 18-29) are particularly
clean-energyrenewable-powerenergy-storageclimate-actionsustainable-constructionlow-carbon-materialselectric-vehicle-charging