Articles tagged with "lithium-battery"
Lithium-based battery method destroys forever chemicals at 94% rate
Researchers at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering have developed a novel lithium-mediated electroreduction method to break down per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), notoriously persistent water pollutants known as "forever chemicals." Led by Assistant Professor Chibueze Amanchukwu, the team adapted battery degradation chemistry to achieve about 94% defluorination and 95% degradation of PFAS, specifically targeting the long-chain molecule perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). Unlike previous methods that break PFAS into shorter, harder-to-remove fragments, this approach mineralizes fluorine, effectively breaking nearly all carbon-fluorine bonds without generating problematic byproducts. The process employs lithium-treated copper electrodes in non-aqueous electrolytes, avoiding oxidation challenges due to fluorine's strong electron affinity. This electrochemical technique is modular and site-ready, allowing for small-scale reactors that can be powered by renewable energy sources like solar panels, eliminating the
energylithium-batteryelectroreductionPFAS-degradationwater-purificationadvanced-materialselectrochemical-reactorPhoto: Honda unveils solar powered towable camper that weighs under 1,500 pounds
In January 2026, Honda introduced the Base Station Prototype, a lightweight, solar-powered towable camper designed to broaden access to camping by enabling towing with most vehicles under 1,500 pounds. Constructed with a fiberglass shell and aluminum chassis, the camper is compatible with compact SUVs like the Honda CR-V and upcoming electric models, eliminating the need for heavy-duty trucks. The modular design includes features such as a pop-up roof for increased headroom and sleeping space, a slide-out kitchen, and removable window modules that can be swapped for amenities like an air conditioner or outdoor shower. The interior maximizes functionality within a compact footprint, offering convertible furniture that sleeps up to four people, large windows for natural light, and storage space suitable for equipment like bicycles. Powered by solar panels and a lithium battery, the Base Station supports off-grid camping and can manage its systems via an onboard touchscreen or mobile app. While still a prototype without a confirmed release date or price, Honda is reportedly considering production, marking
energysolar-powerlightweight-materialselectric-vehiclesmodular-designoff-grid-campinglithium-batteryPhotos: This e-tricycle with low frame features Samsung battery, up to 93-mile range
The Trike Bike CHILL is a premium recumbent electric tricycle designed with a low frame and accessibility-focused features to enhance comfort and ease of use, particularly for seniors, people with mobility challenges, and leisure riders. Its exceptionally low step-over height simplifies mounting, while a wide, triple-width seat with an adjustable breathable backrest accommodates various body sizes. A unique angled sliding seat rail system automatically adjusts seat height and position to maintain an optimal pedaling angle without manual adjustments. Powered by a 130 Nm Ananda M100 mid-drive motor, the CHILL offers improved torque for hill climbing and better weight distribution compared to hub motors. It uses a 48V 672Wh Samsung lithium battery, delivering a throttle-only range of 40–60 km (24.8–37.3 miles) and a pedal-assist range of 120–150 km (74.6–93.2 miles), depending on conditions. The tricycle features a durable 6061 aluminum frame,
electric-tricycleSamsung-batterylithium-batterymid-drive-motorenergy-storagemobility-aidrecumbent-tricycleVideo: China firm unveils combat-ready humanoid robot fighter
China’s Shenzhen-based company EngineAI has introduced the T800, a full-scale humanoid robot designed for combat and dynamic physical demonstrations. Unveiled at the World Robot Conference in Beijing, the T800 stands 5.6 feet tall, weighs 165 pounds, and features 29 degrees of freedom plus highly dexterous hands. Built with aviation-grade aluminum and equipped with an active cooling system, it can sustain high-intensity operations for up to four hours. The robot incorporates advanced perception technologies like 360-degree LiDAR and stereo vision, and powerful joint motors capable of complex movements such as flying kicks and rapid directional changes. Its computing system combines an Intel N97 base unit with an NVIDIA AGX Orin module, delivering 275 TOPS of AI processing power, and supports secondary development with an integrated remote controller. Despite its impressive hardware and athletic capabilities, the T800’s software ecosystem remains unclear. EngineAI has not provided detailed information on software development kits, APIs, or programming tools
robothumanoid-robotroboticsAI-processinglithium-batteryaviation-grade-materialsautonomous-navigationThe Ultimate Foldable Fat-Tire E-Bike? Meet The JasionBike Hunter Pro - CleanTechnica
The JasionBike Hunter Pro is a foldable fat-tire electric bike designed to combine serious off-road capability with compact convenience. Building on the earlier X-Hunter model, it features a rugged design with 20×4-inch fat tires and full suspension (including a front hydraulic fork with 180 mm travel and a rear Horst-link four-bar setup) to handle diverse terrains such as dirt, gravel, sand, and snow. Despite its robust build, the bike folds down to a compact size (39.8″ × 25.6″ × 31.5″), making it practical for storage in car trunks or RV bays, appealing to urban riders and travelers alike. It is available in three bold colors: Beast Brown, Storm Blue, and Phantom Black. Under the hood, the Hunter Pro is powered by a 1,800-watt peak brushless motor delivering 95 N·m of torque, enabling rapid acceleration (0 to 20 mph in about five seconds)
energyelectric-bikelithium-batterye-bike-motoroff-road-vehiclefoldable-biketransportation-technologyThe Kingbull Jumper Go Full Suspension E-Bike Offers Excellent Value — CleanTechnica Tested - CleanTechnica
The Kingbull Jumper Go is a versatile, full-suspension electric bike introduced in mid-2025, designed to bridge urban commuting and off-road riding. It features a 750W Bafang brushless hub motor with 80Nm torque capable of handling 35° climbs, a 960Wh Samsung lithium battery offering up to 80 miles of range, and full suspension with 100mm front and 50mm rear travel for comfort on rugged terrain. The bike’s 20-inch fat tires, hydraulic disc brakes, and torque sensor provide traction, stopping power, and intuitive pedal assistance, making it suitable for beginners and enthusiasts alike. Its low step-through aluminum frame accommodates riders from 5’3″ to 6’7″ and supports a 450-pound payload, including a 150-pound rear rack for cargo or passengers. Accessories like integrated LED lights, fenders, and an electronic horn enhance safety and convenience. Positioned as an affordable all-terrain e-bike,
energyelectric-bikee-bikelithium-batterybrushless-motorsuspensionoff-road-bikeChina’s new 600Wh/kg lithium battery could double EV energy density
Chinese researchers at Tianjin University have developed a lithium metal battery with an unprecedented energy density of 600 Wh/kg, potentially doubling the energy density of Tesla’s best batteries and quadrupling that of BYD’s Blade batteries. This breakthrough could significantly extend the driving range of electric vehicles (EVs), alleviate range anxiety, reduce battery weight, and enhance performance and efficiency. Additionally, the battery’s high energy density and safety features open up promising applications in electric aircraft and drones, where extended flight times and reliability are critical. The team achieved this advancement by rethinking the traditional lithium-ion solvation structure, creating a more flexible, non-localized interaction between lithium ions and solvent molecules. Using machine learning to optimize lithium salts and solvents, and incorporating fluorine to enhance thermal stability, the battery demonstrated remarkable safety characteristics: it operates at temperatures as low as -60 °C without freezing, resists ignition under open flame, and withstands nail penetration tests. Early tests showed stable performance after 90 charge cycles and
energylithium-batteryelectric-vehiclesbattery-technologymaterials-scienceenergy-densityelectric-aircraftWorld's first self-charging tender that harnesses sun's power debuts
Sunpower Yachts International has launched the Sunpower Solar-eJET 3.3m, the world’s first self-charging inflatable tender that harnesses solar power directly from a yacht’s integrated solar energy system. This innovative tender eliminates the need for conventional refueling or shore-based electrical power by connecting to the mothership’s solar array via a built-in charging port when stowed. Designed to complement Sunpower’s larger solar-electric yachts, the Solar-eJET creates a consistent, self-sufficient energy ecosystem, ensuring the tender’s battery is continuously topped up and ready for immediate use. The Solar-eJET features a 10 kWh lithium battery powering a 22 kW electric motor, equivalent to a 30-horsepower conventional engine, with a liquid-cooled brushless DC motor driving an advanced jet propulsion system. This system offers zero direct emissions, reduced noise, enhanced swimmer safety, and shallow-water operation without the risks of an exposed propeller. The tender’s hull is made from durable
energysolar-powerelectric-propulsionlithium-batterymarine-grade-aluminiumclean-marine-innovationsolar-chargingUnitree designs R1 humanoid robot to be agile and affordable - The Robot Report
Unitree, a Hangzhou-based robotics company, has introduced the R1 humanoid robot priced at $5,900, significantly more affordable than most existing humanoids, including its own previous model, the G1, which cost over $13,000. The company achieved this cost reduction by developing and manufacturing core components like motors and reducers in-house and optimizing the robot’s body structure. Founded in 2016, Unitree has a strong background in legged robots and recently secured Series C funding, valuing the company at approximately $1.7 billion. The R1 stands 1.2 meters tall, weighs 25 kg, and features 26 joint modules enabling lifelike agility demonstrated through actions such as flips and boxing moves. It integrates multimodal large models for voice and image recognition, facilitating easier development and customization, with options including a dexterous hand and enhanced computing power via NVIDIA Jetson Orin. Unlike some competitors’ humanoids, the R1 is currently remote-controlled
robothumanoid-robotUnitreeroboticsartificial-intelligencelithium-batteryremote-controlNew hybrid EV by China’s Geely, Mercedes offers 1,000-mile range with lithium battery
The Smart #5 EHD is the first plug-in hybrid SUV from Smart, a joint venture between Mercedes-Benz and China’s Geely. It features a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine producing 161 horsepower paired with a lithium iron phosphate battery from CATL, with an estimated battery capacity of over 40 kWh. The vehicle achieves fuel efficiency of about 53 miles per gallon and offers a pure electric range of approximately 155 miles, with a total driving range close to 1,000 miles under Chinese standards (around 620 miles in real-world conditions). The SUV supports fast charging, recharging in under 15 minutes, and includes advanced driver-assistance features enabled by a roof-mounted LiDAR sensor. Currently, the Smart #5 EHD complements the all-electric Smart #5 lineup, which offers rear-wheel-drive versions with 335 or 358 horsepower and battery capacities of 76 or 100 kWh, delivering ranges between 354 and 460 miles. An all-wheel
electric-vehicleshybrid-vehicleslithium-batteryenergy-storageautomotive-technologyCATL-batteryplug-in-hybridNireeka Spectrx Ultimate: This 6kW Carbon Fiber E-Bike Hits 50 MPH In 7 Seconds - CleanTechnica
The Nireeka Spectrx Ultimate is a high-performance electric bike designed for experienced riders seeking speed and power beyond typical commuter or trail e-bikes. Its standout feature is a 6kW mid-drive motor capable of accelerating from 0 to 50 mph (80 km/h) in just 7 seconds, delivering 280 Nm of torque that easily handles steep inclines. The bike’s drivetrain is reinforced with motorcycle-grade components to withstand this high power, enabling motorbike-level thrills such as burnouts without noise or emissions. This makes the Spectrx appealing to adrenaline enthusiasts who want a near-silent, fast electric two-wheeler suitable for areas where dirt bikes are restricted. At the core of the Spectrx is a carbon fiber monocoque frame that integrates the battery and rear swingarm into a lightweight yet rigid structure, enhancing both aesthetics and ride quality at high speeds. The bike houses a 1,260 Wh (60 V, 21 Ah) lithium battery built with premium Samsung
energyelectric-bikecarbon-fiberlithium-batterymotortorquee-bike-materialsCanon Alpha EREV Ute — Can It Be The #1 Big Shot? - CleanTechnica
Great Wall Motors has introduced the Canon Alpha EREV (Extended Range Electric Vehicle) ute to the Australian market as a competitor to the BYD Shark, targeting the country’s substantial ute segment where one in eight vehicles sold are light trucks. The Canon Alpha EREV is a large vehicle with dimensions comparable to Tesla’s Cybertruck and BYD’s Shark, featuring a 37.1 kWh lithium battery paired with a 2-litre turbo petrol engine. Its electric-only range is similar to the Shark, though it is priced about AU$9,000 higher. Compared to the diesel version, the EREV costs roughly AU$10,000 more but offers significant fuel savings given Australia’s high diesel prices and new emissions regulations, emitting just 39g/km CO2 versus over 200g/km for diesel and hybrid versions. The ute also includes off-road capabilities such as a rear differential lock, enhancing its traditional utility. The Canon Alpha EREV has been on sale in Australia for about a month
energyelectric-vehicleextended-range-electric-vehiclelithium-batteryemissions-reductionautomotive-technologyclean-energyUS battery breakthrough boasts 1,300 cycles and zero Chinese materials
Boston-based startup Pure Lithium, led by CEO Emilie Bodoin, has developed a lithium metal battery that promises significant advancements over conventional lithium-ion cells. The battery boasts over 1,300 charge-discharge cycles and eliminates reliance on critical minerals such as graphite, cobalt, nickel, and manganese—materials often sourced or processed in China. Instead, Pure Lithium uses a proprietary “Brine to Battery” process to extract pure lithium metal anodes directly from brine, paired with a vanadium cathode that enhances fire resistance and allows operation at temperatures up to 700°C. This design not only improves energy density but also reduces material costs and environmental concerns associated with traditional lithium-ion batteries. This innovation comes amid growing U.S. efforts to reduce dependence on China, which currently dominates around 90% of global rare earth production and supplies half of America’s critical mineral imports. Pure Lithium’s approach aligns with national priorities to secure domestic supply chains for clean energy technologies. The company is expanding its lithium production and
energylithium-batterybattery-technologymaterials-scienceenergy-storageclean-energysupply-chain-independenceFirst-time maker’s 3D-printed drone could fly 130 miles in 3 hours
Engineer Tsung Xu, a first-time maker with no formal background in aerodynamics or 3D printing, successfully designed and built a fully functional vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) fixed-wing drone capable of flying 130 miles (209.2 km) in about 3 hours. Completed in just 90 days, Xu’s project involved designing, modeling, and 3D printing every aerodynamic surface and structural component from scratch using a consumer-grade Bambu Lab A1 desktop 3D printer. Non-printable elements such as motors, radio equipment, and electronic speed controllers were sourced separately and integrated into the system, which is powered by a high-energy-density lithium battery to maximize endurance. The drone’s VTOL capability allows it to take off and land vertically without a runway, then transition to efficient forward flight, a feature typically found in advanced military or commercial unmanned aerial systems. Xu’s achievement demonstrates how accessible technologies like desktop 3D printing and off-the-shelf components can enable
robotdrone3D-printinglithium-batteryVTOLaerospace-engineeringunmanned-aerial-systemsLithium battery runs uninterrupted at 29,000 feet in -40°F for days
energylithium-batterylow-temperature-technologyscientific-equipmentpower-solutionscold-climaterenewable-energyNew CO₂-capturing battery stores 2.5x more energy, could power mars gear
energyCO₂-capturelithium-batteryrenewable-energyenergy-storageclean-technologyMars-exploration