Toyota and Panasonic are among the front-runners in the race to deliver smaller batteries with a longer life and more range … … [Read more...] about Solid-state batteries the ‘holy grail’ for EVs …
All-electric Toyota points to future of solid-state batteries
The Toyota bZ4X, the Japanese carmaker’s first battery-electric vehicle (BEV), ushers in the evolutionary next stage of electric automotive power: solid-state batteries (SSB). The bZ4X SUV won’t have SSB power on board when it lands in New Zealand later next year. Instead it will be powered by a conventional liquid-cooled lithium ion pack. But it remains a Toyota pioneer … [Read more...] about All-electric Toyota points to future of solid-state batteries
Hardcore Benz G-Wagen gets emergency ‘escape’ switch
A variant of the Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen that is unlikely to find a role in New Zealand comes with an electronic emergency device designed to hustle the vehicle and its occupants away from life-threatening situations. It’s called the Emergency Override Switch, a panic button, of sorts. M-B isn’t saying how it works exactly. Nor does it offer an example of life-threatening … [Read more...] about Hardcore Benz G-Wagen gets emergency ‘escape’ switch
Oil the No. 1 source of energy until at least 2045, says Opec
The Opec oil cartel has issued a reminder that crude will continue to be the world’s leading source of energy for decades, driven by less-wealthy countries seeking higher economic growth and improved standards of living. Opec’s bullish pronouncement comes as nations prepare to gather for the COP26 climate summit in Glasgow to discuss ways in which the world’s population can … [Read more...] about Oil the No. 1 source of energy until at least 2045, says Opec
Kiwis like Mitsubishi – its sales are up over 100% this year
Mitsubishi’s strong SUV line-up is largely responsible for its galloping growth in 2021, where its registrations at the end of September were up more than 100% on the same time last year. The nameplate’s rapid rise has propelled it to No. 2 on the charts, a position it hasn’t held for yonks but one it expects to hang on to. Motoring Industry Association (MIA) numbers show … [Read more...] about Kiwis like Mitsubishi – its sales are up over 100% this year