This is a quick roundup of what’s happened in automotive for the week of September 29 through October 5, 2024.
LG Chem Develops Thermal Runaway Suppressant
LG Chem has announced that it’s developed a temperature-responsive material designed to suppress thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries. The open access research findings were published in Nature Communications.
Study Finds EV Drivers More Likely To Be At Fault In Accidents
Drivers of electric vehicles are more likely to be involved in at-fault road traffic accidents than are drivers of gasoline and diesel vehicles. The study, specific to Ireland and conducted by researchers at Lero, was published in the journal Accident Analysis & Prevention.
Ford Ranger Plug-in Hybrid Debuts at IAA Transportation
Ford has unveiled the new Ranger PHEV for the European market. The new model has the same towing, payload, and off-road performance as the standard Ranger models, but as a plug-in hybrid with an all-electric range of 45 km.
Mitsubishi Updates Outlander Plug-in Hybrid for Europe
Mitsubishi Motors has updated the Outlander PHEV for the European market. The new model will sell in Japan and 20 European countries starting in spring of 2025. An EV range boost of 20 percent (to over 80km) has been added.
IONNA Breaks Ground On First EV Charging Site
IONNA, a charging network collaboration between BMW, GM, Honda, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz, Kia, Stellantis, and Toyota, has broken ground on its first “Rechargery” in Apex, North Carolina.
Hyundai, Waymo Enter Multi-Year Partnership
Hyundai and Waymo have announced a strategic partnership for a safe, autonomous consumer experience. The first phase begins with Waymo integrating its autonomous driving technology into a Hyundai Ioniq 5 EV.
All-New Ford Expedition Unveiled
Ford has unveiled an all-new version of the Expedition SUV, releasing as a 2025 model year vehicle. A Tremor model along with Ford’s new Digital Experience with a 24-inch panoramic display are highlights.
