EV batteries

Toyota is reported to be developing a fully electric version of the Corolla, the world's best-selling car. The move would mark a significant shift for the Japanese automaker, which has long favoured hybrids over battery-electric vehicles. Commenters are debating what an electric Corolla could mean for the mass-market EV segment and whether Toyota is finally committing more fully to battery power.

Geely has agreed to acquire a 30% stake in the battery-swapping business of rival Chinese electric vehicle maker Nio. The move would link two competing automakers in the infrastructure segment that Nio has built out as a differentiator for its cars, allowing drivers to exchange depleted batteries for charged ones in minutes. The reported deal highlights growing consolidation and cooperation in China's crowded electric vehicle market.

BYD says its solid-state electric vehicle battery technology is almost ready for real-world use. The Chinese automaker is among several manufacturers racing to commercialize solid-state batteries, which promise greater range, faster charging and improved safety over today's lithium-ion cells. Any movement toward production from a company of BYD's scale is being closely watched across the auto industry, as a breakthrough could reshape competition in the fast-growing electric vehicle market.

Chinese auto companies are racing ahead in electric vehicle technology with ultrafast charging systems that can replenish a battery in about five minutes, comparable to a petrol stop. The development, reported widely in US regional press, highlights how far Chinese manufacturers have pulled ahead in charging speed, intensifying concerns about competition with Western and Japanese automakers in the global EV market.

A new study reported by The Guardian finds that used electric cars with high mileage break down less often than comparable petrol vehicles, challenging the assumption that EV batteries and motors degrade quickly. Commenters are debating the findings, with some citing real-world battery longevity data and others questioning how the study controlled for vehicle age and maintenance history.

Li Auto has launched the i9, a new electric SUV offering a claimed range of 705 km and dual-motor all-wheel drive producing 400 kW. The model extends the Chinese automaker's battery-electric lineup and signals its push beyond range-extender vehicles. Industry watchers are weighing the i9's specifications against rival premium electric SUVs from Nio, Tesla and other Chinese brands.

Industry analysis argues that humanoid robots, rather than electric vehicles, will be the first real-world testing ground for solid-state batteries. Robots' smaller energy needs and higher tolerance for premium pricing let early solid-state cells enter use sooner, while carmakers' stricter cost, volume and safety requirements keep them waiting for the technology to mature.