battery
Truck makers face tough choices on hydrogen and battery options
Truck manufacturers are under pressure to cut emissions, but there's no clear winner between battery-powered and hydrogen fuel cell trucks.
In short:
- Heavy-duty trucks make up 28% of transport emissions in Europe, pushing manufacturers to explore zero-emission alternatives.
- Batteries have advanced in efficiency and cost, making them the preferred option, though hydrogen offers better range and weight advantages.
- Battery electric trucks are more cost-effective, while hydrogen trucks, despite higher fuel costs, are better suited for heavier loads.
Key quote:
"There were many preconceived notions about what batteries could do. They were too expensive, too heavy, too big. But what has happened in the last few years is mind-boggling."
— Felipe Rodriguez, director, Heavy-Duty Vehicles Program, ICCT.
Why this matters:
The truck industry’s move towards cleaner energy will shape global emissions. Choosing the right technology now could reduce long-term environmental damage while keeping costs manageable.
Toxic chemicals in EV battery production raise health concerns
As the demand for electric vehicle batteries grows, communities near production sites worry about toxic chemical exposure and health risks.
In short:
- EV batteries use PVDF, a polymer made by companies previously linked to dangerous chemical emissions.
- Residents near these plants, such as in New Jersey and Georgia, report health issues and ongoing legal battles over contamination.
- Experts warn that new manufacturing methods may still produce harmful byproducts, posing ongoing risks.
Key quote:
"For 45 years we’ve lived in it, bathed in it, cooked with it, drank it.’"
— Richard Bond, local citizen who lives downriver of Solvay Specialty Polymers
Why this matters:
While the transition to EVs is celebrated for its promise of reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change, the environmental and health impacts of battery production are raising alarms.
Tesla's turbulent shift: Can Musk power through the transition?
A recent analysis indicates Tesla, renowned for its electric vehicles, may be shifting focus from car manufacturing to becoming a key player in energy storage and electricity supply.
In short:
- Chinese competitor BYD surpassed Tesla as the biggest global seller of EVs. Other competitors like Ford, Hyundai and Rivian are also catching up in the U.S. market.
- As Tesla's EV's lose a share of the market, the company is diversifying from its EV roots to focus more on energy solutions like battery storage and electric grids.
- Despite current challenges in its car business, Tesla's energy sector profits surged by 140% from last year.
- With products like Megapacks and Powerwalls, the company aims to dominate the clean energy market.
Why this matters:
Tesla's strategic pivot could make it a central figure in the transition to renewable energy, impacting how electricity is delivered and stored. Their technological advancements in energy solutions might set the stage for broader adoption of clean energy.
What is the role of electric vehicles in the push for environmental justice?
Biden’s paradox: Can a green grid coexist with industrial surge?
Utilities are planning record investments in renewable energy and battery storage. But an increasing number are also proposing thousands of megawatts of new natural-gas-fired generation that works against their plans to achieve net-zero goals.
An EV slowdown? Battery makers are cool with that
The news that big auto companies like General Motors and Ford Motor are slowing their electric vehicle rollouts has one group a bit relieved: battery-makers.
Xcel gets $70 million for Colorado clean energy storage
