New Mexico solar-plus-storage project for Jicarilla Apache Nation begins operations
New Mexico solar-plus-storage project for Jicarilla Apache Nation begins operations - Energy-Storage.News Skip to content
Tesla analyst compares Robotaxi to Waymo: 'The contrast was clear'
Tesla analyst Jed Dorsheimer of Wall Street firm William Blair compared the company’s Robotaxi platform to Waymo’s driverless ride-sharing program, and had a clear-cut consensus over which option was better in terms of rider experience. Dorsheimer visited Austin recently to ride in both Tesla’s Robotaxi ride-sharing program and Waymo, which has operated slightly longer than Tesla has in the city. Tesla started rides on June 22, while Waymo opened its vehicles to the public in March. A Tesla Model Y L Robotaxi is a legitimate $47k Waymo killer The analyst gave both platforms the opportunity to present themselves, and by the end of it, one was better than the other in terms of rider experience. However, he noted that both platforms gave safe and smooth rides. Overall, there was a tremendous difference in the feel and environment of each option. Tesla Robotaxi vs. Waymo Dorsheimer said that Tesla’s first big advantage was vehicle appearance. Robotaxi uses no external equipment or hardware to operate; just its exterior cameras. Meanwhile, Zoox and Waymo vehicles utilize LiDAR rigs on their vehicles, which made them “stick out like a sore thumb.” “In contrast, the robotaxis blended in with other Teslas on the road; we felt inconspicuous flowing with the traffic,” he added. The next big victory went in the way of Robotaxi once again, and it concerned perhaps the most important metric in the ridesharing experience: price. He continued in the note: “Confirming our thesis, robotaxi was half the price of Uber, showing its ability to win market share by weaponizing price.” In terms of overall performance, Dorsheimer noted that both platforms provided safe and “top-notch” experiences. However, there was one distinction between the two and it provided a clear consensus on which was better. He said: “In Austin, we took multiple robotaxi and Waymo rides; the contrast was clear. Aside from the visual difference between each pulling up to the curb, the robotaxi was comfortable and familiar, and it felt as though a friendly ghost chauffeur was driving our personal car. Driving was smooth and human-like, recognizing and patiently waiting for pedestrians, switching into less crowded lanes, patiently waiting to execute a safe unprotected turn, and yet, discerning and confident enough to drive through a light that just turned yellow, so as not to slam on the brakes. Waymo also provided a top-notch service, and we did not encounter any safety concerns, but if we were to be overly critical, it felt more … robotic. In the cabin, you have to listen to an airline-esque preamble on Waymo and safety protocols, and during the ride, you can hear all the various spinning lidar sensors spooling up and down with electronic whizzing sounds.” Tesla Robotaxi provides an experience that seems to be more catered toward a realistic ride experience. You can control the music, the cabin temperature, and transitioning your travel from one vehicle to the next during a trip will continue your entertainment experience. If your first trip ends in the middle of a song, your next trip will pick up the music where it left off. Meanwhile, Waymo’s experience sounds as if it is more focused on rider expectations, and not necessarily providing a ride that felt catered to the occupants. Still, what’s important is that both platforms provided safe rides. Dorsheimer ended the note with one last tidbit: “In short, robotaxi felt like a more luxurious service for half the cost and the driving felt more human-like.”
Solar & Storage Industry Statement on Treasury Department Changes to Tax Credit Guidance
Support CleanTechnica's work through a Substack subscription or on Stripe. Last Updated on: 15th August 2025, 06:55 pm WASHINGTON D.C. — Following is a statement from Abigail Ross Hopper, president and CEO of the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) on new Treasury Department guidance narrowing “Commence Construction” rules for energy tax credits: “The Treasury Department’s new guidance to further restrict energy tax credits is part of an unprecedented side deal the administration made with anti-clean energy ideologues to undermine Congress and further harm America’s solar industry. This is a blatant rejection of what Congress passed in H.R. 1, and it threatens thousands of small businesses across the country that are the backbone of our clean energy economy. “This is yet another act of energy subtraction from the Trump administration that will further delay the buildout of affordable, reliable power. American families and businesses will pay more for electricity as a result of this action, and China will continue to outpace us in the race for electricity to power AI. “SEIA is carefully reviewing the guidance and evaluating next steps to protect the industry’s and America’s interests, as we have been since this side deal was announced last month. In the meantime, we urge the Trump administration to stop the political games, stop punishing businesses, and get serious about how to actually build the power we need right now to meet demand and stay competitive.” About SEIA®: The Solar Energy Industries Association® (SEIA) is leading the transformation to a clean energy economy, creating the framework for solar to achieve 30% of U.S. electricity generation by 2030. SEIA works with its 1,000 member companies and other strategic partners to fight for policies that create jobs in every community and shape fair market rules that promote competition and the growth of reliable, low-cost solar power. Founded in 1974, SEIA is the national trade association for the solar and solar + storage industries, building a comprehensive vision for the Solar+ Decade through research, education and advocacy. Visit SEIA online at www.seia.org and follow @SEIA on LinkedIn and Instagram. Press release from SEIA. Sign up for CleanTechnica's Weekly Substack for Zach and Scott's in-depth analyses and high level summaries, sign up for our daily newsletter, and follow us on Google News! Advertisement Have a tip for CleanTechnica? Want to advertise? Want to suggest a guest for our CleanTech Talk podcast? Contact us here. Sign up for our daily newsletter for 15 new cleantech stories a day. Or sign up for our weekly one on top stories of the week if daily is too frequent. CleanTechnica uses affiliate links. See our policy here. CleanTechnica's Comment Policy
Don’t miss the moment: Why we must scale long-duration energy storage now
In times like these, certain truths become increasingly clear in resilient and reliable energy systems: flexibility is power. Long-duration energy storage (LDES) is uniquely positioned to deliver both, yet today’s markets, policies, and investment mechanisms still fall short of enabling the scale we need, leaving energy systems at risk of losing critical societal and system-wide benefits. We must move swiftly to: Ramp up the LDES marketplace Strengthen public-private financing frameworks Accelerate supportive policy and regulatory action New energy demands require new storage thinking at all levels Even though in the United States, policies are turning away support for renewables, a majority of governments around the world are racing to meet ambitious renewable energy targets – such as the 11TW of renewables by 2030 (IEA and IRENA). Now, post-COP29 and looking ahead to COP30, long-duration storage is receiving more attention alongside generation—most notably through global storage and grid infrastructure pledges. Other than pumped hydro storage, most of the new storage currently deployed is short-duration, designed for only minutes to a few hours of flexibility. That’s no longer enough. We can’t solve today’s challenges with short-duration storage alone Short-duration energy storage is essential, but insufficient. For both thermal and electric grids, it falls short in these critical areas: • Limited duration: Can’t support multi-day or seasonal imbalances • Reduced system resilience: Fails to sustain energy access during extended outages or disruptions • Narrow applications: Optimised for daily balancing, but not for industrial decarbonisation, grid congestion relief or long-term backup We need complementary solutions that can store and dispatch energy over days, weeks, and seasons. This is where LDES steps in. LDES unlocks multiple revenue streams, decreases grid congestion, has a cross-sector impact and is a more efficient use of renewable energy. It’s more than a tool for utilities—it’s a system-wide enabler across industry, transport, buildings and fuels. The more we deploy and integrate these applications, the faster and cheaper our path to net zero becomes. LDES is not a single technology—it’s a family of solutions, including thermal, mechanical, electrochemical and chemical systems. What they share is a singular mission: to bridge the gap between variable supply and variable demand, over periods that short-duration batteries alone can’t economically or technically address. While many think of storage as simply saving electricity for later, LDES goes far beyond. What makes LDES a powerful solution is in how the stored power or heat is ultimately used, with applications often referred to as power-to-power, power-to-heat and power-to-X. Each pathway expands the role of LDES beyond the grid, unlocking flexibility across sectors. The real benefits: Beyond renewables The impact of LDES expands beyond decarbonisation; it enables an affordable, secure and resilient energy system. LDES acts as the shock absorber and stabiliser for energy systems, such as firming renewables, shifting surplus energy, replacing fossil fuel peakers and enhancing grid resilience. And it’s not just theoretical, look at the map of projects in Figures 1 & 2. Figure 1. LDES projects around the world. Figure 2. Pumped hydro projects worldwide collectively account for over 16GWh of storage capacity. Globally, the LDES Council has tracked 360 projects, 43 of which are under construction, with the latest year of completion in 2032. There are hydro projects in LATAM, but not new pumped hydro storage. Focusing on the United States, not only are diverse applications of LDES in construction or being deployed, but also new gigawatt factories. LDES projects are already proving their worth, delivering value to grids, customers and communities, as many communities need LDES to strengthen their energy infrastructure as well as provide resilience. But this is just a handful of what is needed to scale. More needs to be done. What’s next? To fully realise the LDES opportunity, governments, regulators and financial institutions must act on these priorities: Establish Clear market signals: • Set long-duration storage targets at national and regional levels • Ensure procurement mechanisms support duration diversity • Set a resource adequacy value for LDES 8+ hours Modernise planning frameworks: • Include LDES in transmission, distribution, and reliability planning • Recognise LDES contributions to system resilience, inertia, and heat decarbonisation Expand financing mechanisms: • Blend public and private capital, support new revenue stacks • Support early-stage deployment via loan guarantees, offtake models, and grants Celebrate and scale success stories: • Share case studies and best practices (e.g., Spain, Massachusetts, India) • Build trust with communities, utilities and investors Streamline permitting and build public trust • Simplify permitting for low-impact LDES projects • Remove excess grid fees • Engage local communities early • Embed LDES in just transition and workforce development plans Let’s not miss this opportunity LDES is an infrastructure necessity. The next five years are decisive. Regulatory inertia must give way to bold action because the crisis warrants action. Most importantly, the tools and talent exist. With the right policies, financing and deployment urgency, we can scale LDES technologies in time to deliver resilience, affordability and climate security. Without it, the clean energy transition risks faltering under its own ambition. The energy transition we are in is a once-in-a-century transformation. Missing this opportunity to scale long-duration energy storage, we risk higher costs, greater emissions and a less resilient grid and energy system, unable to meet the demands of a decarbonised world. But if we succeed, LDES becomes the quiet force that makes the transition work, delivering resilience, affordability and true climate security. Reaching the necessary amount of LDES by 2030 is a critical step to the much-needed energy system inflexion – and we have reached the horizon where fossil fuels are no longer needed for energy system security. We cannot afford to wait. The time to build the LDES marketplace isn’t someday—it’s now. Let’s move with the speed this moment demands, before the window closes and, with it, the future we still have the power to shape. About the Author Julia Souder is CEO of the Long Duration Energy Storage Council (LDES Council), an executive-led global nonprofit organisation with more than 60 members operating in 20 countries. She is a strategic executive with over 20 years
Tesla’s Elon Musk considers insane Cybertruck mod: ‘Maybe we should make this’
Tesla CEO Elon Musk has teased what could potentially be the company’s next big project, and while it is likely many, many years away, it shows the company truly has its sights set on the craziest things the world has seen. Musk shared a video created by Grok Imagine, the AI tool that is able to take images and turn them into videos, showing a Cybertruck flying above the clouds and buildings of what appears to be a very futuristic city. There are also massive robots roaming around in the video, so it is obviously an illustration of what life could look like in several generations. However, Musk, who does not shy away from some really optimistic projects and goals, shared the video on X and said, “Maybe Tesla should make this.” Maybe Tesla should make this — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) August 19, 2025 What is depicted in the video is not what we’d see Tesla create anytime soon. However, the company could potentially engineer something to make the Cybertruck hover, as it plans to do with the Roadster. Of course, this is likely a huge “if” considering the current state of the car industry. Vehicles are becoming more advanced with every passing day as companies like Tesla, Waymo, and others are working to sort out things like autonomous and driverless travel. Tesla has been working on somewhat of a similar idea with the Roadster, a vehicle that has been delayed on several occasions because of Musk’s spectacular imagination. Earlier this year, Tesla’s Chief Designer, Franz von Holzhausen, revealed Musk wanted to push the limits of that vehicle even more. The new Tesla Roadster will be able to fly: Elon Musk It seems it could be on the way soon, considering Tesla has teased an “epic” demo for the car, which could come before the end of the year. Tesla has been working to make the Roadster hover, using SpaceX cold gas thrusters. It will also utilize these for what could be an incredibly fast 1.1-second 0-60 MPH acceleration rate that has been teased countless times. This project that Musk is teasing with the Cybertruck is likely one that we will not see in our lifetimes. However, this is just one example of the outlandish ideas Musk continues to tease for Tesla in the future. The post Tesla’s Elon Musk considers insane Cybertruck mod: ‘Maybe we should make this’ appeared first on TESLARATI.
New Technologies Will Hasten The End Of Fossil Fuels. Yay!
Support CleanTechnica's work through a Substack subscription or on Stripe. The torrent of oral diarrhea coming out of the mouths of MAGA maniacs all day and all night is mostly designed to solidify the position of fossil fuel companies. They have generously funded the current insurrection as a means to tear down the rules and regulations that hamper their business activities. They have been the prime movers behind the notion that government is the problem and the only path forward is to destroy the hated bureaucracy and all the rules and regulations it has created to protect the Earth. Right now, it seems the fossil fuel industry is getting its way. The failed administration is on the brink of eliminating the “endangerment finding” that classified carbon dioxide as a greenhouse gas subject to regulation. It is buttressing that initiative by telling NASA to shut down satellites that measure the concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and by interrupting the ability of the Mauna Loa observatory to track carbon dioxide levels. If we can’t measure carbon dioxide levels, then the whole problem of global warming goes away. This is equivalent to sticking hot pokers in your eyes so you can’t see the forest fire bearing down on you or turning off your radar so you can pretend there are no icebergs in your path. But there’s one thing the fossil fuel thugs forgot — changes in technology. According to legend, on December 31, 1899, the head of the US Patent Office is supposed to have told friends and colleagues, “Everything that can be invented has now been invented.” Here are two examples of new technologies that will help the world overthrow the fossil fuel curse regardless of who occupies the Offal Office. Hyundai Applies For New Solid-State Battery Patent Solid-state batteries have been in development for decades. Compared to conventional lithium-ion batteries, they promise significantly higher energy densities, faster charging, and longer battery life. They also have the extra advantage of being virtually immune to thermal runaway events, what ordinary people call battery fires. Being largely experimental, they do not yet enjoy the economies of scale that will make them cost less than conventional batteries, but that will come. In the meantime, batteries with higher energy densities are just what are needed for applications where weight is an issue — such as electric aircraft. According to Electrive, Hyundai has applied for a patent on a new solid-state battery technology that uses copper anodes. Copper is one of the best conductors of electricity, but is corroded by the sulfides that are used in many solid-state batteries. As a result, researchers have had to rely on other materials like stainless steel or nickel, both of which cost more and are less efficient at conducting electricity. What researchers at Hyundai have done is devise a coating for the copper that protects it from sulfides, but doing so is no easy task. This coating “could deliver significantly better adhesion, letting it stick together longer and have more durability,” the company says, while also maintaining capacity over more charge–discharge cycles. The new battery is a layered design that consists of a copper collector, protective coating, anode, sulfide electrolyte, cathode, and terminal collector. Using copper is expected to lower costs while resulting in a battery with high conductivity and improved stability. The buffer is formed from a carbon sheet with oriented carbon materials, potentially vertically aligned carbon nanotubes, combined with lithiophilic metal particles such as silver, gold, or aluminum. As the patent specifies, the buffer layer “may have a porous structure” and maintain stability even when fully charged, helping to suppress lithium deposition at the edges of the anode and ensuring more uniform cycling. Hyundai is pursuing several avenues in its quest to create commercially viable solid-state batteries, including a research partnership with Seoul National University. In January, the Hyundai Motor Group said it planned to start a pilot production line for solid-state batteries at its Uiwang Research Institute. Last year it filed for a patent on solid-state battery technology it developed with Factorial Energy in the US. Orbis Axial Flow Motor Credit: Orbis Electric Also this week, Orbis Electric introduced HaloDrive, an axial flux motor suitable for use in heavy duty vehicles that is characterized by its modular, four-part architecture that features innovations like an injection molded plastic stator and a tunable gearset. “This system delivers strong levels of performance, efficiency, and configurability — maintaining high torque and power density with greater thermal stability,” according to Business Wire. The company says its new HaloDrive should offer a high level of performance, efficiency, and configurability with high torque and power density and improved thermal stability. With a torque density of 100 Nm/kg, the HaloDrive is said to outperform conventional radial and axial flux designs and offers the torque of a V8 engine. Cost is the key to replacing fossil fuels. Orbis claims its axial flux motors are as much as 35% cheaper than the radial flux motors in use today and have an energy efficiency of 97%. Axial flux motors differ from the familiar radial flux motors in the orientation of the magnetic field in the stator. Axial flux motors are often more like a disc with a significantly larger diameter than a comparable radial flux motor, but they are much shorter. Power and torque density are also usually higher, which is why axial flux motors are often lighter and more compact. The company says the HaloDrive motor has been “piloted by leading passenger vehicle OEMs for in-wheel propulsion systems.” It is not limited to in-wheel applications, however. It can be installed at any point in a conventional driveline. It can also be used as a generator, which means it could replace diesel-powered refrigeration units installed in semi-trailers. “When replacing diesel powered units, HaloDrive delivers up to a 100% reduction in diesel refrigeration fuel consumption and emissions, and is 90% less expensive to operate. Installed on the driveshaft or an axle, the HaloDrive motor converts
California county adopts 'balanced' BESS zoning, hopes to stop developers seeking state-level approvals
California county adopts 'balanced' BESS zoning, hopes to stop developers seeking state-level approvals - Energy-Storage.News Skip to content
Regenerative agriculture project in India will capture carbon in the soil
Louis Dreyfus Company (LDC), one of the world’s largest agricultural processors, is purchasing five years’ worth of carbon removal credits from a regenerative agriculture project in Uttar Pradesh, India. In addition to boosting the region’s soil health, the project will draw down some 6,000 tons of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere each year and result in regeneratively grown wheat that the company can sell to customers looking to reduce their Scope 3 emissions. This is among the first major agricultural projects of its kind announced in the Global South. “This initiative aligns with our goal to create more resilient and lower-carbon agricultural supply chains, while meeting demand for sustainably sourced wheat and generating high-quality carbon credits and removals,” said Natalia Gorina, Louis Dreyfus’s global carbon commercial director, and Gangadhara Sriramappa, the company’s head of agricultural research in India, in an email. Eliminating burning Varaha, a company working with smallholder farmers in Asia, is managing project implementation, soil sampling and ongoing monitoring as well as tracing the lower-carbon wheat from farm to warehouse. Louis Dreyfus’s upfront payment covers the transition costs of the regenerative practices, including machine rentals. The company has been active in carbon markets since 2021, with a strong focus on nature-based projects. This new project is located on farms within its own supply chain, a practice known as “insetting.” Some 430 farms operating rice-wheat crop rotations across 2,000 acres in the northern Indian state have enrolled in the project so far. Typically, farmers in the region burn the leftover stalks after the rice harvest to prepare the land for the wheat crop, releasing the carbon stored in the stalks and degrading local air quality. Farmers participating in the project will use specialized seeding machines that shred the stalks and return them to the soil, while simultaneously sowing seeds for the next crop with minimal soil disturbance. The dual action of reincorporating biomass and reducing tillage increases soil carbon content, resulting in a net carbon reduction in the atmosphere. The resulting climate benefits will be third-party verified under an existing Verra carbon credit methodology. Digital tracking Varaha’s end-to-end digital tracking solution documents the regeneratively grown wheat from the field, through harvest and to a designated warehouse, where it’s kept separate from wheat grown using conventional practices. The process involves farm-level photos and geostamps that document exactly which farm grew the wheat and which practices were used on that farm. By segregating the regeneratively grown wheat, Louis Dreyfus can sell the verified lower-carbon wheat to customers willing to pay a premium for the more climate friendly product. Five-year commitment The initial project will support farmers undertaking the regenerative practices through 2030. That timeframe is crucial for success, said Madhur Jain, CEO of Varaha. “For a permanent behavior change in the farmers to happen, you can’t do it for one year. You have to do it for several years to see a benefit in their produce and income.” Jain anticipates that after four years, farmers will begin to see crop yield increases as well as reduced need for fertilizer and water. If the project succeeds it could be extended beyond the initial five-year period. The carbon storage potential of the soil usually maxes out at around 20 to 25 years, according to Jain. “One of the learnings … is the power of carbon finance to drive transformation of farm practices in our value-chains,” said Gorina and Sriramappa. “For LDC, this is a blueprint for embedding climate-positive practices into our sourcing models, while delivering verified carbon removals to the market.” In addition to the cost savings from the improved soil health, farmers will receive 60 percent of the project’s carbon revenue. Proof of concept “We believe that by demonstrating feasibility through this project, we are laying the groundwork for the supply of carbon credits issued from regeneratively grown and low-carbon wheat,” said Gorina and Sriramappa. Buyers of the regenerative wheat will be able to claim the carbon removals in their greenhouse gas inventories, according to Louis Dreyfus. Most agricultural insetting projects to date have been based in the United States, Europe and Australia. “To be able to do it with Indian smallholder farmers opens a new avenue for farmers to be able to benefit from the revenue” said Jain, who will be speaking on a panel about agricultural insetting at Trellis Impact 25.
Save up to $400 on Razer's newest gaming laptop - this back-to-school deal deal won't last long
Kyle Kucharski/ZDNET Razer is holding a back-to-school sales event on its website, and it's discounting its latest laptop models. For a limited time, the 2025 Razer Blade 14 is on sale for up to $400 off. The exact final pricing depends on the configuration. There are two main versions of the Razer Blade 14: One houses an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5060 GPU, and one sports an RTX 5070 GPU. The RTX 5060 model only received a $300 discount. Prices for the lower-end model start at $2,000. You have the option to equip the laptop with a 2TB SSD and 64GB of RAM, which will raise the price to $2,600. Also: How much RAM does your PC really need in 2025? I did the math for Windows and Mac users The RTX 5070, with the $400 discount, i priced from $2,300 to $2,600. Like its counterpart, you also have the option to give it 2TB of storage and 64GB of RAM. Both options come with an AMD Ryzen AI 9 365 processor and a QuadHD+ 120Hz OLED display. Additionally, you'll receive two gifts with your purchase: a free one-month subscription to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and an X-Ray Choma skin to put over the laptop. ZDNET editor Kyle Kucharski recently reviewed the Razer Blade 14, which he called "one of the best work laptops" he's ever tested. It may seem strange that a gaming laptop would be used for work, but that's what's great about the device -- it's versatile. This model is 11% thinner and 11% lighter than its predecessor, clocking in at 3.5 pounds and sitting 0.6 inches thick when closed. Its design, combined with the matte black finish, allows the Blade 14 to fit in at an office setting. Kucharski also praised the computer's silent keyboard, nearly bezel-less screen, and good selection of ports. Review: Razer Blade 14 Performance is pretty decent, noted Kucharski, delivering "smooth, lag-free [gameplay]" across various titles like Diablo IV and Cyberpunk 2077. It's not as powerful as Lenovo's Legion Pro 7i or the MSI Stealth 16 AI. However, those two are higher-end machines, so they're more expensive too. Think of the Razer Blade 14 as a solid midrange option. How I rated this deal As per ZDNET's rating system, I grant this deal a 2/5. It's not a massive price drop, but a welcomed one nonetheless, especially since this is a brand-new laptop. (It just launched three months ago.) I highly recommend the Razer Blade 14 to anyone looking for a computer that excels at both gaming and handling everyday work tasks. As per Razer, this deal ends on September 2. Deals are subject to sell out or expire at any time, though ZDNET remains committed to finding, sharing, and updating the best product deals for you to score the best savings. Our team of experts regularly checks in on the deals we share to ensure they are still live and obtainable. We're sorry if you've missed out on a deal, but don't fret -- we constantly find new chances to save and share them with you on ZDNET.com. Show more We aim to deliver the most accurate advice to help you shop smarter. ZDNET offers 33 years of experience, 30 hands-on product reviewers, and 10,000 square feet of lab space to ensure we bring you the best of tech. In 2025, we refined our approach to deals, developing a measurable system for sharing savings with readers like you. Our editor's deal rating badges are affixed to most of our deal content, making it easy to interpret our expertise to help you make the best purchase decision. At the core of this approach is a percentage-off-based system to classify savings offered on top-tech products, combined with a sliding-scale system based on our team members' expertise and several factors like frequency, brand or product recognition, and more. The result? Hand-crafted deals are chosen specifically for ZDNET readers like you, fully backed by our experts. Also: How we rate deals at ZDNET in 2025 Show more
How digital transformation systems track the lifecycle of materials and equipment
Digital transformation systems have become indispensable tools for tracking the lifecycle of materials and equipment in manufacturing. In the manufacturing industry, tracking the lifecycle of materials and equipment is critical for ensuring product quality, operational efficiency, compliance, and cost management. Digital transformation—the integration of digital technology into all areas of business—has revolutionized how manufacturing companies manage this task. By leveraging technologies such as IoT, ERP, PLM, RFID, blockchain, digital twins, and AI-driven analytics, manufacturers can gain comprehensive visibility into the lifecycle of every material and asset in their operations. Lifecycle tracking definitions and objectives For this discussion, the term material lifecycle includes all stages from procurement, receiving, inventory management, production usage, waste or recycling, and compliance documentation. Whereas the equipment lifecycle involves procurement, installation, usage, maintenance, inspection, upgrades, and decommissioning. The desired outcomes from tracking material and equipment haven’t changed, only the way we track them. Reducing downtime and waste, improving traceability and compliance, optimizing resource use and enhancing forecasting and decision-making are all still the important goals. With the right mix of digital technologies, making correct decision to reach these goals will be a little easier. Core technologies driving digital lifecycle tracking Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems: ERP systems centralize and standardize data related to procurement, inventory, production, maintenance, and finance. They act as the backbone for lifecycle data management. An ERP suite will handle all sorts of tasks, including bill of materials (BOM) management; work order tracking; asset management; and integration with procurement and supply chain functions. Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) Systems: PLM systems centralize and standardize data related to product design, development, engineering changes, and compliance. They act as the backbone for managing product information across its lifecycle. A PLM suite will handle all sorts of tasks, including CAD data management; version and change control; bill of materials (BOM) structuring; and integration with engineering, manufacturing, and quality processes. Internet of Things (IoT): IoT sensors embedded in equipment or in the factory environment provide real-time telemetry data, such as temperature, vibration, pressure, and operating time. These sensors monitor equipment health and usage; ensure proper storage conditions for sensitive materials; and help automate maintenance schedules. Edge computing (the data processing near machines for faster decisions, reduced latency, and improved efficiency) enables pre-processing this data by the device/sensor to reduce latency and bandwidth costs. RFID and Barcode Tracking: RFID tags and 1D/2D barcodes allow automated identification and tracking of materials and equipment across facilities. This tech can track real-time inventory updates; automate check-in/check-out systems; and audit trails for material handling. RFID is particularly beneficial for high-value or mobile assets, reducing human error and labor costs. Digital twins: A digital twin is a virtual representation of a physical asset or process. It uses real-time data to simulate, monitor, and analyze the condition and behavior of the asset. This technology is currently being used for predictive maintenance; root cause analysis; and equipment lifecycle visualization. Digital twins integrate with IoT platforms, ERP, PLM and CAD systems, creating a multi-source feedback loop for continual improvement. AI and Analytics Platforms: Machine learning models analyze lifecycle data to predict equipment failure, optimize material usage, and improve production planning. These aren’t new, per se, but are now being applied to all sorts of situations in manufacturing companies, such as anomaly detection in sensor data; forecasting inventory needs; and identifying underperforming assets, equipment or suppliers. AI powered analytics platforms often integrate with ERP or MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems) to generate actionable insights. Lifecycle tracking workflows Material lifecycle tracking begins at procurement, where ERP systems automatically generate purchase orders based on demand forecasts. Upon delivery, RFID tags or barcodes on materials are scanned and matched against purchase orders. Relevant data—such as supplier, batch number, and date—is logged into the system for traceability. In the storage and inventory phase, IoT sensors monitor warehouse conditions, triggering automated alerts if environmental parameters like temperature or humidity deviate from set thresholds. Materials are organized based on criteria such as shelf life, usage priority or regulatory guidelines. During production, materials are scanned into batches, creating a digital link between raw materials and finished goods for full traceability. Waste generated is tracked and categorized (e.g., recyclable, hazardous) to support sustainability goals. After production, unused materials are either returned to inventory or flagged for disposal. All associated data is stored in the ERP system and, optionally, on blockchain networks for enhanced auditability and compliance. Equipment lifecycle tracking follows a similar digital framework. Upon procurement, equipment records are entered into the ERP or an asset management system, and a digital twin is initialized using the equipment’s baseline configuration. During use, IoT sensors continuously collect operational data, which is analyzed using machine learning to detect early signs of wear, anomalies, or potential failures. This enables predictive maintenance strategies, with the ERP or CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management System) automatically generating and assigning work orders. Maintenance history is logged and linked to each asset’s digital twin for a comprehensive performance record. At the end of an asset’s useful life, the system flags it for decommissioning when performance drops beyond acceptable levels. Relevant disposal or recycling data is recorded for regulatory compliance, and the asset is removed from active digital systems. Integration and interoperability across these systems are crucial. Manufacturers often use middleware or integration platforms—such as MuleSoft or Apache Kafka—to link ERP systems with MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems), IoT platforms, and other operational tools. Interfacing RFID/barcode systems with inventory software and connecting digital twins to PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) tools ensure a unified data ecosystem. APIs, data lakes, and standardized data formats like OPC UA, JSON, and XML facilitate seamless, consistent data exchange. Security and data governance are foundational to digital lifecycle tracking. Because these systems manage sensitive operational and supply chain data, robust cybersecurity practices are essential. This includes role-based access control (RBAC), encryption of data at rest and in transit, regular vulnerability assessments, and compliance with international standards such as ISO 27001, NIST, and GDPR. Blockchain technology can further enhance data integrity by creating tamper-resistant audit trails,
BSI achieves Notified Body status for Radio Equipment Directive
BSI has confirmed its Notified Body status for the EU Radio Equipment Directive (RED), covering cybersecurity requirements for Internet-connected radio equipment, which came into force on 1st August 2025. Manufacturers of Internet-connected radio equipment can retain access to the EU market by achieving compliance with cybersecurity standards such as EN 18031 and engaging with a notified body. Designed to enhance the cybersecurity of certain products, the European Commission has adopted Delegated Regulation (EU) 2022/30 which updates the EU Radio Equipment Directive (RED). This introduces requirements to ensure network protection by preventing radio equipment from interfering with network performance or misusing resources. It also brings in safeguards to protect users’ personal data and privacy, and includes features to guard against fraud. BSI The Netherlands (NB 2797) is now designated to certify products against the new requirements, helping to ensure manufacturers of IoT devices, consumer electronics, payment systems, and industrial equipment can continue to comply with the RED. This can be achieved by applying a suite of new standards, the EN 18031 series: Network protection – safeguarding devices against disruptions, denial-of-service attacks, and unauthorised access (EN 18031-1) Data protection – ensuring encryption, authentication, and privacy controls for secure data handling (EN 18031-2) Fraud prevention – strengthening security against unauthorised transactions and payment system breaches (EN 18031-3) BSI is fully equipped to provide testing against the EN 18031 standards in the IoT cybersecurity testing laboratory in Hemel Hempstead, UK. Carlos Pérez Ruiz, Global Head of Digital Trust, BSI said: “BSI is committed to supporting manufacturers in meeting these enhanced cybersecurity requirements. Our state-of-the-art testing capabilities and deep expertise ensure companies can demonstrate compliance and confidently access the European market with secure, trusted products.” BSI is actively certifying companies and providing expert testing services, including gap analysis, conformity assessments, and technical file reviews, enabling seamless market entry. A RED Compliance Toolkit is available to help manufacturers navigate the certification process:
Can-Am unveils new electric ATV that out-performs gasoline ATVs
BRP, the Canadian powersports giant behind names like Ski-Doo, Sea-Doo, and Can-Am, has just pulled the cover off the latest addition to its rapidly growing electric lineup: the 2026 Can-Am Outlander Electric ATV. Its impressive specs put it at the top of the performance charts in nearly every metric compared to the company’s gasoline-powered ATVs. This isn’t just a one-off electric side project either. It’s part of a major offensive into electric powersports, and it shows that BRP is serious about expanding its lineup of quiet, powerful, and clean alternatives across the board, from snowmobiles to motorcycles, and now all-terrain utility vehicles. The new Outlander Electric is built using BRP’s own in-house Rotax E-Power drivetrain, the same modular platform found in its electric motorcycles and snowmobiles. That means the company isn’t just buying off-the-shelf parts and bolting them to a legacy frame. Instead, this is ground-up electrification. Power comes from an electric motor rated at 47 hp (35 kW) and 53 lb-ft (72 Nm) of torque, which BRP says is tuned for utility and responsiveness. Advertisement - scroll for more content With selectable ride modes (Normal, Sport, and Work), riders can tailor the feel for anything from recreational trail riding to serious on-the-job use. Towing capacity is listed as a healthy 1,830 lbs (830 kg), which puts it firmly in the “workhorse” category, and bests the towing capacity of the top-of-the-line gasoline-powered ATV offerings from companies like Polaris and Honda, as well as Can-Am’s own highest-spec gasoline-powered ATVs. Range clocks in at up to 50 miles (80 km) from the 8.9 kWh battery. And BRP says that the battery charges from 20 to 80% in about 50 minutes with a Level 2 charger. But the big deal here isn’t just the torque or the tech. It’s the quietness. The Outlander Electric is designed to be whisper-quiet, making it ideal for farmers, hunters, park rangers, or anyone else who needs serious off-road capability without the roar of a gas engine. XPS Recon Force tires, a low-noise liquid-cooling system, and an optimized suspension all contribute to a near-silent ride. This means you can sneak through the woods, work around livestock, or ride trails at dawn without disturbing your surroundings – or your neighbors. Priced at US $1,299, the Can-Am Outlander Electric ATV is now available on Can-Am’s site and from its dealers. “With the Outlander Electric, we’re not just launching a new ATV, we’re introducing a new way to experience the outdoors and get the job done,” said Julie Tourville, Director, Global Marketing, Can-Am Off-Road at BRP. “This vehicle is built to let riders and workers feel more connected to their surroundings. It’s powerful, quiet, and true to what we do at BRP. It shows how we bring purposeful innovation to life.” Electrek’s Take We’ve seen plenty of electric motorcycles and scooters over the years, including from Can-Am itself. But electric ATVs? Those are still rare enough to make this release feel like a big deal. As someone who personally owns and uses an electric UTV, I can tell you what a major difference the electric drivetrain makes for both the operational experience and the ownership experience. Gas ATVs and UTVs are incredibly useful as working tools, but they’re also noisy, maintenance-heavy, and pretty nasty for the environment. Replacing them with electric models that don’t sacrifice capability is a game-changer, especially for folks who need to operate in noise-sensitive or emission-sensitive areas. BRP also deserves credit for going wide, not just deep. In the last couple of years, they’ve rolled out the Can-Am Pulse and Origin electric motorcycles, four electric snowmobiles under the Ski-Doo and Lynx brands, and even an electric kart racing powerpack. Now, with the Outlander Electric ATV, they’re quickly closing in on completing an electric powersports bingo card. The real question is whether people will pay up. Polaris unveiled what may be the nicest electric UTVs in the world a few years ago, but the sky-high pricing meant limited adoption. Considering Can-Am’s electric ATV is around twice the price of a typical gasoline-powered ATV, let’s hope there are enough people who can see and appreciate the advantages of electric to support this nascent market while it grows and matures. FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.
Charged EVs | Joby to acquire Blade air taxi passenger operations
Joby Aviation, a maker of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) air taxis for commercial passenger service, has entered into a definitive agreement with Blade Air Mobility, an urban air mobility company, to acquire Blade’s passenger business. “Blade was founded with the mission of democratising short-distance air travel by facilitating the transition from conventional rotorcraft to quiet, emissions-free electric aircraft, and I believe there is no better partner than Joby to make that mission a reality,” said Blade’s CEO Rob Wiesenthal. Blade’s passenger unit offers air transportation of up to 100 miles (161 km) for travelers and last-mile critical cargo using helicopters and amphibious seaplanes for passenger routes in the United States, Canada, Southern Europe and India. Blade has terminals in New York City, Vancouver and several locations in Southern Europe. In 2024, Blade reported that it flew more than 50,000 passengers from a network of 12 urban terminals, including dedicated lounge and terminal bases at John F. Kennedy International Airport and Newark Liberty Airport, as well as the West Side of Manhattan, the East Side of Manhattan and Wall Street. The CEO of Joby, JoeBen Bevirtt, termed the deal “a strategically important acquisition,” adding that, with access to the infrastructure and customer base Blade has secured, “we will be in the best possible position to launch our quiet, electric aircraft as soon as certification is secured.” The company’s medical division, which was not included in the transaction and will remain a separate public company, has announced plans to partner with Joby on medical transportation for patients and organ transplants. “The acquisition will allow Joby to combine its best-in-class technology with Blade’s decade of experience delivering premium customer transportation at scale, as Joby looks ahead to carrying its first passengers in Dubai next year,” the company said. Source: Joby Aviation
The Quiet EV Charging Emissions You Didn't Know Existed
EV fast chargers kick up harmful particles that can be over twice the urban background pollution level. The chargers' cooling fans stir up fine particles created by brake and tire wear, as well as dirt and dust from other sources. Standing a few feet away from a fast charger that's in use limits the exposure to these fine particles. Electric vehicles may be completely tailpipe emissions-free, but they still pollute the air with particles generated by tire and brake wear. And apparently, they’re responsible for one more source of pollution, which occurs when you plug them into a DC fast charger. Scientists measured the air quality around a rapid charger while it’s topping up an EV and found that it goes down. A team at UCLA, led by environmental health professor Yifang Zhu, found that the air around EV fast chargers in use had twice the amount of harmful fine particles typically found in an urban environment. Zhu pointed out that “There’s no healthy amount of fine particulate matter to breathe, and the amount around fast chargers for electric vehicles is about twice as high as background levels of PM 2.5 (fine particulate matter). We tested 50 fast chargers across LA and found higher particle levels near their power cabinets, with even higher levels of metal tracers from brake and tire particles.” Photo by: UCLA But the particles aren’t coming from the chargers themselves. They are likely being stirred up by vortexes created by the chargers’ powerful cooling fans, which lift the particulate matter settled on the ground and inside the chargers. The sources of the particles are multiple; it's mainly the result of brake and tire wear, but it’s also just dirt and dust that gets mixed. The UCLA team found the level of PM 2.5 particles around chargers ranged from 7.3 to 39 micrograms per cubic meter, while the typical range measured in urban settings in California was between 3.6 and 12.4 micrograms per cubic meter. The highest levels were observed around chargers in Los Angeles County, which also has the largest concentration of DC fast chargers. It has 1,938 units in operation out of a total of 9,900 across all of California. Zhu noted that “In Los Angeles, the urban background PM 2.5 is 7 to 8 micrograms per cubic meter. Urban traffic sites in L.A., like freeways or busy intersections, range around 10 to 11. We measured a few gas stations at about 12. Fast chargers average 15, and sometimes peak as high as 200.” He concluded that it’s best not to stay directly near a DC fast charger while it’s in operation. “We measured at different distances from the chargers,” Zhu explained, adding that “the high measurements [15-200] were taken at the chargers’ power cabinets. Fortunately, a few meters away, the concentrations drop quite a bit. A few hundred meters away, there’s no noticeable difference compared to background levels of pollution.” If you’ve ever charged your EV using any DC fast charger, you know how loud the cooling fans can get. Some units even start emitting a smell not long after the fans start spinning. So while you can’t see these microscopic particles, in many cases you can smell them, and that’s your cue to take a few steps back while your car is charging. Mind you, if you’re DC fast charging by the side of a busy freeway where dozens of diesel trucks are driving past emitting fresh particles, along with hundreds of other cars, the air quality isn't great, either. Why do you want to avoid inhaling these PM 2.5 particles? Well, because they can very easily enter your body, it’s very hard to get rid of them, and they can cause all sorts of health problems. UCLA Fielding’s Department of Environmental Health Sciences Michael Jerrett said, “For anyone, exposure to fine particles can contribute to health issues, and for those with existing conditions or heightened sensitivity, the risks are even greater. Because these particles are so small, they can travel deep into your lungs and even enter your bloodstream—potentially leading to serious problems like heart or lung disease.” If you have to stay near your EV while it’s fast-charging, you can use a mask with a filter designed to keep PM 2.5 particles out of your airways. Make sure you get a good-quality mask that seals well around your face. Some have been proven to filter up to 95% of airborne particles, so make sure to get a good one that has actually undergone testing. According to data provided in the study, which used a very accurate holographic particle monitoring device, just taking a few steps back from the charger greatly limits your exposure to all of this airborne microscopic nastiness, making it more important to go inside to get a bite or a coffee while waiting for the car to charge. Ultimately, the lack of tailpipe emissions on EVs makes them a better environmental choice than anything gas-powered, and the research on this is extremely definitive. While these kinds of story may be used as anti-EV fodder elsewhere, here's a better explanation: standing right next to the DC fast-charger isn't great in terms of environmental health. Stand back, and then enjoy emissions-free driving when you're done.
Tesla is breaking even its own rules to cap off an intense Q3
The Tesla Roadster is on the way, and yes, we know we’ve heard that for quite a few years. But when it comes, it might have a formidable competitor, and it might come from no one other than Chinese rival BYD. BYD’s Yangwang U9 Track Edition is a new configuration of the U9 supercar that hit the Chinese Ministry of Information Technology (MIIT) database recently. The vehicle was first spotted on the MIIT database by CarNewsChina. It will have a quad-motor powertrain, each dedicated to one wheel. Instead of the 1,287 horsepower that comes with the standard U9 configuration, the Track Edition will have 2,977. There are only two cars that even come close in terms of horsepower: the Lotus Evija with 1,972 and the Rimac Nevera at 1,914 horsepower. The Tesla Roadster is expected to have somewhere around 1,000 horsepower. The Roadster is one of the most anticipated vehicles of all time, especially because we’ve all had to wait so long for it. On its own, it will have a 1.9-second 0-60 MPH acceleration rate (without the SpaceX package, which brings the projection to 1.1 seconds), which is projected to be better than the 2.3 seconds the U9 Track Edition will offer. The Roadster also beats the U9 Track Edition in projected top speed and range. The Roadster could top out at over 250 MPH, compared to the 217 conservative projection for the U9 Track Edition. Range on the Roadster is 620 miles, beating 280 miles for the BYD. Credit: BYD Credit: BYD The U9 Track Edition will also have some additional features compared to its base model. These include some aerodynamic additions, like a carbon fiber rear wing, diffuser, and an adjustable front splitter and adjustable rear wing. The latter two are optional, but if you have enough scratch to drop on this car, you’re probably adding those two features as well. We hope that both the Roadster and U9 Track Edition will hit a drag strip, road course, or even a superspeedway for some racing. It would truly be something for EV fans to drool over.
Tesla Roadster could have a formidable competitor with BYD's 3000-HP supercar
The Tesla Roadster is on the way, and yes, we know we’ve heard that for quite a few years. But when it comes, it might have a formidable competitor, and it might come from no one other than Chinese rival BYD. BYD’s Yangwang U9 Track Edition is a new configuration of the U9 supercar that hit the Chinese Ministry of Information Technology (MIIT) database recently. The vehicle was first spotted on the MIIT database by CarNewsChina. It will have a quad-motor powertrain, each dedicated to one wheel. Instead of the 1,287 horsepower that comes with the standard U9 configuration, the Track Edition will have 2,977. There are only two cars that even come close in terms of horsepower: the Lotus Evija with 1,972 and the Rimac Nevera at 1,914 horsepower. The Tesla Roadster is expected to have somewhere around 1,000 horsepower. The Roadster is one of the most anticipated vehicles of all time, especially because we’ve all had to wait so long for it. On its own, it will have a 1.9-second 0-60 MPH acceleration rate (without the SpaceX package, which brings the projection to 1.1 seconds), which is projected to be better than the 2.3 seconds the U9 Track Edition will offer. The Roadster also beats the U9 Track Edition in projected top speed and range. The Roadster could top out at over 250 MPH, compared to the 217 conservative projection for the U9 Track Edition. Range on the Roadster is 620 miles, beating 280 miles for the BYD. Credit: BYD Credit: BYD The U9 Track Edition will also have some additional features compared to its base model. These include some aerodynamic additions, like a carbon fiber rear wing, diffuser, and an adjustable front splitter and adjustable rear wing. The latter two are optional, but if you have enough scratch to drop on this car, you’re probably adding those two features as well. We hope that both the Roadster and U9 Track Edition will hit a drag strip, road course, or even a superspeedway for some racing. It would truly be something for EV fans to drool over.
Tesla pushes crazy 'Luxe' incentive package on flagship Model S and X
Tesla has pushed a crazy new incentive package, known as the “Luxe Package,” on the flagship Model S and Model X, along with a $10,000 price increase on each trim level. The move aims to likely bolster margins for the company on the two cars while also giving those who choose to buy the Tesla lineup mainstays a variety of awesome advantages, including Free Supercharging, Full Self-Driving, and other add-ons. Tesla is offering a crazy Supercharging incentive on its two ‘sentimental’ vehicles Last night, Tesla launched the “Luxe Package” for the Model S and Model X, which includes the following four add-ons: Full Self-Driving (Supervised) – Your car will be able to drive itself almost anywhere with minimal driver intervention Four-Year Premium Service – Wheel and Tire Protection, Windshield Protection, and Recommended Maintenance Supercharging – Charge for free at 70,000+ Superchargers worldwide Premium Connectivity – Listen to music, stream movies, monitor live traffic, and more – no Wi-Fi needed Full Self-Driving is priced at $8,000. Free Supercharging for the life of the car is between $10,000 and $15,000 over the life of the vehicle, although Tesla has valued it at $5,000 in recent promotions. Free Premium Connectivity is roughly $1,000, and the four-year tire, wheel, windshield, and maintenance plan is about $3,200. In all, the value is over $25,000, but this is loosely based on usage. The Model S and Model X are low contributors to Tesla’s overall sales figures, as they make up less than five percent of sales from a quarterly perspective and have for some time. As they are certainly the luxury choices in Tesla’s lineup, the Model 3 and Model Y are the bigger focus for the company, as a significantly larger portion of the company’s sales is made up of those vehicles. The Luxe Package is an especially good idea for those who drive high-mileage and plan to use the Model S or Model X for commuting or long drives. The free Supercharging makes the deal worth it on its own. As for the price bumps, each of the vehicles are now priced as follows: Model S All-Wheel-Drive: $94,990 Model S Plaid: $109,990 Model X All-Wheel-Drive: $99,990 Model X Plaid: $114,990
SBTi touts uptick in corporate emissions reduction pledges
The number of companies with validated, science-based plans for cutting greenhouse gas emissions represents 41 percent of global market capitalization (as of the end of June), up 2 percent from the end of 2023, according to a new analysis. The report, released by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) on Aug. 14, found that close to 11,000 companies had validated near-term reduction plans or full-fledged corporate net-zero commitments by the end of the second quarter. That’s an increase of 227 percent over the past 18 months. SBTi manages frameworks that shape corporate greenhouse gas emissions reduction strategies. Almost 40 percent of the companies with current SBTI commitments are working toward both near-term goals and long-term net-zero pledges, compared with 17 percent at the end of 2023. The findings run counter to the narrative that businesses are abandoning their strategies to address climate change, said SBTI CEO David Kennedy. “Smart companies continue to see a strong business case for managing transition risk,” Kennedy said. “Building climate action into commercial strategy helps maintain competitiveness now and in the future, and allows companies to capitalize on opportunities in the low-carbon economy.” Some high-profile companies that announced plans to set net-zero targets earlier this decade have pushed pause while the nonprofit overhauls its rules guiding corporate net-zero commitments. (A finalized version isn’t anticipated until late 2026.) In the meantime, corporations can continue to adopt targets for 2030 or earlier using SBTi’s existing guidance. More than 1,400 companies set net-zero targets by mid-2025. Source: SBTi Industrial manufacturers account for one-third of companies with SBTi-validated targets; more than half of them had their targets approved in the 18-month period assessed by consulting firm Oliver Wyman, which conducted the analysis for SBTi. Asia’s big move Businesses from China, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, Taiwan and Thailand accounted for much of the growth. The number of Chinese companies with validated targets reached 450, compared with 137 at the end of 2023. Many of the Asia-Pacific companies are encouraging their suppliers and business partners to set targets, too. As a result, “Asia is becoming a powerful amplifier of climate ambition, catalyzing a broader wave of science-based target-setting,” SBTi said.
