Rad Power’s new RadRunner Plus and Max e-bikes get free consoles from $1,799+, Greenworks, Worx, electric composters, more
Today’s Green Deals are being led by the first and second-ever deals on Rad Power’s latest RadRunner Plus and RadRunner Max Cargo Utility e-bikes, which are getting free center cargo consoles along with your purchase of either model, starting from $1,799. We also spotted the Greenworks 60V 20-inch Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer dropping to a new $165 low, while the Worx Nitro 20V 5-inch Cordless Mini Chainsaw has fallen to $109. There’s also a new low price on NutriChef’s 3L Electric Kitchen Composter for $171, as well as an alternative smart model. Lastly, we have Anker’s eufy SoloCam S220 Solar Security Camera back at its $65 low. Plus, there’s all the rest of the hangover Green Deals in the links at the bottom of the page, like yesterday’s $580+ launch savings on the new Hiboy EX6F Folding e-bike, the exclusive $2,800 savings on the Mango Power E 3,500Wh CATL station, and more. Head below for other New Green Deals we’ve found today and, of course, Electrek’s best EV buying and leasing deals. Also, check out the new Electrek Tesla Shop for the best deals on Tesla accessories. more…
ADS-TEC Energy expands into Austria and secures first major orders
Irish battery energy storage and fast-charging systems supplier ADS-TEC Energy has established a sales and service company in Kötschach-Mauthen, Austria. The move expands the company’s footprint in the DACH region (Germany, Austria and Switzerland) and lays the foundation for it to provide more comprehensive customer support services across Central and Eastern Europe. ADS-TEC Energy Austria has already received its first order—a framework agreement with an Austrian utility company for three large 5 MWh battery storage systems. This was accompanied by an order for a fast-charging EV system for the Austrian market. The first storage system is scheduled for delivery by the start of 2026. “We are bringing our highly scalable storage and fast-charging solutions directly to the market—optimized for the requirements of modern grid integration, balancing energy and load management,” said Roland Klauss, CEO of ADS-TEC Energy Austria. Source: ADS-TEC Energy
What you need to know about new circularity business frameworks
The circular economy, once an aspirational concept, is becoming standardized across business, from product labels to international frameworks. And the movement will reach a new level when the Global Circularity Protocol (GCP) debuts in November at the U.N. Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Belém, Brazil. The new protocol — spearheaded by the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) and backed by 50 corporations including Philips, Cisco and Apple — offers a common language and data standards to help companies turn away from extractive and polluting practices. But the metric is far from the only one currently in play in the circular economy. In the past year a variety of organizations, including B Corps and Underwriters Laboratories, have embedded aspects of circularity into their business metrics. “Circular economy is kind of the new kid on the block” in the rapidly evolving space of sustainability frameworks and standards, said Alasdair Hedger, the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s senior expert in performance measurement and reporting. Business leaders will need to understand and apply these standards to succeed in the emerging circular economy, New ways to measure what’s circular According to Hedger, circularity frameworks can be organized into four categories: product, corporate, sector and systemic. The Global Circularity Protocol grew out of a desire to harmonize what amounted to decentralized efforts. Here’s a sampling of circular-economy considerations being embedded across business at each level: Product The Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute in late 2024 added the C2C Certified Circularity pathway to its already rigorous suite of certifications. It encourages companies to develop circular products as varied as sewing thread and window glass. There are scores of other consumer product certifications, such as those in Amazon’s Climate Pledge Friendly program, but most don’t address the full range of circularity attributes. Corporate The coming Global Circularity Protocol fits here. So do the latest B Corps standards, which in April added Environmental Stewardship & Circularity as a core topic to advance non-virgin materials and restrict “unnecessary” single-use products and packaging. In addition, the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) and the Science Based Targets Network (SBTN) are pushing companies to set nature-positive and science-based targets, which are often compatible with circularity. Sector Efforts include Underwriters Laboratories’ publication in April of new circular standards for EV chargers and other energy equipment. ASTM’s technical standards apply across sectors, too. Also galvanizing sector-level change: corporate commitments and collaborations, including the U.S. Plastics Pact, the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s New Plastics Economy and the Circular Electronics Partnership. Systemic In the EU, 2025 has been a milestone year for the first monetary reporting requirements for the circular economy under the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). Plus, extended consumer responsibility laws for packaging and textiles are spreading in U.S. states, notably California. The International Standards Organization (ISO) is developing guidance for adopting circular business models, following the May 2024 release of its ISO 59004:2024 definition of circular economy principles and terminology. Meanwhile, the International Sustainability Standards Board and the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) are collaborating to harmonize reporting standards, including the integration of circular-economy principles in sustainability and ESG reporting standards. In a world informed by circularity adherence, companies must look beyond a goal of doing no harm. “It’s about creating value,” Hedger said. That is, companies that operationalize and measure circular practices can seize strategic advantages, reduce future risks and appeal to investors. Similarly, Filipe Camaño Garcia, the World Business Council for Sustainable Development’s senior manager of the Global Circularity Protocol, positions the new standard’s potential for “unlocking further innovation and financing” across companies and regions. Defining a circular future That’s the theory, anyway. In reality, extracting resources from nature, creating products from them and wasting material remains the predominant way of business. In fact, the world is slightly less circular than it was a few years ago, according to the latest Circular Economy Gap report by Circle Economy and KPMG. This matrix from the Ellen MacArthur Foundation offers seven types of benefits and 50 metrics for deciding how to adopt circular business models. To change that, circular economy proponents urge companies to consider the benefits of measuring and sharing their material and product flows. Knowing the percentage of revenue generated from circular business models, for example, demonstrates how circular practices feed strategic business goals. And grasping how much revenue depends on raw materials can address future risks should resources become constrained. “For those that are starting to put in place standards, there’s a bit of a first mover advantage,” said Adrian Vannahme, chief operating officer of Reclay StewardEdge, a Winnipeg, Canada, consultancy that helps clients navigate new packaging and waste regulations in Europe and North America. Closing the materials gap within emissions counts Meanwhile, there’s a push to integrate circular economy principles throughout the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol, which informs the frameworks of the Science-Based Targets initiative, the CDP’s data reporting, GRI’s sustainability disclosures and emissions measurements by the investor-focused Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures. Ellen MacArthur detailed in a January report how legacy sustainability guidance inadvertently “disincentivizes” circular economy activities. For instance, companies can’t see the impact of circular economy activities when they measure emissions. Nor can they easily account for the impacts of reselling, repairing or recirculating products and materials. In turn, it’s hard to unlock the business case for circular economy activities. But a clearer view could bring clarity to reduce Scope 3 emissions across supply chains. “The circular economy has a key role to play in bringing down emissions,” said Miranda Schnitger, climate lead for foundation. “It’s not just a fuel source question, it’s about how we produce and consume.” The post What you need to know about new circularity business frameworks appeared first on Trellis.
GEEKOM introduces IT15 mini PC with latest Intel processor
GEEKOM is set to release its latest powerhouse, the GEEKOM IT15, setting a new benchmark for compact computing. Designed for professionals and businesses, this ultra-compact mini PC combines high-performance processing, robust stability, and unparalleled connectivity, making it the perfect solution for modern workspaces. At the heart of the IT15 is Intel’s 2nd Gen Core Ultra processor (up to Ultra 9), which delivers enhanced single-core performance and improved energy efficiency. By eliminating Hyper-Threading, the system optimizes pure computing power, ensuring rapid response times and higher productivity. With a turbo clock of up to 5.4 GHz, it effortlessly handles demanding tasks such as video editing, coding, and graphic design. The IT15 also leverages AI-driven performance optimization, enhancing system efficiency for task scheduling, power management, and content creation workflows. Built for durability, the IT15 features a rock-solid all-metal chassis, providing superior protection against impacts while maintaining long-term operational stability. Rigorous component testing ensures uncompromised reliability, making it an ideal choice for both personal and enterprise use. Despite its sleek 0.46-liter form factor, the IT15 offers desktop-level performance without sacrificing efficiency. Its ultra-compact design allows flexible deployment in any workspace, whether mounted behind a monitor or used as a mobile workstation for remote professionals. Connectivity is another standout feature, with 4 USB-A ports and 2 high-speed USB4 Type-C ports supporting 40Gbps transfer speeds, PD power delivery, DisplayPort output, and even external GPUs for advanced graphics performance. The IT15 can drive up to four 4K displays, making multitasking seamless and immersive. The IT15’s networking capabilities are also future-ready, as it features Wi-Fi 7 with 3D spatial antennas and a 2.5Gbps LAN port, ensuring high-speed data transfers, stable remote collaboration, and smooth HD video conferencing. Pre-installed with Windows 11, the IT15 is ready to rock out of the box, with additional support for Manjaro, Ubuntu, and Android x86, catering to developers and tech enthusiasts. Backed by a three-year manufacturer warranty, GEEKOM ensures long-term reliability and dedicated after-sales support. For more information, visit geekompc.com. The post GEEKOM introduces IT15 mini PC with latest Intel processor appeared first on Engineering.com.
Wheel-E Podcast: New VanMoofs, Urban Arrow cargo e-bike, more
This week on Electrek’s Wheel-E podcast, we discuss the most popular news stories from the world of electric bikes and other nontraditional electric vehicles. This time, that includes new e-bikes from Urban Arrow and VanMoof, testing of the Oh Wow Cycles Conductor Plus rickshaw tricycle, the new Olto electric moped, a Honda four-wheeled quad-bike, low cost Zero motorcycles, and more. more…
VOSS, Amphenol and GG Group unveil 1 MW liquid-cooled EV charging harness with reduced cable size
VOSS Automotive, Amphenol-Tuchel Electronics and the GG Group have introduced a high-voltage EV charging harness designed to support charging power up to 1 megawatt. The new system integrates active liquid cooling throughout the charging cable and socket to reduce thermal losses and enable significantly higher current loads. The companies claim this could reduce charge times to under five minutes. The charging harness incorporates several key components: the Power2Flow charging cable from GG Group, the CHARGESOK CCS2 socket from Amphenol and a fluid-cooled battery connection and thermal management system developed by VOSS. At the core is a polymer heat exchanger embedded within the cable, which uses a multi-layer plastic tube to circulate a cooling medium—either water-glycol or immersion fluids—between the battery and the charging inlet. The inner layer of the tube is electrically conductive, while the outer layer is thermally conductive and electrically insulating. By actively cooling the areas of peak thermal load, such as the DC contact chambers in the socket, the system avoids overheating without increasing conductor size. This approach allows a 70 percent increase in current load capacity while reducing cable cross-section, improving flexibility and simplifying installation. In contrast to conventional solutions that use large busbars, this lightweight cable design supports easier integration into compact EV architectures. The CHARGESOK socket uses direct-contact liquid cooling to dissipate heat at the source. A coolant circulates around the high-current contacts, improving efficiency and enabling continuous high-power charging. The cooling system is designed for compatibility with existing vehicle thermal architectures, offering flexibility for different OEM platforms. The system is targeted at next-generation EVs requiring rapid charge capabilities and scalable thermal performance. The partners emphasize its applicability across diverse cooling media, lightweight design, and ease of integration into modern vehicle layouts. Source: VOSS Automotive
Factorial presents AI platform ‘Gammatron’ for battery development
Factorial, a US company specialising in the development of solid-state battery cells, aims to accelerate the development of next-generation batteries with an AI-supported simulation platform. The software, called ‘Gammatron’, is designed to improve the prediction, validation and optimisation of battery performance. Factorial Energy, headquartered in Boston, specialises in solid-state batteries in which the liquid electrolyte is replaced by a solid one. The company counts Mercedes-Benz, Stellantis and Hyundai-Kia among its most important partners. The company’s vision is to give electric cars a range of around 1,000 kilometres with energy densities of up to 450 Wh/kg. To accelerate research on solid-state batteries, Factorial has now developed Gammatron, an AI-powered digital twin platform for faster battery innovation from the lab to the road. Developed in-house to overcome R&D bottlenecks, the solution enables advanced life prediction, optimised charging protocols and smarter electrolyte discovery for different battery chemistries, according to the company. Unlike traditional AI platforms that focus on system-level modelling, Gammatron combines electrochemistry, thermodynamics and laboratory data to simulate and optimise battery behaviour at both the material and cell system level. “Validating a new cell design can take years, but with Gammatron, we’ve demonstrated that we can dramatically shorten that timeline—forecasting long-term performance from just two weeks of early testing, instead of the typical three to six months,” said Siyu Huang, CEO of Factorial. “By combining automation with data-driven insights, we’re accelerating development with greater speed and control.” The platform offers three core functions: An AI-driven digital twin for battery cells can provide accurate predictions of cell health and accelerate the optimisation of fast charging. Furthermore, electrolyte formulation is accelerated through molecular modelling and machine learning. On top of this, physics-based modelling is used to simulate internal battery behaviour, including stress, heat and degradation, which cannot be directly observed during testing. Gammatron has already been used in the joint development of Factorial and Stellantis, according to the company, and is said to have helped predict battery performance before full testing was completed – a critical factor in completing the validation programme ahead of schedule. In some cases, the protocol optimisation made possible with Gammatron has doubled the service life without changing the cell chemistry. “Batteries are complex dynamic chemical systems. Gammatron combines machine learning with scientific feature engineering. Where most platforms hit a wall with shallow machine learning, Gammatron goes deeper and shows engineers which material and design changes will unlock longer life and higher performance,” said Raimund Koerver, VP of Business Development at Factorial. “It’s not just about predicting outcomes – it’s about enabling better ones.” businesswire.com L'articolo Factorial presents AI platform ‘Gammatron’ for battery development proviene da BatteryIndustry.net.
Meta geothermal deal highlights growing interest in renewable alternatives
Meta is contracting with a little-known next-generation geothermal startup, XGS Energy, to counteract emissions from a data center campus in New Mexico that’s being expanded to accommodate artificial intelligence. Under the deal announced June 12, Meta will support XGS’s development of a two-phased, 150-megawatt installation that will begin feeding electricity to the local grid by 2030. This is not a power purchase agreement, at least not yet. It’s part of a broad portfolio of 13 renewable electricity and energy storage projects that Meta is supporting through a special service contract with PNM, the largest electricity provider in New Mexico. The project developers seek to use a state geothermal tax credit approved in 2024. XGS, founded in 2008, has raised close to $60 million to develop a geothermal production method differentiated by use of almost no water and its applicability in a variety of geological conditions. Meta is its first publicly declared customer. Enhanced geothermal technologies work by fracturing hot rock and circulating water to generate electricity. Advanced geothermal systems use a closed-loop design that doesn’t inject the fluid into the rock and are often sited at end-of-life oil and gas wells. XGS is considered a hybrid between these two approaches. There’s only one geothermal installation in New Mexico, but state-sponsored research suggests there could be 160 gigawatts of geothermal capacity available for development. “New Mexico is not only the second largest oil and gas producer in the U.S., but also one of the nation’s leading sources of clean energy,” said New Mexico Gov. Lujan Grisham. Colorado, North Dakota and California also support state-level initiatives. This is Meta’s second geothermal partnership. It announced a relationship with Sage Geosystems in August 2024 with the goal of bringing 150 megawatts of electricity online in an unspecified location east of the Rocky Mountains by 2027. Google and Microsoft support geothermal, too Geothermal power accounts for less than 1 percent of the current U.S. electricity mix, but anticipated energy demand for data centers and bipartisan policy support for development is spurring corporate interest. Startups working on enhanced or advanced geothermal systems have raised more than $1.3 billion from a range of investors including oil majors such as Chevron and Baker Hughes, according to research firm Wood Mackenzie. Wood Mackenzie estimates the Great Basin region including Nevada, Utah and parts of California, Oregon and Wyoming could support at least 135 gigawatts of capacity, or roughly 10 percent of the U.S. power supply. Fervo Energy, an enhanced geothermal company that has inked a high-profile deal with Google for a 118 megawatt project in Nevada, disclosed an additional $206 million in project financing June 11 that will help advance its Cape Station project in Utah, the first phase of which is slated to become operational in 2026. Microsoft’s biggest bet on geothermal for data centers, so far, is outside the U.S. in Kenya, where it’s investing $1 billion in an AI facility with G42, a development company from Dubai. Positive project pipeline Data centers are a rapidly growing business in the U.S., and corporate power purchase agreements will be critical for securing more projects, according to Wood Mackenzie analysis. Geothermal is one of the rare renewables receiving bipartisan support: As of this writing, it appeared federal tax credits would be spared in the budget winding its way through the U.S. Senate. Even without those credits, the levelized cost of energy from next-generation geothermal projects such as Cape State is about $79 per megawatt-hour. “Tax credits should serve as a catalyst, not a crutch,” said Annick Adjei, senior research analyst with Wood Mackenzie. “They help build a competitive U.S. geothermal industry with global leadership potentially. Fortunately, [enhanced geothermal] projects are increasingly viable without them, and continued innovation is expected to drive costs down further.” The post Meta geothermal deal highlights growing interest in renewable alternatives appeared first on Trellis.
Luminys, SYNC Robotic launch AI Patrol Robot in Taiwan
Luminys Systems Corporation announced the successful unveiling of SYNC ROBOTIC’s AI Security Patrol Robot Solution in Taiwan, powered by NVIDIA and Foxlink’s technology ecosystem. Backed by a vertically integrated innovation chain, Foxlink’s U.S. robotics ecosystem features Luminys’ leading market deployment and SYNC ROBOTIC, driving product development. Freddy Kuo, Chairman of Luminys, Chairman of SYNC ROBOTIC, and Executive Assistance Executive Office at Foxlink Group, unveils SYNC ROBOTIC’s AI Robot Security Inspection Solution-marking a major milestone in the global Physical AI strategy led by Luminys, Foxlink, and NVIDIA. Focused on smart security, AI applications, and North American ecosystem development, Luminys collaborates closely with SYNC ROBOTIC to bring Taiwan-proven physical AI solutions to the North American market. Ultimately, this launch highlights Foxlink’s broader mission to integrate R&D, precision manufacturing, and global go-to-market execution, with Luminys playing a central role in its global deployment strategy. The SYNC ROBOTIC core R&D team, serving as the innovation engine of Foxlink Group. This team leads development across robotics, video security, and physical AI platforms that power Luminys and other business units globally. Uniting Capabilities to Shape the Future of Global Smart Manufacturing The milestone marks a major advancement in Foxlink and NVIDIA’s partnership to further AI-powered global manufacturing. Both the partnership and robotic innovation underscore Foxlink’s corporate transformation into a global leader in integrated AI innovation across research and development (R&D), manufacturing, and deployment. As one of the first robotics integrators of the NVIDIA’s Isaac GR00T N1 model and Jetson AGX platforms, Foxlink and SYNC ROBOTIC are transforming its AI vision into a secure, scalable reality. Foxlink leverages NVIDIA’s AI and digital twin platforms to accelerate next-generation security and IoT innovation. Backed by NVIDIA’s ecosystem—including Jetson AGX, DGX, Omniverse, and COSMOS—SYNC ROBOTIC’s AI Robot Security Inspection system is designed to meet the needs of sectors facing labor shortages and high-risk environments. The new AI-powered security solution integrates cutting-edge hardware and reinforcement learning technologies. It combines voice and visual recognition, visual language models (VLM), simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM), path planning, and crowd-aware obstacle avoidance to deliver autonomous, 24/7 inspection capabilities across commercial buildings, retail centers, industrial sites, and public infrastructure. NVIDIA-Powered Foundation Drives Market Impact Market demand is strong, with the global inspection robotics market projected to grow to $20 billion by 2030 (Market Research). Moreover, through the introduction of the AI Robot Security Inspection Solution, it is estimated that the probability of personnel being exposed to high-risk work scenarios can be reduced to zero, the total inspection hours can be increased by threefold, and approximately $1.5 million to $2 million in costs can be saved each year, thereby comprehensively improving the company’s management efficiency. The AI Robot Security Inspection Solution focuses on the following three features to provide more comprehensive intelligent protection: Intelligent Inspection Vehicles: Based on the characteristics of different sites, you can flexibly choose quadruped robots or drones to achieve 24-hour autonomous inspections, scheduling tasks, and automatic charging, ensuring uninterrupted security coverage around the clock. Modular Detection Function: Equipped with a variety of sensors and modular detection instruments, combined with powerful AI visual recognition and environmental perception technology, the robot gains a high degree of environmental adaptability and intelligent decision-making capabilities, and can actively detect, identify and immediately report abnormal events such as intrusion, fire, and leakage. One-Stop Dashboard Control Platform: Provides an intuitive and fully functional central management dashboard, allowing security managers to easily assign tasks to multiple robots, monitor real-time video streaming, record and analyze inspection data, and perform remote control intervention when necessary, greatly simplifying the management process and improving response efficiency. Transforming Manufacturing: Dexterous Robotics Driving the Next Wave of Precision Automation In addition to the AI Robot Security Inspection Solution, SYNC ROBOTIC also introduced its next-generation dexterous hand for high-precision smart manufacturing. This advancement represents a new era of physical AI deployment across industrial and automation sectors. These advancements are driven by the mission to enable factories and critical sites globally to replace repetitive manual tasks with robots. This in turn expands the value and impact of intelligent operation, while deploying advanced solutions to international sites for high-difficulty operations. For more information, visit luminyscorp.com. The post Luminys, SYNC Robotic launch AI Patrol Robot in Taiwan appeared first on Engineering.com.
Navee ST3 Pro e-scooter back at $760 low, Bluetti AC180 350W solar bundle at $902 low, Tenways e-bike bundles up to $907 off, more
Closing out this week’s Green Deals is Navee’s Independence Day Sale with up to 30% being taken off six e-scooters, including the new flagship ST3 Pro Electric Scooter that is back at its $760 low. There are also the continued Bluetti Father’s Day Sale offers we’ve rounded up that will last through the weekend, which has returned the AC180 Solar Generator Bundle with a 350W panel back to its $902 low for the second time, among others. Tenways has launched its 4th of July Sale with up to $907 in e-bike savings, which has brought the costs on its CGO600 Pro e-bikes lower than we’ve seen since March at $1,499. From there, we have two tool discounts: one on the Greenworks 82V 18-inch Cordless Commercial Chainsaw with 4.0Ah and 2.5Ah batteries at a new $400 low, and the other dropping Worx’s 12A Trivac 3-in-1 Electric Corded Leaf Blower/Mulcher/Vacuum to $69. Plus, there’s all the rest of the hangover Green Deals in the links at the bottom of the page, like yesterday’s free center cargo console promotion on the new Rad Power RadRunner Plus and Max e-bikes, and more. Head below for other New Green Deals we’ve found today and, of course, Electrek’s best EV buying and leasing deals. Also, check out the new Electrek Tesla Shop for the best deals on Tesla accessories. more…
SMUD signs PPA for 640-MWh battery still under construction in Sacramento County
DESRI and the Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) have executed a long-term PPA for the Dry Creek Energy Storage project. Dry Creek is a 160-MW/640-MWh battery energy storage system (BESS) located in Sacramento County. “Our DESRI team is proud to bring this reliable, cost-effective clean energy storage project to the California energy system, an exciting new addition to our partnership with SMUD over many years,” said DESRI Chief Development Officer Hy Martin. “This project will play a critical role in helping SMUD to maintain and enhance grid reliability, optimize performance of their renewable energy assets and contribute to their decarbonization goals.” SMUD and DESRI have worked on the project jointly over several years. Given the significant transmission infrastructure at the decommissioned Rancho Seco generating station, the BESS is optimally located to leverage the existing infrastructure and limit costly upgrades on the system. The energy storage system will be charged using renewable energy and other clean sources available on SMUD’s grid, supporting the integration of sustainable power and enhancing grid reliability. “This battery storage project represents another significant milestone in SMUD’s Zero Carbon Plan as we work toward carbon-free electricity by 2030,” said SMUD Chief Zero Carbon Officer Lora Anguay. “By enhancing our existing renewable infrastructure at Rancho Seco with battery technology, we’re building a more flexible and reliable grid while enabling a more efficient integration of renewable energy.” News item from SMUD
Charged EVs | Hankook Tire introduces iON HT highway-terrain tire for electric light-duty trucks
Hankook Tire America has introduced the iON HT, a highway-terrain tire specifically designed for electric light-duty trucks, highlighting improved load capacity, low rolling resistance and high durability. The tire addresses unique technical demands of electric truck platforms, including support for heavier weight due to large battery packs and cargo. Engineered with an “XL” load designation, the iON HT offers enhanced strength and rigidity suitable for heavy electric battery packs and typical cargo loads. Its Roll Lite Compound combined with Opti Cure Technology reduces internal friction and optimizes curing temperatures, significantly lowering rolling resistance and enhancing battery efficiency in EV applications. The tire also features a ProDurable Compound alongside Opti Tread Technology, evenly distributing road pressure to achieve tread life up to 80,000 miles, among the highest-rated for EV-specific tires. Additionally, structured 3D-Embossed Sipes and flared shoulder grooves improve water evacuation and traction, particularly under wet conditions. The aggressive shoulder block design and reinforced iON Clad construction provide external impact resistance without compromising ride comfort. “Electric vehicles, especially in the emerging light-duty truck category, bring new challenges and place unique demands on their tires,” said Rob Williams, President, Hankook Tire America Corp. “The iON HT is built from the ground up to deliver exceptional EV performance, and perfectly embodies the kind of innovation our iON line has come to represent for the industry.” The tire will be commercially available beginning August 2025, initially offered in five sizes, from 18 to 22 inches, with Uniform Tire Quality Grade (UTQG) ratings of 900/A/A, and speed ratings of T or H. Hankook’s iON HT tire joins its wider iON product lineup, comprising all-season, summer and winter tires designed specifically for electric vehicle applications. Source: Hankook Tire America
The EV ‘Mandate’ May Not Be Dead In Congress Yet
The Trump administration's efforts to repeal the Biden-era electric-vehicle rules just ran into a wall in the Senate. The Senate Parliamentarian—which is the Senate's top rules expert—said on Friday that removing the emissions rules doesn't count as a tax or spending issue and hence they can't be included in the budget reconciliation bill. The news was first reported by the Detroit Free Press. “Tonight, the Senate Parliamentarian advised that certain provisions in the Republicans’ One Big, Beautiful Betrayal will be subject to the Byrd Rule—ultimately meaning they will need to be stripped from the bill to ensure it complies with the rules of reconciliation," Democratic Sen. Jeff Merkley said in a press release. The "Byrd Rule" requires reconciliation bills in the Senate to remain focused on budgetary issues, not policy-related ones. In simple terms, if the Senate wants to repeal the emissions rules, it will need a 60-vote majority, which Republicans currently don't have. The emissions rules require automakers to gradually increase the share of electric and hybrid vehicles as a part of their overall new vehicle sales from model-year 2027 onwards. The Senate can reject the parliamentarian's recommendation, but some members have already ruled out doing so. 2026 BMW iX3 First Drive - BMW's Best EV Yet? Watch More That means getting rid of the "EV mandate," something Trump heavily campaigned on during his presidential run last year, is turning out to be far more complicated than once thought. Republicans currently have a 53-47 majority in the Senate, far short of the 60-vote majority required to repeal the emissions rules. It's worth noting that this does not save the federal tax credits, as those are categorized as budgetary. The parliamentarian's recommendation only pertains to the EPA's emissions rules. Photo by: Ralph Hermens But this could turn out to be counterintuitive. If you keep the emissions rules (the “sticks”) but remove the tax credits (the “carrots”), it would create somewhat of an imbalance. Without incentives to help consumers afford EVs, the strict emissions regulations on automakers could become harder to achieve. That said, the EPA under the Biden administration passed in March 2024 its multi-pollutant emissions standards. Those rules recommended that automakers to sell a higher percentage of electric and hybrid vehicles from model year 2027 onwards. The rules were far from what the Trump administration labeled as an "EV mandate." The EPA recommended automakers sell 30-56% EVs, and the overall mix could also include standard hybrids and plug-in hybrids. The rules, if they remain in place, will save billions of metric tons of carbon dioxide and other harmful gases from entering the atmosphere, the EPA has said. Although the EPA is now reconsidering the rules to potentially repeal and replace them with looser emissions requirements. But that process could take months if not years. The Trump administration wants to rescind the current EPA rules, amid its other anti-EV policies like ending the federal consumer and manufacturing tax credits for EVs and other clean energy programs. We'll keep an eye on what happens to the tax credits, but the emissions rules are certainly turning out harder to repeal than once thought. Have a tip? Contact the author: suvrat.kothari@insideevs.com
Li Auto files for 5-seat electric SUV i6, set to launch in Sept
The Li i6, a five-seat pure electric SUV, will be launched in September this year, said Li Auto's founder.The Li i6 will compete with the Mercedes-Benz GLC, BMW X3, and Audi Q5. Li Auto (NASDAQ: LI) has filed for the Li i6, its second all-electric SUV (sport utility vehicle) model, with the launch expected in about three months. China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) released the latest catalog of vehicle models set to be approved for sale for public comment today, with the Li i6 included. The public may submit feedback from June 21 to 27. Inclusion in the catalog is the final major regulatory procedure for a vehicle model to be permitted for sale in China. The Li i6 has three pages in the catalog, with product models designated as LXA6503BEVW01, LXA6503BEVW02, and LXA6503BEVW03. LXA6503BEVW01 is a dual-motor model, with a front motor peak power of 150 kW and a rear motor peak power of 250 kW. Its dimensions are 4,950 mm in length, 1,935 mm in width, and 1,655 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,000 mm. The LXA6503BEVW02 and LXA6503BEVW03 are single-motor models, with a peak motor power of 250 kW. They share the same dimensions, with a length, width, and height of 4,950 mm, 1,935 mm, and 1,655/1,670 mm, respectively, and a wheelbase of 3,000 mm. The Li i6 will be produced at Li Auto's factory in Beijing, where the company is headquartered, and its factory in Changzhou, Jiangsu province. The SUV has a curb weight of 2,515/2,380/2,395 kilograms and supports a maximum speed of 180 kilometers per hour. It uses lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, with suppliers including CATL (SHE: 300750) and Sunwoda. The Li i6 is a spacious two-row, five-seat family pure-electric SUV set to launch in September, Li Xiang, founder, chairman, and CEO of Li Auto, said on Weibo today. "We aim to provide families considering the Mercedes-Benz GLC, BMW X3, or Audi Q5 with an additional purchasing option," Li said. Li shared four images of the Li i6, showcasing the electric SUV's exterior details. Li Auto is one of China's leading extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) manufacturers, with its current lineup primarily consisting of L-series extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs), including the Li L6, Li L7, Li L8, and Li L9, all of which are SUVs. The Li Mega MPV (multi-purpose vehicle), which was launched on March 1, 2024, is Li Auto's first battery electric vehicle (BEV) model. The company has been teasing the Li i8, its first pure electric SUV model, over the past few months. Yesterday, Li said that the Li i8 will be launched in late July, with production, training, and delivery preparations now in their final stages. Below images are shared by Li Xiang on Weibo. Li Auto to launch 2 all-electric SUVs in Q3, hints at sedan plans
The top 5 barriers to more sustainable fashion in Europe
Though more than 70 percent of Europeans want to make more sustainable fashion choices, significant barriers are holding them back. Trellis data partner GlobeScan recently partnered with European fashion platform Zalando to conduct a comprehensive study of Gen Z and Millennial consumer attitudes, behaviors and expectations regarding fashion and sustainability across five European countries. The findings reveal a large aspiration-action gap: 74 percent want to be more sustainable in the future by keeping clothing items for longer or extending their lifespan 71 percent of consumers aspire to shop more sustainably 66 percent of consumers say they’re making more sustainable fashion choices And yet, persistent barriers temper consumer ambitions: 41 percent said the price premium associated with sustainable fashion is a leading deterrent 27 percent said it was difficult identifying sustainable items 24 percent said they didn’t know where to find sustainable fashion choices 21 percent said they had limited knowledge of sustainable fashion 19 percent had skepticism toward sustainability claims These information-related challenges are taking place in a shifting regulatory landscape where new anti-greenwashing rules aim to improve transparency but can also make it more complex for brands and retailers to communicate clearly about their sustainability efforts. What this means These findings, which were supplemented with interviews with industry experts, underscore the importance of bridging the gap between aspiration and action in sustainable fashion. There is significant untapped potential for more sustainable fashion behaviors, but only if key barriers are addressed. Fashion brands and retailers have a crucial role to play, whether by tackling the price premium through product innovation or by emphasizing the added value that consumers are willing to pay more for, such as durability or quality. They can also harness the industry’s creative strengths to communicate sustainability more effectively and compellingly. However, closing the aspiration-action gap requires more than retailer or brand-level initiatives. It demands coordinated efforts across the entire fashion ecosystem—from policymakers, regulators, social media platforms, influencers and society. Based on a survey of more than 5,000 Gen Z and Millennial consumers in France, Germany, Italy, Sweden and the U.K. conducted in February 2025.
Avio adopts 3DEXPERIENCE platform to manage space programs
Four Dassault Systèmes industry solutions support collaboration and real-time data use at Avio and throughout its value chain. Dassault Systèmes announced that Avio, an Italy-based space propulsion company, has implemented the 3DEXPERIENCE platform to support the digital management of its programs. As Avio increases its focus on sustainability in the space sector, the 3DEXPERIENCE platform supports the use of automated, data-driven engineering and manufacturing processes to help improve the efficiency of space solution development. Users at Avio and within its value chain can support improved efficiency, standardization, quality, and compliance in the development of space launchers, propulsion systems, and payload adapters for European space programs. Avio will rely on Dassault Systèmes’ “Winning Concept,” “Co-Design to Target,” “Ready for Rate” and “Build to Operate” industry solution experiences based on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform to strengthen collaboration across teams, suppliers and partners by working with real-time data in a virtual environment. Avio aims to improve productivity by shortening development times and lowering operational costs, enhance design and manufacturing accuracy, support the introduction of new technologies, and streamline collaboration through an integrated virtual project management system. For more information, visit 3ds.com.
city is recording drivers that AI says are bad
In a high-tech move that we can all get behind and isn’t dystopian at all, the City of Barcelona is feeding camera data from its city buses into an advanced AI, but they swear they’re not using the footage to to issue tickets to bad drivers. Yet. Barcelona and its Ring Roads Low Emission Zone have earned lots of fans by limiting ICE traffic in the city’s core. The city’s latest idea to promote mass transit is the deployment of an artificial intelligence system developed by Hayden AI for automatic enforcement of reserved lanes and stops to improve bus circulation – but while it seems to be working as intended, it’s raising entirely different questions. “Bus lanes are designed to help deliver reliable, fast, and convenient public transport service. But private vehicles illegally using bus lanes make this impossible,” explains Laia Bonet, First Deputy Mayor, Area for Urban Planning, Ecological Transition, Urban Services and Housing at the Ajuntament de Barcelona. “We are excited to partner with Hayden AI to learn where these problems occur and how they are impacting our public transport service.” Currently operating as a pilot program on the city’s H12 and D20 bus lines, the system uses cameras installed on the city’s electric buses to detect vehicles that commit static violations in the bus lanes and stops (read: stopping or parking where you shouldn’t). The Hayden AI system then analyses that data and provides statistical information on what it captures while the bus is driving along on its daily route. Advertisement - scroll for more content Hayden AI says that, while it photographs and records video sequences and collects contextual information of the violation, its cameras do not record license plates or people and no penalties are being issued to drivers or owners of the vehicles. So far so good, right? But it’s what happens once the six mont pilot is over that seems like it should be setting off alarm bells. Big Brother Bus is watching “You are being recorded” sign in a bus; via Barcelona City Council. The footage is manually reviewed by a Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona (TMB) officer, who reportedly reviewed some 2,500 violations identified by AI in May alone. But, while the system isn’t being used to issue violations during the pilot program, it easily could. And, in fact, it already has … and the AI f@#ked up royally. AI writes thousands of bad tickets NYC issued hundreds of thousands of tickets; via NBC. When AI was given the ability to issue citations in New York City earlier this year, it wrote more than 290,000 tickets (that’s right: two-hundred and ninety thousand) in just three months, generating nearly $21 million in revenue for the city. The was just one problem: thousands of those drivers weren’t doing anything wrong. What’s more, the fines generated by the AI powered cameras were supposed to be approved only after being verified by a human, but either that didn’t happen, or it did happen and the human operator in question wasn’t paying attention, or (maybe the worst possibility) the violations were mistakes or hallucinations, and the human checker couldn’t tell the difference. In OpenAI’s tests of its newest o3 and o4-mini reasoning models, the company found the o3 model hallucinated 33% of the time during its PersonQA tests, in which the bot is asked questions about public figures. When asked short fact-based questions in the company’s SimpleQA tests, OpenAI said o3 hallucinated 51% of the time. The o4-mini model fared even worse: It hallucinated 41% of the time during the PersonQA test and 79% of the time in the SimpleQA test, though OpenAI said its worse performance was expected as it is a smaller model designed to be faster. OpenAI’s latest update to ChatGPT, GPT-4.5, hallucinates less than its o3 and o4-mini models. The company said when GPT-4.5 was released in February the model has a hallucination rate of 37.1% for its SimpleQA test. FORBES I don’t know about you guys, but if we had a local traffic cop that got it wrong 33% of the time (at best), I’d be surprised if they kept their job for very long. But AI? AI has a multibillion dollar hype train and armies of undereducated believers talking about singularities and building themselves blonde robots with boobs. And once the AI starts issuing tickets to the AI that’s driving your robotaxi, it can just call its buddy AI the bank to send over your money. No human necessary, at any point, and the economy keeps on humming. But, like – I’m sure that’s fine. Embrace the future and all that … right? SOURCES: Hayden AI, via Forbes, Motorpasión. Your personalized home solar quotes are easy to compare online and you’ll get access to unbiased Energy Advisors to help you every step of the way. The best part? You won’t get a single phone call until after you’ve elected to move forward. Get started, hassle-free, by clicking here. FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.
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