Tesla launches new affordable Model Y configuration in the U.S.
Tesla has launched another new affordable Model Y configuration in the United States, now adding a fifth version of the all-electric crossover to its lineup, diversifying the car’s options and giving consumers more choices at the time of purchase. Tesla launched the Model Y All-Wheel-Drive on Monday night, pricing it at $41,990. It features 294 miles of range, a 125 MPH top speed, and a 0-60 MPH acceleration rate of 4.6 seconds. The vehicle is the second most-affordable configuration of the Model Y, only eclipsing the Model Y Rear-Wheel-Drive, which is priced at $39,990. The move to expand the Model Y lineup comes just a week after CEO Elon Musk confirmed the company would remove the Model S and Model X from production, making way for manufacturing of the Optimus robot at the company’s Fremont, California, factory. Tesla has just launched the Model Y All-Wheel-Drive, a new configuration, in the U.S. for $41,990 It has 294 miles of range, a 4.6s 0-60 MPH acceleration rate, and a 125 MPH top speed pic.twitter.com/cyd81m26vB — TESLARATI (@Teslarati) February 3, 2026 The Model Y All-Wheel-Drive fits the bill of the “Standard” offerings of the vehicle that Tesla launched last year. It is void of many of the more luxurious features, which are available in the “Premium” trim levels, available in Rear-Wheel-Drive, All-Wheel-Drive, and Performance. The differences between the Standard and Premium configurations can be found in the video below: @teslarati There are some BIG differences between the Tesla Model Y Standard and Tesla Model Y Premium #tesla #teslamodely ♬ Sia – Xeptemper With five configurations now available in the Model Y, it certainly seems as if Tesla is attempting to get the vehicle available in more options than ever before. With the Model S and Model X being removed from production due to their irrelevance to the future and Tesla’s focus on autonomy, diversifying the Model Y portfolio seems to align with the idea that the company is okay with making more variations of its most popular car. Tesla Model Y Standard: first impressions from a Premium owner Removing the Model S and Model X and replacing them with a new Model Y configuration is not exactly what fans have been wanting; many have been wondering what Tesla will do to replace the need for a bigger SUV for large families. Nevertheless, Tesla’s relentless attitude toward solving autonomy and its preparation to launch a self-driving ride-hailing service seem to fit the bill for this move. Soon, it will be the Model 3, Model Y, and Cybercab playing the main parts of this autonomous future. The Cybertruck will be sticking around for other things, like local hauling. The post Tesla launches new affordable Model Y configuration in the U.S. appeared first on TESLARATI.
Hybrid lamination process qualifies mixed RF materials with FR-4
JarnisTech announced the comprehensive qualification of its Hybrid Lamination Solution. This upgraded capability enables the reliable integration of high-frequency materials (such as Rogers or Taconic) with standard FR-4 within a single multilayer board, directly addressing the cost pressures of mass-market 5G infrastructure. JarnisTech Hybrid Stack-up: High-Frequency outer layers (grey) on an FR-4 core (green). By optimizing the ratio of expensive high-speed laminates to standard epoxy glass, the solution allows telecom manufacturers to reduce bare board Bill of Materials (BOM) costs by approximately 30-40% for antenna modules and base stations, without sacrificing RF performance. Overcoming CTE mismatch in heterogeneous stacks Hybrid construction has historically faced yield challenges due to the Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (CTE) mismatch between advanced low-loss materials (often PTFE-based) and standard FR-4. JarnisTech’s approach mitigates these risks through a proprietary “Dynamic Pressure Profiling” technique. By strictly controlling thermal ramp-up rates and pressure dwell times, the process synchronizes the curing behavior of disparate materials, preventing common defects such as delamination and registration shift. Key technical validations: Enhanced Adhesion: Implementation of plasma surface treatment to activate the inert surface of PTFE materials prior to bonding, ensuring structural integrity under thermal stress. Advanced Layer Alignment: Utilization of non-linear scaling compensation (X-ray optimization) to achieve high-precision layer-to-layer registration, critical for the high-density interconnects in 5G AAUs. Signal Integrity: Verified impedance control tolerance of ±8% on hybrid interfaces, ensuring minimal insertion loss at material transitions. Optimizing design for cost and performance This capability provides a tangible competitive advantage for telecom OEMs. It allows designers to isolate expensive materials solely for critical RF signal layers while utilizing cost-effective FR-4 for power, ground, and digital control layers. JarnisTech is now accepting technical inquiries for hybrid design reviews. The company offers complimentary DFM (Design for Manufacturing) analysis to assist clients in converting fully high-frequency designs into cost-optimized hybrid structures. For more information, visit jarnistech.com. The post Hybrid lamination process qualifies mixed RF materials with FR-4 appeared first on Engineering.com.
Wheel-E Podcast: Rad got bought, NJ hates e-bikes, fake UL lawsuit, 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 a range of stories from new e-bike laws in New Jersey and Amsterdam, Rad Power Bikes getting bought out of bankruptcy, the clever way that e-bike batteries can be used for extra power during storms or even power a food truck, Honda’s new 50 MPH electric scooter, and more. more…
Pilot Travel Centers to deploy heavy-duty EV charging stations for Tesla Semis
Truck stop operator Pilot Travel Centers has entered into an agreement with Tesla to install charging stations for Tesla’s Semi heavy-duty electric trucks. The Tesla charging stations will be built at select Pilot locations in California, Georgia, Nevada, New Mexico and Texas, along I-5, I-10 and “several major corridors where the need for heavy-duty charging is highest.” The first sites are expected to open in Summer 2026. Each location will host four to eight charging stalls featuring Tesla’s V4 cabinet charging technology, which can deliver up to 1.2 megawatts of power at each stall. Pilot says that in the future, the sites may be expanded to be compatible with heavy-duty electric vehicles from other manufacturers. “Heavy-duty charging is yet another extension of our exploration into alternative fuel offerings, and we’re happy to partner with a leader in the space that provides turnkey solutions and deploys them quickly,” said Shannon Sturgil, Senior VP, Alternative Fuels at Pilot. Source: Pilot Travel Centers
ABB plans new global headquarters at Zurich Oerlikon site
ABB announced plans to establish a new global headquarters at its heritage site in Zurich Oerlikon. The building project is estimated at approximately CHF 80 million, subject to the final construction costs. The investment reflects ABB’s strong commitment to the City of Zurich and the company’s ambition to create a modern, future-ready workplace for its around 500 Zurich-based employees. ABB Historic Building will be fully renovated and modernized. Image Credit Christ & Gantenbein. The new headquarters will consist of an existing historic building and a new extension, based on a design concept by the renowned architectural firm Christ & Gantenbein, which has extensive experience in renovating listed objects. The iconic ABB Historic Building, which is currently leased out, will be fully renovated and modernized in compliance with heritage protection requirements, ensuring its character is preserved while adapting it for contemporary use. Beyond enabling ABB to use the building itself, the reuse and upgrading of the existing structure was a key factor in terms of sustainability. New ABB Headquarters building. Image Credit Christ & Gantenbein. The Historic Building will be complemented by a new six-story building in the inner courtyard, replacing the so-called Chicago Hall event venue which is not listed as a protected site. The brick façade of the extension will continue the materiality of the existing building, while the construction method for the extension uses a contemporary, material-efficient wood composite construction. Together with intelligent technical solutions from ABB, the aim is to achieve a low energy level supported by photovoltaic power generation. The new headquarters will feature a gross floor area of around 10,800 square meters. Key amenities will include a 200 square meters lounge and cafeteria, a 280 square meters lobby and exhibition area, a 450 square meters auditorium and media space, and an 80 square meters wellbeing area with a fitness center. It will be home to employees from both ABB corporate functions as well as its business areas and divisions. Planning for the headquarters project will take place over the next years, with detailed design expected in 2026/2027 and construction starting thereafter. ABB plans to move into the new headquarters in 2031. Until the new facilities are ready, ABB will continue to operate from its current and nearby Cityport building in Zurich Oerlikon, where ABB has a leasing contract until 2031. For more information, visit abb.com. The post ABB plans new global headquarters at Zurich Oerlikon site appeared first on Engineering.com.
Navee XT5 Pro e-scooter at new $1,100 low, Aventon Level 2 e-bike hits new $999 low, Heybike Valentine’s Day sale lows, Anker, more
Our end-of-the-week Green Deals is being led by the Navee XT5 Pro Electric Scooter that has fallen to a new $1,100 low, while we also have Aventon’s Level 2 Commuter e-bike falling to a new $999 low in a weekend flash sale, as well as Heybike’s Valentine’s Day e-bike Sale taking up to $700 off its lineup and returning several models to their all-time lowest rates, like the Mars 2.0 Folding Fat Tire e-bike at $899. There’s also a 72-hour Anker SOLIX flash sale with options like the C2000 Gen 2 Power Station and alternator charger bundle at $1,148, among others – plus, we have some of the best prices of the last six months on EGO Power+ and Worx lawn care tools/equipment. All these and more are waiting for you below, and don’t forget the hangover deals at the bottom of the page, like yesterday’s EcoFlow January Monthly Madness EcoCredit event, as well as Lectric’s Valentine’s Day e-bike Sale with up to $753 savings, 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…
Heilind adds Molex SideWize high-voltage connectors for space-constrained EV charging systems
Heilind Electronics is adding the Molex SideWize High-Voltage Connectors to its portfolio of high-power interconnect solutions. The connectors target space-constrained, high-power designs where engineers are balancing packaging, electrical safety and power density in power-distribution hardware, like EV charging systems, data-center power shelves, UPS equipment and industrial automation. The Molex SideWize Connectors use a right-angle architecture intended to maximize power transfer in constrained environments. The connectors are rated up to 80 A and 1,500 V per UL 4128, positioning them for high-voltage, high-current systems. The design supports higher-wattage, denser power architectures “without increasing heat generation or installation complexity.” The right-angle design is intended to eliminate cable bend-radius challenges, while color-coding, positive locking, and 360° cable rotation are meant to simplify mating and reduce cable wear. Source: Heilind Electronics
GE Appliances Empowers Manufacturing Engineers with Centralized 3D Measurement Data
Discover how manufacturing engineers at GE Appliances are making better data-driven decisions with fast and easy access to CAD models and 3D measurement data. InnovMetric has sponsored this post. A Legacy of InnovationGE Appliances, a Haier company, has been manufacturing heating and cooking products since 1907. Operating out of the massive 750-acre Appliance Park in Louisville, Kentucky, the company employs over 8,000 people. GE Appliances’ history of innovation is marked by milestones such as the introduction of the self-cleaning oven and the over-the-range microwave. By pioneering the first suite of Wi-Fi-connected appliances and products that interact with Google Home and Amazon Echo, GE Appliances has won the Smart Appliance Company of the Year award at the Internet of Things (IoT) Breakthrough Awards three years running. Solving Complexity in Modern Appliance ManufacturingWith multiple product lines and hundreds of parts per product, appliance manufacturing can be an incredibly complex undertaking. GE Appliances’ leadership was tasked with delivering next-level quality and securing the company’s future. In pursuing this goal, they recognized the need for a unified software solution capable of seamlessly connecting with multiple measuring devices, aggregating 3D metrology data, and delivering those insights to the engineers who rely on them. Digital Transformation with PolyWorks|DataLoopThe solution arrived with the implementation of PolyWorks|DataLoop, a scalable data management solution designed to break down silos. By interconnecting everyone who needs access to digital 3D measurement data, GE Appliances transformed its workflows. Key benefits of this digital shift include: Universal compatibility: Processing large volumes of data from multiple sources like CMMs and laser scanners is seamless. Real-time collaboration: Part measurement, result review, and troubleshooting can all be performed simultaneously. Proactive adjustments: Manufacturing processes can be adjusted and optimized on the fly. Enhanced accessibility: Every single decision-maker gains fast, easy access to CAD models and measurement data. A Force Multiplier for Productivity and QualityBy adopting PolyWorks|DataLoop as its 3D data management solution, GE Appliances has empowered its manufacturing engineers to make better data-driven decisions. This interconnected approach acts as a force multiplier, propelling the company’s future by upholding high standards of quality while driving productivity across operations. Watch the full video testimonial Sponsored content by InnovMetric The post GE Appliances Empowers Manufacturing Engineers with Centralized 3D Measurement Data appeared first on Engineering.com.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk lied about “refusing” Epstein island invite, newly released DOJ emails show
Elon Musk claimed he “refused” invitations to visit Jeffrey Epstein’s private island after the financier was already convicted of soliciting prostitution from a minor, but newly released Department of Justice documents prove that was a lie. The emails show Musk actively trying to plan a visit and asking Epstein about “the wildest party” on his island. more…
Off-highway’s electric shift: why voltage, modularity and e-hydraulics matter
Electrification of off-highway vehicles isn’t new. What’s new is the combination of battery economics, tighter urban rules and a rapidly evolving global supply chain—forces that are pushing OEMs to rethink machine architecture, service strategy and the realities of charging on a jobsite. Danfoss Editron’s Eric Azeroual on off-highway electrification trends Electrification is often framed as the next big disruption for construction, mining and agricultural equipment. But in the off-highway field, “electric” has been hiding in plain sight for decades. Look at ports and mines and you will find machines that already exploit electric torque, efficiency and controllability, even if a diesel engine is still part of the system. In warehouses, electric forklifts and aerial work platforms have long been mainstream. So why does electrification feel like a fresh wave now? Charged recently chatted with Eric Azeroual, Vice President at Danfoss Editron (the electrification arm of Danfoss Power Solutions). He pointed to two accelerants: rapidly improving battery economics and the rising pressure of city-focused emissions standards. As he described it, off-highway is “going through a very big transformation,” moving away from internal combustion engines and conventional hydraulics toward electric and electrified hydraulics. The real inflection point: batteries got cheaper and cities got louder Azeroual argues that off-highway didn’t suddenly “discover” electrification. Engineers and end users have long understood the benefits of electric machines: power density, high torque at low speed, and the efficiency advantages that come from precise control. The first thing that has changed over the last few years is the affordability of the energy storage needed to untether machines from the grid. Azeroual explains that the momentum of passenger-car electrification pushed battery cost down from roughly $1,000 or $1,500 per kWh” to $100 or $150, making it feasible to electrify a much larger slice of off-highway equipment—especially the “middle market” between tiny low-power vehicles and large, grid-connected machines. The second accelerant is regulation, especially in cities. Emissions standards for machines operating in urban areas are tightening, and OEMs are weighing whether to keep investing in increasingly complex after-treatment systems or to redirect that investment into electric platforms and electrified work functions. This combination is particularly consequential because construction dominates demand. Azeroual pegs wheel loaders and excavators as roughly 50% of the off-highway market, and he sees them as “poised to electrify quicker” for a very practical reason: their duty cycles often align with electrification better than outsiders assume. Many of these machines do not travel long distances, and they operate in defined spaces, with intermittent work and idle time. And because many operate inside cities, regulation and noise become immediate drivers. He offered a vivid example: an excavator operating in the middle of Paris may need to be electric to meet emissions requirements in the near future. A two-speed voltage world: 48 V at one end, high voltage everywhere else One of the clearest signs that off-highway electrification is maturing is that the debate is shifting from whether to electrify to how to electrify. For Azeroual, voltage is becoming the defining design fork. The first wave is already here: compact wheel loaders and mini excavators built around low-voltage (typically 48 V) architectures. They are “low risk,” relatively straightforward to charge, and avoid the safety and integration complexity that comes with high voltage. But he does not expect a smooth ladder that includes a significant medium-voltage category. Instead, he predicts a fast jump: either sub-60 V systems (the 48 V class) or high-voltage systems for most platforms beyond that—“two poles,” as he described it. Two engineering drivers sit behind that jump: Charging rate and uptime. Higher voltage enables higher power transfer, which reduces charge time and protects equipment uptime, an essential economic variable in off-highway. Power and efficiency. When power requirements push beyond about 150-200 kW, higher voltage becomes a practical way to reduce current and resistive losses, improving system efficiency and lowering thermal burden. Danfoss Editron is developing low-voltage and high-voltage solutions because those are the two segments in which OEMs are placing bets. Danfoss Editron electric motors Danfoss Editron ED3 on-board charger Danfoss Editron 48-voltage electric motor to power hydraulic gear pumps Danfoss ePump Power Module Azeroual also sees an important “bridge” between automotive and off-highway: heavy-duty trucks and commercial vehicles. In his view, advancements there are helping close the gap between passenger-car high-voltage ecosystems and off-highway requirements. Danfoss is selectively involved in on-highway electrification, he said, primarily when the technology can be carried back into off-highway products. Why modularity is not optional in off-highway In passenger cars, product strategy is built around standardization: a small set of interfaces, high-volume platforms and minimal variation. In off-highway, that assumption fails quickly. OEMs face wide variation in machine layout, packaging space, work functions and customer expectations, and volumes are often low enough that a “one-size-fits-all” approach can become a deal breaker. Azeroual offers drivetrain topology as an example. An off-highway machine can easily require five motors and five different inverters, and each of those components must mount, route and cool in a way that fits a specific machine layout. Unlike automotive, in which the interface might be standardized around a small set of packaging conventions, off-highway often demands different form factors—“pancake” versus cylindrical—and different mounting realities. Modularity is not purely mechanical. Off-highway machines are increasingly sensor-rich—OEMs are demanding more inputs and outputs, more diagnostics and more freedom to calibrate software to match unique work cycles. Azeroual describes modularity as the ability to modify interfaces—shaft, spline, connectors—as well as the software itself, so that end users can calibrate behavior to a particular application. This is where Danfoss leans on its controls background. Azeroual highlighted Danfoss’s long history with the PLUS+1 software architecture—about 20 years—as a framework that allows customers to “pick and choose building blocks” for their vehicle architecture. The trade-off, he acknowledged, is cost. Adding options and configurability can increase part cost. But in off-highway, flexibility is frequently the price of entry, especially when customers order ten units rather than ten thousand. Azeroual suggested that suppliers built around high-volume
Inertial Labs announces IRINS LEO-aided inertial nav system
Inertial Labs has announced IRINS, a Low Earth Orbit (LEO)-aided inertial navigation system (INS) designed to allow full operation across land, air and sea in denied, degraded and disrupted space operating environments (D3SOE). Combining the capabilities of an INS, an altitude and heading reference system (AHRS) and a LEO PNT receiver, this platform marks a major milestone in VIAVI’s leading portfolio for assured Positioning, Navigation and Timing (APNT) by bringing together the globally proven INS capabilities of Inertial Labs and the timing expertise of Jackson Labs. The IRINS embedded system has been developed to counter the exponentially rising number of spoofing and jamming attacks that have affected military and critical infrastructure. Now, resilient LEO-based PNT and inertial navigation are available within a fully integrated system from a single vendor. The IRINS embedded system has been developed to counter the exponentially rising number of spoofing and jamming attacks that have affected military and critical infrastructure. Now, resilient LEO-based PNT and inertial navigation are available within a fully integrated system from a single vendor. The system combines an INS, an AHRS and the GNSS-independent STL-2600 LEO Iridium receiver module. These capabilities enable the system to not only calculate altitude, position, velocity and time data, but also minimize bias from causing drift. To help detect and eliminate attack signals, the device additionally integrates a GNSS receiver with a Controlled Reception Pattern Antenna (CRPA) port. The IRINS is certified for IP67 and MIL-STD-810G environmental requirements. It is based on the company’s fully calibrated tactical-grade MEMS 3-axis accelerometer, gyroscope and clock. These are combined with embedded barometers, magnetometers and an optional onboard air-data computer as part of its AHRS. Satellite communication is provided through the company’s STL-2600 receiver, which links to the Iridium LEO constellation. All capabilities are housed within a compact 126.5 × 49.3 × 53.3 mm enclosure. For more information, visit viavisolutions.com. The post Inertial Labs announces IRINS LEO-aided inertial nav system appeared first on Engineering.com.
What really broke on the grid during Storm Fern – it wasn’t wind or solar
Winter Storm Fern knocked out power for millions of people across the US and reignited a familiar political and media fight over what really causes large-scale outages during extreme weather. To separate the rhetoric from the operational reality, Electrek spoke with Leah Qusba, CEO of GoodPower, a research, strategic communications, and campaigning organization focused on advancing the global renewable energy transition. In this Q&A, Qusba walks through what tends to fail first during major winter storms, what outage data shows about the role of wind, solar, and fossil generation during Fern, why fuel supply and winterization still matter more than the generation mix, and how coordinated disinformation campaigns exploit moments of uncertainty after grid emergencies and what works to counter them. more…
Kikusui’s cutting-edge power testing solutions for battery, power electronics and on-board charger applications
The global electric vehicle industry is experiencing rapid growth, driving an urgent demand for power conversion systems that are not only efficient but also highly reliable. Among these, the on-board charger (OBC) is a critical component, tasked with converting alternating current (AC) from various charging infrastructures, residential, commercial, or public, into direct current (DC) suitable for charging high-voltage battery systems. The performance and safety of the OBC directly impact overall vehicle efficiency, battery health, and user experience. As the EV ecosystem evolves to incorporate advanced functionalities such as vehicle-to-grid (V2G), vehicle-to-home (V2H), and modular, distributed power electronics, the requirements for testing and validation have become more complex and rigorous, particularly under variable and dynamic electrical conditions. This article presents a comprehensive overview of how Kikusui’s cutting-edge power testing solutions specifically, the PCR-WEA/WEA2 series of programmable AC/DC power supplies, the PXB series of bidirectional DC power supplies, and the PLZ-5WH2 high-speed DC electronic loads enable detailed evaluation, functional testing, and seamless system integration of OBCs and other critical EV power electronic components, including traction batteries. These tools support robust characterization across a range of real-world scenarios, contributing to improved design validation, compliance, and performance optimization in next-generation electric mobility systems. Electric vehicle OBCs serve as the primary interface between the power grid and a vehicle’s high-voltage battery, enabling safe AC-to-DC conversion across a wide range of input conditions. Modern OBCs must not only provide efficient unidirectional charging but increasingly support bidirectional energy flow for V2H/V2G functions, grid-interactive services, and energy storage applications. At the same time, automotive manufacturers are shifting toward compact, modular, and multifunctional power electronic assemblies, combining OBCs, DC/DC converters, and junction boxes into integrated units to reduce size, weight, and cost. These advancements increase the need for: Robust AC-side resilience against voltage sags, frequency variations, momentary interruptions, and harmonic distortion. Stable DC-side control, ensuring proper charging behavior, battery protection, and compliance with global standards. Test equipment capable of reproducing worldwide grid conditions, enabling repeatable and accelerated development. Kikusui’s laboratory-grade power systems provide this controlled environment, ensuring OBCs and battery systems are verified under real-world electrical variability with high fidelity. Figure 1. AC–DC Conversion of Voltage and Current Waveforms in an On-Board Charger (OBC). AC-Side Evaluation of On-Board ChargersThe PCR-WEA/WEA2 Series is a high-capacity AC/DC regulated power supply designed for flexible, high-precision grid simulation. It supports all major global AC configurations used for electric vehicle (EV) charging, including: Single-phase 120 V (commonly used in USA) Single-phase 200 V three-wire (L1-N-L2, typically 100 V line-to-neutral, 200 V line-to-line) Three-phase 208V (line-to-line), common in industrial or commercial charging applications A single PCR-WEA/WEA2 unit can replicate these voltage and phase conditions without requiring additional hardware, significantly reducing test complexity and enabling rapid configuration changes for global compliance testing. The 15-model PCR-WEA2 lineup offers AC/DC output from 1 kVA to 36 kVA, with variable single- and three-phase output from 6 kVA upward. It features a regenerative mode for reduced power consumption and supports mix-and-match parallel operation up to 144 kVA for scalable test systems, the series offers: Output frequency flexibility up to 5 kHz 4x rated peak current capability 1.4x inrush current tolerance for 500 ms These features enable engineers to accurately evaluate OBC performance during startup, simulate real-world grid disturbances, and validate transient handling during rapid load transitions. Available power configurations options 1 kVA and 2 kVA, 4 kVA, 8 kVA, 12 kVA, 16 kVA, 20 kVA, and 24 kVA. For applications requiring higher capacity, parallel operation can extend the output up to 96 kVA. Additionally, the three-phase PCR-WEA2 series is available in 3 kVA, 6 kVA, 12 kVA, 18 kVA, 24 kVA, 30 kVA, and 36 kVA models, with parallel expansion possible up to 144 kVA. Figure 2. AC Power Simulation for EV Charging: Single-Phase and Three-Phase 100V/200V Inputs Delivering Pure Sine Wave Outputs for 7kW, 11kW, and 22kW Charging. Key Features and Benefits of PCR-WEA/WEA2: Versatile Output Configurations supporting all major EV charging voltages. Ultra-Compact Design providing high power density for reduced lab footprint. Exceptional Transient Handling for inrush and peak-load events. Advanced Sequencing Functions to simulate disturbances, harmonics, and advanced grid behavior. Global Grid Simulation with adjustable voltage, frequency, and phase. Proven Reliability, widely used in Japanese automotive and consumer electronics industries. Sequence Functions for Advanced AC SimulationThe PCR-WEA/WEA2 Series incorporates sophisticated waveform programming that allows engineers to replicate complex utility grid behavior with precision. These functions are essential for evaluating OBC reliability, EMC performance, and compliance with international test standards. Simulation of Power Disturbances The system can reproduce a range of real-world anomalies, including: Undervoltage/Overvoltage Voltage dips, swells, and fluctuations Instantaneous interruptions Waveform distortion These simulations help verify OBC operation during brownouts, unstable infrastructure, and transient grid events. Harmonic and Phase Control The PCR-WEA/WEA2 supports harmonic synthesis up to the 40th order, enabling detailed analysis of power factor correction (PFC) behavior and OBC EMI performance. Adjustable initial phase settings (e.g., 0°, 90°, 270°) enable worst-case startup scenario testing. Compliance and Standards Testing The series supports testing aligned with major global power quality standards, such as: IEC 61000-4-11 – Voltage dips, short interruptions, variations IEC 61000-4-28 – Frequency variations IEC 61000-4-34 – Voltage disturbances for high-current equipment These features help manufacturers validate devices before formal certification, reducing development cycles and compliance risk. Figure 3. Various Sequence Functions: Simulation of Voltage Dips, Interruptions, and Harmonic Waveforms for Compliance with IEC 61000 Standards DC-Side Evaluation of On-Board ChargersTo complement AC-side testing, Kikusui provides powerful DC-side test instruments, including the PXB Series bidirectional DC power supply and the PLZ-5WH2 Series high-speed DC electronic load. PXB Series – Bidirectional High-Capacity DC Power Supply The PXB Series offers bidirectional operation, allowing both sourcing and sinking of power for energy-regenerative testing. This reduces total energy consumption during extended test cycles. Supporting voltages up to 1,500 V, the PXB series is ideal for evaluating high-voltage battery systems (300–750 VDC typical). Its regenerative capability simulates both charging and discharging conditions, closely reflecting actual EV operating environments. PLZ-5WH2 Series – DC Electronic Load The PLZ-5WH2 Series provides high-speed transient response and precise dynamic load control, enabling accurate measurement of OBC output characteristics such as
Tesla Cybercab spotted with interesting charging solution, stimulating discussion
Tesla Cybercab units are being tested publicly on roads throughout various areas of the United States, and a recent sighting of the vehicle’s charging port has certainly stimulated some discussions throughout the community. The Cybercab is geared toward being a fully-autonomous vehicle, void of a steering wheel or pedals, only operating with the use of the Full Self-Driving suite. Everything from the driving itself to the charging to the cleaning is intended to be operated autonomously. But a recent sighting of the vehicle has incited some speculation as to whether the vehicle might have some manual features, which would make sense, but let’s take a look: Tesla Cybercab charging port is in the rear of the vehicle! Here’s a great look at plugging it in!! pic.twitter.com/SjbONjx5Iu — TESLARATI (@Teslarati) January 29, 2026 The port is located in the rear of the vehicle and features a manual door and latch for plug-in, and the video shows an employee connecting to a Tesla Supercharger. Now, it is important to remember these are prototype vehicles, and not the final product. Additionally, Tesla has said it plans to introduce wireless induction charging in the future, but it is not currently available, so these units need to have some ability to charge. However, there are some arguments for a charging system like this, especially as the operation of the Cybercab begins after production starts, which is scheduled for April. Wireless for Operation, Wired for Downtime It seems ideal to use induction charging when the Cybercab is in operation. As it is for most Tesla owners taking roadtrips, Supercharging stops are only a few minutes long for the most part. The Cybercab would benefit from more frequent Supercharging stops in between rides while it is operating a ride-sharing program. Tesla wireless charging patent revealed ahead of Robotaxi unveiling event However, when the vehicle rolls back to its hub for cleaning and maintenance, standard charging, where it is plugged into a charger of some kind, seems more ideal. In the 45-minutes that the car is being cleaned and is having maintenance, it could be fully charged and ready for another full shift of rides, grabbing a few miles of range with induction charging when it’s out and about. Induction Charging Challenges Induction charging is still something that presents many challenges for companies that use it for anything, including things as trivial as charging cell phones. While it is convenient, a lot of the charge is lost during heat transfer, which is something that is common with wireless charging solutions. Even in Teslas, the wireless charging mat present in its vehicles has been a common complaint among owners, so much so that the company recently included a feature to turn them off. Production Timing and Potential Challenges With Tesla planning to begin Cybercab production in April, the real challenge with the induction charging is whether the company can develop an effective wireless apparatus in that short time frame. It has been in development for several years, but solving the issue with heat and energy loss is something that is not an easy task. In the short-term, Tesla could utilize this port for normal Supercharging operation on the Cybercab. Eventually, it could be phased out as induction charging proves to be a more effective and convenient option. The post Tesla Cybercab spotted with interesting charging solution, stimulating discussion appeared first on TESLARATI.
To get consumers to engage on sustainability, focus on health
If health is the new wealth, data show that could be the best way for brands to engage more with consumers. According to Trellis data partner GlobeScan’s recent research on healthy and sustainable living, health is now the strongest driver of sustainable behavior change. The desire to be healthier isn’t just compatible with sustainability; it’s the main reason people are open to making more environmentally-friendly choices. When sustainability is positioned as a way to achieve better health, it becomes relevant, actionable and personally meaningful. Results show that a majority of consumers are motivated by the promise of improved well-being. Only a small fraction (7 percent) are interested in sustainability alone, meaning almost everyone who says they’d like to live a more sustainable lifestyle also claims that they’d like to live in a healthier way. Additional insights from the research support the notion that the most effective engagement strategies for sustainability are those that lead with health and well-being, making the benefits of sustainable choices immediate and relatable. What this means For brands, NGOs and governments, the data reveal a strategic opportunity: health isn’t just an added benefit for sustainability but instead may be the primary motivator for sustainable lifestyle changes. With 65 percent of consumers expressing a desire to be both healthier and more sustainable, organizations can anchor their sustainability messages in tangible direct benefits to physical and mental health. By leading with health, organizations can cut through skepticism, apathy and sustainability-related fatigue to reach disengaged audiences and achieve behavior change at scale. Based on a survey of nearly 32,000 people in the general public conducted July — August 2025. The post To get consumers to engage on sustainability, focus on health appeared first on Trellis.
ENCY 2.7 update adds power control for non-planar slicing
ENCY 2.7 is available and includes 120 updates covering workflow changes and bug fixes. The release adds a Power parameter for Non-planar slicing, support for additional robot families, and updates related to technical support reporting. Feed and power control for cladding operations ENCY 2.7 adds a Power parameter for Non-planar slicing. Power is supported in two operations: Cladding 5D and Non-planar slicing. Users can scale power as a percentage of the nominal value when cladding in corners. Along with Feed, this allows adjustment of deposition settings by changing Power and Feed. Usability updates Technical support message window: The support message window was updated. Users can capture a screenshot from the application interface, which is automatically attached to the files sent to technical support. Robots: ENCY 2.7 adds support for these robot families: Tecman, JHY, EVS, HANS, HSR, Fairino The robot library was updated for: Omron, ABB, AUBO, Borunto, Dobot, Estun, Effort, Epson, uFactory Check fixtures: For 2D Contouring and Hole machining, users can disable collision checking with fixtures, including cases where drilling through a part and substrate is intended. Other workflow updates include: Up/Down arrow-key navigation through CL-data rows while the Machine control panel is open Updated hints for Cladding 5D and Non-planar slicing Updated milling operation illustrations in the New Operation window Stability, simulation and quality fixes ENCY 2.7 includes fixes across projects, simulation, UI, CAD import, and automation. Examples include: Non-planar slicing: fixes related to the starting tool point parameter Swarf operation: fixes for extend/trim passes for closed contours and two-curve calculation Simulation: fixes for saving simulation results to .stl, performance changes, and fixes for cases where simulation speed caused false collision detection Projects: fixes related to restoring the last saved project after a crash and saving to cloud services (including Microsoft OneDrive) Machine/axis behavior: fixes for 4th-axis errors in Rotary operations, workpiece position detection for mill-turn machines, and workpiece coordinate rotation for Swiss-type lathes CAD/import: fixes for CAD module errors affecting project opening and STEP import when external borders are invalid Editors/UI: fixes for hotkey conflicts, dialogs appearing behind the main window, and display issues (including the AI Assistant window and nonstandard monitor scales) Fixes for freezes when repeatedly switching in the Addin Manager Fixes in MachineMaker and ENCY Tuner, and visual fixes in FBM settings and Wire EDM machining Installation/licensing: fixes for installer issues, antivirus conflicts during installation and license switching How to get the update For users with an active software maintenance contract (SMC), ENCY 2.7 is available through standard update channels (system updater, dealer, or technical support). For more information, visit encycam.com. The post ENCY 2.7 update adds power control for non-planar slicing appeared first on Engineering.com.
Save the date: The 2026 Electrek FSGP and American Solar Challenge are heading north
With a new year comes a new season of solar car racing! The official dates for the 2026 Electrek Formula Sun Grand Prix (FSGP) and the 2026 Electrek American Solar Challenge (ASC) have been released. In addition, I’m excited to share that not only will this year’s FSGP track event be hosted at an entirely new racing complex, but event officials tell me a record 46 teams have registered to compete! This includes colleges from the US, Canada, Belgium, and the Netherlands. more…
End of an EV era: Tesla discontinues Model S and Model X
Major technological disruptions tend to come in waves, and it’s rare for the companies that lead the first waves to be at the forefront of subsequent waves (anybody remember Blackberry? MySpace? Yahoo?). Few companies have so completely dominated the first wave of a tech tsunami as Tesla, which produced the first EV that the media could describe without using the word “granola” (the Roadster); the first EV that could be considered a mass-market vehicle (Model S); and an EV that became the world’s best-selling car (Model Y). Along the way, the company built a charging network that remains the industry’s gold standard, and built a tidy little business selling stationary storage. Times change. The number of available EV models has grown from a handful to hundreds, the center of gravity of the EV industry has shifted from the US to China, and the company that I once called “an innovation factory” has shifted its attention to other things. Tesla’s mercurial manager announced during the company’s Q4 2025 earnings call that the Model S and Model X will be discontinued by the middle of this year. The announcement was widely expected. Tesla’s third-gen vehicles, Models 3 and Y, eclipsed their parents some time ago. Indeed, this was always part of the company’s plan. Public perceptions of Tesla and its divisive director have changed drastically since the firm’s founding, but there’s no denying that the strategy worked wonderfully, nor is there any dishonor in pulling the plug on Models S and X, which launched in 2012 and 2015, respectively. In fact, some may wonder why the two venerable vehicles lasted as long as they did. As Electrek put it, “Tesla stopped caring about these vehicles years ago.” As Tesla’s cheeky chieftain himself put it back in 2019, his company was still making these “niche” vehicles more for “sentimental reasons than anything else.” Tesla stopped breaking out sales figures for Models S and X in 2023, lumping them into an “other models” category with Cybertruck and the Tesla Semi. Of course, EV pundits made educated guesses at the declining numbers. Electrek estimates that Model S/X deliveries were “likely in the 30,000 range for all of 2025.” By contrast, Tesla sold 357,000 units of Model Y in the US alone in 2025, by Cox Automotive’s estimate. The auto industry expects models to be “refreshed” from time to time (or cancelled to make way for new models). In 2025, Tesla launched an “update” to Models S and X that consisted of a new paint color, a few new features that Models 3 and Y already had, and a $5,000 price increase. Tesla’s Fremont, California factory has the capacity to produce 100,000 units of Model S/X annually—it would seem that the line has been running at a fraction of that for some years now. The company’s bellicose boss says that this factory space will be repurposed to build Optimus robots. Yeah, sure, but are there any new cars on the way? On the earnings call, the firm’s polarizing premier reaffirmed that the steering wheel-free Cybercab and a new Roadster supercar are still in the pipeline. Sources: Electrek, The Verge, TechCrunch, InsideEVs, Teslarati
