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A Composite Material Promises to make Electric Vehicles even Better

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A team of scientists based at Oak Ridge National Laboratory is working on a composite that gives copper wires an enhanced capacity for electrical current, making them more efficient and power dense.

The new material would be used to make Electrical Vehicle traction motors more efficient and power dense.

The researchers want to eliminate some of the challenges that keep Electrical Vehicles from being adopted more widely. Some of these barriers are higher costs of ownership, performance, and the longevity of some of the components, like power electronics and electric motors.

The composite material works with any component that has copper. This includes bus bars, Electric vehicle traction inverters, and charging systems.

ORNL researchers deposited carbon nanotubes on the surface of flat copper substrate to create a composite material that handles current better and whose mechanical properties beat copper. This material is lighter than copper and performs better.

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) being used to make a copper matrix better is nothing new. CNTs lightweight, strength, and conductivity have made them a favorite material for such attempts before. But previous experiments have created in materials with shorter material strength and poor scalability, or poor performance when longer.

The team at ORNL opted to deposit CNTs using the electro spinning method which is commercially viable and hence more scalable to create fibers using a jet of liquid speeding through an electric field.

With this technique, you enjoy a higher ability to control the orientation and structure of the deposited material, according to ORNL post doctoral researcher Kai Li who is based in the Chemical Sciences Division.

Scientists were this time able to orient the CNTs in one direction for improved electrical flow.

The team of scientists used a technique of vacuum coating called magnetron sputtering during which they add thin copper films on top of copper tapes coated with CNT. The copper samples yielded a super conductive Cu-CNT network when they were annealed inside a vacuum furnace.

They executed this by creating a solid and uniform layer of copper and allowed copper to be diffused into the CNT matrix.

ORNL scientists created a copper-carbon nanotube composite using this technique. The composite measured 10 centimeters in length and 4 cm in width and exhibited excellent material properties.

The material has microstructural properties and was analyzed at the ORNL Center for Nanophase Materials which is a user facility with the US Department of Energy Office of Sciences. The researchers established that the composite had a current capacity that was 14% greater and mechanical properties 20% greater than pure copper.

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Australia’s Automotive Landscape: A Glimpse into the Future of Mobility

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As the automotive industry continues to evolve at a rapid pace, Australia is poised to witness a significant transformation in its vehicle market over the coming years. With a diverse array of new models, cutting-edge technologies, and emerging brands on the horizon, the Australian automotive sector is set for an exciting period of growth and innovation.

According to the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI), the peak representative organization for automotive companies in Australia, the industry plays a crucial role in the nation’s economy, lifestyle, and communities. Despite the cessation of local vehicle production in 2017, Australia remains a vibrant market for imported vehicles, with 68 brands offering 380 models across the country.

The upcoming years promise a wealth of new offerings across various segments, from electric vehicles (EVs) to performance cars and everything in between. CarExpert’s comprehensive list of upcoming vehicles provides a detailed look at what Australian consumers can expect in the near future.

One of the most notable trends is the continued expansion of the EV market. Brands like Audi, BMW, and Volkswagen are set to introduce new electric models, with the Audi Q4 e-tron expected in late 2024 and the Volkswagen ID.4 Pro and ID.5 GTX slated for December 2024. These launches align with the Australian government’s National Electric Vehicle Strategy, which aims to increase EV adoption and reduce emissions in the transport sector.

Luxury brands are not far behind in the EV race. Porsche is preparing to launch its all-electric Macan in the fourth quarter of 2024, while Lexus is expected to bring its LBX Morizo to the market in the first half of 2025. These premium offerings demonstrate the industry’s commitment to electrification across all market segments.

The SUV segment, which has dominated the Australian market in recent years, continues to see significant developments. According to the FCAI’s latest sales figures, SUVs accounted for 54.5% of new vehicle sales in June 2024, highlighting their enduring popularity. New models like the Kia EV5, expected in October 2024, and the Hyundai Kona Electric, already making waves in the market, are set to further strengthen this segment.

Performance enthusiasts have plenty to look forward to as well. BMW is planning updates to its M2 and M3 models in the fourth quarter of 2024, while the highly anticipated M5 is also on the horizon. For those seeking the pinnacle of automotive performance, Lamborghini has new offerings in the pipeline, though specific details remain under wraps.

The ute market, a staple of Australian automotive culture, is also evolving. Ford’s Ranger PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) is expected in early 2025, marking a significant step towards electrification in this popular segment. Meanwhile, newcomers like BYD are set to enter the ute market with their Shark plug-in hybrid model, scheduled for release on October 29, 2024.

It’s not just established brands making waves; new entrants to the Australian market are set to shake things up. Chinese brands like Chery, with its Tiggo 4 model due in October 2024, and Xpeng, bringing its G6 to market in October 2024, are poised to offer consumers more choices and potentially disrupt traditional market dynamics.

The shift towards sustainable mobility is evident across the board. Hybrid and plug-in hybrid models are becoming increasingly common, with brands like Toyota, already a leader in hybrid technology, continuing to expand their electrified lineup. The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) is supporting this transition through various initiatives aimed at accelerating the uptake of low and zero-emission vehicles.

Connected and autonomous vehicle technologies are also advancing rapidly. While fully autonomous vehicles are not yet on the immediate horizon for Australia, many upcoming models will feature advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) that pave the way for future developments in this area. The National Transport Commission (NTC) is actively working on regulatory frameworks to ensure the safe introduction of automated vehicles on Australian roads.

The automotive industry’s transformation extends beyond passenger vehicles. Commercial vehicles are also undergoing significant changes, with models like the Ford E-Transit Custom electric van expected in the first quarter of 2025. This shift in the commercial sector aligns with Australia’s commitment to reducing emissions across all sectors of the economy.

As the industry evolves, so too does the infrastructure supporting it. The rollout of EV charging stations across the country is accelerating, with the Australian Government’s Future Fuels and Vehicles Strategy providing support for the expansion of charging networks.

The upcoming years promise to be transformative for Australia’s automotive landscape. From electric and hybrid vehicles to advanced technologies and new market entrants, consumers will have an unprecedented range of choices. This diversity not only caters to varying preferences and needs but also contributes to the broader goals of sustainability and technological advancement in the transport sector.

As the industry continues to evolve, it will be crucial for consumers, manufacturers, and policymakers to work together to ensure a smooth transition to this new era of mobility. With the right approach, Australia’s automotive future looks set to be as diverse and dynamic as the country itself.

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China Acquires European AirCar Technology

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In a groundbreaking move that underscores the rapid evolution of urban air mobility, the Slovakian company Klein Vision has sold the exclusive rights to its innovative AirCar technology to Hebei Jianxin Flying Car Technology Company in China. This transaction marks a significant milestone in the burgeoning flying car industry and highlights China’s growing influence in this futuristic sector.

A Leap Forward in Urban Mobility

The AirCar, developed by Klein Vision, is a hybrid vehicle capable of transforming from a car into an aircraft in just over two minutes. Powered by a BMW engine and conventional fuel, the AirCar made headlines in 2021 when it successfully completed a 35-minute flight between two Slovakian airports. This versatile vehicle utilizes standard runways for take-off and landing, distinguishing it from other eVTOL (electric vertical take-off and landing) aircraft that rely on vertical lift capabilities.Stefan Klein, Chairman of the Board at Klein Vision, expressed his enthusiasm about the deal, stating, “We are pleased to announce the sale of the license for our certified flying car technology to the esteemed Chinese company.” Anton Zajac, Co-Founder of Klein Vision, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the partnership’s role in expanding global access to revolutionary mobility solutions and driving industry progress.

China’s Ambitions in the Flying Car Market

China’s acquisition of the AirCar technology is part of a broader strategy to dominate the global flying car market. The country has been leveraging its expertise in electric vehicle (EV) technologies to make significant strides in the development of eVTOL aircraft. According to a report by China Merchants Securities, China accounts for 50% of the world’s total eVTOL models, far surpassing competitors like the United States and Germany.Leading Chinese companies, such as XPeng and EHang, are at the forefront of this technological revolution. XPeng AeroHT, a subsidiary of XPeng Motors, plans to market a dual-mode eVTOL vehicle that can operate both on land and in the air. The Civil Aviation Administration of China has already initiated the type certification process for this aircraft, a crucial step towards commercial operation. Similarly, EHang received a safety certificate for its electric flying taxi in 2023, underscoring the nation’s commitment to pioneering innovative transportation solutions.

The Market Potential for eVTOL Aircraft

Analysts at Morgan Stanley project that the eVTOL market could reach an astonishing $1.5 trillion annually by 2040. This market encompasses a wide range of applications, including airlines, logistics, emergency services, agriculture, tourism, and security operations. The versatility and efficiency of eVTOL aircraft make them an attractive solution for various transportation needs, particularly in densely populated urban areas where ground traffic congestion is a significant issue.China’s proactive stance in this sector is further evidenced by the recent test flight of AutoFlight’s Prosperity eVTOL aircraft. The five-seater flying taxi completed a 50-kilometer inter-city flight between Shenzhen and Zhuhai in just 20 minutes, showcasing the transformative potential of urban air mobility. This achievement was made possible through the use of one of the 100 designated flight routes established by local authorities for eVTOL aircraft, highlighting the active involvement of government bodies in facilitating this new mode of transportation.

Challenges and Regulatory Hurdles

Despite the promising advancements, the widespread adoption of flying cars faces several challenges, including infrastructure development, regulatory frameworks, and public acceptance. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States has outlined a blueprint for integrating flying cars into existing airspace operations, but concerns remain regarding noise pollution, safety, and the impact on urban environments.Designing flying cars to be exceptionally quiet is a significant challenge, especially when considering large-scale commercial operations with frequent take-offs and landings. NASA has partnered with the FAA, university researchers, and industry leaders to develop software tools that model and predict advanced air mobility (AAM) noise, aiming to aid manufacturers in designing quieter vehicles. This collaborative effort is crucial for ensuring that flying cars can operate in urban areas without causing significant disruptions to residents.

The Road Ahead

The sale of Klein Vision’s AirCar technology to China represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of flying cars. As China continues to invest in and develop this technology, the global landscape of urban air mobility is set to change dramatically. The successful integration of flying cars into daily life will depend on overcoming regulatory and infrastructural challenges, as well as gaining public trust and acceptance.The potential benefits of flying cars are immense, from reducing traffic congestion to providing faster and more efficient transportation options. However, achieving these benefits will require careful planning, robust regulatory frameworks, and continued technological innovation. As the world watches China’s progress in this arena, it is clear that the future of transportation is poised to take flight.For more information on the development of flying car technology and its implications, visit the BBC and Eurasian Times.

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Solid-State Battery Breakthrough Promises to Double EV Range

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In a significant leap forward for electric vehicle (EV) technology, researchers at Harvard University have unveiled a new solid-state battery that could potentially double the range of EVs. This breakthrough, which centers on a stable lithium-metal anode and a solid electrolyte, promises not only to enhance the energy density but also to reduce charging times significantly. As the automotive industry continues to push towards a more sustainable future, this development could play a pivotal role in accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles.

The Science Behind the Breakthrough

The new battery design, developed by a team at the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS), utilizes a lithium-metal anode, which is known for its high energy density. Traditional lithium-ion batteries use a graphite anode, which, while stable, has a lower energy capacity. By replacing the graphite with lithium metal, the researchers have managed to significantly increase the battery’s energy density, potentially doubling the range of EVs.One of the key challenges with lithium-metal anodes has been the formation of dendrites—tiny, needle-like structures that can grow from the anode and pierce the electrolyte, leading to short circuits and battery failure. The Harvard team has addressed this issue by developing a multi-layer, multi-material design that prevents dendrite formation, ensuring the battery’s stability and longevity. According to the researchers, this design allows the battery to retain 80% of its capacity after 6,000 charging cycles, which is equivalent to around 30 years of use in an EV (Harvard SEAS).

Faster Charging Times

In addition to increased energy density, the new solid-state battery also boasts significantly faster charging times. The researchers claim that the battery can be charged in just 10 minutes, compared to the several hours it typically takes to charge a conventional lithium-ion battery. This rapid charging capability is achieved through the use of a solid electrolyte, which allows for faster ion movement compared to the liquid electrolytes used in traditional batteries (CleanTechnica).

Environmental and Economic Impact

The development of this new battery technology could have far-reaching implications for both the environment and the economy. By doubling the range of EVs and reducing charging times, the new battery could make electric vehicles more attractive to consumers, thereby accelerating the transition away from fossil fuel-powered vehicles. This shift is crucial for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change.Moreover, the increased energy density and longer lifespan of the new battery could help lower the overall cost of owning an EV. Currently, one of the main barriers to widespread EV adoption is the high upfront cost, largely driven by the expense of the battery. By extending the battery’s lifespan to around 30 years, the researchers hope to improve the resale value of EVs and make them more affordable for a broader range of consumers (The Guardian).

Challenges and Future Prospects

Despite the promising results, there are still several challenges that need to be addressed before the new solid-state battery can be commercialized. One of the main hurdles is scaling up the production process to meet the demands of the automotive industry. Manufacturing solid-state batteries requires high-quality materials in large volumes, and even a small amount of contaminants can render the battery ineffective. Building a robust supply chain for these materials will be crucial for the successful commercialization of the technology (Energy Monitor).Another challenge is ensuring the battery’s performance under real-world conditions. While the laboratory results are promising, the battery will need to undergo extensive testing in actual vehicles to confirm its reliability and safety. This includes ensuring that the battery can withstand the high pressures and temperature variations that occur during normal vehicle operation.

Industry Response

The automotive industry has been closely monitoring developments in solid-state battery technology, and several major players are already investing in this area. Companies like Toyota and Volkswagen have announced significant progress in their own solid-state battery research, with Toyota recently unveiling a prototype that aims to reduce the size, weight, and production costs of EV batteries (Asia Financial).Volkswagen, on the other hand, has successfully tested a solid-state battery that retains 95% of its capacity after more than 1,000 charging cycles. These advancements highlight the industry’s commitment to overcoming the technical and economic challenges associated with solid-state batteries and bringing them to market in the near future.

Conclusion

The breakthrough in solid-state battery technology by Harvard researchers represents a significant step forward in the quest for more efficient and sustainable energy storage solutions. By doubling the range of EVs and reducing charging times, this new battery design has the potential to revolutionize the automotive industry and accelerate the transition to a cleaner, greener future.However, the road to commercialization is fraught with challenges, including scaling up production and ensuring real-world performance. As the industry continues to invest in research and development, the successful deployment of solid-state batteries in electric vehicles could become a reality within the next decade. If these challenges can be overcome, the impact on the environment and the economy could be profound, paving the way for a more sustainable and energy-efficient future.For more information on the solid-state battery breakthrough, you can read the original article on Autoevolution.

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