A European research consortium has produced a prototype solid-state battery using a new manufacturing process that reportedly achieves high energy densities and can be implemented on modern lithium-ion battery production lines.
The “SOLiDIFY” consortium, composed of 14 European research institutes and partners, developed a battery with a pouch cell with an energy density of 1,070 Wh/L, compared to 800 Wh/L in standard lithium-ion batteries
Randon showcased its innovations at two major global mobility fairs. At the IANA Intermodal Expo in the U.S., it celebrated delivering its first container chassis semi-trailer with the e-Sys system to the North American market. This sale was made through its subsidiary, Hercules Chassis, to South Carolina Port Authorities. Randon also participated in the IAA Transportation fair in Germany, where it focused on expanding exports from its U.S. subsidiary, especially targeting the African market.
PSR Analysis: This announcement opens doors for Randon to increase its market penetration in the U.S. and possibly expand into neighboring markets such as Canada and Mexico. Success with this technology in one of the largest global markets can also enhance Randon’s brand recognition, credibility, and export potential, especially in regions that prioritize advanced and sustainable logistics solutions. PSR
Fabio Ferraresi is Director, Business Development South America, for Power Systems Research
Eneva, a natural gas operator, plans to supply liquefied natural gas (LNG) for Virtu LNG’s truck fleet, starting in January 2025. This fuel will be used for the logistics and distribution operations of Yara Brasil, a global leader in plant nutrition.
The initiative will begin in Maranhão and is expected to expand to other states. The transportation contract was signed on September 24 at the ROG-e fair, a major oil and gas event.
Pedestal Cranes. This equipment is used on projects that are stationary or where mobility needs are small; they offer the perfect combination of powerful performance, durability and cost effectiveness.
Self-Propelled Cranes This is a mobile crane which is a self-propelled vehicle, one that is designed for lifting objects using a boom with lifting gear. It only carries loads that are necessary for its own propulsion or equipment.
This product information comes from industry interviews and from two proprietary databases maintained by Power Systems Research: EnginLink™ , which provides information on engines, and OE Link™, a database of equipment manufacturers. PSR
Carol Turner is Senior Analyst, Global Operations, at Power Systems Research
China plans to introduce restrictions on antimony exports, a move that could lead to another flashpoint with the West over control of critical minerals. Antimony is used in lead-acid batteries, as well as in solar panels and flame retardant applications. The US Department of the Interior has designated it a critical mineral. It also is essential for armor-piercing ammunition, infrared sensors and precision optics.
Analysts estimate the market was already facing a 10,000-ton shortfall before China’s restrictions. The US is critically dependent on China for antimony. It consumed 22,000 tons of antimony products in 2023. Domestic production amounted to just 4,000 tons. This mostly came from antimonial lead recovered from used lead-acid batteries
PSR Analysis: There are a lot of minerals that are now being brought into sharp focus as the US looks at its critical minerals and finds that it is more reliant on other nations than previously thought. PSR
Guy Youngs is Forecast & Adoption Lead at Power Systems Research
Volvo has announced plans to begin on-road testing of trucks equipped with hydrogen powered internal combustion engines starting in 2026 with the commercial launch planned towards the end of this decade. Trucks that run on green hydrogen provide a significant step for Volvo to achieve its net zero goal and support customers to reach their decarbonization targets.
Trucks that run on green hydrogen instead of fossil fuels provide one way to decarbonize transport. Hydrogen trucks will be especially suitable over longer distances and in regions where there is limited charging infrastructure, or time for, recharging of batteries.
The hydrogen-powered combustion engine trucks will complement Volvo’s offering of other alternatives, such as battery electric trucks, fuel cell electric trucks and trucks that run on renewable fuels, like biogas and HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil).
The E-bike market size was estimated at USD 38.3 billion in 2023 and is forecast by Power Systems Research to increase to $97.3 B in 2033 with a CAGR of 9.77% between 2024 and 2033. Cities globally are investing in dedicated bike lanes, charging stations, and bike-sharing initiatives for facilitating easier e-bike usage. Moreover, consumers are drawn to the substantial cost savings offered by electric solutions compared to conventional vehicles.
E-Bike Market Trends. Several important technological trends have boosted the production and sales of e-bikes.
Battery Technology. Improved batteries provide lighter weight, lower cost, longer range and quicker charging times.
Smart features, such as GPS navigation, app connectivity, and digital displays enhance the user experience, making e-bikes more appealing and user-friendly.
Shared micro-mobility is part of the public transportation ecosystem. As a flexible transportation option with comparatively low overhead and operation costs, shared micro-mobility can complement higher-volume fixed-route transit services by offering mobility services for many trips at a lower per-traveler cost.
For more information on the marine market, visit MarineLink, the Power Systems Research proprietary marine products database.
More than 600 exhibitors from the marine pleasure industry showed off their latest models of boats, yachts, marine equipment and other products and services at the 47th annual Cannes Yachting Festival, Europe’s biggest in-water event, just closed its doors. The event ran Sept. 10-15.
An estimated 50,000 visitors attended the festival and got an excellent note for organization from all participants and visitors. The next year’s edition will be held Sept. 9-14, 2025.
The electric marine market has been very dynamic in the last 10 years and electric products and accessories were very popular at the show. Investments in research and development of new technologies and their implementation into boats have been extremely high.
The São Paulo state government is working to attract the attention of automotive companies to the state, including Tata Motors, a subsidiary of the giant Indian-based Tata Group.
Tata’s staff has been in Brazil since the end of August 2024 and they will meet São Paulo government again in Germany by the end of September.
The secretary of Government, Jorge Lima, also revealed negotiations with a Chinese auto parts manufacturers for a factory in the state. The company’s name remains confidential, as São Paulo is competing with Minas Gerais and Paraná for the facility.
PSR Analysis: Indian Companies have been looking at the Brazilian and South American Market since 2000 and now the announcement made by the São Paulo Government shows some movement to make it more than just a study. The experience with Ethanol that Brazil and India have and comparable size and cost for low end vehicles adds data to the business decision. PSR
Fabio Ferraresi is Director, Business Development-South America, for Power Systems Research
Starting in 2025, vehicle exports from Brazil to Colombia will once again be taxed at a 54% rate. The tax exemption agreement, in place since 2017, will not be renewed. According to the Colombian government, this decision is designed to protect its local automotive industry, currently dominated by Renault. This is a setback for Brazilian manufacturers, who exported fewer vehicles in 2024, with a 30% drop compared to the previous year.
PSR Analysis: This means an important reduction of exports from Brazil, affecting some OEM exports severely; for others, there will be no impact. These production impacts are already deployed in the forecast in OE Link database.
Fabio Ferraresi is Director, Business Development-South America, for Power Systems Research