Latest Updates on Electric Vehicles, Batteries, and Charging: Genesis, Coulomb Solutions, Orange EV, BodeEV, Rivian, and Verdek Remain in Focus
In the rapidly evolving world of electric vehicles (EVs), several key players are making strides in battery technology and charging infrastructure. Here's a rundown of the recent developments involving Genesis, Coulomb Solutions, Rivian, BodeEV, Verdek, and others.
Genesis Steps Up EV Game
Genesis is advancing its electric vehicle lineup with significant battery enhancements. The Genesis GV60, introduced in 2021, has received a mid-life facelift, including an interior overhaul and a battery upgrade from 77.4kWh to 84kWh. This upgrade increases the driving range from 321 miles to around 360 miles, reflecting improved battery capacity and efficiency for longer range EVs in the luxury segment.
Genesis also announced plans to launch the GV90 flagship SUV EV in early 2026, followed by an Extended-Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) variant by 2027. The EREV powertrain features a battery electric motor plus a combustion engine used solely as a generator to charge the battery, which can extend the driving range beyond 700 miles (1,200 km), thus reducing dependence on charging infrastructure and addressing range anxiety for premium consumers.
Hyundai's Battery Recall Highlights Safety Concerns
In related news, Hyundai, an affiliate company of Genesis, reported a limited recall of 10 units of the 2025 IONIQ 5 EV in the US due to a battery pack busbar issue detected during routine inspection. This incident underscores the ongoing vigilance required in battery safety and quality control within the broader Hyundai Motor Group ecosystem.
Other Companies' Developments
- Coulomb Solutions Inc. has launched its next-generation Super Long Life (SLL) commercial vehicle battery systems, offering an industry-leading 900,000-mile, 15-year warranty.
- ABF Freight, a leading LTL carrier, is expanding its fleet of Orange EV terminal trucks, signifying a commitment to sustainability.
- BodeEV, a new U.S.-based EV installation, operation, and maintenance (O&M) company, aims to deliver fast, cost-efficient, and reliable solutions for EV charger deployment and repair, with a 2-hour remote diagnostics response time, a 24-hour site response for on-site assessments, a 48-hour dispatch for electricians if needed, and a 2-hour swap-out for chargers that cannot be repaired.
Verdek's Charging Infrastructure Expansion
Verdek LLC is making waves in the EV charging landscape, securing California's Contract #1-23-61-15B for competitive pricing on EV infrastructure for local government agencies. The company is also expanding its EV charging network in key U.S. cities, including Staten Island, NY, Austin, TX, and the Bronx, featuring a mix of DC fast chargers and Level 2 chargers for various EV users.
Moreover, Verdek is integrating future-proofing measures in its EV charging network, such as upscaled conduits for seamless expansion. The expansion is part of ABF's commitment to sustainability and includes access to 20,000 additional DC fast chargers, including Tesla Superchargers.
Rivian's Micromobility Spin-off and Collaboration Opportunities
Rivian has spun off its micromobility business into a new independent company named Also Inc. Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe was appointed as Chairman of Also's Board of Directors, and the company secured a $105 million investment from Eclipse Ventures. Rivian retained a substantial minority stake in Also, signaling potential future collaboration opportunities.
Addressing the Health and Economic Impact of Diesel Truck Emissions
A new report by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) exposes the health and economic consequences of diesel truck emissions. The report highlights how nitrogen oxide (NOX) emissions from nearly 8 million diesel trucks sold between 2014 and 2023 have fueled a public health crisis, leading to 307,000 deaths and over $1.4 trillion in global health costs.
As the world continues to transition towards cleaner, more sustainable forms of transportation, these developments in EV battery technology and charging infrastructure are essential steps towards a greener future. Stay tuned for more updates!
- Sports enthusiasts eagerly await new developments from the EV industry, as improvements in electric vehicle (EV) technology and charging infrastructure can lead to increased range and affordability, benefiting athletes who travel long distances for competitions.
- Meanwhile, Genesis's plans to launch the GV90 flagship SUV EV and an Extended-Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) variant by 2027 could reduce dependence on charging infrastructure, potentially addressing concerns about charging availability during intense sports tournaments.