Nikola Buys Battery Supplier Romeo Power to Secure Supply

Posted on by Electro Man Electric Buses, Electric Trucks, Events

Electric truck firm Nikola has made effective the acquisition of Romeo Power, the supplier of batteries for electric vehicles, after signing the ownership of 100% of its shares for an individual price of $ 0.74 per share. In total, this transaction has been carried out for a total economic amount of 144 million dollars by the North American company in order to guarantee the control and supply of these components for the coming years.

The collaboration agreement between the two companies has been underway for several years. Romeo Power has numerous patents for new technologies, something that is of high interest to Nikola mainly due to the need that this company has to obtain vehicles with high energy storage capacities, as well as important figures in terms of their autonomy.

The purpose of this decision by Nikola has come after studying the possibilities that would derive from this movement. The main reason is the vertical integration of the entire production process, which will mean a significant improvement in operational control, as well as a significant reduction in the cost per battery and the materials of which they are composed.

On the aforementioned cost savings, from Nikola they expect to reduce the price of battery packs between 30 and 40% by the end of next year 2023. This, in turn, will result in savings of up to $350 million by 2026, when production of electric trucks is expected to be fully established.

With this acquisition of 100% of the company specialized in the development and manufacture of batteries, Nikola expects a significant acceleration in the development of specific products for the company, with a substantial increase in the specifications of these components, with a greater electric autonomy, as well as improvements in the recharge rate, something that results in a better experience for the end customer.

This transaction is expected to be completed by the end of next October. Once this has been completely done, Romeo Power will be merged with the Nikola company itself. In addition, the battery specialist’s current headquarters in Cypress, California, will become Nikola’s Battery Center of Excellence. However, until this deal is completed (within two months) Nikola will provide Romeo Power with a total of $35 million of additional liquidity in the event that completion of the transaction is delayed for reasons beyond the control of both corporations.

New P-Series of Segway-Ninebot Electric Scooters

Posted on by Electro Man Electric Scooters, Sector, Technology

Segway-Ninebot launches a premium electric scooter under the premise of offering great safety for its users, in addition to offering a mechanical configuration with high performance. The new P series of the manufacturer is launched on the European market with two models: the P65E and the P100SE. All this, after reaching the milestone of manufacturing 10 million scooters and having presented this summer the GT Series, which is the highest range of the manufacturer’s catalog.

This new P series consists of two models that adapt to the different needs of the brand’s customers. The P65E is designed for urban travel, being able to offer a range of up to 65 kilometers. On the other hand, the P100SE is developed for off-road use and its autonomy is extended to 100 kilometers.

Both models have a totally new design compared to the previous models of the brand. The P Series has been manufactured exclusively looking for the comfort of the driver based on providing them with greater power, a wider handlebar and a large platform, which provides a better and safer driving experience.

Both models share the 10.5-inch SegPower Cross Season tires, specially developed to adapt to all types of weather conditions throughout the year. The running surface increases grip and prevents skidding on wet or snowy roads. In addition, it incorporates a layer of gel inside the tires, users will have a lower risk of punctures.

To increase the driver’s visibility in different lighting conditions, both models are equipped with a 10W LED headlight, in addition to the DRL (Daytime Running Light) that makes the driver visible at any time of the day. The new front and rear turn signals also allow you to move more safely. With regard to the braking system, both models incorporate disc brakes (front) and electronic (rear). To increase safety on the P100SE, an additional disc brake has been added at the rear.

To increase the user experience, both models incorporate a series of intelligent features such as NFC connectivity or the Segway-Ninebot mobile APP to lock and unlock your scooters. In addition, the P Series has a USB-C port to charge your mobile phone during the journey.

Segway KickScooter Electric Scooter P65E

According to Segway, the KickScooter P65E changes the rules of the personal mobility game. With a net weight of approximately 28 kilograms and an easy folding mechanism in three seconds, this electric scooter can be considered a comfortable travel solution in urban areas.

The motor yields a nominal power of 500 W, more than enough to drive in urban environments. The maximum power is 980W which is used to climb ramps of up to 22% of altitude and so that users can take advantage of all road conditions. It is capable of reaching a maximum speed of 25 km / h and offer a range of up to 65 kilometers, which guarantees to reach any urban destination in a reasonably fast time. The time needed to recharge the battery is four hours.

This Electric Bike Rides Itself Thanks To a Software That Controls All Its Components

Posted on by Electro Man Electric Motorcycles, Electric Scooters, Technology, Tests

One of the creators in the workshop in which they have built the first demonstration prototype of the electric bike Weel EV-B.La Weel EV-B is probably the smartest electric bike ever built, or so say its manufacturers: David Hansen, Justin Corbett and Dylan Meehan, three American visionaries inspired by the design and technology of the Tesla Cybertruck. The concept of autonomous vehicle that now evolves in electric cars is transferred here to a bike whose software controls each and every one of its components to allow it to drive alone.

Nowadays it is not strange that vehicles are endowed with a certain intelligence. However, the Weel EV-B takes that concept to a whole new level. Beyond its frame of thick matte gray aluminum beams inspired by the Cybertruck, what makes this vehicle more special is the integration of hardware and software to make it partially autonomous.

David Hansen, Justin Corbett and Dylan Meehan wanted to build a “cool” electric vehicle that looked like a bicycle, defined by software and could drive itself. The result is a pre-production prototype that although not yet available for purchase if it can be admired thanks to the video that appears below.

The software that governs the EV-B can be controlled through a dedicated application that is installed on the mobile phone. In fact, in this case the technical specifications of its engines are “unimportant”, since it can be configured to comply with the regulations of each region, so that, for example, in Europe a power limit of 250 W and a maximum assistance speed of 25 km / h would be established.

But in addition to that, from that application it is possible to control the brakes, the pedals, the sensitivity of the accelerator (to cancel it if it is not legal) and many more options. Although the maximum speed of the vehicle is limited by the software, it can potentially reach up to 80 km/h.

From what can be seen in the images, the mechanical architecture of the Weel EV-B is based on two electric motors, one in each hub of its wheels. It is powered by a battery integrated in the frame, pedals attached to a regeneration system, cables and sensors that replace components such as the chain, sprockets and gears and hydraulic brake systems.

On the front it integrates a dashcam capable of offering a 360-degree vision. It also includes several radars and a LiDAR with which it can anticipate frontal collisions, initiating, for example, the braking maneuver, to say just some of its most interesting features. The part of the software dedicated to artificial intelligence learns from the riding style of each cyclist and adjusts the parameters of assistance, braking and handling over time.

The application allows the adjustment of a large number of parameters and settings. The ‘Weel Copilot’ function is one of the most amazing functions of this electric bike because it can keep the bike balanced even when the hands are removed from the handlebars. Another notable function is the ‘Elevator Mode’ that helps to climb some stairs, for example.

While the creators have not yet revealed most of the specifications of the electric bike when it comes to the technical characteristics of its motors and battery, they do mention that they are fully customizable. Consequently, the power and kilometers during which you can assist the pedaling will depend on what each buyer chooses. If it has been advanced that the battery will be equipped with a fast charging system capable of adding 8 kilometers for every 15 minutes of connection to the network

Candela C-8 Boat Already Has an Official Presentation Date

Posted on by Electro Man Electric Motorcycles, Opinion, Sustainable Navigation, Tests, Viral

Electric sailing enthusiasts are in luck, since from Candela, the new brand specialized in electric boats, has just made public the official date of presentation and subsequent commercialization of the C-8, its latest all-electric hydrofoil model and that they already call “the most anticipated electric boat in the world” due, particularly, to its attractive design, General specifications and capabilities.

In recent months there have been many electric boats that have been presented in society, however, there is one that has known how to shine among all of them. This would be the Candela C-8, which was presented in society as a mere digital design last August. Months later, the model began its tests in real environments and just three months ago we could see how a prototype of the Candela C-8 developed in its “inaugural navigation”. Now, the advances on this electric boat have borne fruit and from the company they assure that it is ready to be presented in society definitively, as well as to start marketing and selling to its potential customers.

Next week, specifically from May 28 to June 5, one of the largest events in the nautical sector, the so-called Salone Nautico Venezia, will be held on the Italian city of Venice, which will have a total of 9 days of exhibitions, conferences, regattas and tests of the different boats on the waters around the historic city. Taking advantage of this event of enormous international significance, from Candela they have decided that this will be the ideal environment to publicly meet the “most anticipated electric boat in the world”, as the Swedish manufacturer calls it.

This company will be present at this event during all the days of celebration of the Salone Nautico Venezia, in which it will show the details of the Candela C-8 to all those interested who come there. During the event, the Swedish firm will open the order book. They can be booked by giving a deposit (of 1,000 euros refundable) or, directly, contributing the entire amount that it will cost to get an electric Candela C-8, which is estimated to start at $ 330,000. Presumably, the first deliveries to final customers will be a complete reality throughout the second half of next year 2023.

Candela C-8: An Upgrade to C-7

This will be the second model launched by the company, after the Candela C-7, which was presented in 2019 and incorporated succulent solutions for its electrical mechanics. However, the C-8 is positioned one step above the previous model, since its hull is somewhat larger, reaching 8.5 meters in length and 2.5 meters in width. It hosts important technological advances in maritime electrification, such as its electric hydrofoil system, which is capable of reducing friction with water by up to 80%, which ensures greater electric autonomy and a higher top speed; but also its latest model of electric motor outboard, which is postulated as the most efficient in the world.

From the company they claim that their specifications will make this the closest thing there is to driving an electric supercar through the water thanks to its instant power delivery. The maximum speed will be about 24 knots (44 km/h) and its autonomy will be around 100 kilometers at cruising speed. Its hull has been developed in carbon fiber and its inspiration was that of airplanes. The Candela C-8 can present an image of a boat without a roof or, conversely, attach one to it for the days when it rains or to use it as a mere protection of its cabin.

X-Yachts Presents the First Electric Sailboat That Recharges Batteries While Sailing

Posted on by Electro Man News, Sustainable Navigation, Technology, Tests, Viral

The shipbuilding industry is making significant progress in achieving a much more efficient and environmentally friendly sector. Part of this route is inexorably destined to the use of technologies such as the hydrogen fuel cell for specific cases of large transoceanic vessels. However, boats intended for recreational use are finding a very important gap in electrification through batteries and that is having a more than remarkable reception among the public and their potential customers. Now, X-Yachts has completed the development of its first electric sailboat.

X-Yachts is a company of Danish origin that in all its years of life as a company (around 40) has been dedicated to the manufacture and development of boats, especially luxury and handcrafted construction on request. Now, the shipping company itself has confirmed the launch of its first all-electric yacht. This is the X49E and has a total length of 15 meters; aesthetically it is based on the X49 already produced by X-Yachts, although for this case its diesel mechanics have been completely replaced in favor of a fully electric one.

The X-Yachts X49E is presented as one of the most elegant sailboats on the market, something that combines directly with its orientation of sustainability and efficiency; Of course, during navigation, the silence on the part of its electric motor will be practically negligible.

From the company itself they mention that there was already, for its part, the intention to launch a luxury electric yacht for several years, however, they have decided to wait the right time so that the technology and knowledge about the electrification of ships had matured properly. Finally, this moment has arrived and from the board of X-Yachts they are completely excited to be able to officially present this electric boat.

The X49E has two electric motors manufactured by Oceanvolt and have an individual power of 10 kW. These, in turn, are powered by a bank of lithium-ion batteries with a total capacity of 28.8 kWh and a DC generator with a capacity of 11 kW. While its battery equipment is not especially large, from the brand they specify that with all the conditions in favor, the maximum autonomy will be around 90 kilometers, although, of course, this will always depend on the marine conditions and the speed at which the yacht sails.

However, and as a support to this electrical mechanics, the X49E comes equipped with an additional system that allows it to generate 3.5 kW of energy when sailing at 15 km / h. This will mean ecological electricity and totally free for its users, something that translates directly into the ability to regenerate 100% of the charge of your battery equipment after 8 hours of navigation. Additionally, the hull of the ship is equipped with a series of solar panels that will produce extra energy to operate plugs, lights, navigation systems or appliances, among others.

As an alternative to this, X-Yachts also markets a variant with an additional diesel engine, in order to act as a hybrid boat especially for those interested in making long trips on board without worrying about the electric range of the same.

The interior of the X49E can accommodate up to 6 passengers. The company specifies that the materials of each and every one of the panels that cover the cabins are of the highest quality and, additionally, have a list of materials and colors for your interested party to choose. Inside it has a distribution of two bathrooms, kitchen and living room with two sofas; At the stern it has a small space to house an inflatable boat of up to 2.5 meters. From the company they have not specified the specific data of their price, although this will always depend on the particular requests of their interested parties.

Electric Trucks: The Future Of Electric Mobility

Posted on by Electro Man Electric Trucks

Yes, electric trucks are the future of electric mobility and from here we are going to show you the brands that have begun to bet on change and the benefits of joining sustainable mobility through this type of vehicle.

The high level of CO2 emissions by the logistics industry, basically transport vehicles and trucks, is one of the main problems that must be alleviated. Precisely to reverse the damage caused, novel research has been carried out in order to replace conventional motors with electric ones.

Main benefits of electric trucks

Let’s summarize below the main benefits offered by these vehicles:

  • As they are entirely electric motors, they stop producing greenhouse gases, thus reducing polluting elements significantly. Undoubtedly, electric trucks generate a much lower ecological impact than fossil fuel vehicles.
  • Noise pollution in cities is a problem and these vehicles reduce the noise level.
  • Transport companies and the like must bear a high cost in fuel, something that they would reduce by having this type of vehicle. According to estimates made in this regard, the loading of an electric truck will cost 20% less than the truck that has to fill the tank with diesel. In any case, this percentage is increasing because of the constant increase in the price of fuel.
  • They offer a great autonomy and, depending on the model chosen, it is possible to obtain from 200 km to 2000 km. However, it is an aspect that companies continue to address. In fact, there are prototypes that have exceeded 6000 km.

The aim is to carry out efficient and sustainable transport routes, with shorter refuelling times.

The brands that are committed to producing electric trucks

Would you like to know which brands in the market are making great progress in the production of electric trucks? Get to know them!

  • Tesla. The Tesla Semi was officially presented to the world in 2018. We are talking about a fully electric truck, which offers a range of 800 km, whose battery can be charged in a matter of half an hour. It has a modern design and can go from 0 to 100 km / h in 5 seconds.
  • Nikola Motor and Bosch. Both companies have agreed to start together a project based on the production of trucks through hydrogen cells. These models can have a range of 2000 km and reach 1000 horsepower, much more than in the case of a conventional truck.
  • BYD. This brand is working on trucks that carry three hydrogen units, whose models will support different load capacities, from 8 to 16 tons. In addition to electric trucks, they also want to enter the electric bus market.
  • Toyota. The company is striving to create efficient trucks with multiple fuel cell groups. It is not a new system, as the brand has already introduced it in electric cars. To test its effectiveness, one of its prototypes made a route of more than 6000 kilometers with 60 tons of cargo.
  • Cummins. This company also wants to contribute its grain of sand with the AEOS electric truck, an electric propulsion model that has a maximum load of 20 tons and a range of up to 160 kilometers.
  • Daimler. The German company has produced the Fuso eCartera, an electric truck created by Mitsubishi that can load up to 3 tons and has a range of 100 km. It is also developing a more powerful model with greater load capacity. It is the E-Fuso Vision One, a vehicle that reaches 350 km of autonomy.

What can we expect in 2022?

The electric truck means a before and after in the sector and promises, in 2022, to continue presenting powerful and efficient models that do not go unnoticed. The main automotive companies have already opted for them and little by little they will populate the professional fleet, making them a reality.

Companies will be able to count on several systems to effectively control and manage the load of their fleet of electric trucks to get the most out of their daily routes. There’s not much left for that. At the moment, some of the most important companies worldwide such as Tesla are working to make it possible. In fact, we will soon be able to contemplate the transition from fossil fuel engines to those powered by electricity.

What can we expect from these trucks in 2022? These vehicles will be part of the transport of goods nationally and internationally and their main advantage is the reduction of pollution and the impact on the environment, something key that must be promoted in the world of logistics.

Its level of autonomy is more than satisfactory, although, as we have mentioned, everything depends on the model chosen. Be that as it may, some of them are very efficient, allowing you to optimize your refueling times.

In short, electric motor trucks will be part of the future of the transport sector, as more and more improvements are being made to make them more competitive and beneficial at the business level. As with electric cars, they represent a breakthrough in terms of savings and ecology.

Volkswagen CEO Announces In Which Year the Brand Will Only Sell 100% Electric Cars

Posted on by Electro Man Electric Buses, News, Opinion, Tests, Viral

That Volkswagen is very focused on its electric path is no secret, but until now the German manufacturer had not given an exact date for its definitive step to electric mobility in Europe; Electro-Mobil Blog & More gives you more details in this articles.

Volkswagen has in the ID range a bet on the future. Wolfsburg have put all their eggs in the same basket and there is no turning back. Although the change they propose will be gradual, the Germans already have a specific date to make the definitive leap to electric mobility. Thomas Schaefer, recently appointed chief operating officer of Volkswagen, has confirmed that in 2033 they will only sell electric cars in Europe, two years before the official margin proposed by the European Union itself.

The truth is that no one can be taken by surprise by such an announcement since the enormous effort that Volkswagen has been making in recent years was aimed at a single purpose. Since the Volkswagen ID.3 hit the market in 2020, the brand has been directing its gaze to a segment that is beginning to dominate. Electric vehicles such as the Volkswagen ID.4 are gaining more and more followers around the world, and in Europe it has become the most popular model in the family, although within a few years everything can change.

And it will do so because the range will grow. The ID family will expand and do so quickly. Schaefer himself has warned that there will be 10 new models on the market before 2026. The access model will be the expected Volkswagen ID.1, which we have already talked about repeatedly. It has always been said that it would be below the psychological barrier of 20,000 euros, but the new figure, inflation through, will be 25,000 euros. That will be the starting point of the most affordable electric model in the ranks of Volkswagen, a high cost if we take into account that we are talking about a B segment.

Obviously it will not be the only one to present itself since after its launch there will be the presentation of a crossover of such size, the Volkswagen ID.2. The goal is to rival models such as the Peugeot e-2008 or the Opel Mokka-e. In this case, no minimum sale price has been specified, although the most logical thing is to think of figures of around 28,000 euros. Many plans on the table and many planned launches, not only in the EV range, but also in the ICE models that will correspondingly adapt to electrified formats until their complete disappearance.

The IDs will take over the range, and like the thermal cars will undergo updates and renewals. The first to undergo a facelift will be the ID.3. The compact will live next year a first renovation that in the words of the director of operations: “will make a significant and remarkable leap in terms of quality, materials and stability of the system”. Points where the ID.3 has to improve significantly, although nothing has been mentioned about an increase in autonomy or performance indices.

The other big headline from Thomas Schaefer’s interview with Reuters indicates that Volkswagen will shift its production focus from concentrating on a single model per factory to a platform thinking. That means that the Volkswagen Group will focus production on platforms and not models. For example, the ID.4 and the Škoda Enyaq, twin models that are manufactured in two different plants. This is a cost issue with which it is intended to achieve a profit margin of 8 percent by 2025.