The ICCT has released data that indicates USA EV sales have reached record highs, signalling strong consumer demand despite policy uncertainty. Through the first 3 quarters of 2025, over 1.2m light-duty EVs were sold, with market share climbing to c.12% in Q3. Interestingly, since 2015, more than 7m EVs have been sold, half in the past 3 years. Demand and growth have been driven by expanded model availability and affordability. For example, in 2025, the USA market offers 113 EV models, compared to 25 in 2015, and 68% of BEV sales were models priced under $50,000. Automakers such as GM and Hyundai have materially increased offerings, up to 14–15 models each. Despite this momentum, some American automakers are scaling back EV investments, citing costs and regulatory uncertainty. This retreat risks ceding leadership to European, Chinese, and South Korean competitors. The expiration of federal tax credits has temporarily slowed sales, but lifetime cost advantages and falling battery prices keep EVs economically attractive. States are stepping in with rebates and infrastructure programs to sustain momentum and adoption. The ICCT concludes that automakers and policymakers must stay committed to electrification to secure global competitiveness and meet consumer demand.
Bosch Engineering has announced it has introduced the Electric Drive for Marine (EDM), a plug-and-play high-voltage propulsion system designed for recreational boats and commercial vessels. This turnkey solution simplifies electrification by integrating an electric motor, gearbox, inverter, on-board charger, heat exchanger, control unit, and cooling pumps into a single 180kg unit. Delivering 160 hp continuous power with a power density of 0.7 kW/kg, the EDM supports twin-drive configurations for higher output. It features flexible battery compatibility via standardised communication interfaces and uses automotive-grade components for durability and safety. Installation dimensions match conventional inboard engines, thus enabling easy retrofits without significant hull modifications. There is also a modular variant available for space-constrained applications. The system also includes thermal management for both drive components and high-voltage batteries, offering a clean, quiet, and efficient alternative to combustion engines for marine electrification.
Malaysia has announced it has introduced the region’s 1st EV battery passport standard, aimed at boosting transparency and sustainability in the EV ecosystem. The new standard, named MS 2818: Battery Passport for Electrified Vehicle – General Requirements, was launched by the Department of Standards Malaysia during MITI ASEAN Day 2025. It provides a comprehensive digital record of an EV battery’s life cycle, from production to disposal, thus ensuring traceability and supporting green technology adoption. Deputy Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Mr Liew Chin Tong stated that the initiative will strengthen Malaysia’s EV ecosystem and help the country keep pace with rapid technological changes. Developed in collaboration with the Malaysia Automotive, Robotics and IoT Institute, the standard is expected to become a regional benchmark as ASEAN pushes for a more transparent and sustainable EV battery supply chain.
Shell has announced it has agreed to sell a substantial portion of its Volta EV charging network to Jolt, less than 3 years after acquiring Volta for $169m. The deal includes thousands of media-enabled chargers across 34 US states, integrated with Volta’s advertising network. The transaction is expected to close on January 1st, 2026; however, final numbers are pending site-host agreements. Shell initially bought Volta to scale its EV charging capabilities and rebranded assets under Shell Recharge, while retaining Volta Media for advertising. Jolt plans to leverage Volta’s model of combining EV charging with digital advertising, aligning with its global expansion strategy. The move reflects Shell’s adaptive approach amid challenges in EV infrastructure profitability and shifting consumer perceptions. Convenience retailers also face similar hurdles, highlighting the evolving economics of EV charging in the USA.
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) have unveiled a $45bn capital plan to modernise and expand bus infrastructure across its network. The initiative focuses on improving the Port Authority Bus Terminal, enhancing regional connectivity, and supporting the transition to zero-emission fleets. Key projects include constructing a new, state-of-the-art terminal designed to accommodate electric buses, upgrading depots, and integrating advanced charging infrastructure. The plan also allocates funds for traffic flow improvements, passenger amenities, and sustainability measures to reduce congestion and emissions. PANYNJ aims to future-proof its transit system by aligning with climate goals and meeting growing commuter demand. This investment is part of a broader strategy to strengthen public transportation resilience and efficiency in the New York metropolitan area, ensuring long-term environmental and operational benefits.
Scania has announced it has expanded its Pilot Partner program to include hydrogen fuel cell testing, collaborating with Asko Norge (Norwegian logistics operator). While Scania continues to prioritise BEVs as its main decarbonisation strategy, the hydrogen pilot aims to assess operational feasibility and technical performance under real-world conditions. Initial tests have achieved ranges of up to 1,000km per refuelling, with water vapour as the only tailpipe emission. The program, launched in 2021, provides a framework for evaluating alternative powertrains, including hydrogen fuel cells and range extenders, through partnerships with selected customers. Scania’s approach focuses on collecting data on the total cost of ownership, efficiency, and technology validation across diverse transport applications. The hydrogen-powered vehicles integrate Scania’s electric powertrain architecture with fuel cell systems, but they are not yet commercially available. This initiative reflects Scania’s commitment to exploring complementary technologies alongside its core electrification roadmap.
Wrightbus has launched its 1st EV-to-EV repowering project for Metroline, upgrading 28 Metrodecker electric buses to improve reliability and range. The conversion, carried out at NewPower UK’s Oxfordshire facility, involves replacing batteries, axles, drivelines, powertrains, and HVAC systems. Existing Kreisel batteries will be swapped for CATL packs, offering 50% more power capacity, while new components include a Voith electric drive system and Grayson Thermal Systems HVAC with heat-pump heating. This initiative marks Wrightbus’ first upgrade of an electric fleet using next-generation technology, expanding its repowering services beyond diesel-to-electric conversions. It highlighted that orders for NewPower have risen to 64 for next year, making it Europe’s largest repower specialist. Wrightbus also unveiled its Generation 2 Electroliner electric bus, reinforcing its commitment to zero-emission solutions and cost-effective fleet modernisation.
BMI has released an interesting article that highlights Morocco is accelerating its EV transition through expanded local production and foreign investment. Passenger EV sales are projected to grow by 80.4% in 2025 to 5,311 units, raising market penetration to 2.6%, and 36.3% in 2026 to 7,237 units (market share 3.4%). BEVs will account for 4,248 units, while PHEVs will reach 2,889 units. Growth is (being) driven by affordable Chinese imports and domestic manufacturing initiatives. Neo Motors unveiled the Dial-E, Morocco’s first fully designed and assembled EV, with production starting in January 2026. Other examples of automakers deploying capital in Morocco include Tesla’s $2.8m investment into an assembly facility in Kenitra with a 400,000-unit annual capacity. Whilst Renault will launch new EV lines, thus creating 7,500 jobs and an R&D centre. Government incentives such as VAT exemptions, reduced customs duties, and corporate purchase bonuses up to MAD100,000, are also fuelling adoption. Morocco’s strategic location and phosphate reserves have attracted battery manufacturers such as COBCO, Tinci Materials, and Gotion High Tech. Analysts forecast EV sales to grow at 36.2% annually through 2034, reaching 57,258 units. Infrastructure remains a challenge, with only 1,000 charging points, but Tesla’s Supercharger network and renewable energy targets aim to support long-term growth.
Deals
Harbinger, an LA-based electric truck startup, has closed a $160m Series C funding round, co-led by FedEx, Capricorn’s Technology Impact Fund, and THOR Industries, bringing its total capital raised to $358m. This investment validates Harbinger’s strategy to commercialise medium-duty electric trucks and includes a 53-vehicle order from FedEx for Class 5 and Class 6 models, pencilled in for delivery by the end of 2025. These vehicles will support FedEx’s fleet electrification goals, targeting full network transformation by 2040. Harbinger designs and manufactures proprietary electric stripped chassis at its Garden Grove (California) facility, thus enabling vertically integrated production. THOR Industries strengthened its partnership following its electric motorhome debut on Harbinger’s platform. The funding underscores growing institutional confidence in zero-emission commercial vehicles and positions Harbinger as a key player in the medium-duty EV market.
Teradar, a Boston-based AV sensor startup, has raised $150m in Series B funding, led by Somerville. Investors such as Capricorn Investment Group, Lockheed Martin Ventures, Ibex Investors, and VXI Capital also participated. The startup focuses on solid-state sensors designed for autonomous vehicles. The sensor operates in the terahertz band, combining radar’s ability to penetrate adverse weather with lidar’s high-resolution imaging, offering long-range, all-weather performance without moving parts. This aims to deliver affordability and reliability at scale, something previously unseen in the industry. The company is collaborating with 5 major automakers and 3 Tier 1 suppliers, targeting integration into a 2028-model vehicle, with production readiness by 2027. Teradar’s sensors are expected to enhance ADAS and future autonomous platforms, positioning the startup as a (potential) key player in next-generation mobility solutions.