The EC Tech Desk is a monthly resource compiled by the EC’s technical services team that aims to curate transportation electrification’s most relevant news, tools, and resources in a brief, readable format.
Vehicle News
Image credit: Fiat
Fiat plans to launch its small Topolino EV in the U.S. with an expected starting cost of at least $11,500. Fully charged in four hours with a Level 2 port, two passenger seats, and equipped with a 5.4 kWh battery pack, it’s expected to deliver 46 miles of range—perfect for urban drivers or short-range fleet applications.
Ford, in a surprising announcement, stated the company is halting the battery-electric F-150 Lightning’s production in favor of an extended range electric vehicle (EREV) version. EREVs have both a battery and a gasoline or diesel generator onboard, providing additional range. While more charging stations are available, Ford’s decision was likely influenced by the consumer market shift toward hybrids over EVs and other automakers offering more hybrid options. Despite this, U.S. EV sales are forecasted to grow.
Lucid introduced its own certified pre-owned EV program: Lucid Recharged. All owners through this program will receive the original factory warranty, an additional 12-month/12,000-mile manufacturer’s limited warranty, roadside assistance during the warranty period, a verified clean title and service history CARFAX report, and an inspection report. Marketing these EVs as “reborn,” this is a thoughtful program designed to cater to consumers, as many leased EVs are expected to re-enter the market in 2026.
Nissan began production of its third-generation LEAF. With a 75-kWh battery pack, its estimated range will be up to 386 miles per charge.
Volkswagen passenger vehicle CEO Thomas Schäfer has urged other automakers to end small gas cars, declaring the future is electric. It comes at the perfect time, as the global OEM is launching multiple EVs starting in Europe, and as technological advancements that increase range and lower costs make EVs a family-friendly option.
- Peterbilt launched three new medium-duty electric trucks with 350 kW charging: the 536EV, 537EV, and 548EV. This would improve electric options for a niche of fleet use cases that face limited EV models.
Charging Infrastructure News
- bp pulse cut the ribbon on its 40-port fast charging hub at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport. The company has implemented the same approach near airports in Los Angeles, Boston, San Francisco, Fort Lauderdale, and Houston, resulting in a more convenient travel experience for many EV drivers in those regions.
- Pennsylvania opened its first EV charging station funded by the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program. Located on the Pennsylvania Turnpike, this pit stop allows drivers to stretch their legs during long-distance travel.
- ChargePoint is set to install over 40 fast-charging ports in the Detroit metropolitan area, with the first recently opening in Canton, Michigan. This comes at the perfect time as all new hardware now supports the Plug & Charge protocol, making it easier for drivers to charge up and pay seamlessly at ChargePoint stations.
- EVgo has reduced installation costs for prefabricated fast charging stations by 15 percent. This is thanks to domestic manufacturing of prefabricated modular skids, produced by Miller Electric Company in its facility in Jacksonville, Florida. Smart materials and manufacturing sourcing efforts like this are always highly praised by site owners.
- Epic Charging has partnered with LAZ Parking, the largest privatized parking operator in the U.S., to install 50,000 Level 2 chargers across its portfolio. This is a major deal for many city parking locations with scarce chargers.
Other News
- Redwood Materials began critical minerals recovery at its new Berkeley County, South Carolina facility, with expansion expected in the coming decade. The reuse of these minerals allows for a more circular economy for lithium-ion and similar batteries.
- Atlas Public Policy debuted a new State EV Summary Dashboard, highlighting statewide vehicle (EV, PHEV, and EREV) sales, EVSE installation, policy/funding, and related utility filings.
If you come across any tools or resources you think should be added to the next edition of the Tech Desk, please reach out to Senior Program Associate Steph Wagner at steph@electrification.org