VW plans to do some EV engineering at Chattanooga—not just assembly

Volkswagen Chattanooga EV expansionVolkswagen previously confirmed that it will build electric cars for the North American market at its Chattanooga, Tennessee, factory. On Wednesday the automaker said it also plans to do some engineering work there, too. An existing Engineering and Planning Center in Chattanooga will soon get a "high-voltage laboratory" for testing battery cells...

First electric Bentley due in 2026 will say no to rare-earth magnets

2020 Bentley Flying Spur first driveThe first all-electric Bentley production model, due in 2026, could set new standards for sustainability. Bentley announced earlier this month that it is undertaking a research project to develop an "e-axle" that is fully recyclable, and eliminates the rare-earth magnets used in many current production electric cars. Wearing the bizarre acronym...

In some EVs, the cabin cooling system helps speed up fast-charging

Charging stations at Volkswagen Arizona Proving GroundsIn some electric cars, the hardware that keeps occupants cool does the same for the battery pack. The air-conditioning condensers for EVs are for more than just cabin comfort, in many cases, supplier Mahle noted in a recent press release. They help keep the battery cool during driving and are especially important during higher-power fast-charging...

Korea considers changing its EV subsidy after Tesla buyers cash in

2020 Tesla Model 3South Korea may exclude Tesla from the list of automakers that qualify for electric-car subsidies as the California transplant racks up sales, The Korea Herald reported Sunday. Between January and June, Tesla accounted for 43% of 209.2 billion won ($176 million at current exchange rates) in subsidies, according to the report. That will likely push...