Latest Developments in Electric Vehicles, Batteries, and Charging: Dow, Zenefuse Trucks, Porsche, and Blink in Focus
Porsche and Dow have announced exciting new partnerships that aim to enhance the electric vehicle (EV) ownership experience and promote sustainability.
Porsche has launched a new high-temperature protective silicone gel for insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) modules in EVs and renewable energy systems. The gel, developed by Dow, can withstand temperatures up to 180°C and enhances power efficiency, reliability, and thermal resistance in high-voltage applications. This new gel complements Dow's existing DOWSILTM EA-7158 Adhesive, offering a comprehensive solution for high-performance power electronics.
In a move to accelerate clean transportation initiatives, ZM Trucks has partnered with the City of Fontana. As part of the collaboration, ZM Trucks will provide a ZM8 LWB Stake Bed, an all-electric commercial truck, for municipal use in logistics, maintenance, and transportation services. The city of Sacramento, California, has also partnered with ZM Trucks to support sustainable transportation initiatives, with the ZM8 LWB Stake Bed scheduled to be deployed in the city in late 2024.
Porsche has also made strides in charging solutions. The company has granted access to over 23,500 Tesla Superchargers in North America for its electric vehicle customers, starting September 9. The access is available for Porsche Taycan and Macan Electric models using a Porsche-supplied NACS DC adapter. The adapter enables compatibility with both Tesla Superchargers and other NACS/J3400-equipped DC fast charging stations.
To further enhance the EV ownership experience, Porsche is enhancing its charge planning software. The company plans to incorporate the expanded network for 2024-2025 Macan Electric models by year's end and Taycan variants thereafter.
In addition, Blink Charging Co. is exploring new features, including loyalty rewards and incentives, as part of its broader crypto strategy. The company is planning to integrate cryptocurrency payment options into its Blink Network by the end of 2025. Through the Blink Charging App, EV drivers will soon be able to pay for charging sessions using cryptocurrencies.
As part of its commitment to advancing charging accessibility, Blink Charging Co. is also planning to offer the adapter for all 2026 Taycan and Macan Electric models at no cost. Complimentary adapters will also be provided for 2025 Taycan and all existing Macan Electric owners upon reservation. Owners of 2024 and older Taycan models can purchase the adapter for $250.
These developments align with industry trends toward 800V EV battery systems and higher-density inverters, enabling faster charging, greater energy handling, and improved performance in 7th-generation IGBT technology. The launch of these new products and partnerships underscores a shared commitment to reducing environmental impact while enhancing operational efficiency.
