For lithium battery manufacturers, proper moisture control is a critical variable for safety, yield, and cost. And while desiccant dehumidification is the proven way to reach ultra‑low dew points, performance and operating expense also depend on how you design the dry room, and which dehumidifier you select. For success, manufacturers and labs require a tight, well‑engineered dry room envelope plus a high‑performance desiccant system tuned to your loads.
SAE International has introduced the J3327 Surface Vehicle EV Battery Global Traceability standard, which it calls the first industry-wide framework designed to document and track the journey of critical minerals used in EV batteries. The standard covers stages from extraction and manufacturing to use and end of life. SAE says that J3327 addresses urgent needs for consistent and reliable mineral traceability, helping EV manufacturers and suppliers meet evolving compliance requirements and supporting reuse and recycling operations.
J3327 is developed by SAE’s Battery Global Traceability Committee. The standard creates a structured record—an Electric Vehicle Battery Traceability Record—that enables transparent tracking of mineral sourcing and custody throughout the battery’s production and lifecycle. SAE notes that adopting this consistent approach can help companies streamline processes, manage compliance more efficiently, and support safe end-of-life battery processing.
J3327 is designed for compatibility with international supply chain requirements, including International Organization for Standardization (ISO) protocols and the European Union’s Digital Product Passport for batteries. SAE claims that the standard enhances verification and security, supporting accurate country-of-origin verification and helping to prevent falsified sourcing claims, while also reducing risks associated with battery management systems.
Technical and compliance professionals in the EV industry can access SAE J3327 directly from SAE International.
“This framework for an Electric Vehicle Battery Traceability Record, SAE J3327, establishes a foundation for transparent, consistent identification of critical mineral sourcing and chain of custody during processing and manufacturing of EV batteries,” said Frank Menchaca, circular economy leader at LiBridge and chair of the SAE Battery Global Traceability Committee. “It provides a consistent approach that will save companies time and money while enabling recycling and safe end-of-life processing.”
Source: SAE International
Drive Electric has been busy behind the scenes, working to accelerate the decarbonisation of transport in Aotearoa, and we have some exciting updates to share with you. From policy submissions and new research, to member milestones and new board appointments. Here’s what’s been happening:
Our AGM took place on 10 September 2025. The quality of the discussion, the insightful feedback, and the ongoing commitment from the Drive Electric ecosystem are what power our success. We are energised by what lies ahead and look forward to working with you over the coming year to bring our ambitious plans to life.
At the meeting, two new officers—Anthony MacLean (Boost Auto) and Fabian Lloyd (Fonterra)—were appointed, and five incumbent officers were reappointed to the board for a two-year term. Outgoing board member Sam Steel (EO Charging) and long-serving former events manager Hannah Henderson were awarded Lifetime Membership of Drive Electric. We are grateful for their valuable contributions. Sam’s knowledge, commitment and expertise have left a lasting impact, while Hannah’s passion, dedication and generosity have been integral to advancing Drive Electric’s mission and supporting the growth of Aotearoa’s electric transport sector for more than a decade.
Thank you to Custom Fleet for recently hosting and supporting us to deliver Driving the Future: Cleaner, Smarter, Greener. The international key note speakers, Seth Hochhauser and Leonard Tham, shared valuable insights on sucessful international EV fleet implementation and the future benefits of vehicle to grid (V2G) technology. Catch the full replay here to hear expert perspectives first-hand.
Kirsten Corson, Eric Pellicer, and Tim Calder from the Drive Electric Board recently met with Minister Chris Bishop at Parliament.
As a member of a two-EV household, Minister Bishop brought a practical understanding of the EV transition and showed a strong willingness to listen to suggested policy changes. Both parties agreed that greater communication is needed to ensure impending decisions, policies, and press releases are shared ahead of being released.
Discussions then focused on Charge Point Operator (CPO) challenges with Electricity Distribution Businesses (EDBs). Drive Electric highlighted the urgent need for consistency in pricing, timing, and processes across all EDBs, with a focus on best-in-class standards rather than the lowest common denominator. Current regional variations prevent robust business case development and hamper infrastructure growth. Minister Bishop endorsed the creation of a national regulatory framework to elevate all participants to best-in-class standards, citing Orion and Powerco as exemplars.
The Minister also demonstrated strong support for heavy fleet electrification and welcomed Drive Electric’s expertise on road user charges (RUCs), acknowledging Aotearoa’s pioneering global position. He expressed interest in our policy workshop initiatives and the proposed heavy fleet sub-committee.
The collaborative tone of the meeting and Minister Bishop’s genuine engagement with Drive Electric’s broad membership signal positive momentum for continued sector growth and policy development.
The Electricity Authority (EA) has released the network connections project decision paper that support connections to electricity networks. The changes are the first steps in the Authority’s work to make it easier and more efficient for businesses, developers and other consumers to get access to the electricity network so communities and the economy can benefit.
Technical consultation on the code is open now, until early October.
In July the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment’s (MBIE) opened consultation on a range of options to encourage the uptake of smart EV chargers.
Drive Electric submitted in support of Option 4A (smart functionality with labelling), as it best balances our goals of accelerating EV uptake while ensuring safe, efficient charging infrastructure and importantly enabling consumers up to benefit from a new dynamic energy system.
Inland Revenue has launched a public consultation on proposals to review the FBT regime. The issues paper focuses on simplifying the rules and reducing compliance costs, with particular attention on how FBT applies to employer-provided motor vehicles.
We would like to see a greater difference in FBT rates between internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEs) and electric vehicles (EVs). Read our full submission here.
In May, the Government proposed new national rules to make EV charger installation a permitted activity, helping to deliver 10,000 public charging points by 2030. Drive Electric welcomed the proposals and encouraged submissions from EV user and as part of this process, the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) held an excellent session with our Charge Point Operator (CPO) Subgroup in July.
Our consultation response supports the changes but also urges Ministers to consider feedback from the sector about maintenance, typical site activities, and essential infrastructure. More information and our submission can be found here.
The Government has announced the number of units that will be available and price control limits for the NZ Emissions Trading Scheme auctions for the next five years as part of annual updates to the NZ ETS. Find out what they are here.
We are watching the impact of the Government’s investment boost on vehicle sales. Early signs suggest it could help the industry begin its path to recovery – there are 124,425 light EVs registered in Aotearoa.
We are pleased to welcome a new Corporate member to Drive Electric. PDL by Schneider Electric provides smart, scalable EV charging infrastructure and software solutions. Its portfolio includes Schneider Charge and Charge Pro platforms for residential applications, and EVlink Pro AC and DC chargers—designed for reliability, safety, and future-ready performance across commercial, and fleet applications.
Kirsten Corson joins Dennis Kelly to discuss the future of sustainable transport in Aotearoa. From the growth of EV adoption to the importance of strong policy settings and a reliable public charging network, Kirsten outlines why the transition to a cleaner, smarter transport system is already underway.
Listen to the full episode from Fleet Partners here.
The Polestar 3 has set a new Guinness World Record for the longest distance travelled by an electric SUV on a single charge — 935.44 km in one journey, beating its official WLTP range.
An unmodified Polestar 3 Long Range Single Motor achieved the feat over 22 hours and 57 minutes on public roads — electric SUVs are ready to go the distance!
Meridian’s first fast-charging hub is now live at Auckland Airport and it’s setting a new benchmark for EV charging in Aotearoa. This isn’t just another charger on the map. It’s a purpose-built hub, designed with real EV driver needs in mind — Find out what makes this hub so special.
We are amped to showcase three exciting collaborations between our members, bringing together expertise from across the EV ecosystem to drive innovation and impact.
Opening this December IKEA’s first store in Aotearoa at Sylvia Park will be complete with wider online shopping across the country, and EV charging infrastructure provided by Jump Charging.
This is a fantastic example of how our members are leading the charge with Jump Charging specialising in commercial EV charging to support businesses with fit-for-purpose infrastructure. When sustainable retailers like IKEA team up with innovative charging providers like Jump Charging, EV drivers get the reliable infrastructure they need while shopping for more sustainable home solutions.
The new IKEA store is a huge step forward for sustainability, with solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and a second-hand furniture programme. These initiatives, combined with accessible EV charging, are exactly what we need to make sustainable living and driving easier for everyone. We’re energised by what’s coming next!
Genesis has launched the Go Electric Calculator – the first time a kiwi energy provider has rolled out Cogo’s electrification solution – that helps households discover how switching to electric can:
This partnership perfectly demonstrates how our members are driving change.
Genesis brings their expertise as the country’s largest electricity retailer with a commitment to building new renewable generation, while Cogo contributes their global fintech innovation in carbon management.
Together, they’re making electrification decisions “simpler, faster and more accessible,” helping families take action today to prepare for tomorrow. Check out the nifty Go Electric Calculator now.
Thanks to an innovative partnership Contact Energy’s residential customers are now eligible for:
With EECA research showing a 55% rise in public charging demand, bp charge is tackling the barriers that matter most: convenience, cost, and accessibility.
Antoine Denis, General Manager of bp charge, says this is the first subscription offer of its kind: “We want to keep Kiwi drivers moving by supporting those who have already made the switch to electric, while making EVs a more attractive choice for tomorrow.” Find out more here.
Together, we’re building a more sustainable, smarter transport system for Aotearoa. Let’s keep the momentum going – subscribe to our newsletter below.
The post THE CIRCUIT – September 2025 appeared first on Drive Electric.
ABB Installation Products’ new Microlectric EM Series Electric Vehicle Energy Management System (EVEMS) is designed to optimize residential energy distribution and avoid costly electrical upgrades.
ABB’s EVEMS, which is aimed at the Canadian market, ensures that EVs charge only when sufficient electrical capacity is available. The system intelligently monitors available electrical capacity in real time, automatically starting or stopping charging based on power availability. It can also be used to control other electrical loads, such as air conditioning (which is apparently considered “non-essential” in Canada).
“Empowering Canadians to embrace clean energy starts with removing the barriers that slow adoption,” said Leila Sedighi, VP Product & Marketing, ABB Installation Products.
The EM Series, which uses technology from Calgary-based Black Box Innovations, is “a scalable, future-ready solution created to meet the energy demands of single residential, multi-residential, and multifamily buildings.”
The system is compatible with residential electrical service entrances ranging from 60 to 200 amps.
Manufactured in Canada at ABB’s Iberville facility in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu and Black Box Innovations’ facility in Calgary, the Energy Management product line can be ordered in Canada exclusively through ABB’s nationwide distribution partners.
“This partnership allows Black Box Innovations to leverage ABB’s Canadian product assembly, marketing, and distribution capabilities to meet the growing demand for our electrical load mitigation products and power control systems,” Said Taner Cairns, CEO of Black Box Innovations.
Source: ABB
Coca-Cola, along with its bottling partners, is adding more electric trucks to its fleet in India. The fleet will soon include over 5,000 EVs nationwide.
SLMG Beverages, a major bottling partner, has added more than 3,000 EVs in the last three years to support last-mile delivery.
“Expanding our EV fleet is a deliberate move to improve delivery speed and capacity in line with the Coca-Cola system’s growth objectives,” said Rahul Kumar, SLMG Deputy Chief Executive Officer. “This investment strengthens our ability to meet increasing consumer demand, especially in rural markets, with improved cost-to-serve.”
Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages (HCCB) has deployed approximately 500 EVs across 10 Indian states, improving regional coverage and operational efficiency.
“At HCCB, we’re constantly evolving to meet the dynamic demands of India’s beverage landscape,” said Vinay Nair, HCCB Chief Commercial Officer. “Fleet augmentation not only strengthens our last-mile deliveries but also reinforces our commitment to agile, tech-enabled supply chain solutions that serve our retailers faster and better.”
Source: Coca-Cola India
BASF Battery Materials, through its Chinese joint venture BASF Shanshan Battery Materials, has delivered its first batches of mass-produced cathode active materials for semi-solid-state batteries in collaboration with Beijing WELION New Energy Technology.
WELION New Energy develops solid-state battery technologies that are primarily used in EVs, energy storage, drones and power tools.
The companies have moved from concept to mass production in the year since they started the project in August 2024.
BASF Battery Materials has developed an ultra-high-nickel nickel cobalt manganese (NCM) cathode active material that has a composite coating layer to address interface issues between cathode materials and solid electrolytes. This enhances the energy density owing to higher capacity and lower resistance and improves the cycling performance and calendar life through suppressing side reactions.
“WELION will use BASF’s cathode materials in our new generation of semi-solid-state batteries and look forward to more joint projects both at home and globally,” said Dr. Jin Xiang, General Manager of WELION New Energy.
Source: BASF
When Tesla launched the Cybertruck in 2023, many expected it to be packed with futuristic features. Service manuals even hinted at hidden hardware for wireless charging, sparking hope that the truck would one day ditch the cable. But this week, Tesla confirmed the Cybertruck will never get the feature and the reason is surprisingly simple.
Tesla’s Cybertruck lead engineer, Wes Morrill, broke it down in a Discord chat with owners.
“Wireless charging for something as far off the ground as the CT is silly,” Morrill explained, pointing to the physics problem.
Here’s the issue: wireless charging uses inductive coils, one in the vehicle and one in the ground. They have to be tightly aligned to be efficient. If the gap is too big, you waste energy and slow down charging speeds. Even though the Cybertruck’s adaptive air suspension can squat to about eight inches off the ground, that’s still way too tall for reliable wireless charging. A bigger, taller charging pad could solve the distance problem, but that would make installation bulky and awkward.
This decision closes the door on one of the most anticipated convenience features for the Cybertruck. For owners, it means the familiar plug-in routine isn’t going away anytime soon. While cables may not feel futuristic, they remain the fastest and most efficient way to move serious amounts of energy into a battery pack the size of the Cybertruck’s.
That doesn’t mean Tesla has abandoned the idea entirely. Reports suggest Tesla is testing wireless charging with the latest Model X refresh, though there’s no official mention of it in the manuals. And Tesla has promised the upcoming Cybercab — the robotaxi it teased for later this decade — will come equipped with wireless charging as standard. That makes sense for a fleet vehicle, where cars need to charge themselves between rides without human help.
Meanwhile, competitors are pushing forward. Porsche just announced that its upcoming electric Cayenne will launch with optional wireless charging as soon as next year. The German brand has been experimenting with high-power inductive systems capable of charging at rates similar to today’s home wall boxes, closing the gap on efficiency and making it practical for daily use. If they deliver, Porsche could claim bragging rights as the first to bring convenient, reliable wireless charging to the mainstream luxury EV market.
Source: DriveTesla
This week, Charged is hosting a virtual conference on EV engineering that’s free to attend. The conference includes live webinar sessions with interactive Q&As and on-demand webinars.
All of the live sessions will be recorded and available to view after the broadcasts. The recorded videos can be accessed on each session’s registration page.
9:30 am EDT
Upgrading ICE Testbeds For Hybrids And EVs
Join Us
10:15 am EDT
Tackling The Toughest Cleanroom And Dryroom Conveyance Challenges In Battery Production: From Dew Point To Downtime
Join Us
11:00 am EDT
How Henkel Performs Modeling, Simulation, And Validation Of Battery Systems
Join Us
12:30 pm EDT
Inside The EU’s Battery Requirements: Future-Proofing EVs
Join Us
1:15 apm EDT
Impact Of Cable Design On Vehicle Performance: How Cable Selection Influences Efficiency, Weight, And Powertrain Performance
Join Us
Join this webinar at next week’s Virtual Conference, presented by Intertek, where we will break down what the EU battery regulation means for electric vehicles.
Join us to learn about the responsibilities for manufacturers, importers and distributors, understand the role of CE marking and Notified Bodies, and get up to speed on the latest timelines and guidance.
September 15, 2025, 12:30 pm EDT
Register now—it’s free!
See the complete session list for the Virtual Conference on EV Engineering here.
Broadcast live from September 15 to 18, 2025, the conference content will encompass the entire EV engineering supply chain and ecosystem, including motor and power electronics design and manufacturing, cell development, battery systems, testing, powertrains, thermal management, circuit protection, wire and cable, EMI/EMC and more.
BASF has introduced a range of low electrical conductivity coolants (LECCs) under the GLYSANTIN ELECTRIFIED line, developed specifically for electric vehicle battery systems to comply with China’s new GB 29743.2-2025 standard, which becomes effective on October 1, 2025. The new coolants are produced at BASF’s Pudong manufacturing facility in Shanghai and are designed to enhance battery safety and stability by reducing fluid decomposition and hydrogen generation.
The GLYSANTIN ELECTRIFIED LECCs are engineered to maintain low and stable electric currents even under exposure to high-voltage EV battery components, aiming to prevent overheating, fire, and explosion by minimizing decomposition and hydrogen formation. BASF says the formulation also provides corrosion protection and long-term material compatibility, validated by external certifications from SGS and RATTC, a subsidiary of the Ministry of Transport of China.
Initial production and market focus for these LECCs are centered in China, which BASF identifies as the largest market for new energy vehicles. According to BASF, the coolants are intended to support the evolving safety requirements in China’s electric vehicle industry. The company notes that future expansion plans depend on customer demand in other regions.
Source: BASF