Lightship begins production of its AE.1 electric travel trailer with propulsion assist, unveils 2 new models

Lightship begins production of its AE.1 electric travel trailer with propulsion assist, unveils 2 new models
Lightship begins production of its AE.1 electric travel trailer with propulsion assist, unveils 2 new models

Electric recreational vehicle manufacturer Lightship has begun production of its AE.1 Cosmos Edition. The model is officially sold out, and deliveries to customers are to begin by the end of summer 2025.

For its next act, the company has introduced two new trim offerings for its flagship all-electric travel trailer: the AE.1 Atmos and AE.1 Panos. Both are designed and manufactured in the United States.

“The Cosmos Edition proved that the market is hungry for electric RVs that don’t compromise on performance or design,” said Toby Kraus, Lightship co-founder and CEO. “Atmos and Panos bring our vision of sustainable adventure to more families and adventurers, regardless of their camping style.”

The two new models are powered by Lightship’s proprietary TrekDrive system, an intelligent propulsion technology that is designed to double the range (for an EV) or fuel efficiency (for an ICE) of the tow vehicle. Operating independently, the TrekDrive system senses acceleration, braking and cornering forces, then adjusts in real time.

The AE.1 Atmos features a 77 kWh battery system, 1.8 kW of integrated solar roof panels, and a starting price of $184,000.

The AE.1 Panos features a 44 kWh battery system and 840 W of integrated solar roof panels. It starts at $151,000.

Both models offer optional motorized awning and third bed add-ons. Customer deliveries are to begin in 2026.

“We’ve engineered these models to meet adventurers where they are,” explained Ben Parker, Lightship co-founder and Chief Product Officer. “Whether you’re planning extended off-grid expeditions or weekend getaways, there’s now an AE.1 designed specifically for your style of exploration.”

Source: Lightship

Webinar: Meeting safety requirements for EV on-board chargers

Webinar: Meeting safety requirements for EV on-board chargers
Webinar: Meeting safety requirements for EV on-board chargers

Advanced electric vehicles call for equally advanced on-board charging systems that prioritize safety and reliability. This webinar explores how TDK’s portfolio of circuit protection components is designed to protect equipment and people from damage or harm.

Protection products, including PTC inrush current limiters (ICLs), surge arresters (GDTs), leaded disc varistors, multilayer chip varistors, NTC thermistors, PTC thermistors, and high-voltage DC contactors, play a crucial role in meeting the evolving safety and performance demands of onboard chargers and vehicle charging systems.

Join this webinar at our September Virtual Conference on EV Engineering, presented by TTI and TDK, to learn how these components help manage inrush currents, short circuit currents, transient overvoltages, and temperature regulation, all while supporting compact design and compliance with automotive standards. Ideal for design engineers and system architects, this session offers practical insights into protecting sensitive electronics in next-generation EV platforms.

September 17, 2025, 9:30 am 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.

VOSS, Amphenol and GG Group unveil 1 MW liquid-cooled EV charging harness with reduced cable size

VOSS, Amphenol and GG Group unveil 1 MW liquid-cooled EV charging harness with reduced cable size
VOSS, Amphenol and GG Group unveil 1 MW liquid-cooled EV charging harness with reduced cable size

VOSS Automotive, Amphenol-Tuchel Electronics and the GG Group have introduced a high-voltage EV charging harness designed to support charging power up to 1 megawatt. The new system integrates active liquid cooling throughout the charging cable and socket to reduce thermal losses and enable significantly higher current loads. The companies claim this could reduce charge times to under five minutes.

The charging harness incorporates several key components: the Power2Flow charging cable from GG Group, the CHARGESOK CCS2 socket from Amphenol and a fluid-cooled battery connection and thermal management system developed by VOSS. At the core is a polymer heat exchanger embedded within the cable, which uses a multi-layer plastic tube to circulate a cooling medium—either water-glycol or immersion fluids—between the battery and the charging inlet. The inner layer of the tube is electrically conductive, while the outer layer is thermally conductive and electrically insulating.

By actively cooling the areas of peak thermal load, such as the DC contact chambers in the socket, the system avoids overheating without increasing conductor size. This approach allows a 70 percent increase in current load capacity while reducing cable cross-section, improving flexibility and simplifying installation. In contrast to conventional solutions that use large busbars, this lightweight cable design supports easier integration into compact EV architectures.

The CHARGESOK socket uses direct-contact liquid cooling to dissipate heat at the source. A coolant circulates around the high-current contacts, improving efficiency and enabling continuous high-power charging. The cooling system is designed for compatibility with existing vehicle thermal architectures, offering flexibility for different OEM platforms.

The system is targeted at next-generation EVs requiring rapid charge capabilities and scalable thermal performance. The partners emphasize its applicability across diverse cooling media, lightweight design, and ease of integration into modern vehicle layouts.

Source: VOSS Automotive

Chevrolet Overtakes Ford in U.S. EV Sales

In a surprising turn of events, Chevrolet has overtaken Ford in U.S. electric vehicle (EV) sales in 2025, marking a significant shift in the automotive landscape. This development underscores the intensifying competition in the EV market and highlights the evolving preferences of American consumers.

Chevrolet’s Rapid Ascent

Chevrolet’s surge in EV sales can be attributed to its strategic focus on affordability and range. The 2025 Chevy Equinox EV, for instance, offers an EPA-estimated range of up to 319 miles and starts at $34,995, making it one of the most accessible long-range EVs on the market. In the first quarter of 2025, Chevrolet sold 10,329 units of the Equinox EV, contributing significantly to its total of 19,186 EVs sold during that period—a remarkable 114.2% increase compared to the same quarter in 2024 . By the end of May 2025, Chevrolet had sold over 37,000 EVs in the U.S., surpassing Ford’s estimated 34,000 EVs sold during the same timeframe .

Ford’s Challenges

While Ford experienced a 12% increase in EV sales in the first quarter of 2025, totalling 22,550 units, it faced challenges with its flagship models. Sales of the F-150 Lightning declined by 7.2%, and the company has delayed the launch of its next-generation electric pickup truck until 2027 . These setbacks have impacted Ford’s ability to compete effectively in the rapidly evolving EV market

The Broader EV Landscape

The U.S. EV market continues to grow, with nearly 300,000 new electric vehicles sold in the first quarter of 2025, representing an 11.4% year-over-year increase . General Motors, Chevrolet’s parent company, has capitalized on this growth, with its brands accounting for 14.4% of new EV sales in April 2025 .

Looking Ahead

Chevrolet’s achievement in surpassing Ford in U.S. EV sales highlights the importance of aligning product offerings with consumer demands for affordability and range. As the EV market continues to expand, automakers will need to adapt swiftly to maintain competitiveness and meet the evolving expectations of consumers.

This milestone not only signifies a shift in market dynamics but also emphasizes the critical role of strategic planning and innovation in the automotive industry’s transition to electric mobility.

Citroën’s new C5 Aircross electric offers 680 km range and rapid charging

Citroën has revealed its second-generation C5 Aircross, completing a comprehensive two-year renewal of its model lineup. Built on the Stellantis STLA-Medium platform, the redesigned SUV will launch in European markets […]

The post Citroën’s new C5 Aircross electric offers 680 km range and rapid charging appeared first on Electric & Hybrid Vehicle Technology International.

International introduces new eRH Series electric Class 8 regional haul tractor

International introduces new eRH Series electric Class 8 regional haul tractor
International introduces new eRH Series electric Class 8 regional haul tractor

International Motors has introduced a new electric Class 8 regional haul tractor: the International eRH Series. The eRH joins the International eMV Series and the IC Bus Electric CE Series in International’s electric vehicle lineup. 

Designed to meet the demands of heavy-duty regional and drayage fleets, the eRH Series is available in 4×2 and 6×4 axle configurations. Lithium nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery configuration options range from 300 kWh to 500 kWh usable battery capacity, delivering a range of up to 300 miles. The vehicle offers three driver-selectable levels of regenerative braking.

Built on the diesel-powered RH Series, the eRH is optimized for local and regional haul applications. It features a 113-inch bumper to back of cab (BBC) measurement for optimized forward visibility, as well as a tight turning radius. The Bendix Fusion integrated driver assistance system improves safety, and the ergonomic design provides ample space and conveniently grouped switches for ease of use.

“I’m proud of the R&D and all cross-functional teams at International. Bringing the eRH to the market was no small task,” said Michael Grahe, Executive VP of Research and Development. “Our teams have been working hand in hand with our customers throughout this development process to ensure that the eRH not only meets the demands of their business today but will continue to do so well into the future.”

International offers end-to-end consulting services to support customers in reaching their electrification goals. These services include electric readiness assessments, infrastructure planning, grant support and onboarding assistance. The company also provides planned maintenance service contracts. International Service Contracts can also include powertrain coverage, chassis coverage, and optional towing coverage.

“This new [vehicle] perfectly complements our current battery-electric vehicle lineup,” said Justina Morosin, Senior VP, Sales and Field Operations. “At International, our focus is on providing a seamless journey—from the initial purchase to ongoing support—ensuring a smooth customer experience every step of the way.”

Source: International Motors

SK On and Nissan announce North American EV battery production supply agreement

SK On and Nissan announce North American EV battery production supply agreement
SK On and Nissan announce North American EV battery production supply agreement

SK On and Nissan announce North American EV battery production supply agreement

Global battery manufacturer SK On and Nissan have announced a new battery supply agreement that will support Nissan’s EV production in North America.

Under the agreement, SK On will supply nearly 100 GWh of high-nickel batteries to Nissan from 2028 to 2033. These US-manufactured batteries will power Nissan’s next-generation EVs to be produced at its Canton, Mississippi assembly plant.

This production is expected to support 1,700 US jobs at SK On, and will involve a total investment of $661 million, including equipment purchases, in addition to Nissan’s $500 million in investments for EV production at the Canton Assembly Plant.

The partnership marks SK On’s first supply agreement with a Japanese automaker. SK On, a subsidiary of South Korea’s SK Group, currently operates two battery plants in the US, and is building four additional plants with partners. Once fully operational, SK On’s annual US production capacity is expected to exceed 180 GWh.

“This agreement underscores the strength of our battery technology and our growing presence in the North American market,” said Seok-hee Lee, SK On President and CEO. “Leveraging our production footprint and expertise, we are committed to supporting Nissan’s electrification strategy.”

Nissan has announced plans to launch 16 new electrified vehicle models over the next three years, including all-new EVs from its Canton assembly plant starting in 2028.

“This agreement with SK On is a significant milestone for Nissan’s electrification journey and supports further investment in US manufacturing,” said Christian Meunier, Chairman, Nissan Americas. “Through this smart partnership with SK On, we can leverage their growing US production capacity to deliver innovative, high-quality electric vehicles.”

Sources: SK On, Nissan

18 Mar 2025 | Renault Reveals R5 Turbo 3E Supercar EV, BYD Introduces Sealion 05 EV and Volkswagen Introduces Eleven New Models For China

18 Mar 2025 | Renault Reveals R5 Turbo 3E Supercar EV, BYD Introduces Sealion 05 EV and Volkswagen Introduces Eleven New Models For China
18 Mar 2025 | Renault Reveals R5 Turbo 3E Supercar EV, BYD Introduces Sealion 05 EV and Volkswagen Introduces Eleven New Models For China
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