Ford and TXU Energy Partnership
Ford has launched an innovative program in partnership with TXU Energy that offers free home EV charging for Ford electric vehicle owners in Texas. The "TXU Free EV Miles" program allows customers to charge their EVs at home for free during off-peak hours (7 pm to 1 pm the next day), which helps to reduce the cost of EV ownership and supports grid stability. This initiative is available for models such as the Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning. Enrollment for the Free EV Miles program is now available. Ford EV drivers can visit www.txu.com/freeevmilesford to learn more or to enroll.
Washington State's Generous EV Rebate Program
Washington State has introduced one of the most generous EV rebate programs in the United States. The program, aimed primarily at low- and moderate-income residents, offers substantial financial incentives to make electric vehicles more accessible and affordable.
The Washington EV Instant Rebate Program provides rebates of up to $9,000 for leasing a new electric vehicle, significantly lowering the cost for consumers. This initiative is expected to issue between 6,500 and 8,000 rebates during its first year, with the program funded by a $45 million appropriation from the state's general fund. The rebates are available for those who earn less than 300% of the federal poverty level, translating to $45,180 for a single person and $93,600 for a family of four.
COSCO Launches World's Largest Battery-Electric Container Ship (with a record-breaking battery capacity)
In a significant stride towards sustainable maritime logistics, the China Ocean Shipping Group (COSCO) has introduced the world's largest battery-electric container ship, the Greenwater 01. The vessel, which has commenced regular service between Shanghai and Nanjing, is a pioneering model in reducing the carbon footprint of marine transport.
Key Features:
- Size and Capacity: The Greenwater 01 measures 120 meters in length and 24 meters in width, and has a carrying capacity of 700 TEU (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units).
- Battery Power: The ship is equipped with a battery capacity exceeding 50,000 kWh, which can be expanded to 80,000 kWh if necessary. This innovative approach uses swappable battery containers, allowing for efficient recharging and energy management during long voyages
source: electrek.co
Significant Air Quality Improvements with Expanded Low-Emissions Zone in London
London's expanded Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) has resulted in notable reductions in air pollution across the city. According to a recent report from Mayor Sadiq Khan's office, the first six months of the city-wide ULEZ expansion have shown substantial decreases in pollutant emissions.
Key findings include:
- NOx Emissions: In outer London, NOx emissions from cars and vans have decreased by 13% and 7%, respectively, compared to scenarios without the expansion. This reduction is equivalent to removing 200,000 cars from the roads for one year.
- PM2.5 Emissions: Exhaust emissions of PM2.5 from cars in outer London are down by 22%, surpassing initial expectations by 6%.
- Overall Impact: The emission reductions in outer London now account for over 90% of the total reductions observed across the city due to the expanded ULEZ.
Norway's EV Market Achieves Record High in July
Norway's electric vehicle market reached a new milestone in July, with plugin EVs capturing 94.3% of the market share, up from 89.9% the previous year. Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) alone accounted for nearly 92% of the market, close to a record high, while plugin hybrids (PHEVs) contributed 2.4%. Overall, 6,456 vehicles were sold in July, marking a 14% year-on-year decline in total auto volume.
The Volkswagen ID.4 emerged as the best-selling vehicle of the month. The increase in BEV market share is largely attributed to the decline in PHEV sales, influenced by stricter emissions taxes implemented from January. Non-plugin vehicles continue to decline but remain present in the market.