⚡ Watts up? Recently, JLR started testing its second fully electric vehicle in the deserts of the UAE, focusing on both its thermal stability and also performance on the soft sand. Meanwhile, in the city of Utrecht, We Drive Solar and MyWheels are launching Europe’s first V2G enabled car-sharing service. Learn more on those stories, and others, in todays issue.

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QotD: What country hosts the largest solar farm in the world?

ELECTRIC VEHICLES

Range Rover Electric Undergoes Intensive Testing in the UAE

🚗 Land Rover is testing its first fully electric model in the UAE to evaluate performance in extreme desert conditions, where temperatures can soar to 50ºC with 90% humidity. These tests are part of the brand's most demanding trial programme to date, aimed at ensuring the EV performs reliably across challenging terrains.

• The desert tests focus on thermal stability and powertrain cooling while driving on soft sand, where consistent low-speed torque and traction are essential.

• Earlier evaluations in Sweden's sub-zero conditions tested the EV's durability in opposite extremes.

• The prototype matches or exceeds internal combustion engine performance in uphill sand driving, with advanced systems like Intelligent Torque Management improving control and response times.

• Key features include 800V electrical architecture, advanced suspension, and a market-first wading depth of 850mm for an EV.

• Reservations will open in 2025.

This launch marks a significant step in JLR's EV strategy, expanding beyond the Jaguar I-Pace.

INFRASTRUCTURE

We Drive Solar and MyWheels Join Forces with the City of Utrecht to Launch Europe’s First V2G Enabled Car-Sharing Service

🔋 The city of Utrecht has revealed a ground-breaking project to expand electric shared mobility and enhance its energy infrastructure through bi-directional charging technology. This initiative addresses the challenges of integrating renewable energy into the grid, leveraging the city’s leadership in solar adoption, with 35% of rooftops equipped with panels.

• The project includes 500 Renault EVs, operated by MyWheels, featuring Mobilize’s V2G technology to stabilise the grid by returning energy during peak demand.

• The fleet can provide 10% of the flexibility needed for renewable energy integration in Utrecht.

• Future expansion may incorporate additional Renault models, all tailored for urban mobility.

• We Drive Solar will deploy advanced public bidirectional chargers to optimise V2G capabilities, reducing electricity costs and boosting grid efficiency.

This public-private partnership exemplifies sustainable urban transformation, aligning shared mobility with renewable energy. Utrecht’s initiative sets a benchmark for cities seeking to integrate green mobility and energy solutions effectively.

CLEAN ENERGY

Lillebaelt Syd Offshore Park is Granted Construction Permit

☀️ The Danish Energy Agency has approved the construction of the Lillebaelt Syd offshore wind farm, advancing Denmark’s renewable energy ambitions. Located in the Strait of Lillebaelt near Sønderborg, the 165 MW wind farm will generate electricity for 148,000 households and is expected to begin operations in 2029.

• The project is a collaboration between European Energy, SONFOR, and majority owner TotalEnergies.

• It supports Sønderborg municipality’s target of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2029.

• Community surveys show strong local support, with 80% of Sønderborg residents and 69% in Assens backing the initiative.

• CEO Knud Erik Andersen described the milestone as pivotal for European Energy’s role in offshore wind development in Denmark and the Nordics.

This project showcases Denmark’s leadership in renewable energy, combining large-scale partnerships and local support to tackle climate challenges. The wind farm is overall a key step in the green transition.

TECHNOLOGIES

Valeo & ROHM Semiconductor Co-Develop the Next Generation of Power Electronics

📱 Valeo and ROHM Semiconductor are strengthening their partnership to develop advanced power modules for electric vehicle motor inverters. Their collaboration focuses on integrating ROHM’s 2-in-1 Silicon Carbide TRCDRIVE technology into Valeo’s powertrain solutions, aiming to improve efficiency and performance in EVs and plug-in hybrids.

• Since 2022, the partnership has targeted energy efficiency, cooling systems, and inverter reliability, with Valeo contributing mechatronics and thermal management expertise and ROHM providing advanced power semiconductors.

• Their next-generation inverters promise enhanced range, faster charging, and compact designs, catering to various vehicles from e-bikes to e-trucks.

• SiC technology combined with optimised cooling will support longer-lasting, more affordable electrification solutions.

The first project is scheduled for launch in 2026, setting new standards in high-voltage inverters. This collaboration highlights their commitment to driving innovation in sustainable mobility and advancing the global transition to efficient, decarbonised transport.

WATT ELSE?

• CUPRA in preliminary talks with Penske Automotive Group ahead of entering the US market by 2030

• Nokian Tyres ensures zero CO2 emission energy for its new tyre factory in Romania

• Horizon Fuel Cell showcases world’s highest power PEM fuel cell

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Answer: China - in the Xinjiang region (Google it, it’s crazy!)