Empowering the Green Transition - Week 4/2024

In this week's Codibly newsletter, we're excited to bring you the most captivating stories from the world of sustainability, innovation, and clean energy ???? Discover how the Pentagon is leading the charge in solar panel installations as part of President Biden's green energy plan. Tesla's expansion of the Gigafactory in Nevada is set to redefine sustainable transportation and energy storage??while Iveco secures a landmark deal for over 400 electric buses in Rome, revolutionizing urban mobility. U.S. electric car sales broke records in 2023, signaling a shift towards sustainable transportation, and 2024 promises to make electric vehicles more affordable than ever before. Check out what the second EV from Porsche ??looks like and explore the electrification of the US postal fleet. Join us on this journey of innovation and sustainability! ?? Enjoy the read! ?

Pentagon's solar initiative under Biden's Green Energy Plan

In a significant move towards sustainability, the Pentagon is spearheading the installation of solar panels, aligning with President Biden's comprehensive energy plan aimed at fostering a greener federal sector. This ambitious initiative extends beyond the U.S., with military facilities in Germany also participating, reflecting a broader commitment to global environmental responsibility. The project is powered by substantial investments from both public and private sectors, underscoring the collective effort to reduce carbon footprints, improve energy resilience, and promote efficiency. As this endeavor unfolds, it sets a precedent for integrating renewable energy solutions within national defense frameworks, thereby fortifying the country's infrastructure against the challenges of climate change.?

Tesla expands Gigafactory for next-gen EVs and batteries

Tesla's Gigafactory expansion in Nevada is set to boost production of the groundbreaking Tesla Semi and innovative 4680 battery cells. This expansion signifies Tesla's drive to redefine sustainable transportation and energy storage. The Tesla Semi aims to revolutionize freight transport with its efficiency and low emissions, while the 4680 cells are poised to enhance battery performance and affordability, further cementing Tesla's leadership in the EV market. This strategic move underscores a commitment to a cleaner, more sustainable future in mobility and energy solutions.?

2023: record-breaking year for U.S. electric car sales

In an electrifying shift, plug-in electric car sales in the U.S. soared to unprecedented levels in 2023, marking a record year for the industry. According to a report by Argonne National Laboratory, December alone witnessed the sale of 141,055 rechargeable vehicles, contributing to over 9.8% of total light-duty vehicle sales, a significant increase from previous years. The year 2023 closed with a total of approximately 4.7 million plug-in electric cars sold since December 2010, with 1.4 million of these sales occurring in 2023 alone, indicating a robust year-over-year growth of 42%. Notably, all-electric cars (BEVs) led this surge, comprising nearly 80% of all plug-in sales and achieving a new sales record of 1.1 million units, reflecting a 48% increase from the previous year. This growth underscores a pivotal moment in the U.S. automotive market, signaling a steady shift towards sustainable transportation, albeit still trailing behind markets like Europe and China. With Tesla dominating over half of the all-electric segment, the industry eyes are set on whether 2024 will continue this upward trend, potentially pushing BEV sales to between 1.5 and 2 million?units.

Codibly drives demand response innovation with OpenADR expertise

As the demand for OpenADR protocols continues to grow, Codibly, a contributing member of the OpenADR Alliance, is expanding its portfolio to implement advanced demand response solutions, with a specific focus on OpenADR.Our brand-new packages encompass consulting, assessment, certification processes, training, integration through the Codibly Certified VEN Accelerator, and ongoing support. With expertise in VEN Server development, direct access to the Alliance, and a deep understanding of demand response within the broader energy landscape, Codibly can be your trusted partner for innovation.Explore more about our?Demand Response Protocols?at Codibly and connect with our experts to discover how we can benefit your organization.

Porsche introduces its second electric vehicle: the Macan SUV

Porsche has revealed its second electric vehicle, the Macan SUV, featuring an impressive 100 kWh battery, 800-volt architecture for fast charging, and estimated WLTP-rated range of 310 miles. The Macan EV will come in two versions: the Macan 4 and Macan Turbo, both equipped with dual motors for all-wheel drive. It boasts quick charging, exceptional performance, and optional rear-axle steering for maneuverability. Inside, it features an advanced heads-up display and will adopt Android Automotive for its infotainment system. The Macan 4 starts at $80,450, making it a more affordable luxury electric SUV. Preorders are now open, with deliveries expected in the second half of 2024.

Tesla gains new territory: 'Redwood' Crossover and affordable EVs set for 2025 launch

Tesla is gearing up to revolutionize the electric vehicle market once again, with plans to commence production of a new mass-market EV, codenamed "Redwood," by mid-2025. This compact crossover, part of a bold strategy to introduce affordable, next-generation electric vehicles, is expected to roll out from Tesla's Texas factory, followed by production in Mexico and another international location. Elon Musk, the visionary CEO of Tesla, has reignited the promise of an accessible $25,000 electric car, aiming to outpace competitors like China's BYD, which recently surpassed Tesla in global EV sales. With a projected weekly production of 10,000 vehicles and ambitions to introduce a unique self-driving robotaxi, Tesla's "Redwood" could redefine the EV landscape, promising affordability and innovation.

2024 marks the dawn of affordable electric vehicles

2024 is poised to be a transformative year for the electric vehicle (EV) market, as a looming price war promises to make electric cars more accessible than ever. Driven by the entry of competitively priced Chinese brands and the enforcement of the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate, traditional automakers are under pressure to reduce their EV prices substantially. This change is not just about market dynamics; it's about making eco-friendly choices more viable for consumers. The presence of Chinese manufacturers like MG, which now outperforms established brands in the UK, exemplifies the shifting landscape. With the ZEV mandate requiring a significant increase in EV sales, and geopolitical factors pushing fuel prices up, the allure of electric vehicles is stronger than ever. Auto Trader predicts that this competitive environment, coupled with the need to meet government-mandated sales targets, will result in notable price drops, making 2024 a landmark year for potential EV owners.

IIveco's landmark deal for 400+ electric buses in Rome

Iveco sets a new benchmark in the electric vehicle industry by securing its largest deal yet, poised to deliver over 400 battery electric buses to Rome. This monumental €300 million contract not only underscores Iveco's prominence in the electric bus market but also signifies Rome's dedication to transforming its public transportation into a greener, more sustainable network. The agreement also encompasses a comprehensive 10-year maintenance commitment, ensuring long-term reliability and performance of the fleet. This deal represents a crucial step in reducing urban pollution and carbon emissions, aligning with broader goals of environmental conservation and sustainable urban planning. Dive into the details of this groundbreaking move towards cleaner, more sustainable urban mobility here.

North Carolina's battery boom: future with lithium-ion Innovation

North Carolina is emerging as a key player in battery production, with several companies, including VinFast, Toyota, Forge Nano, and DAI Nippon Printing, announcing plans to establish battery factories in the central part of the state. This region is now being referred to as the "Battery Belt." The increasing demand for lithium-ion batteries, crucial for electric vehicles, has attracted these companies to North Carolina. The state's investment in infrastructure, education, and incentives has positioned it as a hub for clean energy and EV manufacturing. As the industry grows, it is expected to create thousands of jobs and bolster the local economy.

Washington state's energy evolution: bill aims to phase out natural gas for equitable electrification

The Washington state House has passed a bill known as HB1589, aiming to end the use of natural gas in new buildings as part of an equitable transition to electricity. The bill targets companies serving at least 500,000 natural gas customers, preventing them from providing natural gas service to commercial or residential buildings that didn't apply for such service by June 30 of the previous year. While it addresses large natural gas companies, it primarily affects Puget Sound Energy, serving over 900,000 natural gas customers. The bill also focuses on decarbonization and addressing climate change's impact on low-income communities, but opponents argue it may lead to increased utility bills and strain on the electrical grid.

Winter's frozen challenge: upgraded Tesla model 3 triumphs in range test at -20°C

In an impressive display of cold-weather prowess, the upgraded Tesla Model 3 emerged victorious in a winter range test conducted under extreme conditions at -20°C (-4°F) weather. This remarkable performance showcases the Model 3's resilience and efficiency, dispelling concerns about electric vehicle performance in chilly climates. The test not only underscores Tesla's commitment to pushing the boundaries of electric vehicle technology but also reaffirms its position as a leader in cold-weather driving capabilities. The Model 3 continues to redefine the standards for electric cars, delivering exceptional range and performance even in the harshest winter conditions.

USPS electrifies mail delivery with Ford EVs and charging stations

The United States Postal Service (USPS) introduced its initial electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in Atlanta, part of a broader initiative. Siemens-manufactured stations will charge USPS EVs overnight, with hundreds more planned nationwide. USPS showcased 福特 E-Transit EVs equipped with advanced safety features, bolstering its eco-friendly delivery fleet. In an partnership, Canoo Inc. will supply USPS with six innovative LDV 190 all-electric vehicles. USPS is actively electrifying its fleet and exploring 100% electrification, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

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