This Week in EV: Ro Ro Your Boat

We kick off this week with the biggest EV manufacturer in the world BYD, who has launched the world’s largest ro-ro (roll on, roll off) car carrier, a massive vessel capable of transporting 9,200 vehicles at once. This massive ship represents a crucial step in the company’s strategy to dominate the global EV market, providing a logistical solution to the surging demand for EVs in Europe, Asia, and beyond. By improving delivery efficiency and significantly reducing shipping costs, BYD can maintain competitive pricing as it expands its market share, reinforcing its position as a global leader in the EV industry. This is the fifth ship to enter BYD’s maritime fleet, with all five ships the company can now directly export over 30,000 cars at a time.?

Contrary to alot of the media the UK added 20,000 new EV charge points in 2024, achieving record growth in its charging infrastructure. One of the biggest growth areas was seen in the critical 150kW+ chargers which saw a massive 84% increase. Whilst much has been made by some lobbyists that there isn’t enough charging infrastructure and therefore the ICE ban and ZEV mandate should be rethought the numbers show that the opposite is the case and there is more than enough infrastructure going into support EV adoption.

After much delay Formula E has officially introduced 600 kW mid-race charging, promising to revolutionise the sport with ultra-fast energy replenishment. This technology enables teams to integrate charging into race strategies, potentially reducing pit stop times while showcasing the future of commercial EV charging. Beyond enhancing Formula E’s appeal, this innovation demonstrates how cutting-edge EV technologies can transition from motorsports to consumer applications, giving a glimpse into how ultra-fast charging could alleviate range anxiety for everyday EV drivers.

It’s been a big week for the Scuderia and it’s not just Lewis Hamilton’s first outing in red that made the news. Ferrari has introduced artificial exhaust sounds for its new electric models, blending cutting-edge technology with its storied tradition of producing vehicles with iconic engine roars. Using advanced sound design, Ferrari has created bespoke audio experiences for drivers, aiming to replicate the emotional thrill of its combustion engines. This approach highlights how Ferrari is addressing the emotional connections drivers have with its vehicles, proving that even luxury brands can adapt to electrification while preserving their heritage.

Don't forget Substack subscribers get more This week in EV every week!