EDTA Plugged In

Toyota is set to launch a next-generation Corolla EV amid what Chairman Akio Toyoda calls a "considerable sense of crisis" as the company faces competitive pressure from Tesla and BYD. The Corolla EV, based on a new platform that supports various powertrains, is part of Toyota's effort to maintain its position as the world's largest automaker.

Aqueous zinc-ion batteries are emerging as a potential alternative to lithium-ion batteries, offering advantages such as safety, sustainability and cost-effectiveness. Aqueous zinc-ion batteries utilize a water-based electrolyte, significantly reducing fire risks. Advancements in electrolyte engineering and materials have improved the performance and commercial viability of zinc-ion batteries, exemplified by Enerpoly's megafactory in Stockholm.

California has introduced the MyFirstEV program, offering a $3,500 rebate for first-time buyers of new electric vehicles priced up to $50,000, and $1,750 for used EVs priced up to $25,000. The program, funded by $135 million each from the state and a group of automakers, including General Motors, Ford, Tesla and Toyota, aims to compensate for the end of federal tax credits and is based on research indicating that drivers who try EVs do not return to gasoline-powered vehicles.

C40 Cities has launched Plug Into L.A., a campaign to transition 500 professional drivers to electric vehicles before the 2028 Olympics and Paralympics. The initiative, in collaboration with Los Angeles, Uber and WSP USA, highlights financial benefits such as potential savings of up to $10,000 per vehicle.

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality will reopen its Clean Vehicle Rebate program on Aug. 25 with reduced incentives to extend funding. The program, which has run out of funds for the past three years, offers up to $7,500 for electric vehicles and $5,000 for plug-in hybrids under the Charge Ahead rebate.

Walmart has rapidly become a key player in the electric vehicle charging market by leveraging its extensive store footprint, opening 46 high-speed public charging stations this year. Walmart now has EV chargers at over 325 stores and plans to bring them to 300 more. This move not only supports in-store sales but also makes EV charging more accessible and affordable, potentially boosting EV adoption in areas where gas vehicles remain popular.

General Motors Energy is urging automakers, utilities and policymakers to collaborate on a vehicle-to-grid initiative that could cut grid costs by $7 billion a year by 2030. GM Energy has sold 250,000 V2G-capable electric vehicles and is testing the technology with PG&E and DTE Energy.