Category: #electricvehicles

ESB ecars announces price decreases of up to 13% for tariffs across its EV charging network

ESB ecars has today announced a planned price decrease across its public EV charging network in the Republic of Ireland, which will be effective from Friday, 21st June. This will see unit rates for High-Power (200kW) chargers reduce by 13%, Fast chargers reduce by 12% and Standard chargers reduce by 8%.

Contactless payments will also be available on High-Power Chargers from the end of this week.

The existing one-off overstay fee of €8 has been replaced by a more progressive, incremental fee to further encourage drivers to free up charge points for other drivers when finished charging.

ESB’s most recent customer survey found that 76% of respondents support the overstay fee. The new overstay fee structure is 50c/min and kicks in after 45 minutes on High-Power and Fast chargers and after 10 hours on Standard chargers.

Commenting on the price reduction, John Byrne, Head of eMobility at ESB, said: “We are pleased to announce a reduction of prices across our extensive EV public charging network.

We are lowering our prices following reductions in wholesale energy costs while continuing to upgrade and improve our charging infrastructure across the country. We keep our prices under constant review and are committed to providing value to our customers with competitive prices.”

To ensure customers are notified of when overstay fees would apply, ESB is encouraging all drivers to turn on notifications on the ESB ecar connect app. Customers will receive push notifications as a reminder about the overstay fee when they start their charge.

ESB has installed 42 multi-vehicle, high-power charging hubs nationwide over the past two years and replaced over 300 chargers to increase the speed and capacity of the charging network.

ESB now has over 1,600 public charge points in place across the country with an average reliability rate of 98%.

For more information, visit esb.ie/ecars

New markets for decommissioned machinery: which industries benefit as transmissions in electric vehicles become redundant

The change in mobility and the associated reorganisation of car manufacturers’ production facilities is therefore in full swing. Entire vehicle components are being eliminated or fundamentally redesigned. For example, less complex gearboxes are being installed in electric cars. Other industries can also benefit from the modernisation of car manufacturing. This is because they are still installing gearboxes and the like and can purchase the production machines that have been decommissioned by the car manufacturers at favourable prices.

Anyone who has recently purchased a vehicle with an internal combustion engine might think that more gears are fundamentally better. Indeed, the development of transmissions has made impressive progress in recent years. Automatic and dual-clutch transmissions have been continually improved to achieve optimal performance. Some of the latest models even feature up to twelve gears. However, as the switch to electric vehicles increases, the requirements for vehicle production are fundamentally changing. In electric vehicles, traditional engines and transmissions, as we know them, are becoming increasingly obsolete. A modern internal combustion engine with a transmission consists of around 1,400 individual parts. In comparison, the drive system of an electric vehicle consists of only about 200 components.

The transmissions of electric vehicles are far less complex than those in internal combustion engines. Many electric vehicles use a so-called single-speed reduction gearbox, which does not require gear shifting. This fixed gear ratio reduces the high rotational speed of the electric motor to a lower speed suitable for the wheels, enabling driveable speeds. However, there are also electric vehicles, particularly those with higher performance, that feature a two-stage gearbox.

Growing demand for electric vehicles in Europe

Many of the machines and tools traditionally used in automotive manufacturing are no longer needed. Manufacturers and suppliers are therefore in a phase of reorientation, where they are retrofitting or even partially closing their production facilities to meet new market demands. How far the conversion of production facilities has progressed is difficult to say. A recognised indicator is the proportion of electric vehicles sold.

In 2023, the European market for battery electric vehicles (BEV) experienced a strong upswing: sales of over 1.5 million vehicles represent an increase of 37% compared to the previous year. Electric cars thus established themselves as the third most popular drive type in Europe, after vehicles with petrol and hybrid engines, and overtook diesel vehicles for the first time.

Despite growing interest in more environmentally friendly options, petrol and hybrid vehicles remain the popular choice, closely followed by. This indicates that the transformation of production is in full swing. “We also notice this at Surplex,” says Dejan Dučić, Project Manager at Surplex. “In recent months, we have been conducting more and more auctions for and from the automotive industry. And this affects a variety of areas: from robots from a Czech automotive plant to insolvent suppliers and the current partial closure of the engine and transmission works of the German car manufacturer.”

New markets for decommissioned machines from the automotive industry

And who should buy these used machines when most car manufacturers no longer have a use for them? “Even though car manufacturers no longer have a use for these specialised machines, there are numerous other industries that can greatly benefit from the shift in production,“ explains Dučić. “Just because complex gearboxes will no longer be used in cars in the future, it doesn’t mean they are no longer needed. There are still a multitude of other applications.“

The gear grinding machine from REISHAUER was recently part of an auction. It comes from the partial closure of the engine plant of a German car manufacturer in Slovakia. (© Surplex).

For example, gearboxes play a crucial role in energy technology. In wind turbines, special gearboxes are used to efficiently convert the rotation of the turbine into electrical energy. The situation is similar with hydropower. The gearboxes have one thing in common: they must be manufactured with extreme precision to ensure they function reliably and lastingly.

Machines originally used for manufacturing gearboxes in the automotive industry can also find new applications in aerospace and engineering. They can be used to produce complex and precise components for automation and manufacturing plants. The ability of these machines to perform precise and repeatable operations makes them particularly valuable for producing parts used in industrial machinery and robotics.

“With the transformation in the automotive industry, many car manufacturers and suppliers are choosing to sell their high-quality machines through platforms like Surplex,“ explains Dučić. “This provides companies from other sectors with an affordable opportunity to acquire first-rate manufacturing equipment.“

Brittany Ferries to Explore All-Electric Zero-Emissions Ferry Project

Brittany Ferries and industry partners, Wärtsilä1 and Incat2 have signed a partnership deal to explore design and technical requirements for a 137m zero-emissions ferry.

The project comes as Brittany Ferries nears completion of the biggest fleet renewal programme in its history. Five new vessels will have joined the fleet between 2020 and 2025, including two LNG-powered ships (currently in service) and two shore-power-ready LNG-electric hybrids.

The tripartite deal brings together heavyweight marine partners with complementary strengths. Expertise includes design and construction of fast craft, all aspects of engineering and technical needs, and experience in operating a large and diverse fleet.

Wärtsilä is a supplier to all five new ships in Brittany Ferries’ on-going fleet renewal project. This includes LNG engines that power Salamanca, which joined the fleet in 2022, and Santoña in 2023. In addition, Wärtsilä is installing LNG-hybrid drivetrains for hybrid vessels, currently under construction and set to sail for Europe by the end of this year.

Brittany Ferries took delivery of an Incat fast-ferry in 2005. Under the name Normandie Express, she sped from Tasmania to France and served the company until 2021. She is currently under charter from Brittany Ferries to Condor Ferries operating with the name Condor Voyager. She operates St Malo – Channel Islands routes.

Brittany Ferries is a minority shareholder of Condor Ferries and chief executive Christophe Mathieu is also Condor’s CEO.

“This is an important project as we look at different ways to reach net zero by 2050,” said Christophe Mathieu. “All-electric power is a potential solution, best suited to shorter ferry routes. At this stage we don’t know what is feasible, and upon which route, but what we can say is that trusted partners will help us scope it out. Upon completion of the project we can move quickly. Brittany Ferries has a track record of walking the talk when it comes to leading the industry on sustainable ferry travel, as our investment in LNG and hybrid ships shows.”

“Ferries play a vital role in meeting the growing demand for environmentally sustainable transport options, and the investment Wärtsilä makes in R&D to develop technologies and integrated solutions are key in enabling this development,” added Roger Holm, President of Wärtsilä Marine and Executive Vice President at Wärtsilä Corporation. “This is why we are proud to have been selected to support Brittany Ferries in their goal of bringing cleaner vessels to the regions in which they operate. As a leader in shaping the decarbonisation of the marine industry, we value our long-term relationship with both Brittany Ferries and Incat, sharing a joint commitment to accelerate the industry towards net-zero emissions shipping.”

“Incat has long standing and successful relationships with Brittany Ferries and Wärtsilä, built upon shared values and a vision for innovation and environmental sustainability,” added Stephen Casey, Chief Executive Officer of Incat,  “We know that battery electric propulsion coupled with lightweight aluminium vessels is the ideal choice to eliminate emissions, and we are thrilled to be continuing our relationship with both Brittany Ferries and Wärtsilä as we collectively lead the next evolution of sustainable maritime transport throughout Europe.”

EasyGo Reaches Landmark Milestone of One-Million Charges

Erapid Charger Company Limited, trading as “EasyGo”, the largest private electric vehicle charging network operator in Ireland has today announced it has reached a landmark moment with its one-millionth charging session since the company was founded in 2018.

To mark the occasion, EasyGo customer Marcin Owocki from Carrigtwohill, Co. Cork, who made the one-millionth charging session, was awarded a €250 EV charging credit on his EasyGo account, the equivalent of one year’s free charging based on his current usage. Marcin made the charge at the Midleton Park Hotel and was also gifted a lunch for two at the hotel.

Commenting on the milestone, Oliver Chatten, CEO of EasyGo said: “Today marks a significant milestone as we reach one-million charges. Mr. Owocki makes use of a prepay contract with EasyGo and currently uses both our mobile application and an EasyGo fob to charge his electric vehicle and we are delighted to award him for using our services.”

He continued, “There are over 60,000 registered subscribers on the EasyGo mobile app and we are on track to see this increase with plans to roll out over 3,000 fast DC chargers by 2032. We’re committed to continually delivering enhanced services to existing and new customers across Ireland, staying in-line with our mission of decarbonising transport, providing accessible and efficient EV charging solutions for them.”

Anais Gilles, Sales and Marketing Manager of Midleton Park Hotel added: “The demand for EV charging facilities has grown significantly in recent years among visitors to our hotel, and we are delighted to partner with EasyGo to provide EV infrastructure for customers.

We’re proud that the one-millionth charge took place here at Middleton Park Hotel, it’s great to see customers such as Mr. Owocki – who has clocked 158 sessions at the Middleton Park Hotel – use these facilities.”

The one-millionth milestone comes after the announcement of Oliver Chatten as CEO of EasyGo and recent investments of €30 million by Aviva Investors, the global asset management business of Aviva plc and an increased investment from Rubicon Capital Advisors.

EasyGo is Ireland’s fastest-growing and largest privately owned EV charge point operator and turnkey solutions provider. Its EV charging network provides access to over 4,000 charging points in 1,500 locations across the island of Ireland. The EasyGo mobile application grew by approximately 2,000 users each month in 2023.

First York puts 12-strong upgraded electrical bus fleet into service featuring Equipmake powertrain

Equipmake, the UK-based engineering specialist pioneering the development and production of electrification products across the automotive, aerospace, bus, coach, and marine industries is working in partnership with First York and has delivered a fleet of 12 upgraded electric buses with all vehicles now in full operation in the city.

The Optare Versa singe-deck models have been converted by Equipmake, incorporating the company’s cutting-edge Zero-Emission Drivetrain (ZED) technology, which in this specification, features a 274kWh capacity battery, providing a range of 150 miles in all UK weather conditions.

The delivery follows on from a successful trial of an initial converted prototype vehicle, which allowed engineering teams at First York and Equipmake to evaluate its performance and make any final adjustments. The completed 12 buses are now in full, reliable service across the city playing a key role in improving York’s urban air quality.

Stuart Eyre, Engineering Manager of First York, said: “Following a successful initial trial, it’s great to see this new fleet of 12 upgraded, all-electric buses operational across York. Equipmake’s repower technology is an important step in our transition to achieving a fully electric fleet in York, continuing to help improve air quality in the city and supporting the goal of First Bus nationally to have a zero-emission fleet by 2035.”

Ian Foley, CEO, Equipmake, said: “We are delighted this 12-strong fleet of repowered Optare Versas is now operating in the city for First York, with all featuring our state-of-the-art electric drivetrain. This is fantastic news for passengers and the people of York, making a significant contribution to local air quality. For operators, repowering existing buses offers an excellent opportunity to achieve zero-emission targets, while making significant cost savings in parallel.”

Equipmake repowers are tailored to specific requirements provided by the operator, with service routes simulated to ensure the optimum battery power level is selected to secure driving ranges of 150 to 250 miles. This range is more than sufficient for a complete duty cycle, allowing buses to be recharged faster, overnight and operate for longer during the day.

The ZED, which is completely modular and scalable and can be applied to single as well as double-decker buses, features Equipmake’s in-house developed electric motor, inverter, and power electronics, combined with the latest in lithium-ion batteries. In addition, one of its most important features is Equipmake’s patented ultra-efficient thermal management system, which maintains all three of the ZED’s key components – the battery pack, motor, and inverter – at an optimum operating temperature, maximising vehicle range.

Featuring an advanced water-glycol cooling circuit, the system provides interior heating during cold conditions with captured thermal energy. When the battery is depleted at the end of a complete duty cycle, it can be recharged at the depot overnight via a CSS DC charging point.

By choosing to repower existing buses using Equipmake’s revolutionary technology and methods, significant cost and environmental benefits are achievable. Each conversion costs less than half of a new electric bus, and with most buses in service for 14 years or more, operators can make significant savings by repowering a bus halfway through its operational life.

Nevo Electric Vehicle Show Electrifies Dublin, Reinforcing Consumer Commitment to Sustainable Transportation

The Nevo Electric Vehicle Show, presented in partnership with the Bank of Ireland, concluded on a high note on Saturday, February 17, 2024, marking the end of an electrifying spectacle that showcased the latest advancements in Electric Vehicles (EVs) from various manufacturers and key suppliers within the EV sector.

Held at The RDS in Dublin, the event attracted a staggering attendance of 12,672 individuals, comprising curious newcomers, industry professionals, and avid EV enthusiasts, firmly establishing its status as a prominent fixture in the Irish automotive calendar, with expectations of its return in the future.

Featuring exclusive Irish car launches, live test drive opportunities, and a dynamic schedule of events on the Bank of Ireland stage, the execution of the event appeared seamless, thanks to the collective efforts of Drive Inc. and the Nevo Team, marking a significant milestone in their event management portfolio. In partnership with AXA Ireland and with the support of ZEVI (Zero Emission Vehicles Ireland), the show was meticulously crafted to provide attendees with a glimpse into the future of sustainable transportation.

The doors opened promptly at 9:30 AM to welcome an eager queue of hundreds of early attendees, setting the tone for a day filled with anticipation and excitement. Within the first hour alone, the exhibition halls buzzed with activity as visitors explored the offerings of over twenty leading automotive brands. Beyond generating substantial leads and genuine interest, many exhibitors reported tangible sales, with numerous deposits secured on-site.

Simon Andreucetti, Head of Growth & Show Organiser, comments:

“We deeply appreciate the overwhelming feedback we have received through various channels, including social media, text messages, and calls, commending the success of the Nevo Electric Vehicle Show over the weekend,” He elaborated. “We take great pride in the fact that every facet of the event was meticulously managed internally by the Nevo team and the broader Drive Inc. team. Through our collective dedication, guided by a clear vision, strategic planning, ownership, and steadfast focus, the outstanding outcome witnessed at the RDS this weekend stands as a testament to our collaborative ethos and unwavering determination.”

Reflecting on the success of the Nevo Electric Vehicle Show, Derek Reilly, General Manager & Show Organiser at Nevo, adds:

“The enthusiasm and dedication exhibited by the electric vehicle community have elevated the Nevo EV Show beyond mere success, transforming it into a vibrant celebration of innovation reflective of our transition towards a more sustainable future”, he remarked. “I was thrilled to host insightful discussions on the main stage and observe first hand the palpable thirst for knowledge and information as we navigate towards an electric future.” Continuing his statement, he added, “Nevo has ambitious plans for 2024 and beyond. As Ireland’s sole dedicated electric vehicle platform, we are equally enthused to collaborate with the Irish automotive industry in fostering the growth and advancement of our collective journey towards a greener tomorrow.”

The Nevo team has demonstrated that the Irish automotive marketplace is poised for transformation, with a clear surge in demand for the latest electric vehicles. The unveiling of various new models at the event elicited a remarkable display of enthusiasm from attendees, who seized the opportunity to gain first-hand insights from industry experts. The Nevo team would like to thank all attendees and exhibitors who contributed to the success of Ireland’s inaugural Electric Vehicle show. Preparations are already underway for the next instalment, promising even greater advancements and experiences, which will be happening in Q4 this year.

Test Drives:

On show day at the RDS, the Nevo team recorded an impressive 205 test drives across a range of 17 available electric vehicles within the designated test-drive zone, each one lasting 15 minutes. Individuals who could not secure a test drive allocation were redirected to the respective brands’ booths, where arrangements could be made for a local dealer test drive.

Nevo EV Show Customer Survey. Infographic attached. 

 Survey data based on 1,119 responses from people who attended the event on 17th February 2024.

 

  • Audience age: 70% in 35 – 64 profile
  • 43% have a household income over €80,000
  • 10% over €150,000
  • 61% did not yet own an EV
  • 43% plan to purchase an EV in the next 3 – 9 months
  • 50% plan to buy an EV in 2025
  • 48% have access to a charger at work
  • 72% wanted to learn more about battery range
  • 52% believe EVs are cost effective
  • 67% see EVs as better for the environment
  • 73% would switch to an EV to save money on fuel costs
  • 61% would switch to environmental damage
  • 50% want to purchase an EV for the latest advances in technology

Yanmar Unveils Concept Model e-X1 for Zero Emission Agriculture

Yanmar Agribusiness Co., Ltd. (Yanmar AG), a subsidiary of Yanmar Holdings, has revealed its e-X1 concept, an electric drive compact electric agricultural machine designed to achieve zero emissions in agriculture.

Within the Yanmar Group, the YANMAR GREEN CHALLENGE 2050 initiative is driving efforts toward realizing a sustainable society. Electric agricultural machines not only offer environmental performance but also the superior quietness and environmental friendliness of electric motors, promising improved working conditions for nighttime, suburban farming, and operations within greenhouses. Yanmar AG has unveiled a prototype of a small electric agricultural machine at a stakeholder event, with a view to commencing market monitoring by 2025.

The machine can accommodate various implements such as rotary tillers and grass cutters at the front and rear, enabling tasks like weeding, snow removal, and cultivating. Opting for crawlers instead of wheels ensures stable operation on slopes and uneven terrain. With no driver’s seat, the machine guarantees operator safety during agricultural tasks through remote control. The incorporation of autonomous driving features is also under consideration.

Yanmar AG plans to initiate market monitoring in 2025 and actively progress toward mass-production through rigorous design and testing, with the goal of contributing to the decarbonization of the agricultural sector.

Compact electric concept e-X1

Model name e-X1
Powertrain Battery electric
Proposed operations Tilling, mowing, ridging, snow removal etc.
Release date Market monitoring is scheduled to start in 2025

 

Concept model of the e-X1 compact electric agricultural machine.

EV Conversion Specialist Electrogenic Celebrates at E-Mobility Awards

Internationally renowned British EV technology company, Electrogenic, enjoyed a successful evening at this year’s prestigious UK E-Mobility Awards – a celebration of innovation and achievement across the sector.

Held at the British Motor Museum, an independent judging panel of industry experts named Electrogenic the overall winner of the ‘Working Vehicle and Conversion EVs’ category, recognising Electrogenic’s sector-leading work in the EV conversion and powertrain development space.

Steve Drummond, CEO Electrogenic, said: “It’s a real honour to be recognised by the prestigious E-Mobility awards and it’s humbling to have our technology chosen and celebrated by our peers in the industry. This award is all about our revolutionary drop-in electric conversion kits, which incorporate our latest technology. This technology is going into new cars, the Defence sector and to discerning classic car owners via our international installer network.”

Electrogenic is a manufacturer of EV drivetrain technology, known the world over for its work converting a wide range of classic cars. These include bespoke, one-off builds, including the recent conversion of a 1929 Rolls-Royce Phantom II to electric power – thought to be the most complex classic car EV conversion yet completed.

Electrogenic also offers revolutionary ‘drop-in’ EV conversion kits, which make it easier than ever before to convert vehicles to clean, efficient and reliable electric drive.  The drop-in kit range features a range of options for models such the Land Rover Defender, Porsche 911 and Jaguar E Type, including a package to economically convert working Land Rovers to full-electric power.  These packages are available to buy globally via Electrogenic’s constantly expanding, partner-installer network. Explore the international partner network here.

Electrogenic also develops drivetrains for car manufacturers and also for the Defence sector in partnership with Babcock International.

Michael McAteer joins leading Irish EV charging company EasyGo

Erapid Charger Company Limited, trading as “EasyGo”, the largest private car charging network operator in Ireland, has today announced the appointment of Michael McAteer, former Managing Partner of Grant Thornton, as a member of its Executive Committee.

With in-depth technical and practical experience across numerous sectors including retail, aviation, leisure, construction and IT, Mr McAteer was Managing Partner of Grant Thornton, from 2018 to 2023, after previously leading the firm’s Advisory Services practice.

Commenting on the news, Chris Kelly, co-founder and CEO of EasyGo said: “This strategic move by one of Ireland’s most prominent business leaders underscores the enormous opportunities, confidence and growth trajectories within the Electric Vehicle (EV) sector, and specifically in EasyGo.

“Our mission is to decarbonise transport by providing accessible and efficient EV charging solutions across Ireland. We welcome Michael’s expertise, experience and insights, as we make a significant leap forward in our expansion plans. By 2032, we will roll out over 3,000 fast DC chargers onto the national charging network while adding over 20,000 commercial AC chargers into apartment buildings, hotels and other key locations.

Mr McAteer added: “I am excited to be part of EasyGo, a company that is playing a pivotal role in delivering a decarbonised transportation future in Ireland. With a focus on sustainability and innovation, EasyGo is well-poised to lead the charge in the EV sector by enhancing infrastructure, network reach and charging options. I look forward to contributing to the company’s continued success.”

In addition, EasyGo has announced that David Fitzgerald will join the company as Chief Revenue Officer, working alongside Gerry Cash, co-founder and commercial director. Mr Fitzgerald has over two decades of experience building and managing high-performing sales platforms across the digital and software sectors for market leaders such as Microsoft and Siemens. His role at EasyGo will be to lead the sales and marketing function for all of the company’s B2B and B2C products and services.

Mr Cash said: “We are delighted to add David to our executive suite. With EV adoption rates continuing to grow, there is an urgent need to expand the charging network nationwide. Building on recent investment and the work EasyGo has delivered to date, David’s deep industry knowledge will no doubt accelerate the delivery of much-needed infrastructure and technology, helping Ireland meet its 2030 Climate Action Plan targets.”

Today’s news follows the recent funding announcement of €30 million by Aviva Investors, the global asset management business of Aviva plc, leading to the creation of 60 new jobs at EasyGo. Last month, Rubicon Capital Advisors, through its asset management business, also announced it has increased its investment in EasyGo to over 50% shareholding, following its initial investment three years ago.

EasyGo is Ireland’s fastest-growing and largest privately owned EV charge point operator and turnkey solutions provider. Its EV charging network provides access to over 4,000 charging points in 1,500 locations across the island of Ireland. The EasyGo app currently has over 60,000 registered subscribers and grew by approximately 2,000 new users each month in 2023.