Advances in EVs, Drones, and Energy: A Snapshot of Progress Across Nations
Dear readers,
Changan Auto in China has secured a USD 824 million investment from its largest shareholders to advance its shift to new energy vehicles.
China faces a shortage of licensed drone pilots despite having 1.88 million registered drones and a growing demand in industries like agriculture and environmental monitoring. Training programs at institutions such as Nantong Vocational University aim to address this gap, preparing over 400 certified pilots since 2016.
Hyundai Motor India plans to establish 600 EV fast-charging stations nationwide within seven years, focusing on highways and major cities. By the end of 2024, over 50 DC fast-charging stations are expected to be operational.
In Tokyo, improper use of electric scooters has led to safety concerns on the Metropolitan Expressway.
Pakistan’s Atom Power has launched its first locally assembled lithium-ion batteries, aiming to revolutionize energy storage.
Taiwan and Oklahoma have signed a cooperation agreement to enhance collaboration in semiconductors, drones, and energy resilience.
Rivian's stock rose over 10% following analysts’ optimistic projections about its competitiveness in the EV market.
Taiwan’s rising EV numbers face challenges in charging infrastructure, especially in older buildings and rural areas.
Tainan City has introduced eight new tourist routes, enhancing the appeal of its tourism factories with updated attractions and better transport options.
Xingyu Airlines has obtained certification for lithium battery transportation, becoming the first in Taiwan to meet international standards.
Jürgen Germeys
China
Yicai Global | English | News
Changan Automobile has secured CNY6 billion (USD824 million) from its three largest shareholders to boost its transition to new energy vehicles (NEVs). The company will issue new shares at CNY11.78 (USD1.62), a 16% discount from its December 6 closing price, with new shares not exceeding 30% of total shares. Following this funding announcement, Changan Auto's stock rose by 0.6% to CNY14.07 (USD1.94).
China Daily | English | News
The rapid growth of drone applications in China has spurred a significant demand for licensed pilots. Nantong Vocational University is a leader in drone education in Jiangsu province, training over 400 pilots since 2016, all of whom are now certified by the Civil Aviation Administration of China. This certification not only enhances career prospects but also highlights the increasing relevance of drone technology in the job market.
New regulations implemented by the State Council and the Central Military Commission, effective January 1, mandate that operators of medium and large civilian drones must be licensed. Instructor Wang Daoyu emphasizes that Nantong's training includes both theoretical and practical flight instruction, equipping students with crucial skills for industry success. The university has also initiated programs for over 200 ex-military personnel and firefighters in the past two years.
Drones are making significant impacts across various industries, including agriculture, environmental monitoring, geospatial mapping, firefighting, and power equipment maintenance. The current count of 1.88 million registered drones in China contrasts with only 225,000 licensed operators. Projections suggest that the number of consumer and industrial drones could hit 26 million by 2035, indicating a bright future for aspiring drone pilots.
India
Hindu Business Line | English | News
Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) plans to establish approximately 600 public electric vehicle (EV) fast charging stations across India over the next seven years, targeting key highways and major cities to bolster EV infrastructure amid rising demand. The company aims to have over 50 DC fast public charging stations operational by the end of 2024, located at highways, cities, and dealerships.
Japan
電動キックボード「暴走」なんと首都高まで ルール無視が多発する中「一部の利用者」とLuup社長は語り
Tokyo Shimbun | Local Language | News
An electric scooter user illegally traveled approximately 1 kilometer on the Metropolitan Expressway in Shibuya, Tokyo. Despite warnings about the illegality of such actions, violations persist, raising concerns among users on social media.
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Since April, the Metropolitan Expressway has reported seven incidents of electric scooters improperly entering the roadway, with a video showing users merging into traffic. A spokesperson warned that further illegal activities could lead to police involvement. Meanwhile, the president of an electric scooter sharing company believes these violations are not widespread and could be addressed effectively.
Pakistan
Business Recorder | English | News
Atom Power Limited has launched Pakistan's first locally assembled lithium-ion batteries, aiming to transform the country’s energy storage sector. Based in Karachi, the company plans to establish a cell-level manufacturing plant by the second quarter of 2025, marking a significant advancement for Pakistan’s industrial and energy frameworks. In the next phase, Atom Power will incorporate locally purified graphite and other materials to enhance sustainability and efficiency.
As a subsidiary of Wavetec, Atom Power leverages its parent company’s strategic insights and credibility to bolster its market presence. The batteries result from extensive R&D led by Dr. Kamran, emphasizing local material sourcing to reduce import dependency and support the domestic economy.
Taiwan
經部與奧克拉荷馬州簽合作協議 深化無人機交流
Central News Agency | Local Language | News
The Ministry of Economic Affairs of Taiwan has signed the "Taiwan-Oklahoma Economic, Energy and Trade Cooperation Agreement" with Oklahoma, USA, focusing on collaboration in semiconductors, drones, artificial intelligence, critical minerals, and energy resilience. Economic Minister Kuo Chi-hui noted Oklahoma's importance as a partner in Taiwan's five trustworthy industries due to its strong industrial clusters and resources.
Governor Kevin Stitt emphasized Oklahoma's position as a U.S. drone industry hub, citing its infrastructure, skilled workforce, and energy abundance. The agreement aims to strengthen trade, investment, and industrial partnerships, enhancing the Taiwan-U.S. economic relationship and facilitating a high-efficiency supply chain ecosystem.
Trade between Taiwan and Oklahoma has nearly doubled since 2016, with both parties optimistic about expanding industrial links post-agreement. An Oklahoma delegation will engage with Taiwanese companies and officials, reinforcing cooperation in key sectors. The enduring relationship, established in 1980, is supported by recent legislative resolutions in Oklahoma that celebrate the friendship and promote Taiwan's international participation.
Rivian獲分析師唱多 在電動車市場競爭力可期
Yahoo Finance | Local Language | News
Rivian, a U.S. electric vehicle manufacturer, is seeing a positive market outlook as analysts predict significant growth in the electric vehicle sector over the next decade. Following this optimism, Rivian's stock rose over 10%, with Benchmark analysts upgrading its rating to "buy" and setting a target price of $18, a 38% increase from the prior day's close. This optimism is attributed to Rivian’s innovative technology, unique products, and strong management reputation.
Analysts foresee improvements in Rivian’s technical capabilities and cost reductions, anticipating a positive gross profit margin by the fourth quarter. With over $6 billion in cash, Rivian has a solid balance sheet to support short-term operations. The electric vehicle production landscape in the U.S. is expected to intensify by 2025, with improvements in vehicle infrastructure and a decrease in average selling prices.
電動車數量增！ 但大多車主難換電動車原因卡在這
Yahoo Finance | Local Language | News
The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) in the past two years has been significant, but car owners face substantial barriers to adopting them. A major challenge is the limited availability of charging stations outside of major urban centers. Additionally, installing charging equipment in older community buildings is complicated by resident opinions, funding limitations, and regulatory hurdles.
就要醬玩 黃偉哲：臺南全新觀光工廠八大旅遊明智之選
NOWnews | Local Language | News
Tainan City has launched eight new tourist routes, enhancing experiences at its 22 tourism factories. These routes, updated by the City Economic Development Bureau, feature newly developed attractions and essential public transportation information for easier navigation. Mayor Huang Weizhe highlights that the routes reflect the unique characteristics of each factory, making them appealing for visitors.
星宇獲鋰電池運輸認證且是國內首家 5架A350F貨機2027交機
United Daily News | Local Language | News
Xingyu Airlines has achieved the IATA CEIV Lithium Batteries certification, becoming the first and only airline in Taiwan to do so. This certification demonstrates the airline's commitment to international standards in operational procedures and personnel professionalism, particularly in response to the growing demand for lithium battery transport in e-commerce.