Don’t Be Worried, It’s Just News

Monday! You better show up with your a-game.

My a-game has always been Monopoly. My dad never let me win as a kid, so now I pass that energy to anybody willing to play.

We aren’t always sure what “bringing your a-game” means, but today it means this: Iron sharpens iron, but not if it isn’t willing to endure a little friction.

Enjoy.

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Hydrogen: Ups and Downs

We saw two hydrogen headlines today on different parts of the optimism-pessimism spectrum.

📈 Advancement in Hydrogen Fuel Cells:

• Innovator: Intelligent Energy
• Product: Ultrathin hydrogen fuel cell
• Output: 157 kW, demonstrating high energy density and efficient space utilization
• Features: Compact and lightweight design, zero emissions (only water vapor)
• Market Position: Positioned as a "commercially viable, turnkey solution."
• Requirement: Calls for an expanded network of hydrogen filling stations for optimal use

📉 Real-World Application Challenges:

• Case Study: Toyota's Mirai model
• Owner Feedback: Frustration due to inadequate refueling infrastructure leading to lawsuits and buyback demands
• Current State: Limited number of operational hydrogen stations, high fuel costs, and rapid vehicle depreciation
• Company Response: Toyota has acknowledged the issues and attempted to address them
• Broader Impact: Highlights significant barriers to the adoption and practicality of hydrogen fuel technology

What does it all mean? The development of Intelligent Energy's hydrogen fuel cell contrasts sharply with the practical challenges experienced by Toyota Mirai owners.

While technological advancements continue to push the boundaries of what's possible, the lack of sufficient infrastructure can significantly hamper widespread adoption.

Chargers, Hydrogen stations, great big solar panels, whatever it is, this push to clean energy mobility has to connect to some clean energy stationary infrastructure, or it will keep tumbling in on itself.

Ford, GM, EVs, and TRUCKS

EVs are up, EVs are down, we're all in, we're backing off. Maybe you'd spend less time adjusting your previous statements if you used less rigid language.

• GM and Ford are focusing on profitable gas-powered trucks amid slowing EV growth.
• U.S. automakers are seeing EV sales slow and Chinese competition speed up.
• ICE Trucks and SUVs are always solid at quarterly report time.

It's not the ONLY game. While GM emphasizes its gas-powered truck sales amidst a slowdown in EV growth, the company is also innovating with its Chevy Silverado EV, introducing a new home energy bundle that transforms the vehicle into a mobile generator, priced at around $7,299.

Slowing how much, tho?? While ABI Research forecasts a 21% increase in global EV sales for 2024, the increase is a smaller increase when compared to previous years, which is what we are calling a slowdown. Really, EV sales are expected to speed up, but slower than when they sped up last year...

SUV, USA, NBA

Polestar launches its electric SUV in Korea, challenging local brands with unique design features. Meanwhile, Kia enhances the EV9 with customizable NBA team interior themes.

He said-she said. But what are they DOING?

• Launch Markets: Polestar 4 was introduced in Korea, while the Kia EV9 was already established in the US market.
• Starting Price: Polestar 4 starts at $56,300 in the US, while the Kia EV9 starts slightly higher at $56,395.
• Range: Polestar 4 offers up to 300 miles of range, comparable to the Kia EV9's higher-end trims, which offer up to 304 miles.
• Innovative Features: Polestar 4 lacks a rear window to maximize interior space; Kia EV9 offers customizable NBA team themes for interior displays.
• Vehicle Updates: Both models support over-the-air updates, enhancing functionality and owner experience post-purchase.

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Well, that’s what we managed to dig up to read today. Hydrogen is moving along. Trucks will always be trucks, and Polestar hopes to make its name in Kia’s hometown.

Check back tomorrow when they all change their minds in small ways that leave us unsure if anybody is actually in charge over there. 😅