Mercedes-Benz has achieved a groundbreaking milestone in electric vehicle technology, demonstrating the immense potential of solid-state batteries. A specially modified Mercedes EQS sedan completed an extraordinary journey of 750 miles on a single charge, with significant range still remaining. This remarkable feat, confirmed by Mercedes' technical leadership, positions solid-state battery technology as a pivotal advancement for the future of electric mobility. The successful real-world test underscores the significant progress in energy density and efficiency, paving the way for EVs that can rival traditional gasoline vehicles in terms of travel distance and convenience.
In February, Mercedes-Benz initially introduced a prototype EQS model featuring a lithium-metal solid-state battery, claiming an estimated real-world driving range of over 620 miles. However, the latest rigorous testing has surpassed these initial projections, with the vehicle far exceeding expectations. Markus Schäfer, Mercedes’ chief technology officer, emphasized the transformative impact of this new battery chemistry, stating that it performs exceptionally well not only in laboratory conditions but also under actual driving scenarios.
The demanding test journey saw the modified EQS travel from Stuttgart, Germany, to Malmö, Sweden, covering a total distance of 1,205 kilometers (approximately 750 miles). Crucially, upon arrival, the vehicle still retained an additional 85 miles of range, highlighting the impressive energy retention capabilities of the solid-state battery system. This extended range capability could alleviate range anxiety, a common concern among electric vehicle users, and make EVs a more viable option for long-distance travel.
Mercedes-Benz reports that the solid-state battery utilized in the test vehicle provided a 25% increase in usable energy compared to conventional batteries, while maintaining a comparable weight and physical footprint to a standard EQS model. This efficiency gain, without a significant penalty in vehicle mass or design, is a crucial factor in practical EV development. The development of this advanced battery technology is a collaborative effort between Mercedes and its Formula 1 supplier, Mercedes-AMG High Performance Powertrains (HPP), leveraging expertise from high-performance automotive engineering.
The battery cells themselves are sourced from Factorial Energy, a US-based company actively engaged in partnerships with several major automotive manufacturers, including Hyundai and Stellantis. Mercedes has publicly stated its ambition to integrate solid-state battery technology into series production vehicles before the end of the current decade. This commitment aligns with the broader industry trend, as numerous global automakers, such as Volkswagen, Toyota, BMW, Nissan, and Honda, are also intensely pursuing the development of solid-state batteries, recognizing them as the 'holy grail' for enhancing EV performance. Leading battery manufacturers like CATL and BYD are also aiming to commercialize this technology around 2027, signaling a competitive race towards a new era of electric vehicle power.
This pioneering achievement by Mercedes-Benz, demonstrating an extended driving range with solid-state batteries, marks a significant leap for the electric vehicle industry. It proves the feasibility of substantial improvements in battery performance, promising greater autonomy and convenience for future EV owners. The successful integration of this technology into production vehicles could accelerate the global transition to electric mobility, offering a cleaner and more efficient alternative to traditional fuel sources.
Dahon, a global leader in the folding bicycle industry, has embarked on a pivotal new phase as its technology-focused subsidiary, Dahon Tech, successfully listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. This significant initial public offering (IPO) represents a major achievement for the four-decade-old pioneer in portable two-wheeled transportation. The public listing is not just a financial triumph but also a strategic move to secure additional capital for fostering cutting-edge innovation and broadening the company's global footprint. It offers a rare glimpse into the operational and financial health of a prominent bicycle manufacturer, underscoring the company's robust market position.
Dahon Tech's Historic Listing on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange Signals Ambitious Future
On September 9, 2025, Dahon, a venerable entity in the global folding bicycle market, marked a monumental occasion with the successful public listing of its technology-focused arm, Dahon Tech, on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. This event, occurring at 7:22 am PT, signifies a transformative moment for the company, which has been at the forefront of folding bike innovation for 40 years. Dr. David Hon, the visionary founder and chairman of Dahon, underscored the strategic importance of this IPO during the bell-ringing ceremony. He articulated that the listing's purpose extends beyond mere capital acquisition; it is fundamentally about propelling innovation and significantly extending the company's market reach. Dr. Hon emphasized their commitment to leveraging this opportunity to capture emerging market trends, deepen their presence in both the Chinese and international arenas, and ultimately deliver sustained returns to their dedicated investors. The market's response was overwhelmingly positive, with Dahon's IPO experiencing an oversubscription rate exceeding 7,500 times, making it one of the most fervently desired \"super subscription\" listings in Hong Kong for the current year. Esteemed institutional investors, including Allianz Global Investors and the Greater Bay Area Development Fund, served as cornerstone investors, injecting nearly $128 million into the company, a testament to their profound confidence in Dahon's future prospects. This enthusiasm is firmly supported by the company's impressive performance metrics. In 2024, Dahon recorded sales of over 229,000 folding bikes, representing a substantial 46% increase from the previous year. This translated into approximately 450 million RMB in revenue (equivalent to US $63 million) and profits surpassing 52 million RMB (approximately US $7.2 million). The growth trajectory has continued into 2025, with revenue climbing by 69% year-over-year in just the first four months. A key factor in Dahon's strong valuation is its unwavering dedication to innovation rather than mere replication. The company proudly holds over 135 active patents, which have historically shaped the technological landscape of folding bicycles. Their latest \"DAHON-V\" technology suite is engineered to enhance performance across various categories, enabling some of their most agile folding bikes to compete with high-performance carbon road bikes. Furthermore, Dahon has begun licensing its proprietary innovations to other brands, thereby amplifying its influence throughout the industry. Looking ahead, Dahon is strategically expanding its product portfolio beyond its core folding bike offerings. The company has already ventured into traditional road bikes and is now making significant inroads into electric bicycles and even light electric motorbikes. This expansion leverages their renowned folding expertise with electrification, aiming to cater to the burgeoning demand for green mobility solutions. Production capabilities are also being substantially boosted. A new manufacturing facility in Tianjin is already operational, and another large-scale plant is slated to commence operations in 2027, promising an additional production capacity of 200,000 units annually. The brand's distribution network now encompasses 680 retail outlets in China and extends to 28 countries globally, complemented by triple-digit growth in e-commerce sales.
This landmark IPO by Dahon serves as a compelling narrative of how a focused commitment to innovation and adaptability can lead to significant success and market recognition. The overwhelming investor interest not only validates Dahon's past achievements but also highlights the immense potential within the evolving personal mobility sector, particularly in electric and compact vehicle solutions. For other manufacturers and startups, Dahon's trajectory offers a powerful lesson: continuous technological advancement and strategic market diversification are crucial for long-term growth and leadership in a competitive global landscape. The company's expansion into electric mobility signifies a forward-thinking approach, recognizing the shift towards sustainable transportation and demonstrating how established brands can reinvent themselves to remain relevant and thrive.
Unplugging from Wireless Ambitions for the Cybertruck
Tesla's Initial Vision for Cable-Free Power
In 2023, Tesla hinted at the possibility of a novel wireless home charging system. An image showcasing such a device was shared during a presentation, fueling speculation that the Cybertruck would be the first Tesla model to integrate this convenient feature. The company's prior acquisition of a wireless charging startup and the integration of some of its personnel further supported these expectations, suggesting a clear intention to explore and implement this technology in their vehicles.
The Technical Roadblock: Ground Clearance and Efficiency
Despite earlier indications, Tesla has officially abandoned its plans for wireless charging on the Cybertruck. The primary reason, according to Wes Morrill, the lead engineer for the Cybertruck project, is the vehicle's elevated stance. Morrill explained that the significant distance between the ground-based transmitter and the vehicle's receiver would drastically diminish charging efficiency, making the technology impractical. He noted that the initial design of the truck's cargo bed also presented depth issues for accessing items, hinting at the challenges of integrating new functionalities with existing design constraints.
Market Realities and Accessory Development Challenges
Beyond technical hurdles, the decision to forgo wireless charging might also stem from the Cybertruck's sales performance. The vehicle has not achieved the sales volumes Tesla initially projected, with current annual figures falling short of expectations. This limited market penetration makes it less economically sensible to invest in and develop specialized accessories, such as a dedicated wireless charging system, for a smaller customer base. The diminished sales prospects likely reduced the incentive for further development in this area.
Industry Trends and Tesla's Broader Wireless Strategy
While Tesla steps back from wireless charging for the Cybertruck, other manufacturers are exploring similar technologies. Porsche, for instance, has announced an optional 11kW inductive charging system for its new electric Cayenne. This contrast highlights differing priorities and technical approaches within the electric vehicle industry. For Tesla, the focus seems to be shifting away from wireless charging for the Cybertruck, and there is now skepticism about whether future projects like the Cybercab will incorporate such features.
Revisiting the Value Proposition of Wireless Charging
The inherent inefficiencies of high-power wireless charging, coupled with the minimal time savings compared to traditional plug-in methods, suggest that the technology addresses a relatively minor problem. While autonomous vehicles might eventually benefit more from such systems, the current advantages do not seem to outweigh the efficiency losses and development costs for Tesla's Cybertruck. This reevaluation of the value proposition ultimately led to the decision to discontinue wireless charging plans for the electric pickup.