Cars

Rimac's Revolutionary Leap: Solid-State Batteries and High-Torque E-Axles Unveiled

Rimac, a name synonymous with high-performance hypercars, has unveiled a significant shift in its business strategy, positioning itself as a pivotal technology supplier for the electric vehicle sector. At the recent IAA Mobility exhibition, the Croatian company showcased cutting-edge solid-state battery technology and advanced e-axle systems, demonstrating its commitment to pushing the boundaries of electric mobility beyond its exclusive vehicle lineup. These innovations underscore Rimac's ambition to influence the wider automotive landscape, providing crucial components that could redefine future electric vehicle design and performance across various segments.

This strategic evolution from an elite hypercar producer to a leading component provider highlights the company's profound engineering capabilities. The new product offerings, which include production-ready solid-state batteries and incredibly powerful e-axles, are not merely conceptual but represent tangible advancements ready for integration into the next generation of electric vehicles. Rimac's transition showcases its vision of driving industry-wide progress, building on its legacy of creating record-breaking vehicles like the Nevera, which stands as a testament to its innovative spirit and technical excellence.

Pioneering Battery Technology: Solid-State and Beyond

Rimac's collaboration with industry leaders ProLogium and Mitsubishi Chemical has resulted in the development of a solid-state battery system that promises significant improvements over current lithium-ion technology. This new system offers reduced weight, enhanced energy density, and superior safety characteristics, addressing key challenges in electric vehicle development. Unlike many theoretical concepts, Rimac emphasizes that this solid-state battery is ready for production, marking a major milestone in battery technology. Complementing this, the company also presented its Evo Battery, featuring advanced NMC 46XX cells, and a versatile Hybrid Battery platform designed for various hybrid applications, showcasing a comprehensive approach to energy storage solutions.

The readiness of Rimac's solid-state battery system for commercial production is a game-changer for the electric vehicle industry. Its lighter weight and higher energy density mean longer ranges and improved vehicle dynamics, while enhanced safety features offer greater peace of mind. This technology, developed in partnership with established players, solidifies Rimac's position as an innovator, moving beyond its hypercar roots to become a critical supplier of advanced components. By offering multiple battery solutions, including the NMC 46XX cell-based Evo Battery and the flexible Hybrid Battery, Rimac is catering to a broad spectrum of electric and hybrid vehicle needs, illustrating its commitment to practical, scalable solutions for the future of transportation.

Redefining Electric Power: Advanced E-Axles

Rimac's innovations extend to the powertrain with the introduction of its new SINTEG 300 and 550 e-axles. These compact yet powerful units deliver up to 360 kW and boast a torque density exceeding 90 Nm/kg, making them versatile enough for applications ranging from compact hatchbacks to larger SUVs. The highlight, however, is the XXL dual-motor e-axle, projected to enter series production in 2026, which promises an astonishing 11,000 Nm of torque. This level of power output is indicative of the technology that underpins high-performance electric vehicles, including Rimac's own Nevera hypercar, attracting considerable attention from collectors and the automotive industry alike.

The new SINTEG 300 and 550 e-axles are designed to be both compact and highly efficient, offering significant power output relative to their size. Their high torque density of over 90 Nm/kg makes them suitable for a diverse range of vehicles, from everyday cars to more robust utility vehicles. The forthcoming XXL dual-motor e-axle, with its projected 11,000 Nm of torque, represents a pinnacle of electric drivetrain engineering, pushing the boundaries of what is achievable in terms of electric power and performance. This technological leap reinforces Rimac's expertise in developing components that enable extreme performance, and its ability to attract significant interest from both the automotive manufacturing sector and the high-end collector market.

Unbeatable September Lease Offer for the 2025 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing

Cadillac's CT5-V Blackwing, a beacon of automotive excellence, combines raw power with sophisticated design, making it a highly coveted vehicle. This September, the opportunity to experience this high-performance sedan has become more attainable through an enticing lease offer. With its formidable supercharged V8 engine and the rare inclusion of a manual transmission option, the Blackwing offers an unparalleled driving sensation that appeals to enthusiasts and luxury seekers alike.

The current lease promotion for the 2025 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing features a monthly payment of $1,647 for a 48-month term, predicated on a down payment of $3,500 and an annual mileage allowance of 10,000 miles. Although some 2025 models may still be available with a slightly different monthly payment of $1,666 under similar terms, the emphasis is on making this elite sedan more accessible. It's important for interested parties to note that these figures exclude taxes and other potential fees, and regional variations may apply. Cadillac encourages prospective customers to verify offers by entering their zip code on the official website to receive the most precise payment estimations.

The CT5-V Blackwing, introduced in the 2022 model year as the successor to the esteemed Cadillac CTS-V, stands out with its supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine, delivering an impressive 668 horsepower and 659 pound-feet of torque to the rear wheels. Drivers can choose between a six-speed manual or a 10-speed automatic transmission. This powerhouse can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in a mere 3.4 seconds with the automatic transmission, or 3.6 seconds with the manual. For the 2025 model year, the Blackwing received aesthetic enhancements, including a refreshed front fascia and a state-of-the-art 33-inch LED touchscreen display in the interior. The 2026 model further refines its offerings with a new Parking Package and the integration of blind-spot steering assist as a standard safety feature, alongside exclusive customized versions under the 'Curated by Cadillac' program.

Owning a vehicle of the Blackwing's caliber represents a significant investment, yet its distinctive blend of American muscle and refined handling offers exceptional value. It stands as one of the last remaining new cars to offer a manual transmission, a feature increasingly rare in today's market. This combination of robust power, sophisticated handling, and engagement through a manual gearbox makes the CT5-V Blackwing a unique proposition, embodying a legacy of automotive passion and precision that transcends mere transportation to become a profound driving experience.

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Considering a 2025 Nissan Pathfinder? Explore These Competitors

When in the market for a three-row SUV, a category highly favored by families and those requiring substantial cargo capacity, numerous compelling choices beyond the Nissan Pathfinder emerge. While the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder offers a commendable package with its spacious interior and solid performance at an attractive price, several competitors present features that might be more appealing.

A closer look at the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder reveals a vehicle with a rich history of over four decades, now in its fifth iteration. It comes equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, delivering between 284 and 295 horsepower and 259 to 270 lb-ft of torque. Its towing capacity stands at an impressive 6,000 lbs., and it achieves a combined fuel efficiency of 21-23 mpg. Standard features on the base model include tri-zone automatic climate control, 18-inch wheels, and an 8-inch touchscreen with smartphone integration. Higher trims offer a larger 9-inch screen, wireless charging, heated front seats, and an optional dashcam. In contrast, the 2025 Kia Telluride, despite awaiting a full redesign in 2026, continues to garner accolades. It provides a 3.8-liter V6 engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission, producing 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of up to 5,500 lbs. Fuel economy for the Telluride ranges from 20-22 mpg combined. Its extensive trim levels, starting from $36,390, offer amenities from a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen to Nappa leather upholstery and heated/ventilated rear seats in top-tier models, alongside a generous 87 cubic feet of cargo space.

Moving on to the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse, which underwent a significant redesign for the 2024 model year, it distinguishes itself with seating for up to eight passengers and a third row comfortable for adults. Power comes from a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine generating 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque, matched with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offers a 5,000 lbs. towing capacity and boasts an expansive 98.2 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded. Standard features across all trims include a 17.7-inch touchscreen and wireless smartphone charging. Lastly, the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas, refreshed in 2024, is available in five trims and starts at $39,310. It seats up to seven passengers and features a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Most Atlas models can tow up to 5,000 lbs., with the base SE model rated at 2,000 lbs. Inside, it offers leatherette seating, heated and ventilated front seats, a 12-inch touchscreen, and up to 96.6 cubic feet of cargo space. Its fuel efficiency is estimated between 18-20 mpg city and 25-26 mpg highway.

Ultimately, the choice of a family SUV is a personal one, influenced by a blend of practical needs and desired luxuries. While the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder remains a strong contender with its value proposition, the Chevrolet Traverse and Volkswagen Atlas present compelling advantages in cargo volume and upscale features. The Kia Telluride, despite its impending redesign, continues to offer a highly regarded option. Exploring these alternatives can empower buyers to make an informed decision that perfectly aligns with their family's lifestyle, ensuring not just transportation, but a comfortable and capable companion for all of life's adventures.

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