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Two weeks before the public gets its official debut of the upcoming EX30 small SUV, Volvo continues to trickle new tidbits of information to us to build anticipation. This morning, the automaker shared that the upcoming SUV represents its lowest total carbon footprint to date, reducing its environmental impact by a huge fraction compared to its current EV models.

It’s only been 14 days since Volvo began teasing the debut (and the compact size) of its latest model, dubbed the EX30. So far, we know the small SUV will be targeted toward a younger demographic, those who prefer to shop online.

Volvo Cars CEO Jim Rowan previously relayed the new SUV would arrive at a “really nice price point” for an entry-level EV that will be smaller than a C40 Recharge with a decent range. Rowan also described the EX30 as “very safe,” a factor Volvo elaborated further upon last week.

The automaker said the small SUV was designed with the safety we’ve come to expect from Volvo, with an added focus on protection for people inside and out of the EV in crowded city settings. While Volvo takes pride in its reputation for safety, it is also working to establish itself as a leading automaker in sustainability, vowing to go all-electric and become entirely carbon neutral by 2040.

Today, Volvo is touting a large breakthrough in reducing CO₂ emissions throughout an EV’s entire life cycle as the EX30 SUV will arrive as its lowest carbon footprint vehicle to date.

According to an update from Volvo Cars early this morning, it has successfully lowered the emissions across the production and estimated life cycle (200,000 km or 125k miles) to under 30 tons (based upon usage of charging electricity from the EU27 electricity mix).

Volvo states this is a 25% decrease in overall CO₂ emissions compared to its C40 and XC40 Recharge EVs. The automaker also says this decrease shows tremendous progress in lowering carbon emissions per car by 2025. Volvo Cars’ global head of sustainability, Anders Kärrberg, elaborated:

Our new EX30 is a big step in the right direction for our sustainability ambitions. By 2025, we aim to reduce our overall CO₂ emissions per car by 40 percent from 2018 levels through a 50 percent reduction in overall tailpipe emissions, and a 25 percent reduction in emissions from our operations, raw material sourcing and supply chain–all on the way towards our ambition of being a climate neutral company by 2040.

So how was Volvo able to cut the emissions of its upcoming small SUV by a quarter? First, a smaller vehicle requires less material – that’s an easy one – but the automaker also used less steel and aluminum in the EX30 while prioritizing more recycled materials. Volvo says about 25% of the aluminum and 17% of the steel used to produce the SUV is recycled.

Additionally, roughly 17% of all plastics inside and out of the car are recycled and tally together as the highest percentage in any Volvo vehicle to date. Lastly, the EX90 will be assembled in a facility that is powered by high levels of climate-neutral energy, including 100% climate-neutral electricity.

With 95% of Volvo’s Tier 1 suppliers already committed to using 100% renewable energy in their production by 2025, Volvo’s sustainability will continue to expand beyond its own walls, paving the way for future EVs that will produce even fewer carbon emissions across their entire life span.

The Volvo EX30 small SUV is scheduled to make its global debut on June 7. Be sure to check back with Electrek for the latest news surrounding this new EV model.

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Solid-state EV batteries are on the way — Mercedes’ partner plans deliveries by 2025

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Solid-state EV batteries are on the way — Mercedes' partner plans deliveries by 2025

Solid-state EV batteries will be here before you know it, Mercedes-backed Farasis Energy claims. During a recent investor meeting, Farasis said it will begin delivering solid-state EV batteries by the end of 2025.

Farasis Energy will deliver solid-state EV batteries in 2025

The new battery tech, promising to unlock more driving range, faster charging, and longer life-spans, is finally moving from the lab to the real world.

Farasis Energy confirmed during the meeting, held on September 15, that its all-solid-state EV batteries are now entering pilot production and delivery. The company is building a 0.2 GWh pilot line for the new sulfide-based solid-state batteries, with deliveries set to begin by the end of 2025.

In a filing released the following day, viewed by IT Home, the company said it’s fully committed to bringing the new battery tech to market.

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Farasis uses a high-nickel ternary cathode and a high-silicon anode, claiming an energy density of 400 to 500 Wh/kg.

The report said R&D has progressed “smoothly,” and the company plans to begin deliveries by the end of 2025. Initially, they will be delivered in small batches to select customers.

Solid-state-EV-batteries-2025
(Source: Farasis Energy)

Meanwhile, Farasis’ second-gen sulfide-based all-solid-state EV batteries are moving past the tech development phase. The second-gen batteries have an energy density of 500 Wh/kg, which would be among the highest in the industry. It’s expected to roll out in 2026.

In 2027, the company plans to launch the third-generation, promising to unlock an energy density of over 500 Wh/kg.

Solid-state-EV-batteries-2025
Mercedes EQS modified with a solid-state battery (Source: Mercedes-Benz)

The report claims that the semi-solid-state batteries only cost 5% to 10% more than liquid batteries, and Farasis expects shipments to ramp up significantly next year.

Just this year, Farasis Energy said it has secured new clients, including XPeng, GAC Group, and “a leading domestic new energy commercial vehicle client” for its core products, SPS (Super Pouch Solution) batteries, and semi-solid state batteries.

Solid-state-EV-batteries-2025
Farasis Energy all-solid-state EV battery (Source: Farasis Energy)

The company plans to expand overseas and into new segments, including humanoid robots. Farasis is already using all-solid-state batteries in humanoid robots and has sent samples to leading humanoid robot companies.

Mercedes-Benz bought a stake in Farasis Energy in 2020 to secure battery supply for its upcoming electric vehicles.

Mercedes-solid-state-EV-batteries
A modified Mercedes EQS with solid-state batteries travels 750 miles (1,205 km) on a single charge (Source: Mercedes-Benz)

The news comes after Mercedes announced just last week that it drove an EQS, equipped with solid-state batteries, from Stuttgart, Germany, to Malmö, Sweden, covering 750 miles (1,205 km). Mercedes said the vehicle still had another 85 miles of range to go. US-based Factorial Energy supplied the battery cells.

Mercedes’ tech boss, Markus Schäfer, called solid-state batteries “a true gamechanger” for electric vehicles. Schäfer added the new battery tech “delivers not only in the lab but also on the road.”

Farasis Energy, Mercedes-Benz, and Factorial Energy are just a few of the companies racing to unlock the “holy grail” of EV batteries. Toyota, Volkswagen, Stellantis, and Honda, to name a few, are aiming to launch solid-state batteries by the end of the decade. BYD and CATL are reportedly aiming for around 2027.

Earlier this week, SK On said it plans to commercialize all-solid-state batteries by 2029, a year ahead of schedule.

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Bluetti power station + alternator charger bundles up to $1,000 off, Heybike Golden Fall e-bike sale offers $600+ savings, more

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Bluetti power station + alternator charger bundles up to ,000 off, Heybike Golden Fall e-bike sale offers 0+ savings, more

We’ve got plenty of Green Deals to help you enjoy far more in fall, headlined by Bluetti’s power station and alternator charger bundles for on-the-go backup support with exclusive pricing starting from $618. There’s also Heybike’s Golden Fall e-bike sale that you can jump on to travel around your town or beyond and enjoy the changing season – with deals starting from $999. We also have tools from EGO and Husqvarna, as well as some travel-friendly devices like portable water heaters, projectors, and ongoing sales waiting for you below. And don’t forget about all the hangover deals collected at the bottom of the page, like yesterday’s Jackery 72-hour sale that dropped the Explorer 2000 Plus 400W solar bundle to a new low, Velotric’s Ride into Fall e-bike Sale, and more.

Head below for other New Green Deals we’ve found today and, of course, Electrek’s best EV buying and leasing deals. Also, check out the new Electrek Tesla Shop for the best deals on Tesla accessories.

Bluetti’s power station and alternator charger bundles see up to $1,000 in savings with exclusive pricing from $618

As part of its ongoing Anniversary Power Week Sale, which we’ve touched on for the brand’s outdoor adventure solutions and the full lineup of exclusive Apex 300 deals, Bluetti also has a collection of alternator charger bundles with up to $1,000 in savings that are worth considering for our constant on-the-go readers. Leading the lineup, there is Bluetti’s new Apex 300 Portable Power Station bundled with an Alternator Charger 1 at $1,619.10 shipped, after using the exclusive code 9TO5TOYS10F at checkout for an additional $180 in savings, beating out Amazon’s currently $1,799 pricing. This bundle would fetch 2,699 outside of discounts, with a higher $2,799 pricing at Amazon. Since its release at the top of August, this bundle has only been dropped between $2,099 and $1,799 outside of the exclusive savings on the series that is continuing with this sale. You’ll not only be getting $1,080 cut from the tag, but you’ll be getting the all-time lowest price we have tracked to date. Head below for the full lineup of discounted bundles.

Two quick notes on the deals we’re seeing during Bluetti’s Anniversary Power Week Sale. First, the exclusive code is only eligible on Apex 300 offers, with the full lineup of bundle options available in our original coverage here. Second, purchasing any of the alternator charger bundles below scores members 3x Bluetti Bucks, which can be used for various extra savings and other promotions.

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Whether you’re just enjoying weekend getaways from home or committing to your van life, scoring these power stations with an alternator charger ensures continuous power, especially as you migrate to new destinations. With Bluetti’s Apex 300 power station and alternator charger 1 bundle you’ll be getting the brand’s largest starting setup amongst the bunch, with a 2,764.8Wh LiFePO4 capacity (that’s rated for a 17-year lifespan) that you can invest in over time to expand as high as 58kWh, which can seriously cover home backup needs too. The station dishes out a steady 3,840W stream of power through its 13 port options, surging up to 7,680W and will go higher up to 11.52kW with expanded setups.

Aside from the recharging you’ll get from the bundled alternator charger, there are other options to top off the station’s battery for added versatility, including passthrough charging when connected to a gas generator. Plugging it into any standard AC outlet can put it back to 80% capacity in 45 minutes after you’ve activated its Turbo mode, or you can also use your car’s auxiliary port (if you ever forget the alternator charger), as well as utilizing up to the max 2,400W solar input.

Bluetti’s Anniversary Sale alternator charger bundles:

As I mentioned, we also have some spotlight coverage of Bluetti’s current power station deals and solar generator bundles to power your outdoor adventures – some of which are at new lows – starting from $369. We also have the full lineup of exclusive new lows on the Apex 300 station and its many bundle options starting from $1,529.

man and woman on heybike mars 2.0 e-bikes on beach

Heybike kickstarts the season with its Golden Fall Sale and up to $600 e-bike discounts with FREE gear starting from $999

Heybike has launched its Golden Fall Sale through September 28, which is offering up to $600 off e-bikes on top of the free bundled gear some models receive. Of course, the ride with the most options these days is Heybike’s Mars 2.0 Folding e-bike that starts from $999 shipped, with varying upgraded motor and extra battery bundle options, as well as its new Mars 3.0 Folding e-bike that recently hit the scene. The standard model carries a $1,499 MSRP, though with the frequency of sales from the brand, we often see it dropped down between $1,099 and $999, with occasional falls lower to $899 in short-term flash sales. During this seasonal event, you can hop aboard your own with a $500 discount (and that’s not even counting the bundled front and rear cargo baskets) that provides the second-lowest price we have tracked. Head below for more info on this model, as well as its upgrades/bundles, and the rest of the sale’s lineup.

If you want to learn about the varying capabilities of these Mars e-bikes, or check out the full lineup of deals, be sure to check out our original coverage of this sale here.

man pressing button to wind EGO's 56V 15-inch cordless POWERLOAD string trimmer

This 56V 15-inch EGO cordless string trimmer comes with a POWERLOAD head for easier line replacement at $254

Amazon is offering the EGO Power+ 56V 15-inch Cordless POWERLOAD String Trimmer with 4.0Ah battery for $254.15 shipped. This model usually fetches $299 with no discounts and hasn’t been seeing that many over the year either. The ones we have seen have mostly kept costs above $269, with a short-term fall to $239 in June and the deal we’re seeing today. While it’s not the lowest we’ve tracked in its history, you are still looking at the second-best price of the year with the $45 savings that’s been cut from the tag.

If you want to learn more about this string trimmer, be sure to check out our original coverage of this deal here.

husqvarna 330iKE Combi Switch with edger attachment

Get more versatility with Husqvarna’s 330iKE Combi Switch bundled with a lawn edger attachment at $324

Amazon is offering the Husqvarna 330iKE Combi Switch and Lawn Edger Attachment for $324.52 shipped. It’s coming down from its $419 price tag here, with the discounts we’ve been seeing since March having only dropped costs as low as $336. You’re looking at a 23% markdown here while the savings last that cut $94 off the tag for the best price we have tracked in the last 6 1/2 months.

If you want to learn more about this versatile system, be sure to check out our original coverage of this deal here.

two men and woman sit outdoors next to van with camplux nano 3 pro portable water heater and camping shower

Get hot water on demand anywhere with Camplux’s Nano 3 Pro portable heater and shower at $340

Looking in on Camplux’s official Amazon storefront, you’ll currently find the brand’s Nano 3 Pro Portable Water Heater and Camping Shower at $339.99 shippedafter clipping the on-page 15% off coupon, and you’ll also be eligible for a FREE dual-fuel portable stove (which you’ll find under the “Benefit items” option to the left side of the page). Fetching $400 without discounts, we saw savings regularly keeping this model between $360 and $342 for most of 2025, though there were two previous falls to this rate in March and April, as well as a drop to its $320 low during July’s Prime Day event. You can pick it up here with $60 slashed from the tag, landing it at the second-lowest price we have tracked. Head below for more on this model and its upgraded counterparts.

If you want to learn more about this handy water heating solution, be sure to check out our original coverage of this deal here.

woman pulling out Anker Nebula capsule 3 projector from backpack pocket

Stream on up to a 120-inch 1080p screen anywhere with Anker’s Nebula Capsule 3 Google TV projector at $380

Through the official Anker Amazon storefront, you can pick up the brand’s Nebula Capsule 3 GTV Outdoor Projector for $379.99 shipped. You’d have to shell out $530 for this model at full price, which has been frequently bouncing between $400 and $380 over 2025, save for the one-time $360 Prime Day low back in July. Aside from that one-off deal, you’ll be getting it here at the next-best price with $150 cut from the tag, making it a great chance to add it to your travel kits, camping gear, and more. There’s also the option to grab the more advanced laser projector variant at $579.98 shipped, down from $750.

If you want to learn more about this projector, be sure to check out our original coverage of this deal here.

Best Fall EV deals!

Best new Green Deals landing this week

The savings this week are also continuing to a collection of other markdowns. To the same tune as the offers above, these all help you take a more energy-conscious approach to your routine. Winter means you can lock in even better off-season price cuts on electric tools for the lawn while saving on EVs and tons of other gear.

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Panasonic has battery that can give Tesla Model Y 450 miles of range

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Panasonic has battery that can give Tesla Model Y 450 miles of range

Panasonic, the Japanese manufacturing giant, says it is working on a new battery cell that can add 90 miles of range to the Tesla Model Y – pushing it to over 450 miles (725 km).

Of course, it could also just use fewer batteries and reduce the weight of the vehicle or other EVs.

Panasonic deserves considerable credit for the electric revolution in the automotive industry this millennium.

When Tesla sought to incorporate Li-ion batteries into electric vehicles, Panasonic was the only battery cell manufacturer to join the effort.

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The partnership helped Panasonic significantly expand its battery business, but Korean and Chinese battery cell manufacturers soon surpassed it.

Now, the company is looking to catch up with a new novel battery chemistry.

Panasonic’s proposed design eliminates the anode during manufacturing. Instead, a lithium metal anode forms naturally inside the cell after the first charge. This approach frees up space for more active cathode materials — nickel, cobalt, and aluminum — increasing capacity without changing the overall cell volume.

The company believes that it will result in a 25% increase in energy density, which could add about 90 miles of range on a Model Y (via Reuters):

If achieved, the improvement would lead to a 25% increase in battery capacity, thus boosting the driving range of Tesla’s most affordable sport-utility vehicle, the Model Y, by almost 90 miles (about 145 km), at current battery pack size, Panasonic said.

Panasonic states that the new battery technology will be available by the end of 2027. It didn’t discuss cost.

Electrek’s Take

I’m always wary of “battery breakthrough” announcements, as they rarely pan out to anything substantial, but if they can deliver a 25% increase in energy density at a reasonable cost with longevity, it could be a winner.

The problem is that new batteries generally fail in one of those aspects.

I hope it’s not the case for this project because competition is good, and I’d like to see Panasonic put some pressure on the Chinese and Korean battery manufacturers.

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