Electric Vehicles

Battery X Metals (BATXF) is targeting aging EV batteries with its rebalancing technology, focusing on Nissan Leaf, the second-largest out-of-warranty EV cohort in the U.S. Partnering with Factor E Motors, the company’s Prototype 2.0 demonstrated 54% capacity restoration in NRC tests, aiming to undercut battery replacement costs by 60-70%. Targeting a $900M+ North American market by 2028, plans include expanding to Ford and Chevy models by 2026. The approach could reduce lithium demand by 18,000 tons annually, aligning with sustainability goals. CEO Massimo Bressi emphasizes adaptability as global EV sales hit 17.1 million units, positioning Battery X as a battery health leader amid rising replacement costs.

Shenlan Auto CEO Deng Chenghao defended hidden door handles as emblematic of EV innovation amid China’s MIIT safety review, which highlights emergency risks like mechanical failures. Deng cited aerodynamic benefits (3% drag reduction) and cost efficiencies, asserting Shenlan’s rotating mechanisms ensure reliable emergency access. Global regulators weigh sleek design against proven safety, with traditional handles showing higher recognition in crises. Proposed standards could add ¥150-300 per vehicle for safety redundancies, contrasting with assembly-line savings. The debate reflects China’s automotive pivot: balancing Silicon Valley-inspired minimalism with engineering rigor to meet decarbonization goals while addressing emergency access concerns globally.

Xiaomi’s investment partner Pan Jiutang dismissed online “conspiracy theories” targeting its chip subsidiary Xuanjie, defending the company’s transparency and $1.9 billion semiconductor R&D investment since 2021. Following CEO Lei Jun’s 2021 dual strategy to enter EVs and revive chip development, Xuanjie has expanded its engineering team to 2,500, with 2024 R&D spending projected at $827 million. Pan emphasized this positions Xiaomi among China’s top semiconductor designers. The company also unveiled its Xuanjie O1 chip, a 3nm-process SoC claiming flagship performance to rival Qualcomm and MediaTek, while urging public support against “baseless” criticism.

Auburn Hills, Mich., May 16, 2025 – Jeep retains its 24-year streak as America’s Most Patriotic Brand in Brand Keys’ survey, valued for emotional ties to freedom and rugged individualism. With a 17-year USO partnership and military-centric incentives, the brand blends heritage (evident in its iconic seven-slot grille) and innovation, highlighted by the electric Wagoneer S. Surpassing product specs, Jeep’s identity thrives as a cultural symbol amid shifting consumer priorities. Full Top 50 list releases June 9.