Manufacturing

Benchmark Electronics appoints Glynis A. Bryan, former CFO of Insight Enterprises, to its Board of Directors. Bryan brings over 20 years of financial experience, including strategic growth and M&A expertise. She also serves on the boards of Ameriprise Financial, Pinnacle West Capital, and WESCO International. Benchmark’s leadership welcomes her financial acumen and strategic oversight to enhance decision-making and long-term goals.

CATL has commenced mass production of its 587Ah battery cells, heralding a new era in energy storage. These cells feature high energy density (435Wh/L), a 95.5% RTE, and a 25-year lifespan, along with enhanced safety measures. Integrated with the “Tianheng” system, they improve system returns and reduce self-discharge related malfunctions. Production occurs at CATL’s Jining “Lighthouse Factory,” emphasizing sustainability and advanced manufacturing.

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick testified before Congress, indicating potential renegotiations of the Biden administration’s semiconductor subsidies under the CHIPS Act due to concerns of overgenerosity. The administration is reevaluating grants, aiming for better returns on investment, and hinting at cancellation of some deals. TSMC’s increased investment commitment is cited as a positive example. The industry anticipates the impact of revisions impacting future semiconductor independence.