LISLE, Ill. and MIAMI, Flo. – Mobico Group has announced that it has reached an agreement for the sale of its School Bus division, National Express School (NEXS) to I Squared Capital, a specialist global infrastructure investor. The acquisition, which is anticipated to close in the third quarter of this year, will involve all brands associated with NEXS, including Durham School Services, Petermann Bus, and Stock Transportation.

As one of the largest student transportation companies in North America, NEXS is a transportation leader with over 100+ years of experience in the industry with a renowned history of safe and reliable transportation service. With its high-visibility contracting model and sticky revenue streams, NEXS looks forward to embarking on a new chapter of growth in partnership with I Squared while retaining our market-leading safety record and brand heritage.

Tim Wertner, CEO of National Express School, said, “This transfer of ownership will allow us to stand on a much stronger financial foundation for a wider spectrum of new opportunities and growth to benefit our stakeholders, valued partners, and prospects, as well as reinforce our position as a transportation leader and flourish to even greater heights. With I Squared Capital’s strong reputation and support of our Company, we firmly believe they will be an outstanding steward for us, and we look forward to furthering our footprint in the student transportation industry together.”

Gautam Bhandari, Global Chief Investment Officer and Managing Partner at I Squared, said: “School transportation is more than just a daily commute. It’s a vital link to education, which underpins a functioning society regardless of the economic cycle. As infrastructure specialists, I Squared has specific expertise in providing vital public services, including public transport. Our investment will provide the capital needed to upgrade equipment and maintain safe, efficient transportation for children using this essential service so parents can rest assured each time their family member travels. We are proud to add this critical business to our portfolio and look forward to continuing to support its growth in North America.”

About National Express School
National Express School (NEXS) is the North American subsidiary of Mobico Group, one of the premier global mobility firms. We operate across 34 states and two provinces. Our organizations share a strong commitment to provide the highest level of safety, quality, outstanding customer service and positive employee relations. National Express School serves more than 400 school districts and contracts in 30 states and two provinces, and transports more than 1.2 million students on a daily basis.

About I Squared Capital
I Squared Capital is a leading global infrastructure investor managing over $40 billion in assets. We build and scale essential infrastructure businesses that deliver critical services to millions of people worldwide. Our portfolio includes over 90 companies operating in more than 70 countries and spanning sectors such as energy, utilities, digital infrastructure, transport, environmental and social infrastructure. Headquartered in Miami, our team of over 300 professionals is based across offices in Abu Dhabi, London, Munich, New Delhi, São Paulo, Singapore, Sydney and Taipei. Learn more at www.isquaredcapital.com.

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I Squared Capital has reached an agreement to purchase all National Express School divisions and assets from the UK’s Mobico Group for $608 million U.S., including over 14,000 school buses operated by Durham School Services, Petermann and Stock Transportation.

The deal was announced Friday but had been expected by industry insiders for nearly 18 months. I Squared said it expects to finalize the acquisition of the Durham, Petermann Transportation and Stock brands by the end of its third quarter, or Sept. 30.

“We expect to continue business as usual under our current operating brands,” a National Express spokesperson told School Transportation News, adding the transition should be seamless for school district customers. “We will continue to deliver the high-quality, safe and reliable service that we’ve provided for more than 100 years.”

Mobico Group, formerly known as National Express Group and based in Birmingham, England, had been looking to sell its North American school bus division to reduce debt. At the same time, I Squared Capital, a global infrastructure investment company, was seeking entrance into the school bus industry and announced its intent to do so in October 2023, “to address the long-term challenges which the pandemic created for school bus.”

I Squared noted that National Express has made “significant operational improvements, primarily improving driver retention and recruitment, route reinstatement, and improved contract pricing.

“The business has also improved fleet allocation which has led to better asset utilization, cash flow and customer satisfaction. All of these culminated in school bus delivering a net positive route outcome for the current school year bid season, the first in over a decade,” the company stated in a transaction summary. “However, whilst school bus has demonstrated its recovery from the pandemic’s effects, it continues to require significant maintenance and growth capital investment and has experienced persistent market challenges such as driver wage inflation and, more recently, potential fleet cost inflation from new tariffs.”

Tim Wertner is expected to continue serving as CEO of National Express. He said the school bus contractor has focused on recovering lost routes, securing new contracts, recruiting and retaining drivers, and delivering price rises above inflation since he joined the company in 2023.

“This transfer of ownership will allow us to stand on a much stronger financial foundation for a wider spectrum of new opportunities and growth to benefit our stakeholders, valued partners and prospects, as well as reinforce our position as a transportation leader and flourish to even greater heights,” he said in a statement Friday. “With I Squared Capital’s strong reputation and support of our company, we firmly believe they will be an outstanding steward for us, and we look forward to furthering our footprint in the student transportation industry together.”

I Squared manages over $40 billion in assets that build and scale infrastructure businesses that deliver critical services to millions of people worldwide. The company’s portfolio includes over 90 companies operating in more than 70 countries and spanning sectors such as energy, utilities, digital infrastructure, transport, environmental and social infrastructure.

“School transportation is more than just a daily commute. It’s a vital link to education, which underpins a functioning society regardless of the economic cycle,” commented Gautam Bhandari, the global chief investment officer and managing partner at I Squared. “As infrastructure specialists, I Squared has specific expertise in providing vital public services, including public transport. Our investment will provide the capital needed to upgrade equipment and maintain safe, efficient transportation for children using this essential service so parents can [be] rest assured each time their family member travels.”

Mobico had operated Durham in the U.S. since the former National Express Group purchased the school bus contractor in August 1999, a year after acquiring Crabtree-Harmon that mostly operated in the Midwest. The company followed in 2000 with the purchase of School Services & Leasing, which at the time was the second-largest school bus contractor in the U.S. Two years later, it acquired Stock Transportation in Canada and in 2018 purchased Petermann in the U.S.

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ANAHEIM, Calif. – International Motors, LLC * (“International”) will showcase its digitally enabled solutions dedicated to the customer experience at ACT Expo 2025 in Anaheim, California April 28 – May 1.

“At International, we’re investing in innovative solutions to create an exceptional customer experience” said Debbie Shust, vice president, Customer Insights & Experience, International. “It’s not just about delivering vehicles—it’s about delivering confidence. In a dynamic environment, we simplify the journey, support long-term success, and show up as a true partner every step of the way.”

Fleet Decarbonization

International offers end-to-end consulting services to support customers in reaching their fleet decarbonization goals. These services include electric readiness assessments, infrastructure planning, grant support, and onboarding assistance. Customers can begin their journey by visiting their local International dealer to tailor a decarbonization strategy that is best suited for their business.

With more than 10 million real-world miles, International’s battery-electric vehicles have been meeting customer demands in practical scenarios, assisting customers in their decarbonization journeys.

With the announcement of the International eRH Series, an all-electric Class 8 regional haul tractor, the company expands its electric vehicle lineup to meet demands of the heavy-duty market. The eRH joins the International eMV Series and the IC Bus Electric CE Series in the International electric vehicle lineup.

Recognizing that fleet decarbonization happens at different paces for customers, International also provides advanced diesel solutions For example, the LT with the S13 Integrated Powertrain delivers at least 5% more in fuel economy than any competitor in the on-highway aero category.** The S13 Integrated is also certified for use with R100 renewable diesel.

Electric Maintenance Solutions

International provides planned maintenance service contracts to ensure that customers’ operating, maintenance, and service needs are met and supported by our expansive dealer network. These contracts ensure that battery-electric trucks and buses are seamlessly integrated and maintained through proactive service planning.

This white-glove experience is tailored to enhance uptime via scheduled maintenance intervals, solutions like proactive parts planning, advanced technician scheduling, and a new digital ecosystem designed to predict service and maintenance needs aimed at driving efficiency across International and IC Bus dealerships.

The new digital ecosystem provides greater visibility into fleets’ health-based vehicle data allowing customers and dealers to schedule planned maintenance appointments three to four weeks ahead of time. During this already planned downtime, fleets and dealers can also proactively identify other needed repairs and campaigns.

International Service Contracts include planned maintenance and can also include powertrain coverage, chassis coverage, and optional towing coverage. International Service Contracts are available for either five or six years on every new battery-electric truck. Electric bus terms for service contracts vary.

International Financial Payment Program for Bundled Solutions

Beyond financing for traditional diesel trucks, International Financial is also a partner for electric-powered trucks and chargers. This partnership extends past the hardware needed to operate in the battery-electric vehicle ecosystem with a Payment Program that enables customers to access International Service Contracts seamlessly. Importantly, the Payment Program allows our customers to opt for planned maintenance over the term of the contract, with no associated financing cost.

The Payment Program for International Service Contracts is available for electric vehicles whether or not the vehicle is financed through International Financial. Visit the International Financial EV page for more information.

International is dedicated to providing innovative solutions that propel our customers forward. By minimizing downtime and enhancing operational efficiency, we ensure our customers can spend their time and attention focusing on continuous growth and success of their core business. To learn more about these customer solutions, visit the International booth (#5640) at ACT Expo April 28 – May 1 at the Anaheim Convention Center or explore International.com.

About International:
Based in Lisle, Illinois, International Motors, LLC* creates solutions that deliver greater uptime and productivity to our customers throughout the full operation of our commercial vehicles. We build International trucks and engines and IC Bus school and commercial buses that are as tough and as smart as the people who drive them. We also develop Fleetrite aftermarket parts. In everything we do, our vision is to accelerate the impact of sustainable mobility to create the cleaner, safer world we all deserve. As of 2021, we joined Scania, MAN and Volkswagen Truck & Bus in TRATON GROUP, a global champion of the truck and transport services industry. To learn more, visit www.International.com.

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On April 10th, Cleantech Group hosted the panel “Every Drop Counts: Navigating Water Challenges in Manufacturing and Data Centers,” in Palo Alto, California....

The post Every Drop Counts: Navigating Water Challenges in Manufacturing and Data Centers appeared first on Cleantech Group.

The Genesis X Gran Equator concept was one of the highlights of last week’s New York Auto Show, and it seems it was more than just a design study. Chief Creative Officer and Chief Brand Officer at Genesis, Luc Donckerwolke, hinted at a production version of the luxury off-roader that could rival the likes of the Land Rover Defender, the Lexus GX, and the Mercedes G-Class.

Is Genesis Churning Out Too Many SUVs?

Genesis has a wide range of crossovers and SUVs including the GV60, GV70, GV80, and GV80 Coupe, that will soon be joined by the production version of the 2024 Neolun concept dubbed the GV90. Adding another offering on the upper end of the spectrum might sound excessive, but the company thinks there’s more than enough room.

More: Genesis GMR-001 Hypercar Is Drenched In Le Mans Magma Madness

Speaking to Australian media during the New York Auto Show, Luc Donckerwolke gave a few hints about the future expansion of their SUV lineup. As reported by CarExpert, the design veteran said:

“The X Gran Equator is a new potential addition to a lineup which is already quite big. In a couple of years we have reached a family of SUVs. We have shown last year there’s another one coming, a flagship SUV, very soon [GV90]. Now the question is: how do we position the Gran Equator within this lineup? How do we ensure there’s not going to be an overlap or cannibalization between those vehicles? I do believe there’s room for that.”

Genesis hasn’t revealed the specifications of the platform and the powertrain of the X Gran Equator concept, but its unique proportions and rugged features suggest it ought to be a lot more capable off-road compared to the rest of the lineup.

Of course, some elements like the massive 24-inch wheels might be toned-down for production, but the concept gives us a good idea of what to expect. Depending on the powertrain type (electric, range-extender, hybrid, or ICE), the SUV might get larger cooling intakes up front, while some unique features such as the four sunroofs, swivelling seats, and split tailgate could be carried over to the production version.

More: Hyundai’s Next-Gen Hybrid System Boosts Fuel Efficiency By 45%

Hopefully, Genesis designers will keep the analogue-style dials and physical controls inside the luxurious cabin, which are a refreshing detail in a world full of touchscreens.

Yes, They Can Build It

Donckerwolke has confirmed that the concept is technically feasible: “Basically, the Gran Equator was designed by my team in a very short time. Like all the other projects, I make sure that because of my engineering team being involved in the project that all those projects are feasible, that we don’t have to face any big hurdles if we have to realize that would basically make the project unsuitable. From the technical point of view, the platform works, the technical side works, now it’s obviously the demand.”

The Chief Creative Officer said there was a positive reaction to the concept following its unveiling in New York: “Everybody has called and asked, ‘When can I have it?’. All the regions have been. I think this is a big progress. It’s plugging into the SUV emotion, it’s going back to the off-road capability that actually makes those SUVs genuine and authentic.”

Genesis hasn’t set a target date for the market launch of the off-road-focused SUV. However, judging the time it usually takes them to move from concept to production, we wouldn’t expect it to arrive before 2027. Fingers crossed, the gorgeous X Gran Coupe and X Gran Convertible concepts will also follow the example of the Neolun and the X Gran Equator in the future.

EV startups have become a regular occurrence in recent years, but the success rate for these companies in the U.S. is far from impressive. Enter Slate, a new contender aiming to change that. The company is promising to deliver a back-to-basics electric truck, which can also be reconfigured into a five-seat SUV or a fastback utility vehicle that channels the spirit of a Jeep Wrangler. Best of all, prices will start at under $28,000, or $20,000 if you factor in the $7,500 federal incentive, an unusually rare sight in the EV world.

Read: Slate Auto Teases 3-Door SUV That Looks Like A Range Rover Classic

Slate unveiled several prototypes at an event in Los Angeles this evening, and while the brand is new, it already has serious financial backing and has apparently raised over $100 million. Amazon head honcho Jeff Bezos has even provided some funding, giving the company an important starting point before it hits the market.

A “Blank Slate” for Customization

The automaker describes its vehicle as a ‘blank’ Slate and as such, it’s simply called the Slate. Customers will be offered extensive personalization options, allowing them to make their perfect EV.  

The truck is underpinned by a skateboard architecture and will be offered with two battery packs. The base pack is a 52.7 kWh unit that will provide the Slate with an estimated range of 150 miles (241 km). Those who need to travel a little further can opt for a larger 84.3 kWh pack that boosts the range to 240 miles (386 km). All models use a rear-mounted electric motor that produces 201 hp (150 kW).

As standard, the basic Black Slate has a 5-foot bed, a NACS connector, a 1,000 lbs (453 kg) towing capacity, and a max payload of 1,400 lbs (635 kg). It supports 120 kW DC fast charging, allowing the battery to be charged from 20-80% in approximately 30 minutes.

Why Is It So Cheap?

A key reason why Slate will be able to sell its electric truck for so cheap is that it lacks much of the tech we’ve come to expect from modern EVs. It has no radio, no speakers, and no infotainment screen. All you will find inside is a basic dashboard with a small digital instrument cluster and a simple steering wheel. It even features physical window winders. A dedicated phone holder is positioned next to the steering wheel, and Slate is developing an app for it to provide some entertainment options while on the move.

All Slate models will leave the factory in this back-to-basics configuration. However, customers will have hundreds of accessories to choose from to personalize their vehicle. These will include kits to convert it into an SUV or as an open-top two-door.

If you want to pump some tunes while driving, you’ll have to opt for the optional Bluetooth speaker system. If you want any color other than grey, you’ll have to get the Slate wrapped, which the company says can be done in just 30 minutes, thanks to its simple shape. If you want wheels different than the standard steelies, they’ll be sold as an accessory, too. It’s a novel way of marketing and selling an EV, and only time will tell if it proves to be a good idea.

While the Slate lacks many creature comforts, the company is determined to achieve five-star safety ratings. It comes standard with traction control, ESC, automatic emergency braking, airbags, a reversing camera, forward collision warning, and auto high beam.

When Can I Get One?

Slate says its EV will be built at a new manufacturing facility in Indianapolis, Indiana, with customer deliveries scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2026. Until that date arrives, it’ll continue testing and developing this unique EV, and trying to convince US buyers that this should be their next vehicle.

Slate wants to build as many as 150,000 electric trucks each year. Those who wish to secure an allocation can do so with a $50 deposit.

President Donald Trump‘s import tariffs that went into effect on April 2 have worldwide implications as they have disrupted most countries’ (including America’s) economies and almost all brands’ plans. The latest to be affected is Renault-owned Alpine, which was set to launch in the US market in 2027 – but now this plan has been put on hold.

Renault will most likely delay its sports car sub-brand introduction in the States as it awaits for the dust from Trump’s tariffs to settle. This is part of the French brand’s decision to put certain projects on ice to reduce costs so as to minimize an economic impact if the trade war between the US and the rest of the world slows down growth, CFO Duncan Minto explained.

More: Alpine’s New 911 Rival Is Hiding Under This Little Known French Racecar 

As Minto told Auto News, the delay is “perfectly normal” under the current circumstances. That’s despite the fact that expanding to the second-largest auto market in the world was key in CEO Luca de Meo’s intention to boost the sports car maker’s revenue to more than €8 billion ($9.1 billion) by 2030. This was, in itself, quite an ambitious goal since, last year, Alpine sold a mere 4,585 vehicles.

While the market for two-door sports cars like the Alpine 110 is shrinking, that of electric cars is expanding – and it so just happened that the brand last June introduced its first-ever EV, the A290 GT, at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. It is a Renault 5 E-Tech-based hot hatch with more aggressive styling cues and, in Performance trim, a single electric motor with 217 HP driving the front wheels that’s good enough for a 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) sprint in 6.4 seconds and a 236-mile range. A less powerful version, simply badged the A290 GT, gets a lower 178 hp output and is one second slower to 62 mph.

This will be followed up by the A390 electric sports crossover that will be unveiled this year and should prove more popular with US buyers. By 2030, Alpine intends to launch five more EVs, so de Meo’s plan for the brand’s rapid increase does make sense. Or rather did, before Trump made good on his promise of an “America First” economic policy and implemented harsh tariffs on imports.

Last fall, Stellantis and Factorial announced plans to put solid-state batteries into a fleet of Dodge Charger Daytonas by 2026. That development is inching closer today as the two companies have successfully validated automotive-sized solid-state battery cells with a 375 Wh/kg energy density.

While that’s Greek to most of us, the automaker said they validated 77Ah FEST (Factorial Electrolyte System Technology) cells over 600 cycles and are “progressing towards automotive qualification.” The latter is a “milestone” for large-format lithium-metal solid-state batteries.

More: Mercedes EQS Solid-State Prototype Hits The Street With 621 Miles Of Range

Besides having an impressive energy density, solid-state batteries allow for a significant reduction in charging time. In particular, at room temperature, they can go from a 15% to 90% charge in 18 minutes. The cells also promise to “deliver high power output with discharge rates up to 4C, supporting greater performance demands in electric vehicles.”

While work still needs to be done, Factorial’s latest electrolyte formula allows for operational temperatures between -22°F and 113°F (-30°C and 45°C). That’s a pretty wide range and would allow solid-state EVs to operate in all but the most extreme climates.

Stellantis Chief Engineering and Technology Officer, Ned Curic, remarked “This breakthrough puts us at the forefront of the solid-state revolution, but we are not stopping there. We continue working together to push the boundaries and deliver even more advanced solutions, bringing us closer to lighter, more efficient batteries that reduce costs for our customers.”

His sentiments were echoed by Factorial Energy CEO Siyu Huang, who said “Battery development is about compromise. While optimizing one feature is simple, balancing high energy density, cycle life, fast charging, and safety in an automotive-sized battery with OEM validation is a breakthrough. This achievement with Stellantis is bringing next-generation battery technology from research to reality.”

The SUV world is full of familiar faces dressed in new clothes, and few models have inspired as many wardrobe changes as the Land Rover Defender. In recent years, it’s become a template for countless SUVs, especially in China, where automakers continue to draw heavily from its boxy, go-anywhere appeal. The latest lookalike comes from Geely, which showed off its Galaxy Battleship, a tech-focused off-roader with an electrified powertrain, in prototype form at the Shanghai Auto Show.

More: Zeekr 9X Is A Rolls Royce Cullinan Clone For The Price Of A BMW X5

Officially, Geely calls it the “Galaxy Cruiser,” but its Chinese name translates to “Galaxy Battleship”, a name that admittedly has a bit more flair. According to the company, the design blends “Eastern aesthetics” with “Chinese elements,” though the visual similarities to the Land Rover Defender are hard to ignore. Highlights include circular LED headlight graphics, side-mounted accessories, and a rugged front bumper with very familiar proportions.

Influences, Inside and Out

From the side, the Galaxy Battleship follows the increasingly common formula of softened-box SUVs that have been flooding the Chinese market. It’s visually in line with competitors like the BYD Fangchengbao Bao 5 and entries from BAIC, Haval, and Chery Jetour. Around back, the upright tail design features vertically-mounted taillights in the style of Volvo, along with a roof spoiler and an external spare wheel.

Geely hasn’t released specific dimensions yet, but the Galaxy Battleship appears to sit in the same size class as the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, suggesting a solid mid-to-large footprint aimed at serious off-road utility.

Cabin Tech Meets Camping Utility

Step inside and you’ll find a free-standing infotainment display joined by a separate set of digital gauges on the passenger side, labeled the “exploration kit.” The floating center console hosts what Geely calls the “off-road control island,” a yacht-inspired hub for terrain-focused functions.

The multi-functional tailgate with integrated storage compartments and the large bed that unfolds inside the cabin make the Geely Galaxy Battleship an ideal companion for camping. Furthermore, Geely’s Satellite Network means that the SUV will remain connected even in remote areas.

AI Tech For Off-Roading

Geely hasn’t said much about the specifics of the Galaxy Battleship’s electrified powertrain, but it has revealed that the SUV uses an AI-assisted system to switch between electric, hybrid, and range-extender modes. This system also adapts to different terrains and driving scenarios automatically.

The intelligent four-wheel-drive system continuously adjusts torque to each wheel for optimal traction. As a result, the Galaxy Battleship can perform a range of advanced tricks, including crab-walking, 360-degree spins, drifting, and even driving with a flat tire.

More: BYD To Offer A Drone That Launches Off Its Cars For $2,200

For off-road adventures that include water, or perhaps just a slow cruise down a river, Geely says the Galaxy Battleship can float for up to two hours, reaching speeds of over 8.5 km/h (4.6 knots) when used as a boat. It also features a wading radar and sonar to help navigate river crossings more safely. And back on land, the company claims the SUV completed the moose test at a record speed of 80 km/h (50 mph), though that number hasn’t been independently confirmed.

We still don’t know the battery capacity or electric range, but the vehicle is fitted with Geely’s Golden Short Blade Battery. The company says it’s protected with a bulletproof coating and materials designed to resist deformation, fire, and explosions.

As for availability, Geely hasn’t announced a production date yet. The Galaxy Battleship will likely launch first in China, with the potential for select international markets to follow.

Geely

In an age where public frustration takes increasingly bizarre forms, even parked Teslas aren’t safe. Last month, a 33-year-old man was caught vandalizing several of the vehicles in downtown Minneapolis, yet he won’t face any criminal charges. Despite a formal recommendation from police, the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office has opted for a diversion program. This approach allows the suspect to avoid prosecution as long as he fully reimburses the car owners.

More: FBI Warns Americans Of Escalating Attacks On Tesla Cars And Dealerships

Security footage captured the man keying several Teslas in broad daylight, an act that authorities say caused around $20,000 in total damage to six different vehicles. Though spared a felony conviction, he’s still on the hook for the full cost of the repairs.

A Legal Decision With Mixed Reactions

According to Fox News, the man is a state employee working at the Minnesota Department of Human Services. The Hennepin County Attorney’s Office explained that diversion was chosen to allow the individual to maintain his job while still being held accountable. A spokesperson for the office shared the following statement:

“Our main priorities are to secure restitution for the victims and hold Mr. Adams accountable. As a result, we will file for pre-charge diversion to best facilitate both of those goals. This is an approach taken in many property crime cases and helps to ensure the individual keeps their job and can pay restitution, as well as reducing the likelihood of repeat offenses. Criminal prosecution remains a possibility should unlawful behavior continue.”

Hennepin County District Attorney Mary Moriarty stood by her decision, stating that it serves public safety and was not influenced by politics. She argued that felony convictions often make things worse in the long run.

More: Ohio Sheriff Calls Tesla Vandals ‘Fat People Living In Mom’s Basement’

“If they go through the traditional system, and they have a felony conviction on their record, they are much more likely to come back and commit a new crime. That is because a felony conviction destabilizes their lives, they may lose their job, lose their housing, and it can just lead to future criminal activity. What does work, and the recidivism rates are much, much lower, is diversion. And that’s been proven over and over here and throughout the country.”

Police and Public Officials Push Back

Not everyone agreed with the move. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara expressed disappointment on behalf of investigators who worked the case:

“The Minneapolis Police Department did its job. It identified and investigated a crime trend, identified, and arrested a suspect, and presented a case file to the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office for consideration of charges. This case impacted at least six different victims and totaled over $20,000 in damages. Any frustration related to the charging decision of the Hennepin County Attorney should be directed solely at her office. Our investigators are always frustrated when the cases they poured their hearts into are declined. In my experience, the victims in these cases often feel the same.”

Minnesota State Representative Kristin Robbins also voiced concern, calling the decision “troubling and unacceptable.”

In recent months, Tesla vehicles have increasingly become targets of vandalism, a trend seemingly tied to rising public backlash against Elon Musk’s politics. Some owners have responded by selling their cars in unusually high numbers, while others have resorted to putting stickers on their Teslas in hopes of deflecting potential attacks.

Regardless of one’s opinion of Musk, damaging private property should not serve as a form of protest. As for the punishment for those who cross the line and break the law, we should probably leave that to the judges.

If the letters GT still make you think of big-power luxury coupes like the Bentley Continental GT, Honda’s new model of the same name might not exactly light your fire. But if you love the idea of a sharp-looking affordable family EV with coupe aspirations and think too much screen is not enough, you’ll find plenty to like in the two Hondas revealed at this week’s Shanghai Auto Show.

The GAC Honda GT (seen here in red) and its Dongfeng Honda GT brother (blue) are fundamentally the same car. They’re built at the same factory in China for the Chinese market, but it’s easy to see how they could work in the US, too, if it wasn’t for the current tariff situation.

Related: Honda Takes On BYD With New Ye EV Brand, Shows SUVs And GT Concept

Both cars get an H logo (minus any backing badge) below their blacked-out hoods and the Honda name on the front doors. But while the Dongfeng goes for Lamborghini Revuelto-style Y-shaped DRLs and taillights, the GAC opts for two-deck front LEDs and keeps the rears on the level.

Camera-based door mirrors are also present, and the digital screens displaying those exterior images are just two of the six crammed into the hi-tech interior. The remaining four include a digital gauge pack mounted high on the dash, a traditional central touchscreen, a phone-shaped touchscreen below it – presumably for climate duties – and another screen on the passenger side of the car that’s much bigger and uglier than any other passenger displays we’ve seen.

More: Toyota’s New Electric Flagship Sedan Takes A Shot At Tesla Model S

The GTs are the second wave of Honda Ye EVs designed specifically for China. And while Honda hasn’t revealed any powertrain details, we can take a guess based on the first Ye cars, the S7 and P7 crossovers, which debuted in production form last year when the GT was still just a concept.

Those EVs make 268 hp (272 PS / 200 kW) in single-motor, RWD form, or 469 hp (476 PS / 350 kW) when equipped with dual motors and all-wheel drive. Some Chinese media reports claim the GTs will also get single and dual-motor variants, and the single-motor versions will have 50:50 weight distribution. Is the GT the kind of car you’d like to see Honda offer in Europe, Australia, and North America?

Images: Honda/GAC/Dongfeng

As the EV market continues to evolve, battery technology is quickly becoming the battleground for major automakers. Most of the electric cars currently available use either lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) or nickel manganese cobalt (NMC or NCM) batteries, with some manufacturers exploring sodium-ion options.

Now, Ford is taking things a step further, announcing a new battery chemistry it plans to incorporate into its EV lineup over the next decade. Enter Lithium Manganese Rich (LMR) batteries, developed at the Blue Oval’s Battery Center of Excellence in Michigan.

Read: Ford’s Experiment In EV Distribution Hubs Is Over

In a LinkedIn post this week, Charles Poon, Ford’s director of electrified propulsion engineering, explained that the LMR batteries offer a higher energy density than traditional high-nickel batteries. This, according to Poon, translates to greater range for Ford’s EVs, which means customers can travel farther on a single charge, reducing that all-too-common “range anxiety” that plagues so many EV drivers.

The LMR battery has been engineered to achieve a safety profile similar to LFP batteries, and they promise to be “significantly” cheaper than current mid-nickel batteries. Poon went on to describe the LMR batteries as the answer to “what next?” with Ford already selling LFP and NCM-powered EVs.

Ford said this new battery will also help it achieve cost parity between EVs and gasoline-powered vehicles. There’s no word on whether Ford collaborated with any of its existing battery partners on the development of the LMR chemistry, such as CATL, LG, or SK On, with Poon simply crediting the more than 135 “world-class chemists, manufacturing engineers and scientists,” at the Ford site.

“This isn’t just a lab experiment. We’re actively working to scale LMR cell chemistry and integrate them into our future vehicle lineup within this decade. The team is already producing our second-gen LMR cells at our pilot line,” he added.

The development of this new battery comes despite Ford slowing many of its EV plans last year, including axing a three-row electric SUV and delaying a new electric version of the F-150. However, it is still working on an electric mid-sized pickup and a new electric van, among other consumer-focused EVs.

In May of last year, it was reported that Nissan had hit the pause button on two electric sedans that were originally set to be built in the United States. Now, it’s been confirmed that those models are officially canceled, with an internal memo adding that the company is also shifting gears on its plans for two all-electric crossovers.

Earlier this month, Nissan Americas chairperson Christian Meunier stated that “the sedan market is shrinking” and that the company needed to “face reality.” After an internal memo made its way to the press, the automaker confirmed that shifting market conditions had forced it to reassess the EV projects originally planned for its Canton, Mississippi site.

Read: Nissan’s New Frontier Pro Plug-in Hybrid Wants To Take On The World

“In response to recent changes in industry market conditions, we have decided to revise our plans for the Canton EV family projects,” Nissan said in a statement, as reported by Auto News. “We have made the decision to cancel development of the LZ1F/LZ1E [sedan] projects and to reassess them as part of a new vehicle program.”

These two cancelled models were intended to replace the Maxima and Altima sedans. Alongside them, an electric crossover codenamed the PZ1L, roughly the size of the Rogue, was also in the works. However, that too has been scrapped. The good news? Nissan isn’t entirely abandoning its EV plans at the Mississippi plant.

New Focus on Electric SUVs

In January 2028, Nissan plans to begin production of a new electric SUV, known internally as the PZ1K. This model will have a “brawny” design similar to the Xterra crossover. It will be joined by an Infiniti version, known internally as the PZ1J, which will enter production in May 2028. These new vehicles will be built on a flexible platform capable of supporting crossovers, sedans, and potentially even a lightweight pickup truck.

The new platform will also feature upgraded electric motors and offer faster charging capabilities. Additionally, these vehicles will use lower-cost lithium-ion batteries.

Interestingly, Nissan recognizes there’s still demand for electric sedans in certain markets, including China. This week, the company unveiled the all-electric N7 that has been jointly developed with its local partner Dongfeng. With a 400-volt architecture, the N7 will be available with 58 kWh and 73 kWh battery packs, as well as electric motors producing 215 hp and 268 hp.

President Trump signed an order Thursday aimed at making it easier for companies to mine the ocean floor. Scientists and environmental groups say it could harm a fragile ecosystem.

(Image credit: NOAA Office of Ocean Exploration and Research)

Spring means more people hitting biking and hiking trails. But trail advocates say a Trump administration review of grants made under President Biden puts active transportation projects at risk.

A 6-year-old boy died from his injuries after he was hit by a school bus in New Orleans, Louisiana, reported 4WWL News.

The incident reportedly occurred the morning of April 10 when the student, identified as Mayson Richards, exited his mother’s car in attempt to board a school bus. However, he was struck by the bus that was transporting 27 passengers at the time of the incident. Richards was taken to the hospital, where he died from his injuries not long after. None of the passengers had any reported injuries.

According to the news report, family members at the scene were the ones who identified Richards. He was a student at KIPP Leadership charter school, and his death left his family and community devasted.

Police told local news reporters that the school bus driver, who was not identified in this writing, opened the door to pick up passengers, once everyone had boarded the doors closed and the driver began to drive forward while checking the side view mirrors. When the driver saw Richards’ mother run from her car and pick up Richards who was lying in the street, that’s when the driver realized the child had been hit by the bus.

Authorities say via the news report that the bus driver, who remained at the scene and showed no signs of impairment, did not see Richards running to the front of the bus due to his short height.

A representative of JJ Julien Transportation, the company that owns the school bus, told local news reporters that the driver was a “great driver” and has been with the company “for a while.” However, the driver has not been working since the crash.

Richard’s family opened a GoFundMe account to help alleviate the cost of the funeral.

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Related: Missouri Student Struck, Killed By School Bus
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The post Louisiana Student Struck and Killed by School Bus appeared first on School Transportation News.

A McKeesport Area School District student in Pennsylvania was hospitalized after she was struck by the same school bus that had just dropped her off.

The district’s superintendent Donald MacFann released a statement confirming that one of a student had been struck by one of the district’s buses on Tuesday at approximately 3:45 p.m.

The kindergartener, whose identity was not released in this writing, had just gotten off the bus and was struck by the school bus while she crossed the road. The student was transported to a local hospital for evaluation and treatment.

According to local news reports, the student had a concussion and received six stitches. Her current status remains unclear at this time.

MacFann told local news reporters that he was not aware of any lawsuits or charges filed as of Wednesday morning.

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Related: Texas Student Struck and Killed by School Bus
Related: 8-Year-Old Struck, Killed by Vehicle After Exiting School Bus in Texas
Related: New Jersey School Bus Driver Struck, Killed by Another School Bus
Related: Missouri Child Hit by Pickup Truck While Getting Off School Bus

The post Pennsylvania Kindergartener Struck by School Bus appeared first on School Transportation News.

Electric vehicles have come a long way, but they still have significant hurdles to overcome. One of the biggest pain points is recharging, but Mercedes is working on a clever solution to deal with it. Known as “solar paintwork,” the company is researching new types of solar modules that could be seamlessly applied to the bodies of electric vehicles.

These efforts could eventually pave the way for a wafer-thin layer of paint that could generate enough electricity to cover over 8,699 miles (14,000 km) per year.

More: Thanks To Solar Panels, The Lightyear 0 Can Go Up To Seven Months Between Charges

That’s pretty significant, but those are “under ideal conditions” in Beijing. It’s also worth noting that equates to less than 24 miles (39 km) per day, so it likely wouldn’t completely replace traditional recharging.

That being said, getting a charge by simply parking outside has a lot of appeal and numerous companies have been exploring the potential. In Mercedes’ case, they’re looking at an active photovoltaic surface with solar cells that have an efficiency rating of 20 percent.

Speaking of EVs, Mercedes is working on a programmable micro-converter that can be installed at the battery-cell level. This would make it possible to regulate cells individually and make electric vehicles even better.

As the automaker explained, “Current research results show it is possible to provide a constant HV [high voltage] output of 800 volts, regardless of the state of charge and the state of health of the individual cells.” This could pave the way for longer ranges, optimized energy flow for bidirectional charging, and new levels of freedom for modularization.

Even brakes haven’t been overlooked as the company is researching an “innovative, more sustainable brake” that is no longer located at the wheel. Instead, it’s integrated into a closed motor-transmission unit.

The automaker didn’t go into many details, but said the new brake “hardly wears out and is virtually maintenance-free.” The new setup also doesn’t rust, emit particulate emissions, or fade under high loads. It also promises to be less noisy and have positive impacts on range and efficiency.

Lastly, Mercedes is working with Canada’s University of Waterloo on neuromorphic computing. This mimics the way humans think and could “make AI computations significantly more energy-efficient and faster.”

Mercedes is interested as safety systems could be able to recognize traffic signs, lanes, and other road users much better and react faster, even in poor visibility. These efforts could also be up to ten times more efficient.

The Shanghai Auto Show continues and Mercedes has used the event to unveil the new CLA L. As the name suggests, it’s a long-wheelbase model that has been created specifically for the Chinese market.

The sedan follows in the footsteps of the regular CLA, but measures 187.5 inches (4,763 mm) long and features a wheelbase that spans 112.8 inches (2,865 mm). Both are gains of 1.6 inches (40 mm) and this means the car is longer than the C-Class, while also sporting the same wheelbase.

More: Starry But Soulless 2026 Mercedes CLA Leans On AI And Electric Power

Given the focus on passengers, the CLA L features a unique rear seat with a cushion that has been extended by 0.4 inches (10 mm) to provide more leg support. Customers will also find softer rear seat bolsters that better balance comfort and support.

Mercedes didn’t say much else about the car, but it appears to feature a familiar 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14-inch infotainment system, and a 14-inch front passenger display. However, these run a unique version of MB.OS.

As the company explained, the MBUX Virtual Assistant uses local voice talent as well as the DouBao AI agent from ByteDance. There’s also Chinese-specific navigation and database support.

The automaker only released a handful of powertrain details, but the EV features a rear-mounted motor that produces 268 hp (200 kW / 272 PS). The car also has an 800-volt architecture as well as a CLTC range of up to 538 miles (866 km). When the battery is low, a 320 kW DC fast charger can deliver 230 miles (370 km) of range in just ten minutes.

Mercedes added the CLA L is the “most efficient car in the segment with 93% energy efficiency from battery to wheels.” They added that, during testing, a prototype was able to travel 665 miles (1,071 km) on a single charge at an energy consumption of 8.26 kWh per 100 km (62 miles) at constant speeds.

Mercedes Announces New VLE and VLS

Besides the long-wheelbase CLA, Mercedes showed the Vision V concept. While we’ve already covered that van, the company announced two new production models known as the VLE and VLS.

The automaker didn’t elaborate, but it sounds like we can expect the E- and S-Class of vans. These will be based on the company’s new van platform and sit at the “top-end of its model portfolio.” The company went on to refer to these models as “Grand Limousines,” which will presumably battle the Lexus LM and Volvo EM90.

Everybody loves legroom, but Chinese customers demand it. As a result, automakers offer an assortment of long-wheelbase models in the country. Audi is no exception and they’ve taken the wraps off four new models at the Shanghai Auto Show. They include the A5L, A5L Sportback, Q5L, and A6L e-tron.

Audi A5L

The A5L comes from FAW Audi and it’s 3 inches (77 mm) longer than the standard model. The company didn’t go into many specifics, but said the car offers “far more interior space” as well as a more comfortable rear seat that has thicker padding as well as 28 degrees of recline. Customers will also find an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14.5-inch infotainment system, and a standard 10.9-inch front passenger display.

Audi was coy on powertrain details, but said we can expect “ultra-modern combustion engines with 48-volt mild-hybrid technology.” They also noted the car rides on the Premium Platform Combustion and promises to provide “superior performance and high efficiency.”

Audi A5L Sportback

The A5L Sportback is built by SAIC Audi and measures 193 inches (4,903 mm) long. It appears to be largely identical to the A5L, but the company noted it has a nine-zone intelligent panoramic sunroof that can change from clear to opaque in a matter of milliseconds.

It’s joined by a 20-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, 12-way power massaging front seats, and an ambient lighting system. The liftback also provides up to 48 cubic feet (1,361 liters) of cargo space.

Power is provided by a hybridized 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 268 hp (200 kW / 272 PS) and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) of torque. It’s paired to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and a standard all-wheel drive system, which enables the model to accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 6.4 seconds.

Audi A6L e-tron

The A6L e-tron comes from FAW Audi and features a wheelbase that has been stretched 5.2 inches (132 mm). This promises the “maximum of comfort and space, especially for the second row of seats.” Customers will also find an assortment of familiar displays as well as an intelligent panoramic sunroof.

The extended wheelbase allowed for the installation of a larger 107 kWh battery pack, which delivers up to 478 miles (770 km) of range. When the battery is low, a 270 kW fast charger can take it from 10-80% in around 20 minutes. Audi didn’t mention performance specs, but the car has an adaptive air suspension and a dual motor all-wheel drive system.

Audi Q5L

Last but not least is the Q5L. It’s 4.9 inches (125 mm) longer than the traditional crossover and this “significantly” increases interior space.

The company also said we can expect a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology that delivers on the “promise made by the dynamic and powerful silhouette.”