EV, Battery & Charging News: Dow, ZM Trucks, Porsche & Blink

In EV, battery and charging news are Dow, ZM Trucks, Porsche and Blink.

Dow Unveils High-Temperature Silicone Gel

Dow (NYSE: DOW) has launched DOWSIL™ EG-4175 Silicone Gel, a next-generation protective material for insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) modules, designed to withstand temperatures up to 180°C. Engineered for electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy systems such as photovoltaic panels and wind turbines, the gel enhances power efficiency, reliability, and thermal resistance in high-voltage applications.

Key features include self-healing properties, vibration absorption, and self-priming adhesion for improved protection. The gel can cure at room temperature or be heat-accelerated to shorten production cycles. This launch aligns with industry trends toward 800V EV battery systems and higher-density inverters, enabling faster charging, greater energy handling, and improved performance in 7th-generation IGBT technology.

The new gel complements Dow’s existing DOWSIL™ EA-7158 Adhesive, offering a comprehensive solution for high-performance power electronics. Both products are now available worldwide.

ZM Trucks Partners with City of Fontana

ZM Trucks has announced a strategic partnership with the City of Fontana to accelerate clean transportation initiatives and support long-term sustainability goals. As part of the collaboration, ZM Trucks will provide a ZM8 LWB Stake Bed, a long-wheelbase all-electric commercial truck, for municipal use in logistics, maintenance, and transportation services.

The initiative reflects a shared commitment to reducing environmental impact while enhancing operational efficiency. ZM Trucks highlights cost savings through reduced fuel, maintenance, and operational expenses compared to diesel counterparts. The partnership also includes technical support, infrastructure consultation, and staff training to ensure smooth integration.

Fontana Mayor Acquanetta Warren emphasized the city’s commitment to a healthier, sustainable future, while ZM Trucks CEO Joost de Vries underscored the vehicle’s practical performance and economic benefits.

Porsche Opens Access to Tesla Supercharger Network

Porsche is expanding charging convenience for its electric vehicle customers with a soft launch granting access to over 23,500 Tesla Superchargers across North America starting September 9. Using a Porsche-supplied NACS DC adapter, customers can charge their Taycan and Macan Electric models at Tesla stations via the Tesla app during the initial rollout, with integration into the My Porsche app and plug-and-charge capability to follow in the coming months.

All 2026 Taycan and Macan Electric models will include the adapter at no cost, while 2025 Taycan and all existing Macan Electric owners will receive one complimentary upon reservation. Owners of 2024 and older Taycan models can purchase the adapter for $250 through Porsche’s online shop or local centers. The adapter enables compatibility with both Tesla Superchargers and other NACS/J3400-equipped DC fast charging stations.

Porsche is also enhancing its charge planning software to incorporate the expanded network, with updates scheduled for 2024–2025 Macan Electric models by year’s end and Taycan variants thereafter. This initiative reflects Porsche’s commitment to improving EV ownership by offering more flexible, accessible charging options and seamless integration with existing infrastructure.

Blink Charging tCryptocurrency Payments

Blink Charging Co. announced plans to integrate cryptocurrency payment options into its Blink Network by the end of 2025, merging the rapidly growing sectors of EV charging infrastructure and digital assets. Through the Blink Charging App, EV drivers will soon be able to pay for charging sessions using cryptocurrencies, offering greater flexibility and convenience.

Chief Technology Officer Harmeet Singh emphasized the alignment between the innovative EV community and the adoption of emerging financial technologies, highlighting potential benefits such as increased convenience, flexibility, and cost savings. Blink also plans to explore additional features, including loyalty rewards and incentives, as part of its broader crypto strategy, with further details to be revealed later this year.

This initiative underscores Blink’s commitment to advancing charging accessibility and enhancing the EV ownership experience by incorporating cutting-edge payment solutions.