China's Ministry of Finance announced a new consumption tax on lithium-ion batteries and solar cells, effective September 1 and April 1 respectively, starting at 2% and rising to 4% a year later, impacting manufacturers and the electric vehicle sector.
A new rechargeable solid-state battery developed by a Tsinghua University-led team operates stably up to 150°C and can withstand thermal shocks up to 300°C. Its safety, small size, and high energy density make it suitable for next-generation technologies.
Semi-solid-state batteries, a hybrid between liquid and solid-state technology, offer improved safety and longevity over traditional lithium-ion batteries. Companies like Kuxiu, Ride1Up, and Giant are adopting them for power banks and e-bikes, driven partly by stricter regulations in China.
FoI responses collected by insurer show brigades tackled 1,760 battery-linked fires in 2025, up 147% in three yearsFire brigades across the UK are tackling lithium-ion battery fires at a rate of one every five hours, figures show, as fire chiefs warn that public awareness and government regulation have not kept pace with the ubiquity of this new hazard.Lithium-ion batteries power most rechargeable devices including mobile phones, electric toothbrushes, toys and vapes, as well as ebikes, e-scooters and electric vehicles. Continue reading...
