KIT, NIMS, Navitas Systems, Tesla.

Speedy production: Researchers at Germany’s KIT have set a new speed record with their production method for foil electrodes. They are able to manufacture 100 metres per minute, three times as much as with other production processes. The key is a flexible injector-process that allows for the precise production of any model even at high speeds. The new patented technology can decrease production cost for Li-ion batteries.
scinexx.de, idw-online.de (articles in German)

New magnet compound: Researchers at Japan’s National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS) have developed a magnetic compound that uses 17 percent less neodymium, a rare earth metal. The neodymium permanent magnets are used in i.e. hybrid cars and until now, nothing had been able to challenge the current formula.
greencarcongress.com

Battery for battle: Navitas Systems, maker of the 24-volt “Ultanium 6T” lithium-ion battery for ground combat vehicles, received 1.55 million dollars from the Alion and Technology Corporation to develop the second generation of its drop-in lithium-ion lead acid replacement batteries. These are used to start the engine and during a ‘Silent Watch.’
baystreet.ca, navitassys.com (technical details)

Autopilot for all: Annoyed Tesla owners launched a petition to the carmaker to provide a retrofit and make the new feature available to those, who already purchased their EV. Close to 800 people already signed the plea. Others now started a petition against the former, saying it would needlessly increase the cost for everyone.
mercurynews.com, change.org (pro retrofit), change.org (contra retrofit)