LISSEN, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Alpha, Sevcon.

Energy density tripled: The EU-funded LISSEN project has developed a Li-S battery that offers three times higher energy density, enabling increased driving ranges for electric cars. The battery consists of a silicon-carbon composite anode and a nano-structured lithium sulphide-carbon composite cathode. Prototypes are undergoing further testing, while LISSEN’s industrial partners are looking into scalability and fabrication.
cordis.europa.eu, lissen.eu (partners)

Regaining rare earth: Two researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute developed a process to recover about 80 percent of rare earth materials from motors of electric and hybrid cars. They applied green chemistry principles and WPI has patented the technology provisionally while looking for licensees.
greencarcongress.com

Fuel cell e-bike: The world’s first production hydrogen pedelec comes from France. The Alpha electric bike has a range of 100km but must be charged at H2 stations. Still, the French post office is considering buying them for its fleet. The first 100 units are to hit the road by 2016.
telegraph.co.uk

New motor controller: British automotive supplier Sevcon presents its new Gen5-series of AC controller for electric and hybrid vehicles. The on-road controller is currently being tested by 12 vehicle manufacturers, and will become available in early 2016.
chargedevs.com, sevcon.com