This week's briefing highlights continued growth in EV charging infrastructure, battery technology innovation and investment across mobility, autonomous transport and marine electrification.
Market developments
Walmart reaches 100 company-operated fast-charging locations
Walmart has opened its 100th company-owned fast-charging site, extending its EV charging network across 20 US states. The latest location, in Monument, Colorado, forms part of a strategy that integrates charging with routine shopping trips. Most sites offer between eight and 16 charging stalls delivering up to 400kW and support both CCS and NACS connectors. Charging sessions are managed through the Walmart app, with discounted rates available to Walmart+ members. The retailer plans further expansion in areas where demand for fast charging continues to rise, working alongside utilities and industry partners to improve EV charging accessibility.
Asahi Kasei develops lithium pre-doping solution for silicon-anode batteries
A new lithium pre-doping technology from Asahi Kasei is designed to improve the performance of high-voltage lithium-ion batteries using silicon-based anodes. The approach uses lithium carbonate as a sacrificial lithium source alongside proprietary electrolyte additives that allow decomposition at normal battery operating voltages, offsetting the irreversible capacity loss associated with silicon during the initial charge cycle. In testing, an NMC battery cell with an anode comprising 90% graphite and 10% silicon monoxide achieved a 10% increase in energy density alongside improved cycle life. The technology can be integrated into existing manufacturing processes and will be commercialized through licensing and development partnerships.
Infrastructure & policy
ChargePoint and Portland Airport deploy overhead charging for rental fleets
Portland International Airport has introduced an overhead fast-charging system with ChargePoint at its Quick Turnaround Facility to support growing rental fleet electrification. The installation includes 10 dual-port DC fast chargers capable of charging up to 20 vehicles simultaneously. By positioning charging equipment above parking bays and using retractable cable management systems, the design frees up ground space, reduces the risk of vehicle-related damage and lowers installation costs. The project also incorporates ChargePoint's fleet management software, enabling remote monitoring, troubleshooting and charging management while helping rental operators improve vehicle utilization and availability.
Deals
ALSO raises $150m to advance autonomous electric mobility platform
ALSO has secured $150m in Series D funding led by Prysm Capital, with participation from Eclipse Capital, Greenoaks and MVP Ventures. The financing follows a $200m Series C round completed earlier this year and will support development of the company's autonomous vehicle platform. ALSO plans to expand multiple vehicle formats designed for the movement of goods and passengers, building on the electric architecture used in its TM-B consumer e-bike and TM-Q commercial delivery quad. The company is also deepening its partnership with DoorDash through a multi-year agreement focused on the development and deployment of autonomous delivery vehicles.
Navi secures $100m ahead of planned IPO
Indian digital financial services platform Navi has raised $100m from Dutch technology investor Prosus in its first external institutional funding round. The capital will strengthen the company's balance sheet and support operational and regulatory preparations ahead of a planned IPO, with draft listing documents expected by December 2026. Founded by Sachin Bansal, Navi operates across consumer lending, insurance, mutual funds and UPI-based payments. Its lending business manages more than $1.4bn in assets, while the wider platform continues to expand across financial services. The funding is intended to support further growth and readiness for a public market debut.
Vessev raises $19m to scale electric hydrofoiling vessels
Auckland-based marine technology company Vessev has secured $19m in Series A funding led by Blackbird Ventures. The capital will be used to increase production of its VS-9 electric vessel range, expand its international commercial team, enhance onboard software and telemetry systems, and accelerate development of larger vessels. Vessev combines battery-electric propulsion with hydrofoil technology and advanced software to deliver zero-emission passenger transport. The company already operates commercially certified vessels in New Zealand and reports demand from customers across five continents, while pursuing expansion opportunities in US markets including New York, Washington DC and Lake Tahoe.
See you next week!