Electrification

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Traditionally, early summer is when the motor sports world shifts into high gear. May is the month when some of the crown jewels on the annual motor racing calendar take place, including the Indianapolis 500 and the Monaco Grand Prix. And during June, speed enthusiasts annually anticipate classic events such as the LeMans 24-hour sports car race and the Isle of Man motorcycle road race.

The shift from the internal combustion engine to batteries and electric motors is, in automotive terms, monumental. But, there is no denying that it's a challenge that manufacturers and suppliers are tackling head on.

Bulky batteries are the heart and soul of electric vehicles. But, their weight creates numerous challenges that demand lightweight materials.

Engineers at Clemson University are developing next-generation batteries that charge faster, last longer and can be scaled to fit a variety of vehicle classes. The Clemson Nanomaterials Institute (CNI) is working on the project with Atlis Motor Vehicles Inc.

ZWICKAU, Germany—Volkswagen’s state-of-the-art factory here is a showcase for electric car production.