00 Triumph Sprint 955i St Factory Toolkit Toolbag Tool Kit Bag Pouch on 2040-parts.com

SAE approves new fast-charging standard for EVs, plug-ins

SAE International said it has approved a new technical standard that will dramatically reduce charging times for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles and electric vehicles. The global engineering group said the new charging standard, developed with the cooperation of more than 190 automakers, utilities and equipment builders, will allow charging times to be reduced from as long as eight hours to as short as 20 minutes. Automakers want DC direct charging to take less than 10 minutes, or roughly the time it takes to fill a tank with gasoline.The goal is to accommodate currents as high as 500 volts distributed from public charging stations.

Renault Twingo concept

Renault has shown a production preview of the next Twingo, due to be replaced early next year. The new car eschews the monovolume of the outgoing model for a more conventional two-box, with friendliness being replaced with dynamism in the front graphic. This sporting theme is furthered by the dropped ride-height and large arches, and is complemented by a music theme.

Toyota Prius recalled for two fixes

Toyota Motor Corp. will recall 2.77 million vehicles worldwide--including 670,000 Prius hybrids in the United States--to fix a possible water pump problem and steering defect. The electric water pump recall covers five models globally for a tally of 630,000 vehicles.