SAE Tomorrow Today

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308. Conquering the Australian Outback with Solar Power

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 13:00:00 -0000

What does it take to race 3,000 kilometers across the unforgiving Australian Outback powered only by the sun?

Listen in as we sit down with Martijn Boonen, Electrical Engineer & Driver, Brunel Solar Team, and Tony Mathew, Global Market Manager, Teijin Aramid, to reveal the secrets behind their record-breaking solar car victory at the 2025 Bridgestone World Solar Challenge.

Discover how cutting-edge engineering, relentless teamwork, and innovative sustainable materials came together to conquer extreme heat, torrential rain, and fierce competition. Hear firsthand how the Brunel Solar Team’s winning mentality led to their eighth global win, and how circular fiber tire technology proved that sustainability and high performance can go hand-in-hand.

We’d love to hear from you. Share your comments, questions and ideas for future topics and guests to ⁠podcast@sae.org⁠. Don’t forget to take a moment to follow SAE Tomorrow Today — a podcast where we discuss emerging technology and trends in mobility with the leaders, innovators and strategists making it all happen—and give us a review on your preferred podcasting platform.

307. AI and Digital Engineering for Safer Defense

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 13:00:00 -0000

Will the future of combat look like your smartphone? As the nature of warfare changes, new technology is driving smarter, faster decisions on the battlefield.

BAE Systems is accelerating next-gen combat capability through Digital Engineering (DE), a data-driven approach that connects decades of real-world experience with advanced modeling, simulation, and virtual testing environments to design, build, and sustain defense platforms that stay ahead of evolving threats across land, sea, cyber and space.

To learn more, we sat down with Dr. Adarsh Ayyar, Director of Technology, Combat Mission Systems, to explore how BAE Systems is harnessing AI and autonomous technologies to transform combat and keep soldiers out of harm’s way.

We’d love to hear from you. Share your comments, questions and ideas for future topics and guests to podcast@sae.org. Don’t forget to take a moment to follow SAE Tomorrow Today — a podcast where we discuss emerging technology and trends in mobility with the leaders, innovators and strategists making it all happen—and give us a review on your preferred podcasting platform.

306. Your Order Has Landed: The Power of Drone Delivery

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 13:00:00 -0000

From crispy French fries to critical medical supplies, one company is transforming how goods move around the world with autonomous drone delivery technology.

In 2016, Zipline began with life-saving deliveries of blood and medical products in Rwanda and has since evolved into a global network expanding access to healthcare, consumer goods, and food. Operating across four continents and completing a delivery every 60 seconds, Zipline now serves more than 5,000 hospitals, retailers, and restaurants.

Listen in as we sit down with Keenan Wyrobek, Co-Founder and CTO, to explore how Zipline’s pioneering approach to drone logistics is saving lives, reducing emissions, and opening new doors for economic opportunity — one autonomous flight at a time.

We’d love to hear from you. Share your comments, questions and ideas for future topics and guests to podcast@sae.org. Don’t forget to take a moment to follow SAE Tomorrow Today — a podcast where we discuss emerging technology and trends in mobility with the leaders, innovators and strategists making it all happen—and give us a review on your preferred podcasting platform.

305. Fast-Tracking Hydrogen’s Role in Aviation

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 12:00:00 -0000

If you still think hydrogen was the cause of the Hindenburg disaster, allow Danielle McLean, Founder and Executive Director of HYSKY Society, to debunk that myth for you.

What first began as a hydrogen-powered eVTOL startup quickly revealed a bigger challenge for the aerospace engineer: the need for scalable, affordable clean hydrogen. In response, Danielle united engineers, entrepreneurs, and energy experts to form HYSKY Society — a global nonprofit advancing hydrogen aviation through collaboration, education, and advocacy.

Listen in as Danielle busts myths about the Hindenburg disaster, explains why regional airports could be the launchpad for hydrogen-powered planes, and details what it will take for hydrogen to go mainstream by 2045. You’ll also get a sneak peek at FLYING HY, the world’s largest hydrogen aviation event, and learn why “I want my hydrogen” just might be the future slogan of the aviation.

We’d love to hear from you. Share your comments, questions and ideas for future topics and guests to podcast@sae.org. Don’t forget to take a moment to follow SAE Tomorrow Today — a podcast where we discuss emerging technology and trends in mobility with the leaders, innovators and strategists making it all happen—and give us a review on your preferred podcasting platform.

304. Driving Sustainability Through Smarter Life Cycle Assessments

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 12:00:00 -0000

From pinpointing greenhouse gas (GHG) hot spots to modeling decarbonization scenarios, life cycle assessments (LCAs) can be a powerful tool for sustainability. However, a lack of standardized methodologies across the automotive industry makes progress difficult.

That’s where the SAE J3341 Task Force comes in. It’s a cross-industry initiative uniting automakers, government, and academia to establish a more flexible yet transparent framework on carbon footprint reporting methodologies for passenger vehicles through smarter LCAs.

To learn more, we sat down with Laurel Nelson, Chair of the SAE J3341 Task Force and Staff Engineer of Sustainability Science at Rivian Automotive. She discusses how the task force is implementing a “disclosure addendum” approach that encourages OEMs to clearly communicate their assumptions and data for more accurate and meaningful carbon reporting.

If you are interested in taking part in the SAE J3341 Task Force, please reach out to Laurel directly at laurelnelson@rivian.com or Dante Rahdar at dante.rahdar@sae.org.

We’d love to hear from you. Share your comments, questions and ideas for future topics and guests to podcast@sae.org. Don’t forget to take a moment to follow SAE Tomorrow Today — a podcast where we discuss emerging technology and trends in mobility with the leaders, innovators and strategists making it all happen—and give us a review on your preferred podcasting platform.

303. Solving the EV Charging Gap for City Drivers

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 12:00:00 -0000

The future of urban mobility depends on one thing: accessible EV charging infrastructure. For the 40 million U.S. drivers who park on city streets, the lack of home charging options makes transitioning to an EV nearly impossible. And that’s where it’s electric comes in.

Unlike traditional public EV chargers, it’s electric connects directly to nearby buildings and “juicy corners”, offering a cost-effective, scalable solution that doesn’t rely on expensive utility upgrades. Property owners benefit too — earning passive income while enabling their communities to embrace clean, sustainable transportation.

Listen in as we sit down with Nathan King, Co-Founder & CEO, and Tiya Gordon, Co-Founder & COO, discuss how it’s electric is solving one of the biggest barriers to urban EV adoption by redefining how cities deploy curbside EV charging.

We’d love to hear from you. Share your comments, questions and ideas for future topics and guests to podcast@sae.org. Don’t forget to take a moment to follow SAE Tomorrow Today — a podcast where we discuss emerging technology and trends in mobility with the leaders, innovators and strategists making it all happen—and give us a review on your preferred podcasting platform.

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302. Introducing “TeleHealth” Video Chats for Car Repair

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 12:00:00 -0000

Have you every wished you could call up an experienced auto tech to diagnose your car trouble? One company is doing just that by transforming the DIY auto repair experience.

With nearly 1 million app downloads, Tinker DIY is the only platform that offers live video support with ASE-certified mechanics for auto repairs, rideshare inspections, and used car evaluations. Akin to “telehealth for your car,” Tinker eliminates the need for YouTube guesswork or costly auto shop visits by guiding users through step-by-step auto repairs in real-time.

Listen in as we sit down with Megan Han, Head of Operations, to discuss how Tinker helps connects users with expert guidance to help them diagnose and repair their vehicles on their own.

We’d love to hear from you. Share your comments, questions and ideas for future topics and guests to podcast@sae.org. Don’t forget to take a moment to follow SAE Tomorrow Today — a podcast where we discuss emerging technology and trends in mobility with the leaders, innovators and strategists making it all happen—and give us a review on your preferred podcasting platform.

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301. UNPLUGGED: ADAS Takeover: Are Drivers Ready to Let Go?

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 12:00:00 -0000

With Ford’s BlueCruise logging 58 million miles in 2024 and GM’s Super Cruise generating hundreds of millions in revenue, more and more drivers are embracing Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) to arrive at their destination more relaxed and alert.

In this Unplugged episode of SAE Tomorrow Today, host Grayson Brulte dives into reports from various automakers, Goldman Sachs, and Consumer Reports to show just how widespread ADAS adoption has become. He also explores the surprising benefits of “relaxed driving” and how hands-free driving systems could become as commonplace as cruise control.

Have your own thoughts on this topic? We’d love to hear from you. Share your comments, questions and ideas for future topics and guests to podcast@sae.org. Don’t forget to take a moment to follow SAE Tomorrow Today—a podcast where we discuss emerging technology and trends in mobility with the leaders, innovators and strategists making it all happen—and give us a review on your preferred podcasting platform.

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300. Why Vehicle Weight Matters More Than You Think

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 12:00:00 -0000

When it comes to cars, it’s not just what’s under the hood that matters — it’s what’s on the scale.

According to a new book, Critical Mass: The One Thing You Need to Know About Green Cars, a vehicle’s damage to the planet can be boiled down to a simple formula: mass multiplied by distance traveled. EVs tend to be around 700 pounds heavier than comparable combustion vehicles which exacerbates tire pollution and road wear issues, creating significant environmental impact beyond just tailpipe emissions.

Listen in as we sit down with authors Nick Molden, founder and CEO of Emissions Analytics, and Felix Leach, Associate Professor of Engineering Science at the University of Oxford, to discuss their idea for a weight-based tax system that future-proofs tax revenue while nudging consumers toward lighter, more sustainable vehicles.

We’d love to hear from you. Share your comments, questions and ideas for future topics and guests to podcast@sae.org. Don’t forget to take a moment to follow SAE Tomorrow Today — a podcast where we discuss emerging technology and trends in mobility with the leaders, innovators and strategists making it all happen—and give us a review on your preferred podcasting platform.

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299. AVs in Europe: Balancing Innovation and Regulation

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 12:00:00 -0000

What does it take to bring safe, reliable autonomous vehicles to Europe’s roads? From shifting to performance-based regulations for L3 and L4 Systems to the role of human oversight, the European Commission Joint Research Centre is using technology, policy, and collaboration to drive the future of autonomy.

Listen in as we sit down with members Akos Kriston, Officer, Scientific Research for ADAS, and Espedito Rusciano, Programme Manager, Scientific Research for Connected, Automated and Smart Mobility, to discuss the EU’s evolving approach to semi and fully autonomous driving.

You’ll learn how projects like HIDDEN are pushing the boundaries of safety in complex urban environments, how the Open Regulatory Framework could shape the next decade of mobility, and why international collaboration is key to success.

We’d love to hear from you. Share your comments, questions and ideas for future topics and guests to podcast@sae.org. Don’t forget to take a moment to follow SAE Tomorrow Today — a podcast where we discuss emerging technology and trends in mobility with the leaders, innovators and strategists making it all happen—and give us a review on your preferred podcasting platform.

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298. Tracking Critical Minerals Across the EV Battery Lifecycle

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 12:00:00 -0000

The battery supply chain is one of the most complex in the world, built on critical minerals that stretch across continents and raise tough questions about accountability. But how do you bring order and transparency to something so massive?

Listen in as we sit down with Frank Menchaca, Founder, Auzolan LLC, and sponsor of SAE International Battery Global Traceability Committee, to explore how a new global standard (SAE J3327) has been developed to tackle EV battery traceability, combat issues like child labor and forced labor, and comply with various government regulations. We’ll also dive into the economic benefits — like cost savings and recycling — and the impact on national security, defense, and data storage.

From lessons learned to practical solutions for suppliers of all sizes, this conversation uncovers what a fully transparent, circular battery economy could look like — and why automakers, regulators, and consumers should all pay attention.

We’d love to hear from you. Share your comments, questions and ideas for future topics and guests to podcast@sae.org. Don’t forget to take a moment to follow SAE Tomorrow Today — a podcast where we discuss emerging technology and trends in mobility with the leaders, innovators and strategists making it all happen—and give us a review on your preferred podcasting platform.

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297. UNPLUGGED: Why Robo-Taxis Are Losing the Battle for Energy

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 12:00:00 -0000

The staggering energy demands of AI data centers are set to consume 12% of America’s electricity by 2028 — and tech giants are investing billions to secure supply. This leaves robo-taxi operators fighting for scraps in an energy market dominated by hyperscalers who are set to spend $322 billion combined this year alone.

In this Unplugged episode of SAE Tomorrow Today, host Grayson Brulte breaks down why energy is the real roadblock to autonomy and whether bold solutions like natural gas-powered depots could change the game for robo-taxi developers struggling to scale.

Have your own thoughts on this topic? We’d love to hear from you! Share your comments, questions or ideas for future topics with Grayson on Twitter or send them to podcast@sae.org.

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296. Powering A Cleaner Commercial Vehicle Industry

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 12:00:00 -0000

From battery-electric trucks to hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, the company behind Kenworth, Peterbilt, and DAF is leading the charge toward zero-emissions.

PACCAR is a global technology leader in the design, manufacture, and customer support of premium light-, medium- and heavy-duty trucks. The company is also actively investing in zero-emission technologies, positioning itself as a leader in the transition to cleaner commercial vehicles.

To learn more, we sat down with Dr. Philip Stephenson, General Manager, PACCAR Technical Center and Executive Chair of this year’s COMVEC, the annual commercial vehicle engineering conference hosted by SAE International. Listen in for an engaging discussion on PACCAR’s approach to battery-electric trucks, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, and charging infrastructure partnerships.

And if you enjoyed this conversation, register now for COMVEC and join us as we bring together industry leaders, engineers, and innovators to discuss the latest advancements in on- and off-highway mobility technologies.

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295. How the NVIDIA-Magna Collaboration Is Redefining Autonomy

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 12:00:00 -0000

From next-gen chipsets to scalable autonomous driving solutions, Magna’s groundbreaking partnership with NVIDIA is paving the way for the next generation of software-defined, AI-powered vehicles.

By harnessing NVIDIA’s new Blackwell GPU architecture to enable ADAS and L2+ through L4 capabilities, Magna is blending its deep automotive expertise with powerful AI compute to redefine what’s possible for both in-vehicle experiences and autonomous driving.

To learn more, we sat down with Steven Jenkins, Vice President of Technology & Strategy at Magna International, to discuss the company’s collaboration with NVIDIA, navigating legacy mindsets, and scaling vehicle intelligence across global markets.

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294. How Battery Chemistry Is Changing the EV Game

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 12:00:00 -0000

The key to unlocking EV efficiency lies in the chemistry of the battery itself — and emerging technologies like lithium manganese iron phosphate (LMFP) and lithium iron phosphate (LFP) tackling range anxiety head-on.

Leading the way is Integrals Power, a UK-based company pushing the boundaries of battery innovation by engineering cells that offer up to 20% more range compared to conventional chemistries. LMFP serves as a drop-in replacement, making it easier for manufacturers to adopt while maintaining safety and extending battery life. By improving cathode chemistry — where up to 30% of battery pack costs lie — the company is positioning itself as a leader in scalable, cost-effective solutions for EV makers.

To learn more, we sat down with Behnam Hormozi, CEO and Founder, to discuss how Integrals Power’s approach to battery design is boosting EV range, cutting costs, and transforming the UK into a global battery powerhouse.

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293. How Buses Are Leading the Self-Driving Revolution

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 12:00:00 -0000

Thanks to their fixed routes and predictable environments, commercial vehicles like airport shuttles and public transit buses are proving to be the perfect match for SAE Level 4 automation.

One company at the forefront of this transformation is Fusion Processing, a global leader in automated driving, situational awareness, and control systems. Fusion has logged over 90,000 kilometers of on-highway autonomous driving — more than any other AV company in Europe. Their innovative technologies, including CAVstar and CycleEye, are already delivering tangible benefits in real-world commercial vehicle fleets, from freight to passenger services.

To learn more, we sat down with Jim Hutchinson, Co-Founder and CEO, to discuss the future of transit and how Fusion is working to scale autonomous buses globally.

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292. UNPLUGGED: Redefining Aerospace: Supersonic Travel, eVTOLs, and Drones

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 12:00:00 -0000

Aerospace is undergoing its biggest shift since the Jet Age, with innovations like supersonic jets, eVTOLs, and drones set to redefine travel and delivery. As we enter this new era of aviation, how will these technologies reshape our daily lives?

In this Unplugged episode of SAE Tomorrow Today, host Grayson Brulte discusses the transformation of aerospace and the impact these new technologies will have on society.

Have your own thoughts on this topic? We’d love to hear from you! Share your comments, questions or ideas for future topics with Grayson on Twitter or send them to podcast@sae.org.

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291. How Simulation is Shaping the Future of Motorsports

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 12:00:00 -0000

From driver training to vehicle engineering and strategy development, simulation is no longer just a tool — it’s a competitive advantage. Top racing teams are using simulators to optimize car setups, dramatically cutting down on testing time and maximizing on-track performance. But the impact of simulation goes far beyond the racetrack.

With cutting-edge realism and high-bandwidth systems, Dynisma is helping elite drivers stay sharp while accelerating product development for automotive manufacturers. Dynisma Motion Generators (DMGs) create detailed 3-D environments that include driver behavior and environmental factors, and accurately model the physical characteristics of vehicles, such as tire performance and surface interactions.

To learn more, we sat down with Simon Holloway, Commercial Director, to discuss how Dynisma’s data-driven engineering is revolutionizing simulation in both the motorsport and automotive sectors to enhance performance, safety, and efficiency.

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290. UNPLUGGED: What Happens When EV Tax Credits End?

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 12:00:00 -0000

The signing of the “Big Beautiful Bill” by President Trump is poised to end both the $7,500 new EV tax credit as well as the $4,000 used EV tax credit on September 30. If these EV tax credits go away, what happens? Do EV sales slow down dramatically? Or do they hold steady? How will automakers and battery manufacturers react?

In this Unplugged episode of SAE Tomorrow Today, host Grayson Brulte discusses how the end of EV tax credits could impact new and used EV sales, consumer behavior, and the broader battery manufacturing industry.

Have your own thoughts on this topic? We’d love to hear from you! Share your comments, questions or ideas for future topics with Grayson on Twitter or send them to podcast@sae.org.

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289. What Happens After a Crash? The Push for Safer AVs

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 12:00:00 -0000

What happens after an AV crashes? That split-second response can make all the difference—and that’s exactly what the Automated Vehicle Safety Consortium (AVSC) is focused on.

Backed by decades of engineering and mobility expertise, the AVSC brings together top minds in AV development to align on critical safety issues. Their latest work tackles one of the most urgent: how these vehicles should react and communicate after a crash. As AVs expand from test fleets to real-world deployments, the industry needs clear guidance now more than ever.

Listen in as we sit down with Jonathan Barentine, Principal Engineer at the AVSC, to discuss the organization’s just-released best practices for automated driving systems in the moments following a collision.

You’ll learn how the AVSC is working with first responders, manufacturers, and policymakers to develop scenario-based protocols that prioritize effective communication, safety management, and a culture of accountability.

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288. Smarter Automotive Testing with AI and Simulation

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 12:00:00 -0000

The new test track isn’t asphalt—it’s AI and simulation. From hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) to real-time performance analytics, new innovations are reshaping how vehicles are designed, validated, and brought to market.

At the forefront of this transformation is A&D Technology, a leader in integrated test automation and lab management solutions for the transportation and energy markets. By integrating AI-driven analytics with high-fidelity simulation environments, the company is empowering automotive engineers to streamline testing workflows, reduce physical prototypes, and accelerate innovation in everything from EV powertrains to autonomous systems.

To learn more, we sat down with Mike Uhl, President & CEO, to discuss how A&D Technology’s work in simulation and test automation is helping engineers bring the next generation of mobility technologies to life.

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287. Women Breaking Barriers in Aerospace and Beyond

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 12:00:00 -0000

Despite decades of progress, the number of women in engineering remains stubbornly low — especially in aerospace and mechanical engineering.

But that isn’t stopping the winner of the Aerospace/Defense category in the inaugural Women in Engineering: Rising Star Awards.

Heather Cummings is Senior Engineer, Flight Controls & Autonomy for Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company. She leads the development of hybrid electric propulsion controls and vehicle management systems for Sikorsky’s next-gen HEX and RBW, including groundbreaking work on fully autonomous cargo aircraft. A licensed pilot, Heather is passionate about improving flight safety through automation and mentoring the next generation of aspiring engineers.

In this special episode, Heather and Chitra Sethi, Director of Editorial & Digital Content, SAE Media Group, discuss the mission behind the Rising Star Awards, the importance of visibility for women in STEM, and why inspiring the next generation is just as critical as technological innovation.

If you’d like to nominate a trailblazing female engineer (or yourself), visit www.techbriefs.com/rsa. Nominations close on July 22, 2025. Winners will be spotlighted across SAE Media Group’s publications, websites, e-newsletters, and social media channels.

To learn more about Sikorsky, check out our previous episode with Heather’s co-worker, Igor Cherepinsky, on the future of vertical lift.

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286. Digital Engineering for Defense and Beyond

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 12:00:00 -0000

If you were to build the perfect use case for the potential of digital engineering, you would be hard-pressed to choose a better sector than the defense industry. That’s why the Pentagon isn’t just intrigued by digital engineering—it’s made it mandatory.

As the U.S. military targets groundbreaking technology improvements that safeguard lives and improve defense capabilities, Ansys is helping connect the dots between people, processes, and technology with the predictive power of simulation. Establishing a digital engineering ecosystem, including digital twins, contributes to the resilience and adaptability of innovations across industries.

To learn more, we sat down with Dr. Armond E. Sinclair, Sr. Technical Account Executive for Ansys Government Initiatives, to discuss how digital engineering is enabling smarter decision-making, reducing costs, and accelerating innovation at the Department of Defense (DoD) and beyond.

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285. The Hidden Role of Battery Vents in EV Safety and Adoption

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 12:00:00 -0000

One failure can reshape public trust in EVs overnight. That’s why every detail matters—and why collaboration across the entire EV ecosystem is critical.

Even small components like battery pack vents play an outsized role in preventing thermal runaway events, explosions, and fires. The SAE Battery Pack Venting Committee understands this challenge and answered the call with the new SAE J3325™ Technical Information Report—a guide to designing, testing, and integrating battery vents that perform when it matters most.

To dive deeper, we spoke with Dr. Michael Harenbrock, Principal Expert of Electric Mobility at MANN+HUMMEL GmbH, and chair of the SAE Battery Pack Venting Committee, about how SAE J3325 is helping engineers enhance EV battery safety—and how their work evolves to keep pace with emerging ventilation technologies and trends.

Want to help shape the future of EV safety? Join an SAE Committee today! Contact Standards Specialist Dante Rahdar at dante.rahdar@sae.org.

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284. Removing Roadblocks to Fleet Electrification

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 12:00:00 -0000

What does it really take to electrify America’s fleets? From skyrocketing insurance rates to policy risks to reduced incentives, the market dynamics are complex.

Enter Electrada, a Cincinnati-based EV infrastructure company revolutionizing how fleets transition to clean energy. As the developer, owner, and operator of electric fueling assets, Electrada offers a unique 360 Charging-as-a-Service (CaaS) model that delivers zero capital investment, 99%+ uptime, predictable pricing, and expert management. Serving all fleet types across multiple transportation sectors, Electrada designs fully tailored, long-term EV charging solutions that reduce cost per mile from day one with no operational disruptions or price risk.

Listen in as we sit down with Kevin Kushman, CEO of Electrada, to discuss the challenges and opportunities in the North American fleet electrification market.

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283. Riding the EV Wave With Smarter Batteries

Thu, 29 May 2025 12:00:00 -0000

As OEMs race to deliver new vehicle lineups with greater speed and efficiency, the industry finds itself navigating a complex crossroads between full EVs and hybrid models.

That’s where ENNOVI steps in. With a focus on smarter battery management and cutting-edge electrical architecture, ENNOVI is staying agile—offering the right product mix to help OEMs and suppliers ride the wave of electrification, battery technology improvements, and market shifts without missing a beat.

Listen in as we sit down with Ron Puhl, Global Director of Engineering and Product Portfolio, to discuss how ENNOVI’s Current Collector System (CCS) is helping to improve the overall package size of batteries while reducing costs. It’s a unique discussion with deep insight into consumer EV demand and industry trends.

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281. How Autonomy is Breathing New Life into Farming

Thu, 15 May 2025 12:00:00 -0000

Labor shortages are pushing many family farms to the brink. The solution? Autonomous technology which is emerging as a game-changer—boosting productivity, cutting risk, and giving family farms a fighting chance to thrive for generations to come.

At the forefront of this transformation is Blue River Technology, a John Deere subsidiary leading the charge in precision agriculture. From AI-driven tools to autonomous machinery, the company is helping to build the future of farming the John Deere way, meeting farmers in the field and designing solutions grounded in real-world challenges.

With safety and scalability built in, farmers can start small with retrofit kits that upgrade existing tractors, making automation more accessible than ever.

To learn more, we caught up with Aaron Wells, Director of Engineering at Blue River, to explore how automation is transforming agriculture and giving farmers the tools they need to stay ahead—despite labor challenges.

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280. BRIEFS: Roberto Signs Off…Here’s Why You’ll Want to Follow Along

Thu, 08 May 2025 12:00:00 -0000

After delivering sharp, witty insights on automation, EVs, and sustainability, Roberto Baldwin’s time on SAE Tomorrow Today Briefs is wrapping up, but for listeners, the journey’s just getting interesting.

In his final episode, Roberto shares what’s next: joining the SAE Media Group to cover even more of the mobility universe—from traditional gas-powered vehicles to EVs, automation, aerospace and student engineers shaping tomorrow. Expect new videos, articles, and yes… a new podcast.

Tune in for his final sign-off (with a few laughs and lots of heart) and follow his journey at sustainablecareers.sae.org, sae.org/news, and youtube.com/@saeinternational.

And if you're looking for thoughtful discussions on the future of mobility, be sure to check out SAE Tomorrow Today, hosted by Grayson Brulte. New episodes drop every Thursday and offer deep dives into the people and technologies shaping our industry.

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279. Scalable AV Deployment Starts with Fewer Close Calls

Thu, 01 May 2025 13:00:00 -0000

The hallmark of exceptional autonomous driving technology isn’t just how it reacts in a crisis but how it avoids one altogether. That’s the vision behind May Mobility: a world where self-driving cars confidently navigate busy intersections, unexpected detours, and pedestrian-filled crosswalks with the instincts of a seasoned human driver.

At the core of May Mobility’s technology platform is its patented Multi-Policy Decision Making (MPDM) system. This breakthrough technology uses real-time, in-situ AI to interpret data, continuously learning and adapting to new, complex, and unpredictable driving conditions. By learning on the fly—much like a human driver—May Mobility’s AVs can be deployed faster and more cost-effectively than traditional systems.

To explore how May Mobility is scaling its AV technology, we spoke with Ed Olson, CEO and Founder, about the company’s city-wide AV deployments, strategic partnerships with Toyota and NTT, and its entrance into the rideshare market through a new collaboration with Lyft. It’s an engaging, behind-the-scenes look at how AI-powered mobility solutions are transforming urban transportation and paving the way for safer, smarter roads.

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278. BRIEFS: Scaling Software-Defined EV Fleets

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 13:00:00 -0000

When it comes to electrifying commercial vehicle fleets, one company offers a transformative modular platform that can drastically reduce the time to market.

REE Automotive is a publicly traded company that designs and manufactures advanced software-defined vehicles (SDVs) that are fully electric, capable of autonomy, and compatible with existing fleet management software. The company recently began production on its first medium-duty truck for the US market and has since seen a 230% growth in reservations, indicating strong customer interest and positive feedback.

To learn more, Roberto Baldwin, Sustainability Editor, SAE Sustainable Mobility Solutions, recently sat down with Daniel Barel, CEO, and Pete Dow, VP of Engineering, to discuss REE Automotive’s revolutionary approach to scaling software-defined commercial EV fleets.

For more information on the evolution of sustainability, head on over to sustainablecareers.sae.org. There, you can check out our podcast on the state of NEVI.

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277. Advancing the Path to Full Autonomy

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 13:00:00 -0000

From advancements in ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) to the importance of AI and redundancy, the path to autonomy is paved with delivering valuable intelligence that optimizes safety.

Mobileye is a leader in autonomous driving and driver-assistance technologies, harnessing world-renowned expertise in computer vision, artificial intelligence, mapping, and data analysis. The company’s diverse product portfolio ranges from driver assist systems to fully autonomous vehicles, all designed to enhance safety, comfort, and efficiency on the road.

To learn more, we sat down with Nimrod Nehushtan, Executive Vice President of Business Development Strategy, to discuss the innovative AI technologies powering Mobileye's products, the importance of redundancy in ensuring reliability, and the company's strategic partnerships with leading OEMs.

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276. UNPLUGGED: The Fragmentation of the Robotaxi Market

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 13:00:00 -0000

The robotaxi market is experiencing significant change, with the once-dominant Waymo now facing competition from new entrants like Nuro and Wayve who are licensing their autonomous driving technology — a strategy that could reshape the industry.

In addition, Tesla’s Cybercab is aiming to launch a commercial service by the end of 2025 that allows owners to generate revenue through the Tesla network. Lyft and Uber are also adapting through the power of artnership, pemphasizing the importance of fleet management in the operation and maintenance of robotaxis.

In this Unplugged episode of SAE Tomorrow Today, host Grayson Brulte breaks it all down and discusses how the impact of a fragmented market will likely result in a convergence of personally owned AVs, traditional robotaxis, and niche players.

Have your own thoughts on this topic? We’d love to hear from you! Share your comments, questions or ideas for future topics with Grayson on Twitter or send them to podcast@sae.org.

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275. BRIEFS: NEVI and America’s EV Charging Future

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 13:00:00 -0000

The National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program (NEVI) is a $5 billion initiative aimed at developing EV charging infrastructure across all 50 states and Puerto Rico. However, recent executive orders have put the program and its funding on hold.

To dig into what this all means, Roberto Baldwin, Sustainability Editor, SAE Sustainable Mobility Solutions, recently sat down with Andrew Wishnia, Senior Vice President at Boundary Stone Partners, to discuss what NEVI is all about and what the future holds for this EV charging infrastructure initiative.

For more information on the evolution of sustainability, head on over to sustainablecareers.sae.org. There, you can check out our drive of the new 2025 Ioniq 5, the first non-Telsa EV to hit the road with SAE J3400 (a.k.a., NACS).

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274. Simulating Off-Road Autonomy in Combat

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 12:55:00 -0000

As warfare becomes more technologically advanced, the military requires a “one-to-many” system that allows one operator to control a fleet of air, ground, and surface-level assets. This type of technology can also support industries like construction that may be experiencing labor shortages.

To bring these visions to reality, there is a critical need for a virtual environment to stress-test autonomous systems and ensure they are secure. Enter Neya Systems, a wholly owned

subsidiary of Applied Research Associates that is committed to advancing the field of unmanned systems through a robust simulation platform and expertise in autonomy, computer vision, and cybersecurity.

To learn more, we sat down with Kurt Bruck, Vice President, Neya Systems, to discuss supporting the military as warfare becomes more technologically advanced and how his

company is fostering safe and secure autonomous operations for unmanned ground

vehicles.

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273. AI-Powered Solution for Seamless EV Charging

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 13:00:00 -0000

It’s no secret that the EV charging experience can be a frustrating one. But what if you could connect the various EV charging networks to apps and services, standardizing them into a single point of integration? One company is doing just that by harnessing data to create a seamless, secure, and reliable EV charging experience.

Meet Emobi, the leader in critical digital infrastructure that delivers a single point of integration to a vast network of EV charging stations and e-mobility partners through advanced AI and data refinement models. As the largest roaming ecosystem in North America, the company also enables traditional and streamlined (JustPlug) Plug & Charge technology, facilitating automatic charging identification between EVs and chargers. The company is trusted by EV manufacturers, startups, utilities, and U.S. government agencies alike.

To learn more, we sat down with Lin Sun Fa, CEO, Emobi, to discuss how his company’s solutions are unifying the fragmented e-mobility market, while enabling cybersecurity, automation, and interoperability for EV charging.

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272. BRIEFS: Perfecting Solid-State Battery Production

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 13:00:00 -0000

When it comes to electrification, Honda has been focused on long-term strategy, emphasizing that the transition to EVs is a marathon, not a sprint. Recently, however, the company has been bullish on solid-state battery technology.

By using a solid electrolyte instead of a liquid one, solid-state batteries offer advantages like higher energy density, reduced weight, and improved safety compared to liquid lithium-ion batteries.

After perfecting the production of solid-state batteries in a lab environment, Honda is now focused on mass production. The company recently opened a test factory to produce battery packs for future EVs and to refine the production process.

To learn more, Roberto Baldwin, Sustainability Editor, SAE Sustainable Mobility Solutions, sat down with Chris Martin, Technological Director of Communications, to discuss Honda's advancements in solid-state battery technology and the company’s future plans for electrification.

For more information on the evolution of sustainability, head on over to sustainablecareers.sae.org. There, you can check out our interview with the Mercedes Benz CEO about the automaker's upcoming software.

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271. SAE J3108: Alerting First Responders to Lithium-Ion Batteries

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 13:00:00 -0000

Less than one-third of first responders are trained on lithium-ion battery incidents, leading to potentially dangerous situations that can occur during vehicle fires, especially as the adoption of EVs grows.

To help address this challenge, first responders must first know whether a vehicle is equipped with a lithium-ion battery or another alternative fuel source. In this episode of the SAE Tomorrow Today podcast, we sit down with Robert Swaim, Founder, HowItBroke.com, to discuss the SAE J3108 standard which proposes vehicle stickers to indicate fuel type, aiming to alert first responders on the scene.

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270. Electrified Trailers for the Heavy-Duty Truck Market

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 14:00:00 -0000

Can the commercial transportation industry move beyond diesel? Yes, and it starts with practical decarbonization that makes trailers smarter, safer, and more efficient.

Range Energy is accelerating the electrification of commercial transportation via powered trailers for the heavy-duty truck market. With a solution that can easily hook up to any tow vehicle, Range’s powered trailers offer offroad mobile power with an electric propulsion system that slashes fuel consumption and is compatible with dry van and refrigerated trailers.

To learn more, we sat down with Ali Javidan, CEO and Founder of Range Energy, to discuss the future of the electrified trailer market, the journey from prototype to scalable commercial success, and the impact of Formula SAE on his personal growth.

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269. BRIEFS: How Are Automakers Reacting to Tariffs?

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 14:00:00 -0000

There is no doubt that businesses, especially automakers, do not like uncertainty. So how are they reacting to potential tariffs and the impact on cross-border manufacturing?

Roberto Baldwin, Sustainability Editor, SAE Sustainable Mobility Solutions, recently sat down with Transportation and Business Journalist, Abigail Bassett, to the discuss the Trump administration’s flurry of executive orders and how automakers are reacting.

For more information on the evolution of sustainability, head on over to sustainablecareers.sae.org. There, you can the latest video of the Honda 0 Series.

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268. A Breakthrough in Sustainable Aviation Fuel

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 14:00:00 -0000

We often hear about sustainable fuel options when it comes to vehicles, but what about aerospace? With aviation fuel demand expected to rise to 160 billion gallons per year by 2050, new and innovative Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) pathways are certainly needed.

In response, CleanJoule has developed a proprietary manufacturing process that produces SAF with 10% higher energy density than average Jet A fuel. This process utilizes abundant biomass residue to create a cost-effective, drop-in replacement for conventional jet fuel.

To learn more, we sat down with Mukund Karanjikar, CEO, to discuss CleanJoule’s mission is to create accessible, affordable and abundant SAF and reduce the aerospace industry's reliance on fossil fuels.

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267. Optimizing Energy Data for the Cold Supply Chain

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0000

The growing complexity of fleet electrification has highlighted the importance of understanding how energy is used and where you can reduce waste. To optimize energy intensity at industrial facilities, one company is leveraging integrated data and AI-powered intelligence to reduce both cost and fleet-related emissions, particularly when it comes to cold storage supply chains.

Ndustrial helps companies lower energy intensity, decrease costs, and increase sustainable industrial operations with solutions like the Nsight™ Energy Intensity Platform, a data analytics and monitoring solution central to the management of electric transport refrigeration unit (eTRU) power systems.

To learn more, we sat down with Manuel Aguirre, VP of Supply Chain Electrification, to discuss Ndustrial’s energy optimization solutions and the importance of efficient refrigeration management throughout the cold storage supply chain.

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266. Are Internal Combustion Engines Making a Comeback?

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 14:00:00 -0000

As a new presidential administration takes shape, the automotive world is preparing for a possible resurgence in Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) development, alongside a continued push for both hybrids and EVs.

To break down the shifting regulatory landscape, we sat down with Adam Gryglak and Gary Newton at AVL Mobility Technologies, a thought-leading company that leverages simulation, research, and global expertise to help its clients stay ahead of industry trends.

Listen in for their take on increasing the efficiency of ICEs, the economic impact of transitioning to new energy solutions, and the growing role of hybrid technology as a bridge to full electrification.

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265. BRIEFS: Power Grid Solutions for EV Charging

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 14:00:00 -0000

How do we balance the demands of EV charging with the capabilities of the power grid? The answer lies in coordination between automakers, consumers and utilities.

Enter ChargeScape, a software platform that harnesses data analytics and managed EV charging to reward drivers for their flexibility and reduce the total cost of EV ownership. The goal is sustainable, affordable energy from a reliable power grid.

To learn more, Roberto Baldwin, Sustainability Editor, SAE Sustainable Mobility Solutions, sat down with Joseph Vellone, CEO of ChargeScape, to discuss the complexities of the power grid and how flexible EV charging can reward consumers and boost EV ownership.

For more information on the evolution of sustainability, head on over to sustainablecareers.sae.org. There, you can check out the latest news from CES 2025 including the Honda 0 Series, Toyota's Woven City, and Sony's Afeela 1.

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264. Launching Human Space Travel with a Luxury Balloon

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 14:00:00 -0000

Imagine a six-hour journey to outer space that includes a world-class meal, cocktail service, Wi-Fi, and unprecedented views of Earth. This experience could soon become reality.

Space Perspective, the world's first carbon-neutral spaceflight experience company, is commercializing space travel with Spaceship Neptune, a pressurized capsule propelled by a giant SpaceBalloon™. The experience is designed to be gentle and accessible with no rockets, weightlessness, heavy g-forces, or training required. Alongside world-class meal and cocktail service, space travelers will also enjoy views through the largest windows ever flown to space, Wi-Fi, and a proper restroom.

To learn more, we sat down with Taber MacCallum, Founder and Chief Technology Officer, Space Perspective, to discuss the technical development of the SpaceBalloon™ and how the company is unlocking the market for space travel in a new and innovative way.

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263. Matching Buyers & Sellers to Advance SDV Development

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 14:00:00 -0000

From evolving consumer expectations to changing business models to updates to the car itself, there is no doubt that software is radically transforming the automotive industry—and companies must adapt now or risk being left behind.

The rise of smartphones has permanently altered consumer expectations, and software-defined vehicles (SDVs) are expected to provide experiences akin to those found on mobile devices. Preferences for infotainment and safety features through advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) are also increasingly central to purchase decisions.

In an effort to meet these demands and accelerate the development of SDVs, SDVerse was developed as a B2B sales marketplace for buyers and sellers of automotive software. The matchmaking platform is available to all OEMs, suppliers, and other companies with relevant software offerings and tools.

To learn more, we sat down with Prashant Gulati, Chief Executive Officer, to discuss the role of SDVerse in the automotive industry’s shift from hardware-centric to software-first and why differentiating through software will become essential as OEMs seek to remain competitive in an evolving industry.

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262. BRIEFS: Top EV Trends to Watch in 2025

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 14:30:00 -0000

2024 saw several advancements in EV technology and charging capabilities including the rollout of the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program and the growing adoption of the J3400 charging standard.

Looking ahead to 2025, new EV models and more affordable options are poised to make an impact, capturing public interest and continuing to drive adoption, even amidst current EV infrastructure challenges and the potential rollback of EV tax credits.

To break down the key EV headlines of 2024 and what to expect in the year ahead, Roberto Baldwin, Sustainability Editor, SAE Sustainable Mobility Solutions, sat down with Patrick George, Editor-in-Chief of InsideEVs, the go-to online publications for all things electrification.

For more information on the evolution of sustainability, head on over to sustainablecareers.sae.org. There, you can learn about the announcement of the universal plug and charge platform.

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261. How AI Alignment Makes AVs Safer

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 14:00:00 -0000

In order for AVs to perform safely and reliably, we need to teach them the language of human preference and expectations—and accelerating AI alignment can do just that.

Enter Kognic, the industry-leading annotation platform for sensor-fusion datasets (e.g., camera, radar, and LIDAR data). By helping companies gather, organize, and refine massive datasets used for training AI models, Kognic is helping to ensure that AD/ADAS perform reliably and meet safety standards—all while minimizing costs and optimizing teams.

To learn more, we sat down with Daniel Langkilde, Co-Founder and CEO, to discuss why the future of autonomous driving depends on effectively managing AI-driven datasets and how Kognic is leading dataset management for safety-critical AI.

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260. Reshaping Air Freight with Blended Wing Body Design

Thu, 02 Jan 2025 14:00:00 -0000

For more than 60 years, the air freight industry has adapted passenger aircraft for cargo fleets resulting in limited capacity and diminished fuel efficiency. However, a long-overdue shift toward a volume-optimized blended wing body (BWB) design is enabling freight aircrafts to carry 40-50% more in cargo capacity per trip while also reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Leading the way is Natilus, a company that develops hyper-efficient cargo and passenger BWB aircraft that dramatically improve aerodynamic efficiency and provide a powerful increase in internal volume. The result? Less fuel burn, lower emissions, higher payloads, and lower operating costs.

To learn more, we sat down with Aleksey Matyushev, CEO and Co-Founder, to discuss how Natilus’ next-generation BWB aircraft design can improve economic efficiency and sustainability, as well as the company’s foray into the passenger aircraft space.

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259. BRIEFS: How to Scale EV Charging at Gas Stations

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 14:00:00 -0000

As EV charging infrastructure grows and evolves, so too does the role of gas stations, convenience stores, and auto repair shops — all of which are key players in a thriving mobility ecosystem.

Enter Vontier, a global industrial technology company transforming fueling and charging infrastructure, convenience store technology and fleet management. By helping service station owners become “charge point operators,” Vontier is a enabling a shift to better support consumers’ needs and increase profitability in an evolving market.

To learn more, Roberto Baldwin, Sustainability Editor, SAE Sustainable Mobility Solutions, sat down with Mark Morelli, CEO, Vontier, to discuss how his company is harnessing its market-leading expertise in mobility technologies to usher in a new era of convenience.

For more information on the evolution of sustainability, head on over to sustainablecareers.sae.org. There, you can learn about the latest EV announcements from the LA Auto Show including the Hyundai Ioniq 9.

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258. Scaling Connected Vehicles with Over-The-Air Updates

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 14:00:00 -0000

As the automotive world shifts toward fully software-defined vehicles (SDVs), many OEMs are hesitant to embrace a consumer-driven model for over-the-air (OTA) updates. Enter Sibros, a company offering holistic OTA software that enables automakers to achieve scalable, software-defined mobility.

By providing AI-powered insights that deliver continuous product and service enhancements, OEMs can harness Sibros’ single no-code platform to monitor, control and optimize SDVs, thus accelerating time-to-market, reducing code defects and enabling hundreds of connected vehicle use cases at global scale. This presents unique value for consumers, OEMs, commercial fleet operators, and even off-road sectors like agriculture and mining.

To learn more, we sat down with Hemant Sikaria, CEO & Co-Founder, Sibros, to discuss the impact of his company’s groundbreaking technology, how insurance and regulation come into play, and the importance of robust security measures to ensure the responsible growth of SDVs.

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257. The Future of Hydrogen Fuel: A Distribution Revolution

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 14:00:00 -0000

Jules Verne was ahead of his time—and so is a company inspired by his name that recognizes hydrogen's immense potential as a clean energy solution.

Verne develops and commercializes a novel technology to store and distribute hydrogen in its densest form, cryo-compressed. This approach maximizes hydrogen density, addressing the limitations of compressed gas and reducing the cost of dense storage — which is a game-changer for boosting hydrogen adoption.

To learn more, we sat down with Ted McKlveen, Co-founder & CEO, Verne, to discuss the company’s breakthrough solution to addressing hydrogen storage and transportation and how it can unlock the widespread adoption of hydrogen energy, particularly in sectors like Class 8 trucking.

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256. UNPLUGGED: Entering The Golden Age of Autonomy

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 14:00:00 -0000

Could the next 18 months mark the beginning of a golden age in autonomy?

In this Unplugged episode of SAE Tomorrow Today, host Grayson Brulte discusses the incoming presidential administration’s plans to establish a national framework that could enable autonomy to scale across all 50 states.

Key topics include the future of autonomous trucking, the possibility of households combining personally owned AVs with subscription-based robo-taxis, and the liability and regulatory environment surrounding autonomy.

Have your own thoughts on this topic? We’d love to hear from you! Share your comments, questions or ideas for future topics with Grayson on Twitter or send them to podcast@sae.org.

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255. BRIEFS: The Future of Solid-State Batteries

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 14:00:00 -0000

Most EV batteries are heavy and provide limited range. But Factorial Energy is developing breakthrough solid-state solutions that offer longer range per charge and increased safety.

With higher energy density—390 watt-hours per kilogram to be exact—Factorial’s solid-state batteries allow for less weight and extended EV range. And the company’s partnerships with major automakers like Stellantis and Mercedes are key in validating their proprietary technology and bringing it to market.

To learn more, Roberto Baldwin, Sustainability Editor, SAE Sustainable Mobility Solutions, sat down with Dr. Raimund Koerver, Senior Director and Head of Commercial at Factorial, to discuss the EV battery landscape and the company’s advancements in solid-state battery technology.

For more information on the evolution of sustainability, head on over to sustainablecareers.sae.org. There, you can check out our video interview with Lucid CEO Peter Rawlinson as we chat about EV efficiency.

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254. Assessing the Global Automotive Landscape

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 14:00:00 -0000

When it comes to the expansion of AVs and EVs, the global automotive landscape is awash in shifting trends, strategic partnerships, and geopolitical implications.

For some perspective, we sat down with Michael Wayland, Detroit-based auto reporter for CNBC, for a wide-ranging conversation on the latest happenings affecting the global automotive industry. From the growing trend of robotaxis to ever-changing partnerships, listen in for a unique perspective on geopolitical challenges, strategic shifts, and the future of autonomy and electrification.

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253. Building a Better EV Battery Supply Chain

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 14:00:00 -0000

The global manufacturing landscape for EV battery technology is complex, to say the least. But one company is using its decades-long experience to simplify the battery supply chain for cell manufacturers and their OEM and Tier 1 customers.

YUNEV helps companies navigate battery manufacturing and e-mobility challenges with strategic advisory services and a proprietary battery cell database. In fact, YUNEV is working with SAE International to make its battery cell database available to a wider audience. This work will help users identify alternative battery suppliers, keep pace with market shifts, and better utilize dual sourcing to minimize risks in the supply chain.

To learn more, we sat down with Kevin Beaty, President & Principal Consultant, YUNEV LLC, to discuss the global state of EV battery technology, current challenges and opportunities, and the importance of a building a resilient supply chain.

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252. BRIEFS: Powering EVs Outside of the Grid

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 14:00:00 -0000

What if you could power your EV using a streetlight? Or access off-the-grid power units for emergency situations? Beam Global is accomplishing this and much more by building resilience into sustainable energy infrastructure.

With innovative products that operate independently of the electrical grid, Beam delivers rapid, infrastructure-free, renewable EV solutions for both urban and emergency applications. To learn more, Roberto Baldwin, Sustainability Editor, SAE Sustainable Mobility Solutions, sat down with Desmond Wheatley, CEO, Beam Global, to discuss the company’s latest product expansions, including a portable desalination unit that converts saltwater into drinking water for disaster relief and conflict zones.

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251. UNPLUGGED: Tesla's Cybercab: The Future of Personal Autonomy?

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 13:00:00 -0000

In 2011, famed venture capitalist Marc Andreessen wrote his magnus opus, “Why software is eating the world.” Now it’s reshaping the future of AVs.

In this Unplugged episode of SAE Tomorrow Today, host Grayson Brulte discusses how software has fundamentally transformed various industries with a focus on Tesla’s recently unveiled Cybercab, and how the strategy for this two-passenger AV could signal a shift away from shared robotaxis toward personal AV ownership.

Key topics include the role of software updates in advancing autonomy, shifting the cost burden of operating a robotaxi fleet, and the future of self-driving technology using camera-only systems.

Have your own thoughts on this topic? We’d love to hear from you! Share your comments, questions or ideas for future topics with Grayson on Twitter or send them to podcast@sae.org.

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250. Scaling Wireless EV Charging with SAE J2954

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 13:00:00 -0000

How close is the EV industry to commercializing wireless charging?

The answer lies in the SAE J2954 standard which establishes an industry-wide specification that defines the acceptable criteria for interoperability, electromagnetic compatibility, EMF, minimum performance, safety, and testing for wireless power transfer (WPT) of light-duty plug-in electric vehicles.

For the latest insight, we sat down with Jesse Schneider, CEO/CTO, ZEV Station, and Chair, SAE Wireless Charging Taskforce for SAE J2954, and Ky Sealy, Engineering Fellow, WiTricity, and Subteam Lead of Wireless Charging Alignment for SAE J2954, to discuss the recent developments and the next generation of wireless power transfer.

For more on the evolution of wireless charging adoption from ZEV Station and WiTricity, check out Episode 166 and Episode 114 in our back catalog.

And if developing industry standards interests you, consider joining an SAE Committee. For more information, please email Standards Specialist, Dante Rahdar, at dante.rahdar@sae.org.

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249. BRIEFS: The Rise of Electrified Two-Wheelers

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 13:00:00 -0000

EVs don’t always have four wheels. Enter the rise of smart electric two-wheel vehicles, including e-scooters and e-bikes, both of which are growing mobility options in cities across the U.S. and globally.

To learn more about this rising trend, Roberto Baldwin, Sustainability Editor, SAE Sustainable Mobility Solutions, sat down with Joseph Constanty, Director of Global Strategy & Corporate Development, NIU Technologies, to discuss how his company is diversifying and expanding globally to provide consumers with a variety of smart electric two-wheel options.

For more information on the evolution of sustainability, head on over to sustainablecareers.sae.org. There, you can learn why wireless EV charging is finally ready for primetime.

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248. Taking Fleet Electrification to the Next Level

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 14:00:00 -0000

How can companies electrify their fleets without the high costs and challenges of owning EV infrastructure? One company has the answer.

Founded in 2017, Zeem Solutions is the leading provider of contract-based EV charging and fleet management services, serving more than 15,000 qualified fleets. With charging, parking, leasing, and co-locating solutions at secure hubs in major transport locations, Zeem is on a mission to help companies make the transition from diesel to electric.

To learn more, we sat down with Paul Gioupis, Founder and CEO, Zeem Solutions, to discuss the importance of lowering operational costs with an EV charging depot model and how the company plans to scale nationwide.

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247. UNPLUGGED: Are Automakers Making the Most of AI?

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 14:00:00 -0000

Can a car anticipate our desires before we even enter it? It can, however, the majority of global OEMs do not fundamentally understand how to harness AI-powered software.

Hear from Grayson Brulte, Host of SAE Tomorrow Today, on how we are missing out on a magical user experience—and why it’s time for automakers to up their game.

Have your own thoughts on this topic? We’d love to hear from you! Share your comments, questions or ideas for future topics with Grayson on Twitter or send them to podcast@sae.org.

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246. Refining SAE J3400 for Standardized EV Charging

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 15:00:00 -0000

As most EV enthusiasts know, the Tesla-developed North American Charging System (NACS) is being standardized as SAE J3400 — unlocking the ability for any EV supplier or manufacturer to use, manufacture, or deploy the J3400 connector on EVs and at charging stations across North America.

Recently, the SAE J3400 NACS Task Force voted to establish the J3400 standard as a recommended practice, marking a significant step forward in the standardization process and demonstrating the importance of collaboration in moving the EV industry forward.

To learn more, we sat down with Christian Thiele, Director, Global Ground Vehicle Standards, SAE International, and Dr. Rodney McGee, Ph.D., P.E., Chairman, SAE J3400 NACS Task Force, and Chief Engineer at the University of Delaware, to discuss how the J3400 standard is bringing industry together to build a unified and reliable EV infrastructure that supports the widespread adoption of EVs.

Join the global EV ecosystem leader! The SAE EV Charging PKI Project designed and tested an inclusive, protocol-neutral, worldwide EV charging industry PKI platform that is secure, trusted, scalable, interoperable, and extensible. View and download the program overview now.

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245. BRIEFS: How "Talking" Cyber Tires Make Driving Safer

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 15:00:00 -0000

What if your tires could talk? And your car would listen?

Pirelli's new Cyber™ Tyres use Bluetooth-connected sensors to communicate directly with the car, using data to make adjustments in real time. This information – including temperature and pressure – is vital when it comes to increasing safety.

To learn more, Roberto Baldwin, Sustainability Editor, SAE Sustainable Mobility Solutions, sat down Pierangelo Misani, Global Head of R&D for Pirelli, to discuss how this game-changing technology and the company’s partnership with Bosch is shifting connected tire technology from reactive to proactive.

For more information on the evolution of sustainability, head on over to sustainablecareers.sae.org. There, you can check out our interview with the Polestar CEO about the future of charging.

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244. BRIEFS: Why AC Charging Deserves More Attention

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 15:00:00 -0000

When it comes to EV charging infrastructure, much of the focus centers on DC fast charging. However, AC charging may be just as important to EV adoption due to its lower cost and simplicity.

To learn more, Roberto Baldwin, Sustainability Editor, SAE Sustainable Mobility Solutions, sat down with Sam Abuelsamid, Principal Research Analyst at Guidehouse Insights, to discuss why AC charging deserves more attention on the journey toward mass EV adoption.

For more information on the evolution of sustainability, head on over to sustainablecareers.sae.org. There, you can learn how Polestar is bringing EV production to the United States.

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243. BRIEFS: Protecting EV Battery Packs From Water

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 15:00:00 -0000

Can you drive your EV in the rain? Thanks to SAE Standard J3277 you can.

To learn more about the liquid leak tightness evaluation methodology, Roberto Baldwin, Sustainability Editor, SAE Sustainable Mobility Solutions, sat down with Hemi Sagi, SAE Standard J3277 Sponsor, to discuss how manufacturers are protecting the EV battery pack from water.

For more information on the evolution of sustainability, head on over to sustainablecareers.sae.org. There, you can learn about the difference between 400 and 800 EV architectures.

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242. What is the Future of the Car?

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 15:00:00 -0000

From autonomy to software to customization, the future of the car is multifaceted.

As one of the world’s largest suppliers in the automotive space, Magna International uniquely understands this. The company’s capabilities span the entire vehicle – from design to manufacturing to technology – thus optimizing vehicle performance and shaping the future of the car.

To learn more, we sat down with Joerg Grotendorst, Senior Vice President, Corporate R&D, Magna, to discuss advancements in electrification and autonomy, innovative design features, and sustainable technologies – and why a holistic approach to mobility is necessary.

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241. Balancing Fleet Sustainability with Competitiveness

Thu, 15 Aug 2024 15:00:00 -0000

As trucking fleets strive to minimize their environmental impact, it’s important to balance sustainability with competitiveness.

From adhering to new government guidelines to considering alternative fuel sources like battery, electric, and hydrogen, Covenant Logistics carefully factors in evolving requirements for more sustainable solutions, while maintaining their clients’ profitability.

To learn more, we sat down with Matt McLelland, VP of Sustainability and Logistics, to discuss his focus on decarbonizing the class 8 trucking space, improving carbon reporting, the impact of greenwashing, and how he helps clients meet their scope 3 sustainability goals.

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240. Making the Most of the Curb

Thu, 08 Aug 2024 15:00:00 -0000

While the curb is an often overlooked piece of infrastructure, it is vital to the mobility ecosystem with impacts to parking, delivery, rideshare, and much more. Better curb management is a path towards improving accessibility, optimizing digital infrastructure, scaling autonomy, and opening up municipal revenue streams.

To learn more, we sat down with SAE Authors Kelley Coyner, Principal, Innovation4Mobility, and Jason Bittner, Associate Division Manager and Principal, Applied Research Associates, to discuss the importance of improving the efficiency and operations of the curb — and why it’s the unsung hero of mobility.

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239. BRIEFS: Experience the Thrill of Going Electric

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 15:00:00 -0000

Are you curious about EVs? Experience what it means to go electric at Electrify Expo, North America's largest electric vehicle festival.

To learn more about this multi-city exhibition, Roberto Baldwin, Sustainability Editor, SAE Sustainable Mobility Solutions, sat down with BJ Birtwell, Founder & CEO, Electrify Expo, to discuss his passion for EVs and how giving consumers first-hand EV experiences can positively impact sales decisions.

For more information on the evolution of sustainability, head on over to sustainablecareers.sae.org. There, you can learn about how EVs combat the cold with heat pumps and preconditioning.

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238. Improving Road Safety with ADAS and ADS

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 15:00:00 -0000

Thousands of people die or are injured in automobile crashes each year. By leveraging in-vehicle advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and automated driving systems (ADS) more proactively, errors caused by human drivers can be reduced, resulting in less fatal and serious car crashes.

To learn more about the future of road safety, we sat down with Seth Chalmers, Director of Traffic Engineering for Dibble, to discuss new NHTSA developments, the intersection of ADAS and autonomy, and his experience with Waymo in Phoenix.

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237. Closing the Battery Manufacturing Knowledge Gap

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 15:00:00 -0000

Battery manufacturing in the United States is in its early days, however, more and more factories are ramping up to supply EVs, energy storage on the grid, and other markets.

To speed up the learning curve, Voltaiq is using battery intelligence software to identify issues faster, thus decreasing scrap rate and reducing battery manufacturing ramp-up time for global OEMs, consumer electronics companies, battery manufacturers and energy storage developers and operators.

Listen in as Roberto Baldwin, Sustainability Editor, SAE Sustainable Mobility Solutions, sits down with Tal Sholklapper, CEO and Co-founder of Voltaiq, to discuss the current state of battery manufacturing in the United States and how the company’s battery quality analytics software can accelerate production.

For more information on the evolution of sustainability, head on over to sustainablecareers.sae.org. There you can learn about how the joint venture between Rivian and Volkswagen will impact EV manufacturing in the United States.

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236. BRIEFS: Extending Battery Life with Software

Tue, 23 Jul 2024 15:00:00 -0000

What if you could give your EV a range boost via an over-the-air software update? It’s possible with the software defined battery.

By augmenting battery chemistry with intelligent algorithms and machine learning, Qnovo supplies the most advanced battery management software to the world's leading smartphone, automotive and energy storage manufacturers. With cutting-edge features like super-fast charging, more available battery capacity, and longer lifespan, Qnovo is creating the energy storage systems of the future.

Roberto Baldwin, Sustainability Editor, SAE Sustainable Mobility Solutions, sits down with Nadim Maluf, Co-founder and CEO, to discuss how Qnovo is extending the life of batteries, helping to balance the grid, and even expanding into aerospace.

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235. Scaling 2 Million Miles in Autonomous Trucking

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 15:00:00 -0000

A traditional Class 8 truck is on the road for a million miles or more over its lifetime. For autonomous trucks, that number could double to two million or more—and that requires a specialty focus on scalability and safety.

Enter Continental Automotive, a multinational automotive parts manufacturer pioneering technologies and services for the sustainable and connected mobility of people and goods. Continental has partnered with Aurora to commercially scale autonomous trucking systems. Together, they recently finalized the completion of the blueprint and design of the future Aurora Driver hardware and fallback system.

To learn more, we sat down with Phil McEwen, Vice President and General Manager, Commercial and Special Vehicles North America, Continental Automotive, to discuss the importance of safety in autonomous trucking technology, the partnership with Aurora, and the future of autonomy.

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234. Solar Powered Boating on the Great Lakes

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 15:00:00 -0000

With 20 percent of the world's fresh water, Michigan plays a large role in the future of maritime mobility. Recreational boating, commercial shipping, ports, and harbors serve a crucial role in the economic vitality of Michigan’s coastal communities and the Great Lakes.

That’s why the Michigan Economic Development Corporation recently launched the Fresh Coast Maritime Challenge to help decarbonize the state’s waterways. As part of this grant, Lilypad Labs, a startup based in Holland, Mich., launched the Lilypad, a sharable, 100 percent solar powered boat that provides a quiet, sustainable, and pollution-free boating experience.

To learn more about the importance of sustainable recreational and commercial boating, we sat down with Justine Johnson, Michigan's Chief Mobility Officer, Michigan Economic Development Corporation, and Dana Lowell, CEO, Lilypad Labs, to discuss how the public and private sectors are working together to decarbonize the Great Lakes waterways.

If you’d like to get involved, the Office of the Great Lakes is seeking a maritime strategy for the state of Michigan. Learn more at www.michigan.gov/egle.

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233. BRIEFS: The Supplier's Role in Achieving Sustainability

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 15:00:00 -0000

When people think of sustainability in the automotive world, they typically focus on the automaker. But the reality is that sustainability goals cannot be met without suppliers.

GKN Automotive is a Tier 1 supplier of driveline components, all-wheel drive systems, and plug-in hybrid solutions. Listen in as Roberto Baldwin, Sustainability Editor, SAE Sustainable Mobility Solutions, sits down with Tom Salisbury, Director of Sustainability, GKN Automotive, to discuss the company’s sustainability goals, working toward a net zero supply chain, and responsible sourcing practices.

For more information on the evolution of sustainability, head on over to sustainablecareers.sae.org. There you can learn about the adoption of SAE standard J3400 (also known as NACS or the Tesla port) and what it means for the future of charging EVs.

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232. UNPLUGGED: Can Autonomous Vehicles Eliminate Distracted Driving

Wed, 03 Jul 2024 15:00:00 -0000

Distracted driving is an epidemic that shows no signs of slowing down. But autonomous vehicles could be the cure.

As NHTSA gets ready to publish new data on distracted driving, hear from Grayson Brulte, Host of SAE Tomorrow Today, on why the addiction to our smart phones must be dealt with—and how AVs can help.

Have your own thoughts on this topic? We’d love to hear from you! Share your comments, questions or ideas for future topics with Grayson on Twitter or send them to podcast@sae.org.

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231. What the EV Industry Can Learn From PCs

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 15:00:00 -0000

Remember when the heavy battery inside your laptop weighed you down? Intel Automotive does – and they are using proven power management best practices from the PC industry to increase EV battery efficiency.

For more than 50 years, Intel has worked to advance the design and manufacturing of semiconductors. As the automotive industry shifts to electrification and software-defined vehicle infrastructures, Intel Automotive offers a scalable product portfolio, regionally resilient manufacturing, and demonstrated industry transformation experience. In fact, Intel Automotive is working with SAE to develop vehicle platform management standard, SAE J3311.

To learn more, we sat down with Jack Weast, Intel Fellow, Vice President and General Manager, Intel Automotive, and Rebeca Delgado, Chief Technology Officer, Intel Automotive, to discuss the importance of standardizing EV power management using learnings from the PC industry.

If you are interested in joining SAE J3311, Vehicle Platform Power Management, please reach out to gary.a.martz.jr@intel.com.

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230. BRIEFS: The Return of Inexpensive EVs

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 15:00:00 -0000

For the average car buyer, EVs have two major sticking points: a lack of charging infrastructure and a hefty price tag. Fortunately, both of those issues will be addressed with the move to the North American Charging System (NACS) – standardized as SAE J3400 – and the necessary return of less expensive EVs.

Listen in as Roberto Baldwin, Sustainability Editor, SAE Sustainable Mobility Solutions, discusses the inexpensive EV options hitting the market over the next few years.

For more information on the evolution of sustainability, head on over to sustainablecareers.sae.org. If you're not quite ready to add an EV to your household, watch our plug-in hybrid explainer video to get up to speed.

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229. The Cost of EV Conversion for Commercial Fleets

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 15:00:00 -0000

When it comes to incorporating EVs into commercial diesel fleets, it is important to understand the costs and benefits—and the impact on maintenance.

As one of the longest-running and largest fleet owners in North America, Ryder implements logistics and transportation solutions for a wide variety of industries. By using extensive historical data and current market prices for EVs and charging infrastructure, Ryder recently examined the potential economic impacts of implementing an all-EV commercial fleet in the United States.

To learn more about Ryder’s analysis, we sat down with Arun Chickmenahalli, Director of Maintenance R&D at Ryder, to discuss how electrification impacts fleet maintenance, the price differences for EV conversion between states, and the ways in which Ryder is developing maintenance programs to service EV, AV and alternative fuel clients.

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228. Has Amelia Earhart's Aircraft Been Found?

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 15:00:00 -0000

Sonar data from a deep sea drone recently shed light on one of aviation's most enduring mysteries: the disappearance of Amelia Earhart.

By pursuing the missing aircraft using the “Date Line theory,” Deep Sea Vision, a South Carolina-based marine robotics firm, searched across 5,200 square miles of the Pacific Ocean floor, more than all previous searches combined. Equipped with a modified version of the company’s flagship HUGIN 6000 commercial autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV), the DSV team discovered an image which mirrors the unique dual tails and scale of Earhart’s aircraft.

To learn more about this intriguing technology and what’s next when it comes to verifying this discovery, we sat down with Tony Romeo, CEO, Deep Sea Vision. Listen in as he shares his unique background, the power of his company’s AUV technology, and what’s next for the future of underwater exploration.

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227. BRIEFS: EV Batteries That Run On Sunshine - Or in the Cold

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 15:00:00 -0000

It’s no secret that installing EV charging stations can be time-consuming. But what if you could use the power of the sun? Beam Global is doing just that – not only on land, but in the water and sky as well.

Beam's research and work in thermal management enables EV batteries to charge in a hot or cold environments. Using clean energy solutions like solar power, Beam deploys EV charging infrastructure in minutes not months – with no permitting, no construction, and no electrical work.

Listen in as Roberto Baldwin, Sustainability Editor, SAE Sustainable Mobility Solutions, sits down with Said Al-Hallaj, Chief Battery Scientist, Beam Global, to discuss the rapidly deployed and scalable EV charging solutions, the challenges of electrification in the air and water, and the importance of thermal management.

For more information on the evolution of sustainability, head on over to sustainablecareers.sae.org. There you can read about how GM is pushing back on media coverage that growth in the EV market has stalled.

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226. Unsupervised Learning Makes Scalable Autonomy a Reality

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 15:00:00 -0000

Artificial intelligence that teaches itself? That’s the gist of unsupervised learning. And it offers far-reaching implications for the future autonomous driving—and much more.

As a pioneer in unsupervised learning, Helm.ai employs an AI-first approach to building autonomous driving software using an in-house unsupervised learning technology called Deep Teaching which leverages insights from applied mathematics and compressive sensing.

Deep Teaching enables Helm.ai to train on vast volumes of data more efficiently without the need for large scale fleets or human annotation, moving the world closer to fully autonomous self-driving systems. The company licenses their software to automakers for high-end ADAS L2+/L3 products and uses the same scalable AI approach for L2/L3 ADAS through L4.

To learn more about this exciting breakthrough, we sat down with Vlad Voroninski, CEO & Co-Founder of Helm.ai, to discuss unsupervised learning, Deep Teaching, and the future of autonomous driving.

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225. What Do Consumers Really Think about EVs?

Thu, 30 May 2024 15:00:00 -0000

Consumers are complex — and so is the EV market. From high expectations to sobering market realities, the EV landscape is hard to gauge without expert insight on consumer behavior.

That’s why we sat down with Jessica Caldwell, AVP and Head of Insights, Edmunds, to discuss consumer sentiment and the overall trends affecting EV adoption. By leveraging millions of vehicle transactions and web behavioral data, Edmunds helps make sense of the EV landscape for consumers, sellers, and the industry at large.

Listen in as Jessica breaks down consumer perceptions and behavior, as well as the effect of interest rates, affordability, and inventory. It’s an interesting conversation on what consumers really want — and what it will take to turn the tide on EV adoption.

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224. BRIEFS: The Trouble With EV Mineral Sourcing

Tue, 28 May 2024 15:00:00 -0000

From human rights abuses to detrimental environmental impacts, mineral sourcing for EV batteries and electric motors has a dark side.

Listen in as Roberto Baldwin, Sustainability Editor, SAE Sustainable Mobility Solutions, sits down with Tim Stevens, a freelance journalist who recently wrote an article for Motor Trend about the troubling side of EV mineral sourcing. Listen in as they discuss what Tim’s research uncovered, potential solutions like the battery passport and electric motors without rare earth minerals, and how we can ensure more accountability throughout the EV supply chain.

For more information on the evolution of sustainability, head on over to sustainablecareers.sae.org. There you can read about how lithium-ion batteries continue to be the best bet for some EV applications and that the technology around these batteries continues to evolve.

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223. Driven by Speed, Fueled by Engineering

Thu, 23 May 2024 15:00:00 -0000

Who’s better to design a sports car than the person who races it? Meet Kevin Boehm of Boehm Motorsports, a championship-winning professional racer and accomplished OEM principal engineer.

Driven by speed and fueled by innovation, Kevin’s ability to uncover automotive potential and translate it into on-track victories has made him a true standout both on and off the racetrack. As a principal engineer and test driver at Honda Research and Development, Inc., Kevin supports research design and product development for a wide array of Honda production vehicles.

For insight on his professional journey, we sat down with Kevin to discuss his approach to racing, engineering, and coaching—and how Formula SAE played an instrumental role in his ascent into the world of motorsports.

To learn more about how Formula SAE challenges students to conceive, design, fabricate, and compete with formula-style racing cars, visit fsaeonline.com.

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222. Setting the Standard in Autonomous Middle Mile Delivery

Thu, 16 May 2024 15:00:00 -0000

Autonomous box trucks that can move goods on short-haul B2B routes? It’s possible – and North America’s largest grocers, retailers, distributors, and e-commerce platforms are unlocking the benefits.

As the leader in autonomous middle mile delivery, Gatik is improving supply chain efficiency with their fleet of medium duty, class 3-7 autonomous box trucks. By moving goods safely and efficiently between distribution centers, fulfillment centers, stores and warehouses, Gatik is optimizing regional distribution networks for major customers like Walmart, Kroger, Loblaw, Tyson Foods, and Pitney Bowes.

With operations across multiple markets including Texas, Arkansas and Ontario, Gatik has more than 60 trucks on the road today and operates the largest revenue-generating commercial fleet of autonomous trucks on the continent.

To learn more, we sat down with Dr. Adam Campbell, Senior Manager, Safety Innovation and Impact, to discuss the company’s safety-first approach to the development and commercialization of autonomous middle-mile delivery and how Gatik will evolve over the next decade.

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221. BRIEFS: Can Your EV Power Your Home?

Tue, 14 May 2024 15:00:00 -0000

Imagine an EV that captures energy from the grid and stores it for later use. With GM Energy’s Vehicle to Home (V2H) bidirectional charging solution, the benefits of EV ownership now include a personal grid in your garage — and much more.

Listen in as Roberto Baldwin, Sustainability Editor, SAE Sustainable Mobility Solutions, sits down with Aseem Kapur, Chief Revenue Officer and Head of Product at GM Energy, to discuss how consumers can turn their compatible GM EV into a source of backup home power that unlocks potential cost savings, optimizes energy usage, and offers greater energy freedom.

For more information about the evolution of sustainability, head on over to sustainablecareers.sae.org. There you can read about GM Energy's V2H charging solutions.

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220. Florida: A Vibrant Hub of Mobility

Thu, 09 May 2024 15:00:00 -0000

Whether it’s aerospace, theme parks, maritime or motorsports, there is no doubt Florida is helping to build the future of mobility. Home to the Everglades, the state boasts one of the most unique ecosystems in the world. And, with one of the largest EV markets in the country, there is a growing interest in building out sustainable infrastructure.

To learn more about Florida’s approach to mobility, we sat down with Rebecca Vollmann, Chair, SAE Florida, to discuss the latest advances in automotive, air, rail, and maritime transportation, as well as the revival of the Space Coast. Listen in as she shares her passion for sustainable manufacturing efforts though automation and electrification – and the importance of encouraging future generations to pursue engineering careers that support the state’s vibrant mobility ecosystem.

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219. How AI is Redefining the Aerospace Industry

Thu, 02 May 2024 15:00:00 -0000

Simulation optimization. Generative design. Predictive algorithms. These AI-powered activities can “automate the mundane” and transform the way engineers work, for the better.

As a forerunner in digitalization and automation, Siemens co-creates with customers across all industries to address highly complex challenges. By harnessing data and connecting the real and digital worlds, Siemens is using AI to increase operational efficiencies and accelerate the development of aerospace and defense applications.

To learn more, we sat down with Todd Tuthill, Vice President, Aerospace & Defense Industry, Siemens, to discuss how the company is integrating AI and other advanced technologies to take the aerospace industry to the next level of efficiency—and how that will multiply the impact of engineers by freeing them to focus on what they do best.

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218. BRIEFS: The Future of Hydrogen-Powered Class 8 Vehicles

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 15:00:00 -0000

With all the hype around battery EVs, what role will hydrogen propulsion play in the future of sustainable transportation? The answer is a significant one, especially in the heavy-duty truck market.

Listen in as Roberto Baldwin, Sustainability Editor, SAE Sustainable Mobility Solutions, sits down with Steve Mathison, Vice President and Hydrogen Technologies Fellow at FirstElement Fuel and sponsor of SAE Standard J2601/5 to discuss why large trucks, particularly Class 8, are ideal for hydrogen propulsion—and what we can expect from hydrogen-powered medium and heavy-duty vehicles over the next decade.

For more information about the evolution of sustainability, head on over to sustainablecareers.sae.org. There you can read about how the Mercedes eSprinter electric delivery van will be a force for creating jobs.

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217. Autonomous Air Taxis Take Flight

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 15:00:00 -0000

The best way to bring safety and scalability into eVTOL flight is to do so autonomously. Why? Because increased automation doesn’t eliminate humans, it allows them to focus on higher level tasks that make scaling air taxis safer and more accessible.

That’s the vision behind Wisk Aero, an urban air-mobility company on a mission to leave traffic on the ground and make sustainable, autonomous flight a reality for everyday life. The company is building and certifying the world’s first autonomous eVTOL aircraft for commercial passenger use and working with the FAA on a type certification program.

To learn more, we sat down with Brian Yutko, CEO, Wisk Aero, to discuss the company’s critical interface between autonomy and human oversight, working with the FAA from a regulatory standpoint, the strategic advantages of the Wisk’s aircraft design, and the future of autonomous eVTOL flight.

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216. We Need More Engineers!

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 04:00:00 -0000

Each year, the U.S. needs roughly 400,000 new engineers. Projections estimate that nearly one-third of these roles will remain unfilled each year through at least 2030. What’s worse? There's $450 billion of lost economic output at risk.

To address this dire need, Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and SAE International are working together to find new and creative ways to close the gap. The 40 by 30 initiative aims to boost the number of women in engineering roles to 40% by 2030, and along the way, open up pathways for all individuals who are interested in training, upskilling, and shifting across engineering disciplines.

To learn more, we sat down with SAE Board Member and Trustee, Joan Wills, Executive Director, Software & Electronics Engineering, Cummins Inc., and Sibley Nebergall (Lovett), Partner, BCG, to understand the challenges, the opportunities, and how a public-private partnership can strengthen the engineering talent pipeline. It’s an eye-opening conversation you won’t want to miss!

To be a part of the 40 by 30 initiative, please reach out to Joan or Sibley via LinkedIn. If you’d like to help empower the next generation of engineers, visit www.saefoundation.org.

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215. BRIEFS: A Closer Look at Chinese EVs

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 15:00:00 -0000

Many of us have heard the news. The BYD Seagull is an EV available in China for under $10,000 and any company that builds and sells EVs in America should be scared. But should we really be worried about cheap Chinese EVs?

Listen in as Roberto Baldwin, Sustainability Editor, SAE Sustainable Mobility Solutions, offers his take on whether or not American OEMs should be concerned with less expensive Chinese EVs flooding the market and why it’s important to stay informed in a complex geopolitical landscape.

For more information about the evolution of sustainability, head on over to sustainablecareers.sae.org. There you can read about all the battery manufacturing facilities being built in the US over the next few years and what it means for job seekers.

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214. Patagonian Rancher Advancing Ag Tech

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 15:00:00 -0000

As a rancher in Patagonia, Alex Foessel understands the challenges facing the ag market and is working to advance safety and integrity in off-road autonomy.

As Managing Partner of Balanced Engineering, Alex and his team support the production and commercialization of highly automated off-road equipment though a proven safety case framework and certification process — getting great ideas to the ag market sooner. With experts in Iowa, Pennsylvania and Brazil, the company is maximizing productivity in agriculture through the integration of automation and AI.

To learn more, we sat down with Alex to discuss the challenges facing the ag market, the importance of safety, and how off-road ag technology will evolve over the next decade.

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213. The Power of Automation & Autonomy in Agriculture

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 15:00:00 -0000

For farmers, fully autonomous tillage and advanced spraying technology can modernize workflow and unlock massive efficiencies. And when you add in the power of AI to manage data and enhance decision-making, farmers are free to shift their focus from the mundane to doing what they do best.

With more than 180 years of developing equipment and services for farmers and builders, CNH Industrial is advancing agriculture by layering its proven experience in automation with autonomy. The company is bringing noticeable value to the farming community with fully autonomous tillage, green-on-brown and green-on-green spraying technology, and a redesigned tech stack.

To learn more, we sat down with Marc Kermisch, Chief Digital and Information Officer, to discuss how CNH Industrial is delivering easy to use, mobile first digital experiences, coupled with advanced vehicle technology that is transforming productivity in agriculture.

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212. BRIEFS: Why Compromise Helps Us Breathe Easier

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 15:00:00 -0000

The White House is giving automakers a bit more time to determine the best way forward in terms of EV adoption. By adding plug-in hybrids to the mix and agreeing to concessions on powertrains, the US Department of Energy and EPA fuel efficiency rules that go into effect in 2026 are a compromise that will lead us to a cleaner world with fewer carbon emissions.

Listen in as Roberto Baldwin, Sustainability Editor, SAE Sustainable Mobility Solutions, breaks down these new fuel efficiency rules and explains why compromise helps us all breathe easier.

For more information about the evolution of sustainability, head on over to sustainablecareers.sae.org. There you can read about Honda's new Plug-in hybrid hydrogen fuel cell CRV and what it means for the automaker.

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211. Is Radar the Most Underutilized Software?

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 15:00:00 -0000

Flexible, adaptable and upgradable. Not to mention cost effective and scalable. With all of this potential, the full value of radar has yet to be unlocked—until now.

Built on a proven military grade software, Spartan Radar is harnessing the power of mobility sensing for the safer and more reliable movement of people and things. With the highest clarity in the radar image, Spartan’s proprietary software works with existing sensor stacks to enhance resolution without more expensive hardware. The powerful combination of radar, cameras and software can bring cost-effective safety and autonomy to the masses.

To learn more, we sat down with Dr. Matt Markel, CEO, Spartan Radar, to discuss why radar has yet to be fully utilized in the market, the amazing potential it holds in democratizing safety, and how camera and radar can work together to unlock the full power of mobility sensing.

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210. Digitizing SAE Standards With AI

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 15:00:00 -0000

If you’re an engineer looking to easily search SAE standard parts or materials with OnQue, the time is here!

SAE recently partnered with Cognistx, an applied AI company, to develop technology for its expansive library of engineering standards. Cognistx data scientists used natural language processing and text intelligence to pave the way for thousands of documents to be parsed, indexed and stored.

With the power of generative and extractive AI, this ground-breaking solution enables users to access interoperable digital standards for seamless integration, speed and accuracy throughout the product development lifecycle.

To learn more, we sat down with Sanjay Chopra, Co-Founder & CEO, Cognistx, and Leslie McKay, Senior Manager, Digital and Information Products, SAE International, to discuss their trailblazing partnership, the future of digital standards, and the profound impact of AI. For more information on this groundbreaking technology, visit https://www.sae.org/onque-digital-standards.

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209. BRIEFS: Where Do Engineers Go to Problem-Solve?

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 15:00:00 -0000

From software-defined vehicles to EV batteries and the circular economy, the automotive industry is in the midst of a profound shift. To understand and adapt effectively, a meeting of the minds is needed—a place where engineers can discuss trending topics, solve problems, and build community.

Enter North America's largest technical mobility event, the WCX™ World Congress Experience. It’s the place for the brightest and best across all engineering disciplines, as well as the entire supply chain community, to come together to discuss how the mobility industry can move forward.

For insight on this year’s event, we sat down with Marc LeDuc, Content Development Manager, Engineering Events for SAE International, to discuss what attendees can expect from the more than 1,200 sessions spanning technology, consumer metrics, regulatory standards, sustainability, and much more.

If you’re ready to problem-solve with your peers, register now for WCX 2024 taking place April 16 - 18, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan. Hope to see you there!

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208. The Power of Electric Drive Systems

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 15:00:00 -0000

What powers the EV market? Electric drive systems, of course. And GKN Automotive knows a thing or two about delivering mass production mobility solutions for an evolving industry.

As the trusted partner for 90% of the world’s automotive companies, GKN Automotive powers more than 2 million EVs worldwide with its electric drive systems. The company recently unveiled a new plug-and-play eDrive concept designed to meet the growing demand for modular electric drive technology.

To learn more, we sat down with Dr. Dirk Kesselgruber, Chief Technology Officer, to discuss GKN’s competitive advantage in developing, building and supplying driveline systems and advanced ePowertrain technologies – and what’s next in an electrified future.

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207. BRIEFS: Why the Future of EV Charging is Brighter Than Ever

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 15:00:00 -0000

Is EV charging anxiety real? Yes. Can the issues plaguing our current EV charging infrastructure be solved? Also, yes.

While there is no doubt the EV market has faced a variety of headwinds in recent months, there are also several factors that indicate the state of EV charging is reaching a critical turning point.

Listen in as Roberto Baldwin, Sustainability Editor, SAE Sustainable Mobility Solutions, kicks off his first Tomorrow Today BRIEFS episode by discussing the challenges facing the EV market, and why recent news suggests the future of the EV charging is brighter than ever.

Be sure to tune in to future BRIEFS segments for quick hits on what’s trending in sustainability and what it means to you!

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206. Navigating the Growing Pains of the EV Market

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 16:00:00 -0000

Over the last 18 months, the EV market has been on a rollercoaster ride. From lack of affordable options to challenges with charging infrastructure, it’s clear that OEMs, suppliers, and consumers are all experiencing their share of EV growing pains.

For a fresh take on the state of the EV market, we sat down with SAE’s own Roberto Baldwin, Sustainability Editor, SAE Sustainable Mobility Solutions. Roberto’s long-time experience covering the convergence of automotive trends and technology gives him unique insight to the future of sustainable mobility. Listen in as he shares his thoughts on what consumers want in an EV and how automakers can adapt.

And we’re thrilled to announce that Roberto will host a new Tomorrow Today BRIEFS segment launching Tuesday, March 12! Tune in for quick updates on what’s trending in sustainability and what it means to you.

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205. Stellantis Talks Software Defined Vehicle Strategy

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 16:00:00 -0000

How does a company like Stellantis decide what new technologies will go into each of its iconic brands?

Whether its Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Fiat or Maserati, a common software platform differentiated by brand ensures Stellantis has a global approach alongside the ability to customize each vehicle and tailor its technology based on language, regional requirements, etc.

Armed with lessons learned from the recent semiconductor shortage and direct engagement with the start-up community, Stellantis is enhancing the performance of its software defined vehicles with proven best practices and strategic partnerships.

We sat down with Steve Rober, Senior Vice President, Global Head of Automotive Research and Advanced Engineering, to discuss how Stellantis is applying new technology across its legendary brand line-up.

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204. The Urgency of AV Safety

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 16:00:00 -0000

40 million miles of real-world driving experience? That’s enough to drive to the Moon and back 80 times! And Waymo is putting that experience to work with an urgent, research-driven approach to AV safety.

As the world’s first autonomous ride-hailing service, Waymo One is available in San Francisco, Phoenix, Los Angeles, and soon, Austin. To date, the data indicates that the Waymo Driver is already reducing traffic injuries and fatalities in these locations.

At the recent Government/Industry Meeting in Washington, DC, we sat down in-person with Francesca Favaro, Head of Safety Best Practices, to discuss how Waymo’s Safety Case Framework is saving lives and improving mobility.

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203. How Uber is Prioritizing AV Safety

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 16:00:00 -0000

With both human drivers and AV options, Uber is in a unique situation when it comes to developing safety standards. From company culture to engineering to operations, prioritizing safety is job number one.

In 2022, Uber publicly released safety guidelines for autonomous operators on their platform, the first of its kind. With partners like Waymo and Aurora, Uber is developing the technology necessary to power AVs and meet exceptional safety standards.

To learn more, we sat down with Kevin Gay, Director, Head of Safety, Autonomous Mobility & Delivery, at the 2024 Government/Industry Meeting to discuss Uber’s approach to safety and how they are building public trust in AVs.

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202. Will 2024 Be the Year for AV Commercialization?

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 16:00:00 -0000

The commercialization of autonomous vehicles requires proficiency across many domains: engineering, product development, logistics, public policy, and more. But no matter the area of expertise, one theme is constant: safety must come first. But how do you measure AV safety in a tangible and transparent way?

Just ask Aurora. As the company approaches their first commercial AV trial run from Dallas to Houston, they are laser focused on achieving their Aurora Driver Ready milestone by validating software, hardening hardware, and closing the Aurora Driver Safety Case, an industry first.

At the recent Government/Industry Meeting in Washington, DC, we sat down in-person with Nat Beuse, Chief Safety Officer and member of the US Department of Transportation’s Transforming Transportation Advisory Committee, to discuss Aurora’s approach to AV safety and why scaling AVs will be a tremendous benefit to society.

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201. 2024 Election Season Heats Up

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 16:00:00 -0000

It’s election season – and we’re talking presidential politics with renowned political commentator, Amy Walter, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of the Cook Political Report.

For more than 25 years, Amy has built a reputation as an accurate, objective, and insightful political analyst. As one of Washington's Most Powerful Women in 2023 & 2021, she understands the issues, trends, and events that shape the political landscape.

Listen in as SAE Tomorrow Today host, Grayson Brulte, sits down with Amy to discuss her perspective on the 2024 presidential race, the issues that matter most to voters, and what to expect as election season heats up.

Subscribe now to the Cook Political Report, the right analysis for getting it right. Use a free day pass 'CPRday' if you'd like to kick the tires first.

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200. Niche Manufacturing in the AV Market & Beyond

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 16:00:00 -0000

Some mobility and energy products are not well suited for heavily automated production—and that’s where Edison Manufacturing and Engineering comes in.

As a low volume contract manufacturing partner, Edison is focused on capital-light assembly of complex mobility and energy products—everything from AVs to EVs to hydrogen systems to conventional vehicles. The company’s production approach is capital-conscious and intentional, resulting in a high-quality manufacturing process for low volume and niche builds.

We sat down with Brandon Bartneck, Vice President and General Manager, Edison Manufacturing and Engineering, to discuss the how low volume manufacturing will play a critical role in the future of mobility as companies introduce new products, launch new technologies, and produce legacy products in volumes below their standard production.

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199. Farming Innovation Rooted in Sustainability

Thu, 18 Jan 2024 16:00:00 -0000

There aren’t many American brands as iconic as John Deere—and the company’s sustainability practices honor that tradition as stewards of the land and those who work it.

From precision technology to machine learning, Deere & Company’s revolutionary agricultural tools demonstrate the company’s commitment to cultivating greater sustainable practices, better financial outcomes, and unlocking new value for farmers.

To learn more, we sat down with Jill K. Sanchez, Vice President of Financial Reporting, Deere & Company, to discuss how this generational brand is embracing tech innovation to help customers become more efficient, profitable, and sustainable.

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198. SAE’s Vision for Advancing Mobility in 2024 & Beyond

Thu, 11 Jan 2024 16:00:00 -0000

When it comes to the current and future state of the mobility ecosystem, it’s important to take a holistic look at the challenges and opportunities we face on the path to autonomy and electrification.

To advance mobility safely, more affordably and more sustainably, SAE International has a vital role to play in bringing together all engineering disciplines and convening stakeholders from various sectors to accelerate new forms of mobility and clean energy.

To learn more about SAE’s vision for 2024 and beyond, we sat down with Carla Bailo, 2024 SAE International President and President & CEO, ECOS Consulting. Hear how she plans to take a fresh look at the mobility ecosystem and inspire a diverse set of stakeholders to work together to advance the future of mobility.

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197. UNPLUGGED: It’s Time to Advocate for the AV Market

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 16:00:00 -0000

Misleading and inaccurate headlines have many people thinking that the AV market is headed for disaster. However, the exact opposite is true. Many AV companies are not only healthy but thriving.

From robotaxis to autonomous trucking fleets, hear from Grayson Brulte, Host of SAE Tomorrow Today, on why the AV market is poised to gain the trust of consumers through engagement with local communities and how AVs can help reduce the crushing burden of inflation.

Have your own thoughts on this topic? We’d love to hear from you! Share your comments, questions or ideas for future topics with Grayson on Twitter or send them to podcast@sae.org.

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196. Using Scientific Research to Improve the Grid

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 16:00:00 -0000

An unbiased, scientific view about how best to bring energy to society—including how it impacts the grid. That’s the goal of Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI).

With a foundational mission to benefit society, EPRI delivers independent, objective thought leadership and industry expertise to help the energy sector identify issues, technology gaps, and broader needs that can be addressed through collaborative R&D programs.

John Halliwell is Senior Technical Executive of Electric Transportation for EPRI, and the SAE J1772 Document Sponsor and Task Force Chair. We sat down with him to discuss how EPRI is improving electricity generation and delivery worldwide and his role in revising SAE J1772, the Electric Vehicle Adapter Standard. .

Following a diligent revision process, J1772 will be published in the coming weeks by the SAE Hybrid-EV Committee. If you’re interested in joining the J1772 Task Force, apply today or send an email to Ground Vehicle Committee Manager, Dante Rahdar, at dante.rahdar@sae.org.

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195. Partnering with Law Enforcement for Safer AVs

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 16:00:00 -0000

As autonomous trucks scale nationwide, law enforcement has a critical role to play in the development of safe roadway policies for the AV industry.

In an effort to incorporate this perspective, some self-driving technology companies, like Kodiak Robotics and Aurora, are partnering with experienced law enforcement professionals to ensure autonomous trucks meet rigorous standards before they are deployed on U.S. highways.

For insight into this partnership, we sat down with Brett M. Fabbri, Head of Law Enforcement Policy, Kodiak Robotics; Captain Bart Teeter, Texas Highway Patrol; and Gary L. McCarthy, Senior Manager of Law Enforcement Interaction, Aurora.

With decades long experience in law enforcement, this group brings a vital perspective to highway safety, particularly when it comes to the evaluation and regulation of autonomous technologies, as the AV industry strives to make the road safer for all drivers.

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194. A Disruptive Tech Company in the Automotive World

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 16:00:00 -0000

We don’t compete, we complete. That’s the philosophy at REE Automotive as they redefine the commercial vehicle industry with a fully modular EV platform.

REE’s x-by-wire corner technology enables a completely flat and modular chassis that supports all mission-specific EVs from Class 1 to Class 6 and provides 25 to 30 percent more space for cargo, people, or batteries than a traditional vehicle. REE’s flexible EV platforms are autonomous-capable, offer a low total cost of ownership, and drastically reduce the time to market for fleets looking to electrify.

For insight into REE’s disruptive technology and overall business philosophy, we sat down with Daniel Barel, Co-Founder & CEO. He shares his perspective on being a tech company in the automotive world, the importance of partnerships, and REE’s vision for the future.

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193. Powering Additive Manufacturing in Pittsburgh

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 16:00:00 -0000

Laser and electron beams as energy sources for 3D printing? It might sound like something out of a sci-fi movie, but it’s all happening at Neighborhood 91, an additive manufacturing campus in Pittsburgh.

As part of the Neighborhood 91 community, Cumberland Additive is unlocking the power of additive manufacturing (also known as 3D printing) for its customers in aerospace, defense, space, energy, and soon, medical.

In fact, Cumberland Additive and JEOL USA recently announced that Cumberland’s Neighborhood 91 facility in Pittsburgh will be the first installation in North America of JEOL’s new Electron Beam Melting (EBM) Powder Bed Fusion (PBF) system. This new metal 3D printed e-beam system will expand capabilities, primarily for serial production of parts.

To learn more, we sat down with Bill Freyvogel, VP, Business Development & Marketing at Cumberland Additive, to discuss the company’s vision, capabilities, and how additive manufacturing will change the face of manufacturing as we know it.

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192. A Scientific Look into the Future of Sustainable Energy

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 16:00:00 -0000

There is no doubt that research and knowledge discovery can have a profound impact on society.

Leading the conversation on the challenges and opportunities of sustainable energy is Dr. Robert Wagner, Director of Buildings and Transportation, Science Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

As the winner of the 2023 SAE Medal of Honor, Dr. Wagner believes in the power of collaboration and connecting thought leaders from diverse disciplines across industry, academia, research laboratories and governments. In his role at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Dr. Wagner empowers teams to pursue scientific breakthroughs in sustainable energy as part of the organization’s wider mission to ensure America’s security and prosperity.

From EVs to new energy technologies to infrastructure, we sat down with Dr. Wagner for a wide-ranging conversation on the future of sustainable energy—from a scientific perspective.

SAE Awards honor the very best in mobility, recognizing the extraordinary achievements of executives, engineers, students, and educators. If you want to learn more, serve on a selection committee, or nominate a deserving colleague---or yourself---send an e-mail to awards@sae.org.

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191. UNPLUGGED: Are You Ready for the Autonomous Trucking Revolution?

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 16:00:00 -0000

There is no doubt that autonomous trucks will have a transformative impact on the logistics industry. But what is the current state of AV trucking and how will it commercialize and scale?

Join Grayson Brulte, Host of SAE Tomorrow Today, as he sits down with Lee White, President of LM White Consulting for insight into the future of autonomous trucking. With four decades of experience, Lee works with fleets, OEMs, and carriers in developing forward-looking strategies, business models, and roadmaps for AV operations.

Continue this conversation with Lee White. Join his SAE course Autonomous Technology in Long-Haul Trucking launching December 4-5, 2023. Seating is limited—register today!

Have your own thoughts on this topic? We’d love to hear from you! Share your comments, questions or ideas for future topics with Grayson on Twitter or send them to podcast@sae.org.

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190. Transforming Freight With Intelligent Movement

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 16:00:00 -0000

By combining electric power, digital intelligence, and autonomous driving technology, one company is transforming the world of shipping and freight management for good.

Founded in 2016, Einride designs, develops and deploys technologies for freight mobility. The company’s offerings include an intelligent platform, Einride Saga, alongside electric and autonomous fleets, charging infrastructure, and connectivity networks.

In 2022, the company became the first to operate a fully electric autonomous heavy duty vehicle without a driver on board in an operational pilot on U.S. public road. By developing a completely bespoke autonomous truck, Einride offers customers a clean, safe, and efficient way to ship.

To learn more about the future of intelligent freight, we sat down with Tim Dawkins, Senior Safety Director, Einride, to discuss the company’s interconnected ecosystem and how it enables faster, greener, and cheaper freight.

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189. Bringing eVTOL to Market

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 15:00:00 -0000

All-electric flight will soon become a reality—and one company is building the infrastructure that will enable it to scale and commercialize.

As a pioneer in sustainable high-speed air mobility, Lilium is one of the only all-electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) companies seeking dual certification with the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Since 2015, the company has designed, built, and tested five generations of proprietary technology.

The Lilium Jet can adapt for a range of customers and uses. The most spacious cabin arrangement is designed for private flights and includes luxurious club seating. Alternatively, the cabin can be configured with six seats for passenger flights, or without seats to serve the zero-emissions logistics market.

For insight into Lilium’s technology and the future of air mobility, we sat down with Alastair McIntosh, Chief Technology Officer, Lilium, to discuss the company’s revolutionary electric propulsion system, decarbonizing aviation, and the path toward eVTOL commercialization.

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188. Building a Winning Career in Motorsports

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 15:00:00 -0000

Long regarded as one of the most influential women in NASCAR, decorated auto racing engineer Alba Colón came to Hendrick Motorsports as Director of Technical Partnerships after a storied career with General Motors that spanned more than two decades.

Under Colón’s leadership, Chevrolet was the most dominant manufacturer in the NASCAR Cup Series, amassing 286 race wins, 12 driver championships and 14 manufacturer titles. Since joining Hendrick Motorsports in 2018, the team has won 48 races and 2 driver championships. If history is any guide, many more are in store.

From her early years in Puerto Rico to taking part in her first Formula SAE competition, we sat down with Alba to discuss her passion for motorsports and her dedication to advancing women in engineering which won her the prestigious Rodica Baranescu Award for Technical & Leadership Excellence from SAE International in 2022.

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187. UNPLUGGED: Is Social Media Hindering AV Advancement?

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 15:00:00 -0000

Today, there is a rush to be the first person to post a video or photo of an autonomous vehicle in a compromising light. But what impact is that having on the advancement of the industry?

Many of us don’t know the history of aviation and the risks that were taken to advance flight. Autonomous vehicles are having their Wright Brothers moment. When new technologies are developed and commercialized, there's always risk. What makes it worth it is the resulting technology that will decrease road fatalities and put an end to distracted driving.

Join Grayson Brulte, Host of SAE Tomorrow Today, as he uses history to explain why society must avoid click-bait coverage of the AV industry to advance autonomy and make our world safer.

Have your own thoughts on this topic? We’d love to hear from you! Share your comments, questions or ideas for future topics with Grayson on Twitter or send them to podcast@sae.org.

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186. Evolving SAE Aircraft Safety Standards

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 15:00:00 -0000

Formed in 1992, the SAE S-18 Aircraft & Systems Development and Safety Assessment Committee is tasked by the FAA to capture consensus industry safety procedures into a recommended practice. For over 25 years, the S-18 documents have been the cornerstone of product development and safety in aviation.

As new aircraft technologies like eVTOL and autonomous flights emerge, the S-18 committee is keeping pace with updated guidance for more complex aviation systems. In fact, the committee is currently working on the release of revised versions of two longstanding critical modern aviation safety standards in an effort to adapt to a rapidly transforming industry.

To learn more, we sat down with Andy Wallington, System Safety Engineer and SAE S-18 Vice Chairperson, The Boeing Company, and Steve Beland, Retired Technical Fellow - System Safety and recent SAE S-18A Co-Chairperson, to discuss their commitment to updated guidance and aviation safety.

For updates on the release of SAE’s revised aircraft standards, visit www.sae.org/foundations-of-aircraft-and-systems-safety. And don’t forget to register for AeroTech, SAE International’s premier professional conference on aerospace technology.

If you’d like to get involved in developing SAE mobility standards, visit www.sae.org/standards/development.

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185. Fighting Wildfires with AI-Powered Drones

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 15:00:00 -0000

Every year, wildfires result in the loss of thousands of lives, millions of acres, and hundreds of billions of dollars. But the powerful combination of AI and drone technology can change how we fight wildfires and mitigate the loss of life, property, and forests.

Data Blanket is a Seattle-based startup developing small fleets of AI-powered drones that autonomously carry out missions for assessing wildfires and relaying vital information to commanders. The data is used to map the perimeter of a fire, overlay locations of firefighting crews and equipment, and ultimately contain the blaze by creating boundaries.

We sat down with Omer Bar-Yohay, Co-Founder & CEO, Data Blanket, to discuss his extensive knowledge and experience in mobility, the future of AI-powered drones, and his passion for electric and eVTOL aircraft technology which won him the inaugural SAE Sustainable Aviation Award in 2022.

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184. Setting Realistic Expectations for Trucking Decarbonization

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 15:00:00 -0000

The strategy to transition away from carbon-based fuels must be rooted in reality. Success depends on cost parity, the right market incentives, necessary infrastructure, and access to a wide array of scarce natural resources.

As an alliance of trucking industry stakeholders committed to a clean energy future, the Clean Freight Coalition is bringing sanity to the electrification conversation. From rational policymaking to balanced national standards, their goal is to ensure a zero-emission future is achieved in a responsible manner—one that assures affordable and reliable freight transportation and protects the nation's supply chain.

We sat down with Jim Mullen, Executive Director, Clean Freight Coalition, to discuss the trucking industry’s proven track record of environmental stewardship, the need to incentivize options other than battery electric for trucking fleets, and how unrealistic expectations could put our economy into a tailspin.

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183. Drive-Through Vehicle Inspections Powered by AI

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 15:00:00 -0000

We all know traditional vehicle inspections are time-consuming, manual, and often subjective. But what if there was an easier and more accurate way?

Enter UVeye, the industry’s first vehicle inspection system based on advanced AI, computer-vision, and machine learning technologies for use in dealerships, fleets, and auction spaces. The company has developed a set of products that scan the entire vehicle and detect any type of defect or damage— from alignment issues to minor scratches, and even bomb detection.

Together with its seamless, drive-through experience, UVeye is transforming vehicle inspections by enabling service providers to shift their focus to customers, thus building trust and transparency throughout the vehicle inspection process.

To learn more, we sat down with Daphna Meroz, Senior Director of Strategic Business Development, UVeye, to discuss the company’s technology, the type of data it analyzes, and how automated vehicle inspections will impact insurance companies and the used car market.

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182. UNPLUGGED: With Actors on Strike, California Needs Autonomy

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 15:00:00 -0000

As the SAG-AFTRA strike continues, California’s economy continues to suffer. Small businesses that once provided services to the movie industry are beginning to shut down due to a lack of work. The longer the strike continues, the more California will need the jobs that tech industries, like autonomous trucking, create.

Governor Newsom recognizes the positive impact that the tech industry has on the state’s economy. That’s why his administration has come out forcefully against AB-316 which requires a safety driver in an autonomous truck at all times. The bill in its current form would handicap the entire autonomous trucking industry and force companies to relocate to other states.

Join Grayson Brulte, Host of SAE Tomorrow Today, as he breaks down the effect of the writers’ and actors’ strike in California and the negative impact AB-316 would have on the autonomous trucking industry.

Have your own thoughts on this topic? We’d love to hear from you! Share your comments, questions or ideas for future topics with Grayson on Twitter or send them to podcast@sae.org.

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181. The Truck Driver’s Role in an Autonomous Future

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 15:00:00 -0000

As autonomous trucking scales, what role will professional drivers play? According to one company, the answer is a big one.

As world-leading experts in self-driving, Waabi is speeding up the curve of autonomous trucking with their generative AI simulation platform. But their leadership in the AV space goes beyond their revolutionary technology. By creating the industry’s first Million Mile Driver Advisory Board, Waabi is tapping into the knowledge of the world’s most experienced truck drivers—and giving them a long-overdue seat at the AV development table.

To learn more, we sat down with Sam Loesche, Head of Policy and Public Affairs, Waabi, to discuss the state of autonomous trucking, the importance of partnering closely with truck drivers, and how autonomy will change the way we move goods in this country forever.

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180. We’re Talking All Things Electrification

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 15:00:00 -0000

From performance and range to solid state and lithium ion batteries, many factors are at play when it comes to the current state of EV adoption. With so many advancements afoot, who better to ask about the latest developments in electrification than Munro & Associates?

As a world-renowned engineering and manufacturing consulting firm, Munro & Associates has consistently saved manufacturing companies billions of dollars through expertise and quality assurance in new product development, costing and benchmarking. Munro has interviewed folks like Elon Musk and Jim Farley, and even livestreamed a teardown benchmarking of a Tesla structural battery pack.

To get the lowdown on everything from electric drive systems to battery chemistry, we sat down with Thomas Prucha, Director of Electrification, Munro & Associates, for a wide-ranging conversation that fellow automotive enthusiasts and “gearheads” are sure to enjoy.

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179. Partnering to Scale Autonomy for the Common Good

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 15:00:00 -0000

On the quest to scale autonomy, partnerships are essential. A perfect example is the recent collaboration between MOIA and Apex.AI for the market-ready development of a passenger management system for autonomous mobility services.

As a subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group, MOIA develops mobility services at its Berlin and Hamburg locations in partnership with cities and local public transport operators. Apex.AI is a global company that develops scalable software for vehicles and mobility systems. Together, the two companies are utilizing the software development kit from Apex.AI to further MOIA’s goal of developing Europe's first type-certified AD-MaaS system and launching an integrated autonomous, scalable ridepooling system in Hamburg.

To learn more about this successful partnership, we sat down with Jan Becker, Co-founder and CEO, Apex.AI, and Sascha Meyer, CEO, MOIA, to discuss how their collaboration strengthens agile software development at both companies and the importance of building autonomous mobility systems for the common good.

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178. UNPLUGGED: Battling Inflation Through Autonomy

Thu, 17 Aug 2023 15:00:00 -0000

With inflation still raging, consumers need a break. Could autonomous grocery delivery trucks be the answer?

This year, 47% of U.S. consumers started shopping at a new grocery store. As shoppers look to make their dollar go further, grocery stores have an opportunity to cut costs by utilizing autonomous delivery vehicles. This not only saves consumers money, but also builds public trust in autonomy.

Join Grayson Brulte, Host of SAE Tomorrow Today, as he discusses how grocery stores can pass savings on to consumers by utilizing autonomous delivery trucks. It’s an important conversation on the state of our economy and building public trust in autonomy.

Have your own thoughts on this topic? We’d love to hear from you! Share your comments, questions or ideas for future topics with Grayson on Twitter or send them to podcast@sae.org.

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177. Unlocking Silicon's Full Potential to Further EV Adoption

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 15:00:00 -0000

Increasing EV battery performance while lowering cost? That’s the goal of OneD Battery Sciences. With a breakthrough technology known as SINANODE, the company is successfully adding more energy-dense silicon into the anodes of lithium-ion EV batteries to increase efficiency and affordability.

Why silicon? Because it can store ten times the energy of graphite alone—yet previous attempts to include more in the anode have failed due to expansion and breakage. By eliminating these issues, SINANODE unlocks silicon’s full potential to advance the production of competitive EVs that meet market demand. The company has even partnered with GM for joint R&D of silicon anode technology for more efficient EV batteries.

To learn more about this ground-breaking technology, we sat down with Vincent Pluvinage, PhD, CEO and Co-founder, OneD Battery Sciences, to discuss the current state of EV battery production and how SINANODE can further EV adoption.

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176. UNPLUGGED: The AV Industry Has a Messaging Problem

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 15:00:00 -0000

Autonomous vehicles are economic engines that will increase safety, create jobs, and boost consumer spending. The problem is many people don’t think about them that way.

Despite the negative backlash on automation and autonomy, 75% of the global public trusts the technology sector, a 1-point increase year-over-year, according to the 2023 Edelman Trust Barometer. The trust is there, but the AV industry needs to work on the messaging to help consumers realize that autonomy can improve their lives and create jobs.

Join Grayson Brulte, Host of SAE Tomorrow Today, as he discusses the current sentiment around AVs and how we can change the public’s mindset by highlighting the positive benefits this technology will bring to us all.

Have your own thoughts on this topic? We’d love to hear from you! Share your comments, questions or ideas for future topics with Grayson on Twitter or send them to podcast@sae.org.

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175. SAE to Standardize Tesla NACS Connector

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 15:00:00 -0000

As major OEMs adopt Tesla’s NACS connector, SAE is acting fast to bring key stakeholders together and ensure that any supplier or manufacturer will be able to use, manufacture, or deploy the NACS connector on EVs and at charging stations across North America.

The SAE J3400 NACS Task Force will enable standards and technology to work together and effectively manage pain points for consumers and scale EV production. With unique and valuable relationships with both industry and policy makers, SAE’s Hybrid - EV Committee approved the creation of SAE J3400: NACS Electric Vehicle Coupler and the dedicated Task Force of subject matter experts overseeing the development of these standards.

For insight into this task force and the future of ground vehicle standards, we sat down with Christian Thiele, Director, Global Ground Vehicle Standards, SAE International, and Dr. Rodney McGee, Ph.D., P.E.

Chairman, SAE J3400 NACS Task Force, and Chief Engineer at the University of Delaware, to discuss how NACS standardization will pave the way for compatibility, interoperability, safety and consistency in the marketplace.

If you’re interested in joining this NACS EV Coupler Task Force, apply today at https://sae.to/3pP17sh or send an email to Standards Specialist, Dante Rahdar, at dante.rahdar@sae.org.

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174. Life-Saving Biometrics Without Wearables

Thu, 20 Jul 2023 15:00:00 -0000

Imagine a wireless sensor that can automatically alert authorities if an elderly relative has taken a fall or if a child has been left alone in a hot car. One company is doing just that – all without assistance from a wearable device.

Founded in 2020, Pontosense is focused on the mission of saving lives through the use of a contactless RF sensor that monitors biometrics with medical grade technology. With 500+ patents, the Pontosense team is comprised of engineers as well as data and AI scientists who are making human-centric technology a reality in both the automotive and smart home markets.

We sat down with Alex Qi, Chief Executive Officer, Pontosense, to discuss how the sensors work, the importance of privacy in biometric data collection, and unlocking new opportunities in adjacent markets.

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173. BRIEFS: Supporting a Circular Economy for EV Batteries

Tue, 18 Jul 2023 15:00:00 -0000

When it comes to sustainability, the term “circular economy” refers to a process in which products are used again and again, thus reducing finite raw material consumption and curbing CO2 emissions. In transportation, the need to achieve circularity for EV batteries is particularly acute.

According to recent studies, the projected demand for lithium will increase sixfold by 2030. This surge requires new engineering practices that reuse and recycle EV battery materials all the way upstream—and that’s where SAE comes in.

In the latest episode of Sustainable Mobility Briefs, Frank Menchaca, President, Sustainable Mobility Solutions at SAE International, discusses the importance of a circular economy for EV batteries and how SAE is designing engineering practices that will support the transition from gasoline power to electricity.

Have your own thoughts on this topic? We’d love to hear from you! Share your comments, questions or ideas for future topics by sending them to podcast@sae.org.

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172. Making Real-Time Mapping a Reality

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 15:00:00 -0000

Long thought to be impossible, real-time mapping is now a reality. With the ability to update street information every five minutes, this technology is revolutionizing how road data is captured and delivered to the mobility ecosystem.

Leading the way is Nexar, a computer vision company with a portfolio of AI-backed dashcams and vision-based applications for public and private sector partners. Targeted to OEMs, AVs, and DoTs, Nexar uses crowdsourced data and edge AI to identify work zones, speed limit changes, open parking spaces, and provide more efficient routes for the public.

To learn more, we sat down with Eran Shir, CEO and Co-founder, to discuss how Nexar is making roadways safer by using footage collected from the company's billions of AI dash cams and analyzing street information every five minutes.

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171. Buckle Up! We’re Talking Future Trends

Thu, 06 Jul 2023 15:00:00 -0000

From AI and ChatGPT to geopolitics and global supply chains, a multitude of trends are converging and paving the way for a historic transformation that will reverberate across industries and sectors. Are you ready?

For a rousing conversation that is as wide-ranging as it is thought-provoking, we sat down with Katrin Zimmermann, CEO and Managing Director of TLGG USA, to discuss the trends impacting mobility, technology, globalization, and much more. Fasten your seatbelts for an honest discussion that is certain to push boundaries and open minds.

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170. UNPLUGGED: Is Licensing the Future of Autonomy?

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 15:00:00 -0000

Develop technology, patent it, and license it. Because not every company has the time or resources to develop a fully autonomous driving stack, this model could become the future of autonomy.

Join Grayson Brulte, Host of SAE Tomorrow Today, as he discusses the implications of Tesla’s recent agreements with GM and Ford, and how these developments could enable software licensing as the autonomous business model of the future.

Have your own thoughts on this topic? We’d love to hear from you! Share your comments, questions or ideas for future topics with Grayson on Twitter or send them to podcast@sae.org.

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169. Avant-Garde EV Company to Build in the US

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 15:00:00 -0000

While you may not have heard of Polestar, its exceptional performance, unique buying experience, and commitment to sustainability enables this novel brand to “intercept” its customers.

Headquartered in Sweden and built with Scandinavian minimalism in mind, Polestar offers a friction-free, primarily digital EV buying experience which includes boutique showrooms in areas with high foot traffic—a contrast to the traditional car lot. The company recently unveiled its first electric performance SUV, the Polestar 3, which is produced in United States.

With a focus on supply chain traceability and sustainability labelling, Polestar assesses their vehicles’ lifetime carbon footprint, covering emissions from materials production, manufacturing, and logistics, use phase, and end of life. As part of their commitment to an electrified future, Polestar also recently partnered with the SAE Foundation to spark STEM curiosity amongst students.

To learn more about this burgeoning brand, we sat down with Gregor Hembrough, Head of Polestar North America, to discuss the company’s vision, traceability in the supply chain, and the Polestar 3 production in South Carolina.

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168. Carving a Path Forward for EV Infrastructure

Thu, 15 Jun 2023 15:00:00 -0000

With the recent announcement that Ford has partnered with Tesla to include NACS connectors in its EVs starting in 2025, the race is on to determine the best path forward for standardizing EV charging technology and infrastructure.

To discuss this topic and much more, we sat down with Amy Ford, Vice President, Global Surface Transportation and Mobility Innovation Lead at AECOM, the world’s leading global infrastructure consulting firm. From public policy to consumer experience, we discuss how EVs are reshaping our transportation and energy ecosystem—and the importance of flexibility in building an EV infrastructure that will stand the test of time.

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167. BRIEFS: EV Batteries Get a Second Life Down Under

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 15:00:00 -0000

EV Batteries Get a Second Life Down Under

Even after close to a decade of use, EV batteries still retain about 80% of their capacity. This means that they can be used for other purposes, like storing energy for homes. We call this a second life.

In the latest episode of Sustainable Mobility Briefs, Frank Menchaca, President, Sustainable Mobility Solutions at SAE International, discusses how a team of Australian researchers discovered that repurposed EV batteries—if re-used for a period of about four years—can reduce the overall environmental impact that comes with making them in the first place.

Research like this is so important as we ensure EVs live up to the promise of a net zero emission future.

Have your own thoughts on this topic? We’d love to hear from you! Share your comments, questions or ideas for future topics by sending them to podcast@sae.org.

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166. Unleashing Wireless Power Transfer for EVs

Thu, 08 Jun 2023 15:00:00 -0000

When it comes to EV charging, many of us are wondering: what comes after the plug? The answer is one of the hottest topics in mobility: Wireless Power Transfer.

Wireless Power Transfer (WPT) is the process whereby electrical energy is transmitted from a power source to an electrical load across an air gap using induction coils. It’s a game-changer in terms of EV adoption given its high-power, touchless charging ability.

For insight into this ground-breaking technology, we sat down with Jesse Schneider, CEO/CTO, ZEV Station, a company working to commercialize wireless charging and hydrogen fuel technology. We discuss his background and leadership in developing the SAE J2954 standard on Wireless Power Transfer for EVs and how ZEV Station is combining fast electric vehicle charging with complementary high-throughput hydrogen stations.

If developing industry standards interests you, consider joining an SAE Committee. For more information, please email Standards Specialist, Dante Rahdar, at dante.rahdar@sae.org, and view the Bonus Features below.

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165. BRIEFS: Geologists on TikTok?

Tue, 06 Jun 2023 15:00:00 -0000

It might just be what we need to bring awareness to the game-changing opportunities of green collar jobs.

In the inaugural episode of our Sustainable Mobility Briefs, Frank Menchaca, President, Sustainable Mobility Solutions at SAE International, discusses the important role geologists—and many others—have to play in creating a responsible and sustainable EV battery ecosystem.

By creating awareness, we can support the transition to net-zero transportation while opening up EV battery and infrastructure job opportunities to people from all walks of life.

Have your own thoughts on this topic? We’d love to hear from you! Share your comments, questions or ideas for future topics by sending them to podcast@sae.org.

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164. North Texas Nurtures Next Generation of Mobility

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 15:00:00 -0000

When it comes to cultivating new mobility technologies at scale, one sprawling ecosystem in North Texas is in a league of its own.

AllianceTexas is a 27,000-acre master-planned industrial, mixed-use and residential development in the Dallas-Fort Worth region. As a global logistics hub, this visionary development has transformed the North Texas economy by generating more than 66,000 jobs and an estimated $111 billion in regional economic impact.

With a unique set of air and ground logistics, the Mobility Innovation Zone offers full access to the resources and partnerships necessary to scale and commercialize new technologies at scale—as well as a full spectrum of AV mobility use cases from first to last mile.

For the inside scoop, we sat down with Ian Kinne, Director of Logistics Innovation at Hillwood, the developer of AllianceTexas and leader of the Mobility Innovation Zone, to discuss technology commercialization and the future of mobility and supply chain efficiencies for Hillwood’s partners and the region.

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163. UNPLUGGED: Will SAE Level 3 Introduce Personally Owned AVs?

Thu, 25 May 2023 15:00:00 -0000

The consumer has spoken. We want to own our own autonomous vehicles.

While we may not be at SAE Level 4 yet, our society is well on its way to an autonomous future with the introduction and adoption of personally owned SAE Level 3 AVs – all thanks to the Tesla effect.

With AI data sets like the Tesla Dojo on the horizon, Grayson Brulte, Host of SAE Tomorrow Today, discusses the impact of SAE Level 3 and how the imminent adoption of personally owned autonomous vehicles is set to transform mobility as we know it.

Have your own thoughts on this topic? We’d love to hear from you! Share your comments, questions or ideas for future topics with Grayson on Twitter or send them to podcast@sae.org.

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162. Cleaning Up the EV Battery Supply Chain

Thu, 18 May 2023 15:00:00 -0000

Demand for lithium-ion batteries is estimated to grow 500% in the next 10 years. With such an intense surge on the horizon, there is a need to ramp up the supply chain quickly and sustainably to support this growth.

Enter Redwood Materials. Founded by JB Straubel, co-founder and former CTO of Tesla, Redwood is transforming the EV battery supply chain by producing anode copper foil and cathode active materials in the US at scale for the first time—and using an increasing amount of recycled content to build those components.

Currently, EV battery materials move 50,000+ miles before they reach a battery cell factory. By offering large-scale sources of domestic anode and cathode materials produced from an increasing number of recycled batteries that directly go back to U.S. cell manufacturers, Redwood is creating a closed-loop, domestic supply chain for lithium-ion batteries.

We sat down with Alexis Georgeson, VP Government Relations & Communications, to discuss Redwood Materials circular supply chain and how the company is recycling, refining, and remanufacturing battery materials for a clean energy future.

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161. Is the Rise of EVs the End of the Gas Tax?

Thu, 11 May 2023 15:00:00 -0000

With more and more consumers plugging in their cars instead of filling up their tanks, the gas tax is slowly eroding—just like many of our roads and bridges across the country. Less fuel tax means less money for repairing our decaying infrastructure, but Road Usage Charges (RUC) can change that.

RUC — also referred to as a vehicle miles traveled (VMT) fee, a distance-based user fee (DBF), or a mileage-based user fee (MBUF) — charges motorists based on the number of miles they drive instead of the number of gallons of fuel they put into their vehicles. This evolution to a more usage-based model provides sustainability and fairness in paying for our roads and bridges as more and more consumers move to EVs.

As a leading global engineering and professional services firm, WSP USA has led some of the largest and most successful RUC pilots in the country. These efforts have led to wider state consideration and enhanced regional interest in RUC as a viable future transportation funding source.

For expert insight, we sat down with David S. Kim, SVP and Principal, National Transportation Policy and Multimodal Strategy for WSP USA, to discuss RUC and how more states are considering RUC funding as an option given the rise in EV ownership and impacts of inflation. He also share insight on transit agencies’ complicated and expensive efforts to transition bus fleets to zero emission.

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160. Taking Delivery to New Heights With Drones

Thu, 04 May 2023 15:00:00 -0000

Taking Delivery to New Heights With Drones

It’s a bird. It’s a plane. It’s a drone! From doorstep delivery to aerial data collection, drones are quickly becoming a powerful force for good across businesses and communities.

DroneUp is leading this charge, accelerating from a small start-up to a global leader after receiving a significant investment from the #1 retailer in the world, Walmart, to deliver COVID tests during the pandemic. This partnership continued and became the impetus for the company to move beyond aerial data collection and into delivery services.

Today, DroneUp provides a last-mile delivery system for swift local deliveries, as well as critical infrastructure inspections and airspace management solutions. With a culture that prioritizes safety over revenue, DroneUp partners closely with the FAA and collaborates on the overall development and adoption of drone-related standards.

For insight, we sat down with Founder & CEO and former U.S. Naval Officer, Tom Walker, to discuss how DroneUp is scaling drone innovation to benefit both businesses and communities.

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159. UNPLUGGED: The Future of Autonomy is Consumer Experiences

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 15:00:00 -0000

Imagine flying into Milan, Italy, and being greeted by an autonomous vehicle that secures tickets to see Leonardo da Vinci's The Last Supper and provides a visual history of the artwork on your drive to the monastery of Santa Maria delle Grazie. This type of priceless experience is the future of autonomy.

With leisure and travel spending up in recent months, Grayson Brulte, Host of SAE Tomorrow Today, discusses the growing importance of the consumer experience and the role that AI and autonomous vehicles will play in this new landscape.

Have your own thoughts on this topic? We’d love to hear from you! Share your comments, questions or ideas for future topics with Grayson on Twitter or send them to podcast@sae.org. Don’t forget to take a moment to follow SAE Tomorrow Today—a podcast where we discuss emerging technology and trends in mobility with the leaders, innovators and strategists making it all happen—and give us a review on your preferred podcasting platform.

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158. Saving Lives With Driver Monitoring Systems

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 15:00:00 -0000

As the automotive industry moves toward SAE Level 2 and Level 3 autonomy, monitoring driver distraction and encouraging safer driving behaviors is crucial. Driver monitoring systems (DMS) can be lifesaving—and they are increasingly being required by law in many countries around the world.

Cipia is leading this charge with DMS solutions that employ advanced computer vision and AI to monitor the driver’s state in real time. Driver Sense detects signs of drowsiness, distraction, seatbelt, holding a phone while driving and more, enabling carmakers to provide lifesaving alerts to the driver.

To learn more about this life-saving technology, we sat down with Tal Krzypow, Vice President of Product, to discuss Cipia’s advanced computer vision and AI capabilities, in-cabin monitoring and video telematics, and the overall state of DMS technology in markets around the world.

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157. Partnerships Bring AV Accessibility to Rural Areas

Thu, 13 Apr 2023 15:00:00 -0000

Born out of call to “accessibility for all”, the goMARTI initiative in Grand Rapids, MN, provides safe, wheelchair accessible mobility for residents, while also collecting valuable data to inform AV operation in rural, winter conditions. Covering nearly 17 square miles and including approximately 70 pickup and drop off points, goMARTI also offers features such as audio cues for passengers who are visually impaired.

As the first ADA-compliant autonomous shuttle service, goMARTI is a testament to the ability of community members, businesses, government, and technology working together to develop an accessible transportation solution for those in need.

To learn how this inspiring initiative became reality, we sat down with Myrna Peterson, Founder & Co-Chair of MobilityMania, and Tammy Meehan Russell, President & Chief Catalyst, The PLUM Catalyst. It’s a powerful story that underscores the importance of community and technology coming together to improve quality of life.

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156. First ADA-Compliant AVs Increase Accessibility

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 15:00:00 -0000

When the public and private sector unite, society benefits. And there’s no better example than a pilot program taking place in Grand Rapids, Minnesota.

The first rural transit program with accessible AVs, goMARTI enables residents and visitors to take advantage of free, on-demand rides thanks to a unique partnership between May Mobility and the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT). The program provides safe, accessible mobility for residents, especially those with transportation challenges, while also taking in valuable data used to inform AV operations in rural, winter conditions.

With a fleet of five AVs, including three with ADA-compliant wheelchair accessibility, goMARTI marks the first commercial launch of the Toyota Sienna Autono-MaaS (S-AM) developed by May Mobility. Covering nearly 17 square miles and including approximately 70 pickup and drop off points, goMARTI also offers accessible features such as audio cues for passengers who are visually impaired.

To learn more about the goMARTI program, we sat down with Kathy Winter, Chief Operations Officer, May Mobility, and Thomas Johnson-Kaiser, CAV-X Engagement and Project Manager, MnDOT, to discuss how their successful public-private partnership is prioritizing accessibility and equity to better serve the Grand Rapids community and beyond.

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155. UNPLUGGED: Market Consolidation in the AV Space

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 15:00:00 -0000

As Bob Dylan said, “the times, they are a-changin’.”

With the recent fall of Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) and the potential bank consolidation that could follow, one is left wondering: could market consolidation come for the autonomous vehicle space like so many industries before?

Using recent headlines and market knowledge as his guide, Grayson Brulte, Host of SAE Tomorrow Today, seeks to answer this question while discussing the driving forces of market consolidation on the future of mobility.

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154. $8 Billion in Funding for Clean Vehicle Innovation

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 15:00:00 -0000

Big ideas need proper funding. The U.S. Department of Energy’s Loan Programs Office (LPO) is helping companies with clean energy innovations get to the next stage of commercialization.

By providing access to debt capital and custom financing, the LPO finances first-of-a-kind projects and other high-impact energy-related ventures. Since 2009, the LPO has issued more than $35 billion of loans and loan guarantees for more 30 energy infrastructure projects in the United States.

Under the Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Loan Program (ATVM), the LPO provides loans to support the manufacture of eligible vehicles and qualifying components. To date, the program has loaned $8 billion for projects that have supported the production of more than 4 million advanced technology vehicles. Participants include Tesla, Ford, and Nissan, among others. The LPO is also helping onshore and reshore EV supply chains and manufacturing, as well as supporting energy storage.

To learn more about this program, we sat down with Jigar Shah, Director, Loan Programs Office, U.S. Department of Energy, to discuss how the LPO is transforming existing energy infrastructure, reviving nuclear construction, accelerating growth of utility-scale solar and wind, and of course, expanding domestic adoption of EVs.

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153. Calculating the Risk of New Mobility

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 15:00:00 -0000

Have you ever wondered if AVs and EVs are covered differently than traditional vehicles? What about rideshare services like Uber? Can the data from an intelligent vehicle be used in court? As mobility advances, so too must our understanding of coverage and protection in a shifting landscape.

To understand the risk factors associated with new mobility, we sat down with Edward Walker, Vice President & Shared Economy Practice Leader at HUB International Insurance Services. Edward shares his insight on multi-state exposure in rideshare services, the risk perspectives of AVs and EVs, privacy concerns around telematics in vehicles, and much more.

Since 2017, Edward has built a book of business that serves gig economy and on-demand service-based clients throughout the United States and abroad. Whether it’s the state of the gig economy or the AV and EV market, this conversation touches on a wide variety of factors impacting insurance coverage in a changing world.

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152. One Step Closer to L4 AV Trucking

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 16:00:00 -0000

The most polite driver on the road might soon be an L4 AV truck.

Torc Robotics is the first company developing the technology to commercialize fully autonomous semi-trucks in the U.S. for long-haul applications. By running extensive simulations with the best and most experienced truck drivers in the world, Torc’s self-driving vehicle software and integration solution is expected to achieve L4 automation by the end of this decade.

As an independent subsidiary of Daimler Truck, the Torc system uses an approach called See-Think-Act to calculate the optimal driving decision. By employing veteran truck drivers to reinforce their technology with real world know-how, Torc is truly making the road a safer place.

We sat down with Tim Zuercher, VP Engineering – Autonomy at Torc, to discuss the company’s mission to reduce highway deaths, enable critical supplies, and help the transportation industry increase fuel economy, uptime, and capacity.

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151. Unlocking Another Dimension with Depthsensing Technology

Thu, 02 Mar 2023 16:00:00 -0000

Machines that see and understand the world around them? It’s possible with depthsensing technology that maps surroundings, objects, and people more reliably and in more detail than ever before.

Leading this charge is Sony Depthsensing Solutions whose Time-of-Flight (ToF) technology give machines the ability to see accurately in real-time in 3D by establishing the distance between the camera and multiple points on the subject surface. From mobile phones to smart homes to industrial robots, the possibilities for this technology are expanding into everyday life.

From an automotive perspective, Sony’s vision for car safety integrates advanced imaging and sensing technologies (RADAR, LiDAR and Camera) to deliver a 360 degree “safety cocoon” for faster responses to potential dangers and obstacles on the road. Gesture control and in-cabin monitoring help drivers stay focused on the road and can differentiate between people and objects in the car.

To learn more about this game-changing technology, we sat down with Daniël Van Nieuwenhove, President, Sony Depthsensing Solutions, to discuss how the company’s applications can be used across industries and the importance of creating a safer and more immersive experience on the road.

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150. UNPLUGGED: How Do Partnerships Advance Mobility?

Thu, 23 Feb 2023 16:00:00 -0000

From AVs to EVs, the future of mobility is not a go-it-alone journey. To get ahead, more and more companies are realizing the advantages to establishing complementary partnerships.

Given current market conditions, M&A activity is anticipated to heat up and new partnerships will likely be formed, alongside new alliances. But why do some partnerships fail and others succeed? Ultimately, it’s about trust and a shared vision based on market realities.

Using history as his guide, Grayson Brulte, Host of SAE Tomorrow Today, provides real-life examples and discusses the importance of partnerships in advancing the future of mobility.

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149. Improved EV Charging Meets a More Equitable Workforce

Thu, 16 Feb 2023 16:00:00 -0000

Planning a road trip in your EV? You may be worried about charging station reliability. But one company is boosting EV charging uptime, improving consumer confidence, and advancing economic mobility.

ChargerHelp! is a technology company committed to preparing workers from all backgrounds to diagnose and repair the wide range of unique EV charging technologies on the market today through their scalable safety and training curriculum. The company recently partnered with SAE to develop standards around an EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment) technician certification program that helps underutilized, high-performing professionals overcome the skills gap. This partnership was highlighted in a recent press release from the White House on new standards and progress for a made-in-America national network of EV chargers.

We sat down with founders Kameale C. Terry, Chief Executive Officer, and Evette Ellis, Chief Workforce Officer, and Frank Menchaca, President, SAE Sustainable Mobility Solutions, to learn how ChargerHelp! is bridging the gap between technology, policy, and workforce development to support mass EV adoption and arm individuals with the skills they need to succeed in the new green economy.

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148. Michigan: The New Epicenter of Aerospace

Thu, 09 Feb 2023 16:00:00 -0000

As the birthplace of the automotive industry and the home of several aviation firsts, Michigan offers unique advantages to the rapidly expanding space economy.

To make the most of this opportunity, the Michigan Aerospace Manufacturers Association (MAMA) has convened three public-private partnerships: the Michigan Launch Initiative, Space-Enabled Communications for Advanced Mobility, and the Mid-America Hypersonic Suborbital Test Range. These programs provide a collaborative platform for public-private partners to support satellite launch capabilities, test commercial and national security applications, and expand 5G connectivity, among other opportunities.

We sat down with Gavin P. Brown, Executive Director, MAMA, to discuss these exciting initiatives and learn how the organization is positioning Michigan as a leader in all phases of aerospace manufacturing—from tool and die all the way through final assembly—by leaning on the state’s rich automotive and aviation history.

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147. Sustainable Rubber Hits the Road

Thu, 02 Feb 2023 16:00:00 -0000

When the rubber hits the road, one tire company stands out among the rest. From raw material traceability to supply chain transparency, The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company is not only helping to do what’s good for business, but what’s good for the planet.

Driven by an ambitious sustainability strategy, Goodyear has set goals to develop a tire made of 100% sustainable materials by 2030 and using only renewable energy in its manufacturing facilities and operations by 2040. The company is even working to develop a domestic source of natural rubber from a specific species of dandelion in collaboration with the Department of Defense, the Air Force Research Lab, BioMADE and Farmed Materials.

To learn more about Goodyear’s impressive sustainability journey, we sat down with Ellis Jones, Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer. He discusses the company’s uniquely strong culture, the importance of working collaboratively with small farms, and the development of new sustainable tire materials.

You’ll even get a glimpse into the future with intelligent tires that enable fleets to identify and address problems in real time—and learn how Goodyear is evolving its products as EVs and AVs hit the road.

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146. UNPLUGGED: What’s Hindering the Future of AVs and EVs?

Thu, 26 Jan 2023 16:00:00 -0000

The success of future mobility solutions is defined by one thing: convenience.

In our first “unplugged” edition, Grayson Brulte, Host of SAE Tomorrow Today, shares his candid take on what’s holding us back from a future that’s both electric and autonomous—and what can be done to change it.

From his experiences traveling to Disney World in an EV to visiting the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Grayson breaks down the importance of building a reliable infrastructure and creating a consumer experience that’s both scalable and practical.

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145. Making Life Easier With Autonomous Delivery

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 16:00:00 -0000

Picture this: An eco-friendly, zero-occupant AV that delivers items like groceries and prescriptions to your doorstep—all while prioritizing the safety of others. Leading AV company Nuro is doing just that.

By transforming local commerce with goods-focused AV delivery solutions, Nuro is saving consumers valuable time while striving to make streets safer and cities more livable. The hardware, software, and behavior of Nuro’s custom autonomous delivery vehicles are designed to prioritize the safety, even earning the company a first-of-its-kind autonomous vehicle exemption from the US Dept of Transportation (DOT) and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) as well as the first commercial deployment permit in the state of California.

From delivering packages for FedEx, pizza from Domino’s, and groceries from Kroger, Nuro’s integrated partnerships are a huge piece of its growth strategy. The company has also signed a 10-year partnership with Uber and piloted autonomous local delivery for communities in Texas, Arizona, and California.

We sat down with Petch Jirapinyo, Head of Commercialization at Nuro, to discuss the company’s innovative technology, strong partnerships, and successful go-to-market strategy. It’s an insightful conversation that offers a glimpse into the future of autonomous delivery.

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144. Financial Twists & Turns of the AV Market

Thu, 12 Jan 2023 16:00:00 -0000

From market consolidation to economic downturns, the mobility industry is facing many twists and turns.

When it comes to the AV market, there’s a lot to unpack. From strategy to capital flow to the media’s impact on potential investments, the financial state of the public and private AV market—and what the future holds for autonomy—is top of mind for stakeholders and consumers.

For insight into these trends, we sat down with Mark Gottfredson, Partner at Bain & Company, a leading global consultancy firm. As a 30-year Bain veteran and co-head of the Americas Automotive & Mobility practice, Mark discusses the perception of the AV industry, investor confidence in the sector, the impact of inflation, and what happens if we go into a recession.

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143. The Problem(s) with Replacing Fossil Fuels

Thu, 05 Jan 2023 16:00:00 -0000

Don't miss 2023's most-watched episode of SAE Tomorrow Today!

From geopolitical pressures to the shunning of fossil fuels, there is no question the current state of energy in the US and globally is a mess. One possible answer? An “all of the above” approach.

For candid insight into this topic, we sat down with Mark P. Mills, senior fellow at the Manhattan Institute and a faculty fellow at Northwestern University’s McCormick School of Engineering and Applied Science. Mark served in the White House Science Office under President Reagan and subsequently provided science and technology policy counsel to a variety of private-sector firms, the Department of Energy, and U.S. research laboratories. He began his career as an experimental physicist and development engineer in microprocessors and fiber optics.

As part of this wide-ranging discussion, Mark shares his views on the need for hydrocarbon, the instability of the grid, energy’s relationship to inflation, the US dependance on China, and why there should be a holistic approach to the world’s energy needs.

Mark is author of the book The Cloud Revolution: How the Convergence of New Technologies Will Unleash the Next Economic Boom and a Roaring 2020s and host of the new podcast The Last Optimist. He is also author of Digital Cathedrals (2020), and Work in the Age of Robots (2018). His articles have been published widely, including in the Wall Street Journal, Forbes, USA Today, and Real Clear. Mills has appeared as a guest on CNN, Fox, NBC, PBS, and The Daily Show with Jon Stewart. He has testified before Congress numerous times, and briefed state public-service commissions and legislators.

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142. Building Safer AVs with ISA and HD Map Technology

Thu, 29 Dec 2022 16:00:00 -0000

More than 35 years ago, HERE Technologies created the first digital map. Today, they are the world's leading location platform company with a global footprint across 52 countries.

The HERE HD Live Map recently launched on the BMW 7 Series in the US and Canada helps the vehicle reach SAE Level 2+ (ADAS) at 80 mph. This means the car can be driven hands-free on interstates and highways. The only condition is that drivers must stay focused and be ready to take control if necessary.

Last summer, Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA) became mandatory in new vehicles in the EU thus requiring the legal speed limit to be visible to drivers at all times. In response, the HERE ISA Map provides accurate speed limit information by informing drivers of the speed limits on the roads they are driving, warning them if they are exceeding the speed limit, and can even be programmed to prevent them from going over the speed limit.

We sat down with Philip Hubertus, Director of Product Management, Driver Assistance & Automated Driving Maps, and Kristin Thompson, Project Manager, to discuss HERE Technologies’ HD Live Map and ISA technology, its adoption around the globe, and the future of autonomous driving.

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141. Climate Neutral Flying with an Aerospace Leader

Thu, 22 Dec 2022 16:00:00 -0000

Bringing zero-emission commercial aircraft to market by 2035? That’s just the beginning for one global aerospace pioneer.

Airbus has long designed, manufactured and delivered products and services for the commercial aircraft, helicopter, defense and space sectors. While the company is renowned for its exceptional aerospace solutions, they are also at the forefront of decarbonization and sustainable aviation.

Today, Airbus aircraft can operate on a 50% blend of sustainable biofuel made up of food and animal byproducts (think: leftover French fry grease). By 2030, that percentage will rise to 100%. Not only is Airbus promoting the use of sustainable biofuel in aviation, but they plan to move beyond biofuel with the creation of synthetic fuels that don’t include petroleum, animal, food or agricultural byproducts.

While the move away from traditional fuel sources will take time, Airbus is dedicated to supporting the aviation industry and the world through decarbonization standards and innovations related to biofuel, hydrogen, electric flight, fleet renewal, climate monitoring and so much more.

For insight into the company’s sustainable aviation strategy, we sat down with Amanda Simpson, Vice President, Research and Technology. Hear how Airbus is using its strength in innovation and strong partnerships to build better aircraft while protecting the environment for future generations.

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140. Simulation Tool Chain for AVs Achieves SAE Level 3

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 16:00:00 -0000

The race is on to develop an autonomous vehicle (AV) that is safer than a human driver—and one automaker is coming closer.

By joining forces with Ansys, the global leader in engineering simulation, the BMW Group has developed the first-ever end-to-end tool chain specifically guided by safety principles to develop and validate ADAS and automated/autonomous driving functions.

Through this collaboration, the BMW Group is leveraging Ansys' unique simulation capabilities to become one of the first automotive manufacturers to offer SAE Level 3 highly automated driving to consumers. The collaboration is key to quickly addressing advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and AV system reliability and significantly speed time to market.

As shown in SAE J3016™, the transition from SAE Level 2 to Level 3 is significant. With state-of-the-art software solutions that are cloud-native, scalable, fit for massive data, open and extensible, the partnership between BMW and Ansys has resulted in an automated simulation tool chain that supports the mass generation of safety relevant scenarios and related analytics to validate AV system performance.

We sat down with Nicolas Orand, Senior R&D Director of Autonomous Product Line at Ansys, and Rene Grosspietsch, Business Development Autonomous Driving at BMW Group, to discuss their ground-breaking partnership, the critical role of simulation in achieving SAE Level 3 autonomy, and the path to fully autonomous driving.

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139. Autonomous Mining Critical to Global Demand for Minerals

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 16:00:00 -0000

With the exponential rise in EV adoption comes a surge in global demand for minerals like graphite, lithium, nickel and cobalt. To keep pace, more mines around the world are needed to get up and running quickly.

Enter SafeAI, a company accelerating the world’s transition to autonomous mining and construction. By retrofitting heavy duty vehicles and site operations with autonomous technology, SafeAI enables safer, more productive, and more cost-efficient worksites.

In terms of supporting the EV supply chain, SafeAI’s autonomously operating assets can significantly expedite the development of a mine, which typically takes up to 10 years. Enabled by autonomy, each vehicle can add approximately 1,000 additional hours of productivity per year.

We sat down with Bibhrajit Halder, Founder & CEO of SafeAI, to discuss the global state of mining, the move to zero-emission vehicles, and the future of autonomous mining and construction in an era of massive industry adoption.

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138. How Smart Farming Can Feed a Growing Population

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 16:00:00 -0000

Autonomous technology is transforming industries—and farming is no exception.

From food security to greater environmental awareness, there are many factors increasing the demand for enhanced productivity and efficiency in agriculture. Smart farming, defined as the modern use of information and communication technologies in agriculture, is one answer to these challenges.

As we look to the future, smart farming will include the use of autonomous agricultural vehicles, including tractors and other machinery, to help farmers produce more food, more sustainably, from the same amount of land. To achieve this goal, farmers and researchers from around the world are developing standards and specifications using the latest autonomous technologies and infrastructure to make farming more holistic, sustainable, and efficient.

We sat down with Johannes Lehmann, Head of Business Development, Smart Farming at the German Institute for Standardization (DIN), to discuss the autonomous agricultural machinery market, key drivers and barriers to adoption, and how autonomous technology can benefit farmers and society.

SAE EDGE™ Research Reports provide examinations into hot topics facing the mobility industry today. Read the abstract for the joint SAE/DIN report Lehmann co-authored and discussed on this episode –Autonomous Field Robotics – and subscribe to Mobilus to stay in the know.

We’d love to hear from you. Share your comments, questions and ideas for future topics and guests to podcast@sae.org. Don’t forget to take a moment to follow SAE Tomorrow Today—where we discuss emerging technology and trends in mobility with the leaders, innovators and strategists making it all happen—and give us a review on your preferred podcasting platform.

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137. Powering the Space Economy in the Orbital Age

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 16:00:00 -0000

The Orbital Age is the next industrial revolution. As we begin this exciting phase of human history, Sierra Space, led by veteran NASA astronaut Dr. Janet L. Kavandi, is powering the space transportation system and its destination network to benefit life on earth.

After 19 years at NASA, three Space Shuttle missions, and serving as both NASA's Deputy Chief of the Astronaut Office and Center Director at the NASA Glenn Research Center, Dr. Kavandi was inducted into the Astronaut Hall of Fame in 2019. She is now focused on ushering in the Orbital Age as President of Sierra Space.

With a vision to build a platform in space to benefit life on Earth, Sierra Space has developed the Dream Chaser®, the first-ever winged commercial spaceplane contracted to fly cargo to the International Space Station beginning in 2023. The company is also developing Orbital Reef, the first commercially owned and operated space station and Life™ Habitat, an inflatable space structure with three floors of living and working area.

As the space economy matures, Sierra Space will be at the forefront, completely redefining the human experience in space—from enabling humans to live and work in space for extended periods of time to breakthrough innovations in human health, telecommunications, computing, advanced materials, climate change reversal, and clean energy.

We sat down with Dr. Kavandi to discuss to her vast knowledge and experience, how she sees the space economy growing over the next decade, and how innovations in space can benefit life on Earth.

We’d love to hear from you. Share your comments, questions and ideas for future topics and guests to podcast@sae.org. Don’t forget to take a moment to follow SAE Tomorrow Today—where we discuss emerging technology and trends in mobility with the leaders, innovators and strategists making it all happen—and give us a review on your preferred podcasting platform.

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136. What Role Do Electric Utilities Have in the EV Space?

Thu, 17 Nov 2022 16:00:00 -0000

As demand for EVs grows, so too does the role of electric utilities.

From powering the grid to ensuring the reliability of EV charging stations, the electric utility industry plays a pivotal role in accelerating EV adoption.

For more than a century, Duquesne Light Company (DLC) has delivered electricity to more than 600,000 customers in the Pittsburgh region. Currently, there are more than 6,000 EVs in DLC’s service territory—and they expect that number to grow to more than 23,000 by the end of 2025.

With this projected growth, DLC is not only providing reliable power, but EV information analysis and incentives like a Community Charging Program and Electric Fleet Advisory Service Program.

We sat down with Sarah Olexsak, Senior Manager, Transportation Electrification, to discuss the role of electric utilities and how DLC is supporting EV adoption in Western Pennsylvania.

We’d love to hear from you. Share your comments, questions and ideas for future topics and guests to podcast@sae.org. Don’t forget to take a moment to follow SAE Tomorrow Today—where we discuss emerging technology and trends in mobility with the leaders, innovators and strategists making it all happen—and give us a review on your preferred podcasting platform.

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135. A Quintessential Luxury Brand Goes All-Electric

Thu, 10 Nov 2022 16:00:00 -0000

The future of Cadillac is all-electric—and the future is here.

With the launch of the Cadillac LYRIQ, the high-end brand relied on intensive market research and engineering brainpower to set a bold new course for luxury electric vehicle transportation. With premier technologies, high-performance features, and rapid-charging capability, the Cadillac LYRIQ is nearly identical to the concept vehicle—and priced around $60,000. The Ultium battery platform enables a near 50/50 weight distribution of the vehicle and a lower center of gravity for a sporty and responsive drive.

We sat down with Bryan Stewart, Global Program Engineering Manager for the Cadillac LYRIQ, who has more than 23 years of experience as an engineer at General Motors. As one of his most rewarding assignments to date, Bryan shared the engineering inspiration behind the Cadillac LYRIQ’s stunning design and the importance of delivering a quintessential luxury vehicle experience that’s all-electric and distinctly Cadillac.

We’d love to hear from you. Share your comments, questions and ideas for future topics and guests to podcast@sae.org. Don’t forget to take a moment to follow SAE Tomorrow Today—where we discuss emerging technology and trends in mobility with the leaders, innovators and strategists making it all happen—and give us a review on your preferred podcasting platform.

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134. Transforming the Dashboard with Haptic Feedback

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 15:00:00 -0000

A dashboard free of traditional buttons? It’s just one way Nissan is redefining our interaction with cars through haptic feedback.

In the new Ariya electric crossover, Nissan opted for a button-less dashboard over the ever-growing tablet-sized screen. Their goal is a clean and calming dashboard experience rather than a wide array of buttons and complicated menus. By creating a smooth, haptic feedback control panel with only the most important functions, consumers can focus on their main task: driving.

So, how does haptic feedback work? The control panel in the Ariya reacts to touch, communicating through fingertip vibrations. To adjust settings like climate controls and drive modes, drivers interact with a familiar set of icons. However, because the points of interaction are felt and heard rather than seen, drivers can remain focused on the road ahead.

We sat down with Adam Tacey, Senior Manager, Nissan Marketability and Testing at Nissan North America, to discuss the company’s new generation of haptic feedback controls and the critical relationship between design and function.

For more than 20 years, Nissan has worked together with the SAE Foundation℠ to reach the youngest learners and advance equitable STEM education. Read how our partnership is strengthening communities and igniting STEM potential.

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133. A Powerful Alliance in Electric Urban Air Mobility

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 15:00:00 -0000

A Powerful Alliance in Electric Urban Air Mobility

What do you get when you combine the brainpower of aerospace leader Honeywell with leading automotive supplier DENSO? A powerhouse partnership that is shaping the future of Urban Air Mobility (UAM) with electric propulsion systems for aircraft.

Driven by a shared vision of moving people and cargo in radically more efficient and sustainable ways, the Honeywell DENSO alliance brings together Honeywell’s 100 years of aerospace expertise and DENSO’s 30-plus years of electrification know-how.

Recently, the partners announced that they are co-developing an electric motor (e-motor) for an all-electric jet with Lilium, the developer of the first all-electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) jet. This proprietary, high-performance system brings exceptional performance and reliability with zero operating emissions typically associated with commercial jet engines.

We sat down with Kenji Morikawa, Director, Electrified Systems Engineering at DENSO, and Taylor Alberstadt, Global Sales and Marketing Leader, Unmanned Aerial Systems/Urban Air Mobility at Honeywell Aerospace, to discuss the evolution of their alliance, their company synergies, and how electric-powered aircraft will evolve over the next decade.

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132. How Will EV Batteries Impact the Grid?

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 15:00:00 -0000

From California banning the sale of new gasoline-powered cars by 2035 to the scarcity of raw materials and political pressures related to lithium refineries, the questions surrounding EV battery technology and electrification are complicated to say the least.

For insight on these headline-grabbing topics, we sat down with Bob Galyen, Owner of Galyen Energy, LLC shortly after his keynote at The Battery Show in Novi, MI. As one of the top executives in the global battery storage community, Bob’s distinguished career includes roles as CTO of CATL (the world’s largest battery manufacturer), Chairman of SAE International Battery Standards Steering Committee, SAE Fellow, Chairman Emeritus and CTO of NAATbatt International.

Tune into this episode for Bob’s unique perspective on how the global EV market will impact the electrical grid, the cost of battery materials, the intersection of geopolitics in lithium refining, and how these factors impact businesses and consumers.

As we look to the future, the evolution of standards related to battery technology will play a key role in accelerating EV adoption. SAE has expert committees to address this need, including 22 committees that report to Bob as part of the SAE International Battery Standards Steering Committee. If you’d like to get involved, please contact us at podcast@sae.org.

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131. Accelerating Innovation Across the Supply Chain

Thu, 13 Oct 2022 15:00:00 -0000

Trucking, logistics and technology. The intersection of these three critical segments is creating disruption—and opportunity—across the supply chain.

Leading logistics and transportation company, Ryder, is capitalizing on recent advances in technology with the launch of RyderVentures, a venture capital fund focused on investing in startups with the potential to revolutionize the supply chain. By piloting new innovation, RyderVentures is forming strategic alliances and shaping the future of logistics.

We sat down with Mike Plasencia, Group Director of New Product Strategy and Managing Director of RyderVentures, to discuss recent investments in Gatik and Baton (which was acquired by Ryder), the impact of autonomous vehicles, and tackling disruption across the supply chain.

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130. Electrified Roads Make Their Debut in Detroit

Thu, 06 Oct 2022 15:00:00 -0000

Stuck in traffic or cruising in the fast lane? Someday soon your EV could be charging wirelessly—whether your vehicle is in motion or sitting idle.

As a first-of-its-kind program in the U.S., three companies—Electreon, NextEnergy and Jacobs—are working in collaboration with the Michigan Department of Transportation to pilot a wireless EV charging road system for public transit vehicles in Detroit.

The project involves embedding Electreon’s unique copper coil technology just below the surface of the road—a process that can be deployed overnight. A kit attached to the vehicle receives the wireless energy (whether it’s in motion or idle) and transfers it to the vehicle battery. This ground-breaking pilot program aims to be operational by 2023 and will pave the way for electrified roads across the U.S.

We sat down with Stefan Tongur, Vice President of Business Development at Electreon, Jim Saber, President & CEO at NextEnergy, and Brian Burkhard, Vice President and Global Technology Lead for Advanced Mobility Systems at Jacobs, to discuss the partnership between their companies, the importance of piloting in a four-season environment, and how their technology will accelerate EV adoption for both the public and private sector.

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129. Zero Emission Island Hopping with Seagliders

Thu, 29 Sep 2022 15:00:00 -0000

No airport security. 180 mph cruise speed. Zero emissions. This is the future of island hopping in coastal regions around the world made possible by a completely new mode of transportation: all-electric seagliders.

As a pioneer in sustainable maritime mobility, REGENT recently achieved a revolutionary first in aviation for foil-to-wing take-off. We sat down with Billy Thalheimer, Co-Founder and CEO, REGENT, for an exclusive interview on his company’s ground-breaking Wing-in-Ground Effect (WIG) technology. He explains how seagliders are essentially two vessels in one—a hydrofoil ferry in the harbor that can take off onto its wings. Staying within about a wingspan of the water, seagliders can service routes up to 180 miles with existing technology, and 500 miles with upgradeable batteries.

Backed by some of the world’s premier investors, including Mark Cuban, REGENT is transforming regional air travel, decarbonizing maritime, and pioneering the first successful foil-to-wing flight.

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128. Additive Manufacturing on Earth and Beyond

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 15:00:00 -0000

From industrial to medical to space, laser additive manufacturing and 3-D printing has the potential to transform production across nearly every sector.

With almost one hundred years in business and nearly half a century in laser technology, TRUMPF has long been known as the gold-standard in advanced manufacturing solutions that now include additive manufacturing and 3-D printing. The company’s advancements in production technology span space exploration, medical devices, and Smart Factory development.

We sat down with Eliana Fu, Industry Manager for Aerospace & Medical at TRUMPF North America, to discuss how the company is transforming manufacturing processes for the better, both on earth and beyond. From assembling vehicles in space to manufacturing medical devices closer to the point of care to paving the way for the Smart Factory, TRUMPF is building the industrial world of tomorrow.

As we look to the future, the evolution of standards related to additive manufacturing will play a key role in accelerating its adoption. SAE is building expert committees to address this need. If you’d like to get involved, please contact us at podcast@sae.org.

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127. Shaping a New Era of Intelligent Parking

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 15:00:00 -0000

Reducing the hassle of parking with technology. That’s the mission of Parkopedia, a global leader in digital parking services.

Using real-time and prediction-based parking space information, Parkopedia has mapped over 90 million off- and on-street parking spaces across 90 countries. Their technology helps drivers find parking quickly and conveniently, including EV charging spaces. With the ability to instantly book and pay in one seamless transaction, world-class companies from Audi to Volkswagen are offering the technology within their connected services.

We sat down with Dr. Brian Holt, Chief Technology Officer, to discuss Parkopedia’s data collection and indoor mapping technology, their “park and charge” EV initiative, and future plans to scale the company. One day, your car may even drop you off and park itself!

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126. Transforming EV Batteries with Solid-State Energy

Thu, 08 Sep 2022 15:00:00 -0000

Driving from LA to San Francisco on a single fast charge? Yes, please.

QuantumScape is accelerating EV adoption with solid-state battery technology that significantly speeds charging time, making it one step closer to time spent at the gas pump.

As the industry’s first anode-free cell design, QuantumScape delivers a flexible platform designed to pair with a variety of cathode chemistries. This game-changing battery cell technology can store energy more efficiently and reliably than today’s lithium-ion batteries. Not only does this speed charging time, but it also enables longer range, enhances safety, and provides the flexibility to benefit from future cathode chemistry advancements.

We sat down with Will Hudson, Vice President of Product, to discuss QuantumScape’s ground-breaking solid-state technology, the importance of a responsible supply chain, and how solid-state batteries are bringing us closer to a low-carbon future.

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125. Conversational AI in the Passenger's Seat

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 15:00:00 -0000

Since the invention of the automobile, people have had an emotional connection to their driving experience. Cerence is capitalizing on that connection by bringing the consumer’s digital life into the car, enabling intuitive and powerful interactions between the driver and their vehicle.

Cerence Co-Pilot is a first-of-its kind, multi-modal driving experience that transforms the automotive voice assistant into a proactive, AI-powered companion. It analyzes voice, gaze, gesture, and touch to understand complex situations both inside and outside the vehicle. This new level of intelligence not only enhances comfort and convenience, but also improves safety.

Cerence recently partnered with Mercedes-Benz in Germany to introduce Cerence Look, a revolutionary product that enables drivers and passengers to interact with points of interest outside the car.

As Senior Vice President and General Manager of Core Products, Dr. Ir. Christophe Couvreur is responsible for Cerence’s product management, working in lockstep with the company’s R&D and professional services teams worldwide. We sat down with him to discuss the history of conversational AI, the impact of Cerence’s technology, and how the company is extending interactions beyond voice into a multi-sensory experience.

Through a charitable donation to the SAE Foundation, Cerence helps advance equitable STEM learning. And recently, Cerence team members judged an SAE contest for students. These initiatives ultimately build an inclusive, STEM-empowered workforce that will be key to the company’s mission of creating the next generation of conversational AI-powered mobility experiences.

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124. Fueling Flight with Hydrogen Technology

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 15:00:00 -0000

Zero emission aviation is the future—and Hydroplane is paving the way with affordable hydrogen fuel cell powerplant technology.

Founded by former NASA engineer Dr. Anita Sengupta, Hydroplane is focused on decarbonizing aviation for regional aircraft travel. As the winner of two U.S. Air Force Agility Prime contracts, Hydroplane’s team of space program-trained engineers have developed a drop-in hydrogen fuel cell powerplant solution designed to replace existing combustion powerplants in single engine and urban air mobility platforms. The result is lower cost and a significant improvement in range, endurance, and payload over battery power. Applications for this technology include flight training, commercial transportation, air taxi, cargo transportation, humanitarian aid, and government support.

As a minority woman small business owner, Anita feels a personal responsibility to share her growth journey, from working for the space program to moving into entrepreneurialism. She serves as an SAE Foundation Trustee to support the STEM mission and advance equitable access to high-quality, hands-on STEM programming, and she is also on the SAE H2 working group. Anita recently spoke to a group of high school women participating in the SAE A World in Motion® (AWIM®) Fuel Cell Challenge as part of the CalStateLA LAunchPad program.

We sat down with Anita to discuss her impressive career, her passion for decarbonizing air travel, and how she sees hydrogen fuel cell technology evolving over the next decade.

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123. Innovating with the Planet in Mind

Thu, 18 Aug 2022 15:00:00 -0000

Replenishing the environment for future generations through the power of collaboration. This is the belief that drives sustainability practices at Toyota Motor North America.

From recycling water to improving biodiversity, Toyota is balancing a passion for performance with a love for the planet. Leading this charge is 30-year company veteran in sustainability practices, Kevin Butt, Senior Director of Environmental Sustainability.

With full responsibility for Toyota Motor’s North American Environmental Action Plan, Kevin is passionate about educating team members and sharing the company’s environmental know-how with suppliers, partners, communities, and even competitors. As evidence of the company’s superior commitment to sustainability, Toyota’s North American manufacturing facilities totaled 713.8 million pounds of waste in 2020—and they recycled, reused or composted 93.2% of it.

We sat down with Kevin to discuss environmental strategy, including the importance of water conservation and its impact on food supply. It’s an inspiring conversation that shows why Kevin gets up every day feeling good about what he does.

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122. Consumer Connections Will Define the Future

Thu, 11 Aug 2022 15:00:00 -0000

Ford Next is strengthening connections to consumers and defining the future of mobility. By integrating skill sets in consumer electronics, safety, regulation and public policy, it is expanding the Ford Motor Company outside of traditional automotive engineering to address the full spectrum of future mobility needs. It's Ford’s equivalent of going to the moon.

Brought to life in late 2021, Ford Next is focused on accelerating the development of autonomous vehicles, prioritizing mobility services, and acting as a startup incubator. With Chet Dhruna, Head of Strategy & Business Planning, and Kristin Welch, Strategy & Operations, Ford Next is wasting no time exploring, seeding and scaling new technologies.

Among its many future-focused initiatives, Ford Next has entered into a new venture with ADT called Canopy to outfit vehicles with high-tech security systems to help reduce burglary and theft. The team has also invested in Cavnue, the leading developer of roadway and infrastructure technology designed to accelerate automated vehicles, including a first-of-its-kind connected corridor in Michigan. In addition, Ford’s stake in autonomous vehicle startup Argo AI is part of the Ford Next ecosystem.

For over 100 years, Ford Motor Company has been responsible for many firsts in technology and innovation. With the recent creation of Ford Next, Chet, Kristin and team will ensure there will be many more over the next 100 years —and getting it right means Chet’s 81-year-old father feels comfortable in an autonomous vehicle.

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121. Reinventing the Wheel with Carbon Fiber

Thu, 04 Aug 2022 15:00:00 -0000

The team at Carbon Revolution is going against some age-old advice—they’re reinventing the wheel. And they’re seeing results.

Back in 2004, Dr. Ashley Denmead, Chief Technology Officer and Founder of Carbon Revolution, was part of the Formula SAE team at Deakin University in Australia. After building a too-heavy car the year prior, Ashley and his engineering team looked to save weight in the wheels. Their idea? Build them out of carbon fiber.

Thus, the journey of Carbon Revolution began. Today, the company designs and manufactures some of the world’s most technically advanced and highest performing wheels on the planet, and one of the most advanced lightweight technologies on any car. There are more than 50,000 Carbon Revolution wheels on the road today, including on vehicles such as the Ford GT and the Ferrari F8 Spider.

From four guys in a garage to 550 people in a 10,000 square-meter facility with Ford, Ferrari and General Motors among its customers, Carbon Revolution proves anything is possible with passion. Hear from Dr. Ashley Denmead on the company’s journey to success and the future of lightweight carbon fiber applications.

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120. Paving the Way for Zero-Emission Aviation

Thu, 28 Jul 2022 15:00:00 -0000

Hydrogen fuel cell power is ready for takeoff.

Imagine an aircraft without exhaust; the only emission is water. That’s what hydrogen fuel cell technology can do. From regional trips today to long-distance flights in the future, ZeroAvia is enabling scalable, sustainable aviation by retrofitting conventional engines with hydrogen-electric powertrains.

As the fastest-growing source of greenhouse gas emissions, the aviation industry is primed for change. Hydrogen-electric propulsion is the best way to scale sustainable aviation for commercial use as it offers longer flight range, lower maintenance costs, zero emissions and lower fuel costs. Fueled by recent partnerships with United Airlines and Alaska Air, ZeroAvia is pioneering the transition to clean aviation.

Hear from James McMicking, Vice President of Strategy at ZeroAvia, on why the future of flight will be powered by hydrogen and how his company is developing robust standards alongside operators, airframers and infrastructure partners.

As we look to the future of aviation, the evolution of standards related to hydrogen fuel cell power will play a key role in accelerating its adoption. If you’d like to get involved, please contact us at podcast@sae.org.

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119. Innovating in Real-Time with SDVs

Thu, 21 Jul 2022 15:00:00 -0000

The future of mobility is software-defined.

For automakers, this means that vehicles will transition to a combination of software-centric computing systems on wheels. The key to unlocking this incredible opportunity is the capability to update vehicles instantly.

Enabling this transformation is Jeffrey Chou, Co-Founder and CEO of Sonatus. With a proven track record of revolutionizing IT data centers, Jeff and his team are bringing to life an extensive array of advanced technologies and a cloud-connected in-vehicle infrastructure that is accelerating the OEM journey toward fully Software-Defined Vehicles (SDVs).

The Sonatus Digital Dynamics™ platform—which was recently integrated into the Hyundai Genesis GV60 —helps automakers create a foundation for dynamic SDVs that can evolve and adapt in real-time, empowering them to innovate faster, reduce complexity and costs, and become more agile. Along with this opportunity comes an increased focus on cybersecurity and data protection.

Hear from Jeff on how SDVs will change the future of mobility, the importance of security and data protection amidst this shift, and how OEMs can differentiate themselves to increase competitiveness.

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118. A Driving Force in Motorsports

Thu, 14 Jul 2022 15:00:00 -0000

Innovations are born on the racetrack.

In the automotive industry, it’s common knowledge that racing has long had a meaningful impact on technological breakthroughs. From safety to engines to simulation, the racetrack acts as an incubator—and the engineers who support the drivers help bring these exciting innovations to life.

Taking his aerospace engineering degree down an unexpected path, Eric Cowdin has made innovations as a Race Engineer for Chip Ganassi Racing™. As a graduate student, Eric found his way to the Formula SAE team and was immediately put in charge of the wing program, tasked with looking into the aerodynamic forces that help the car move fast while sticking to the road—a new undertaking for the team at the time.

As his time with Formula SAE progressed, Eric developed a passion for motorsports, eventually going on to become part of the team that won the Indianapolis 500 in 2013. We sat down with Eric to discuss his journey into motorsports, his passion for racing, and what the future holds for the racing industry.

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117. Opening Up the Sky with Urban Air Mobility

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 15:00:00 -0000

Picture this: On-demand ridesharing services that take you above the traffic. Archer Aviation is making this vision a reality by unlocking a whole new dimension in transportation.

Archer Aviation designs and develops electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircrafts for use in Urban Air Mobility (UAM) networks. Their goal is to move people throughout congested cities in a quick, safe, sustainable, and cost-effective manner.

The eVTOL aircraft can take off vertically like a helicopter and fly forward like an airplane, no runway required. A ride in their fully electric, battery-powered aircraft is approximately the same price per passenger mile as an UberX.

Hear from Andrew Cummins, Director of Business Development at Archer, on the future of UAM, the company’s plan for commercial operations, and their early-launch partnerships with the cities of Los Angeles and Miami.

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116. Powering Design Freedom for EVs and AVs

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 15:00:00 -0000

Unrestricted, scalable and modular. These values are at the heart of REE Automotive’s work to provide complete design freedom for electric and autonomous vehicle manufacturers.

As the automotive market shifts to an electrification-first approach, REE’s electric modular platforms enable automotive manufacturers, OEMs, delivery and logistic fleets, Mobility-as-a-Service providers, and new mobility players to design mission-specific EVs and AVs based on their exact business requirements faster and with lower cost.

REE’s revolutionary technology packs critical vehicle components (steering, braking, suspension, powertrain and control) into a single compact module, allowing for fully flat EV platforms with more room for passengers, cargo and batteries.

Hear from Dr. Peter Dow, Vice President of Engineering at REE, on the future of mobility, including how his company is empowering innovation through no-fault engineering and how he sees start-ups transforming the legacy automotive world.

Debuting August 1: SAE Connexion+, a new platform for members and volunteers designed with you in mind. Not a member or volunteer? Join us and put SAE’s tools and resources to work for you!

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115. Joining Forces for Self-Driving Industrial Vehicle Fleets

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 15:00:00 -0000

Is your industrial vehicle fleet driving itself? It could be thanks to a ground-breaking partnership.

For more than 70 years, Columbia Vehicle Group has manufactured electric vehicles that enable peak operational performance in transporting, carrying, and towing. When the company set out to find a partner in the autonomous vehicle technology space, they discovered Cyngn, a developer of innovative autonomous solutions for industrial and commercial enterprises.

Together, Columbia and Cyngn are transforming Columbia Stockchasers with DriveMod, Cyngn’s full-stack autonomous driving solution. It combines software, hardware, artificial intelligence, and a variety of commercially available sensors to deliver self-driving solutions for both retrofit and new vehicles.

Hear from Scott Breckley, President of Columbia Vehicle Group, and Ben Landen, VP of Business Development at Cyngn, on their industry-leading partnership and how autonomous technology and data insights can be used to enhance industrial workflows.

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114. Cutting the Cord on Electric Vehicles

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 15:00:00 -0000

Just park and charge. No cord required. That’s the future according to WiTricity, the global industry leader in wireless charging.

Powered by patented magnetic resonance technology, WiTricity is just as fast and efficient as a plug-in charger. With global automakers and Tier 1 suppliers incorporating this technology into their electric vehicle roadmaps, WiTricity is laying the foundation for worldwide standards that support wide-scale adoption.

Alex Gruzen, WiTricity CEO, shares his perspective on how ending the hassle of charging will accelerate electric vehicle adoption and how WiTricity is at the forefront of advancements like bi-directional power and the dynamic charging of moving vehicles.

It’s an exciting discussion on the future of mobility – one that is electric, shared and autonomous.

As we look to the future, the evolution of standards related to wireless charging will play a key role in accelerating its adoption. SAE is building expert committees to address this need, including the Hybrid Wireless Charging J2954 Task Force. If you’d like to get involved, please contact us at podcast@sae.org.

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113. Accelerating the Adoption of Additive Manufacturing

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 15:00:00 -0000

What if you had access to micron-size Legos that could build anything? It may sound like a dream from the future, but it’s happening now. From U.S. aircraft parts to medical implants, additive manufacturing is a nearly 30-year-old process that’s finally having its moment.

By definition, additive manufacturing is the technology used to build 3-D objects layer-by-layer, no matter if the material is metal, plastic, concrete or even human tissue. From an industrial production perspective, it’s a transformative approach that reduces energy, cuts waste, decreases production time, and allows for greater design flexibility.

John E. Barnes, Founder & Manager Partner of The Barnes Global Advisors, sat down to discuss the evolution of additive manufacturing, including Pittsburgh’s Neighborhood 91, the first development in the world to connect and condense all components of the 3-D printing supply chain into one powerful production ecosystem.

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112. Using AI to Scale Autonomous Vehicles

Thu, 02 Jun 2022 15:00:00 -0000

A driving school for self-driving vehicles? It’s here and proving to be a game-changer.

Waabi World is the most scalable, highest fidelity, closed-loop simulator for autonomous vehicles. Powered by AI, it’s an immersive and reactive environment that can design tests, assess skills, and teach the self-driving “brain” to learn to drive on its own. This technology significantly reduces the need to test drive in the real world resulting in a safer, more affordable solution.

When AI trailblazer & CEO Raquel Urtasun founded Waabi, she set out to scale one of the most important technologies of our generation. By taking an AI-first approach, Raquel and her team are unlocking the potential of self-driving technology and accelerating the commercial deployment of autonomous vehicles. And their work is changing the world for the better.

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111. Mapping the Road's Subsurface for Pinpoint Accuracy

Thu, 26 May 2022 15:00:00 -0000

Move over GPS. There’s a new technology in town—and it’s subterranean.

Tarik Bolat, CEO and Cofounder of GPR, shares how his company is shifting the autonomous paradigm with innovative technology that creates a 3-D map of the road's unique subsurface and removes common barriers faced by autonomous vehicles today.

As the world’s most accurate and reliable vehicle positioning system, Ground Positioning Radar™ (GPR) allows vehicles to determine their precise location with centimeter-level accuracy, no matter how challenging road conditions become.

Like many autonomous technologies, GPR originated as a critical military application and is now being used for much broader commercial purposes, to significantly enhance safety for drivers and introduce benefits for society at large.

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110. Words Don't Teach, Experiences Do

Thu, 19 May 2022 15:00:00 -0000

For many underrepresented students, the possibility of a career in STEM is either unknown or out of reach. But a dedicated team at one school in Phoenix, Arizona is determined to change that.

At Sevilla Elementary – West Campus, Educator Mia DeLaRosa and Principal Jennifer Bunch are on a mission to support their students by eliminating barriers to high-quality education. Their goal? Providing an immersive STEM experience that sparks the belief that developing an engineering mindset is attainable for all students, no matter their background.

Through a partnership with the SAE Foundation’s A World In Motion® (AWIM®) program, students learn how to design, build, test, and present a product. As STEM is brought to life, so too are essential life skills like problem-solving, communication, and collaboration which enable students to build the self-confidence they need for future success.

Hear from these passionate educators and two of their students, Valeria A. and Jaylinn G., about how AWIM is unlocking a new world of opportunities and galvanizing the next generation of innovators. It’s a conversation that is sure to inspire you to get involved as a mentor, supporter, or what Mia calls “a believer.”

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109. Pursuing AV Micro-Transit on a Global Scale

Thu, 12 May 2022 15:00:00 -0000

May Mobility’s self-driving shuttles have provided more than 300,000 autonomous rides in nine cities in the US and Japan. And CEO Edwin Olson is just getting started. He has a recipe for transforming transportation – and quality of life – worldwide:

· A policy of listening to people to understand the unique transit challenges they face in their communities – inaccessible public transit, for example, or a long trudge from the bus stop to the dining district.

· A strategy to work with cities, state agencies, and private enterprises to customize autonomous vehicle (AV) services that fill mobility gaps.

· A powerhouse partnership with Toyota capable of providing vehicles, services, and resources on a global scale.

· A game-changing approach to AV software development, known as multi-policy decision-making.

The underlying technology is critical to ensure safety and build trust, of course, but Olson argues that success starts with a human touch and understanding each community’s unique needs.

“Autonomous cars are hard, and every city brings new challenges for us to solve,” he says. “There is nothing quite so motivating . . . as a real-world point of contact with riders and cities to determine where to focus and what to fix.”

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108. Decarbonizing Aviation from Takeoff to Touch Down

Thu, 05 May 2022 15:00:00 -0000

Can the aviation industry meet its goal to decarbonize by 2050? Safran Landing Systems engineer and innovator R. Kyle Schmidt thinks so, and he’s playing a critical role in getting there.

Safran, the world leader in aircraft landing and braking systems, equips the commercial, business, and military fleets for more than 20 aircraft manufacturers. The France-based company’s expertise spans design, manufacturing, maintenance, and repair. Today, Schmidt’s team is focused on developing lighter weight landing gear that can boost fuel efficiency and sustainable mobility.

From his perspective as VP, New Product Development and Research & Technology Engineering, Schmidt explores the challenges and opportunities manufacturers face, flexing his natural story telling abilities as showcased in his book The Design of Aircraft Landing Gear, which was recently published by SAE International.

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