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BMW i Ventures today announced that it was part of an investment in Estes Energy Solutions, Inc., a California-based materials and manufacturing firm specializing in zero-emission power systems for the electrification of commercial and industrial markets using lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) batteries that are relatively inexpensive to make because they don’t use rare earth metals such as cobalt and nickel. The pilot manufacturing line resulting from the influx of capital will enable Estes to increase the U.S.-based battery supply chain. The $11 million seed round was co-led with Fortescue Ventures with participation from New Systems Ventures, and early investor DCVC.
“What makes Estes different isn’t just the unique technology, it’s the people.” said Baris Guzel, Partner at BMW i Ventures. “This is a team that’s been in the trenches, building rugged, high-density battery systems with real-world safety and scale in mind. It’s that rare blend of deep engineering chops, operator mindset, and execution urgency. We couldn’t be more excited to partner with them.” Continue reading
Football marketing – BYD and FC Internazionale Milano
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The BYD Group (1211 HKG), a massive China-based electric vehicle company announced the launch of a three-year strategic partnership with FC Internazionale Milano (Inter), becoming the club’s Global Automotive Partner. It’s the latest foray of Chinese EV companies into established markets.
“BYD’s name means Build Your Dreams, and I think this partnership is a dream for young people, for everybody with a passion for football. Inter Milan is well recognized for its energy, for never giving up, for always fighting for success and for its rapid growth into a global brand with a worldwide fanbase that extends beyond the San Siro stadium and Serie A,” said Stella Li, Executive Vice President of BYD. Continue reading →