Carmakers’ designs on patents for the future

In 1959 an engineer at Volvo patented a device with the potential to transform driving — the three-point seatbelt. The carmaker then did something extraordinary. Rather than guarding the technology closely and using its innovation to give it a competitive edge, it released the design into the public domain. “Thanks to its decision to share… Continue reading Carmakers’ designs on patents for the future

New battery tech faces a long road to mass adoption

The Ni family, based in Suzhou near Shanghai in China, bought their first electric hybrid car, a BYD Qin, five years ago. With a 30 per cent discount and free insurance thrown in they were pleased with their purchase. Since then, they have had to buy two replacement batteries. Now, expecting a baby, they want… Continue reading New battery tech faces a long road to mass adoption