KSPG, FEW, LG Chem, R&D investments, Vampire drain.

Silent and compact REX: German KSPG and FEW are testing a low-noise range extender installed in an electric Fiat 500. The V2-type engine weighs only 62 kilos and fits into the space of a spare tyre. According to German media sources, KSPG expects the range extender to go into serial production within 18 months at a price of less than 2,000 euros (2,700 dollars).
electricvehiclesresearch.com, aachener-zeitung.de (In German)

Separator patented: LG Chem Ltd. obtained a patent for its safety-reinforced separator (SRS) in Europe and Japan. SRS is a key component of li-ion polymer batteries, as it prevents internal short-circuits by using nanoscale ceramic particles. LG Chem already holds SRS patents in the U.S., China and South Korea.
greencarcongress.com, english.yonhapnews.co.kr

Investing in innovation: Carmakers and their suppliers like Bosch and Continental are increasingly investing in research and development, Boston Consulting found out. VW, GM and Toyota are the three biggest spenders. Expenses concentrate on fuel efficient power trains, lightweight materials, connectivity, and assisted driving.
ft.com, thegreencarwebsite.co.uk, bcg.com

Vampire drain de-mystified: How thirsty is a Tesla really if being left unplugged in a freezing parking lot in the middle of Norway? Bjørn Nyland took the test and after 27 days, his Model S had consumed about 20% of its previous charge of 95%. The car went into hibernation mode to keep only the most essential functions operational.
youtube.com (Video) via transportevolved.com