Energy / Automotive News July 24, 2025. Gas @ $3.13/MMBtu, WTI Crude $66.20/bbl
London, July 24, 2025 (Oilandgaspress) –-A House committee has approved a bill that the U.S. withdraw its funding to the International Energy Agency as the Republican lawmakers consider that the IEA has strayed from its mission to safeguard energy security and has been pushing green energy policies instead. The House Appropriation Committee said in a report this week that the IEA “has strayed from its core mission of ensuring global energy security.” “The Committee finds that the Agency has abandoned objectivity in the critical energy-supply information it produces and, instead, has pursued politicized information to support climate policy advocacy,” according to the report. The bill is included in the fiscal year 2026 legislative agenda, but it will need support from at least some Democrats in the Senate.The IEA’s forecast that oil demand will peak this decade is “just total nonsense,” the U.S. official said, adding he has been talking to the IEA’s executive director Fatih Birol. Read More
World’s first two-ton vertical takeoff aircraft receives flight clearance in China AutoFlight today announced the delivery of the world’s first electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft exceeding one-ton max. take-off weight to achieve complete airworthiness certification with all three required approvals from civil aviation authorities.
The CarryAll aircraft has been delivered to Heli Chuangxing Intelligent, marking a historic milestone in commercial eVTOL operations and representing a significant advancement toward the practical implementation of low-altitude economic applications.
Comprehensive Airworthiness Achievement
On July 21, the Civil Aviation Administration of China approved the Airworthiness Certificate (AC) for the CarryAll, completing the final stage of initial airworthiness certification review. The aircraft now holds all three essential airworthiness certifications: Type Certificate (TC) for design approval, Production Certificate (PC) for manufacturing authorization, and Airworthiness Certificate (AC) for individual aircraft certification. This achievement establishes the CarryAll as the world’s first eVTOL aircraft above one-ton capacity designed, manufactured, and delivered in strict accordance with civil aviation airworthiness procedures, providing the fundamental qualifications for official commercial operations.
AutoFlight Supports Emergency Response at Wuhan River Festival At the 50th Wuhan Crossing the River Festival, AutoFlight’s CarryAll eVTOL participated in a significant milestone for emergency response operations.
With over 2,000 swimmers in the Yangtze River, our CarryAll unmanned eVTOL provided aerial protection as part of an innovative ‘water, land and air’ three-dimensional emergency support system, working alongside water police speedboats and medical teams.
This marks the first time any large eVTOL has been deployed for actual open-water rescue standby operations.
Why This Matters for Emergency Response:
Rapid Deployment: Vertical take-off capability enables quick response from any location.
Multi-Purpose Design: Can drop two life rafts simultaneously (supporting up to 20 people), deploy fire extinguishing canisters, or deliver emergency supplies.
Real-World Validation: Completed the world’s first actual rescue drill with a ton-level eVTOL in open waters.
‘Low altitude + emergency’ applications are emerging as one of the first practical implementation scenarios for eVTOL technology, and this successful event demonstrates the immense potential for saving lives through innovative aviation solutions.
Parked EVs and water heaters could turn cities into flexible, giant batteries . New research has found that electric vehicles (EVs) and household hot water systems could significantly strengthen Australia’s electricity grid.
The study, conducted by the Australian National University (ANU), suggests that by using these technologies more intelligently, cities like Canberra could shift from being major energy consumers to acting as giant batteries.
According to the ANU team, residents could collectively store and redistribute energy by staggering charging and heating times, easing pressure during peak demand.
Centrica acquires 15% stake in Sizewell C nuclear power station Centrica plc announced it has signed an agreement to acquire a 15% equity stake in Sizewell C (Holdings) Limited (“Sizewell C”), with committed construction funding of £1.3 billion.
Centrica will jointly own Sizewell C alongside HM Government (44.9%), La Caisse (20%), Électricité de France SA (“EDF”)
(12.5%) and Amber Infrastructure Group (7.6%, with an option to acquire a further 2.4% from HM Government exercisable within 24 months of Revenue Commencement).
Key highlights
Regulated Asset Base (“RAB”) model with no pre-productive capital period
Incentives to deliver the project on time and on budget, with robust protections against construction
delays and cost overruns
Inflation-protected, regulated returns
10.8% Allowed Return on Equity (real CPIH; WACC 6.7% real CPIH1) during construction and initial operations period
IRR >12%2
Phased investment capped at £1.3 billion (nominal) for 15% stake
Centrica’s equity share of the RAB expected to grow to around £3 billion at commercial operations date3
Regulated returns and incentives during the operations phase to be set by Ofgem will draw from established principles of network regulation, with additional protections
Agreement in principle for initial 20-year offtake agreement for our share of Sizewell C’s production, and for Centrica to provide Sizewell C with route to market services for additional volumes
Rebuilding Centrica’s infrastructure portfolio, with regulated assets that deliver predictable earnings
and are supportive to credit metrics.
Centrica Interim results for the period ended 30 June 2025. Adjusted EBITDA of £0.9bn (H1 2024: £1.4bn) with first half adjusted operating profit (AOP) of £0.5bn (H1 2024: £1.0bn) comprising of:
Retail AOP of £0.3bn (H1 2024: £0.2bn) driven by improved performance in British Gas Services & Solutions and energy supply, which has been impacted by a number of external factors.
Optimisation AOP of £0.1bn (H1 2024: £0.3bn) reflecting challenging market conditions for our Gas and Power Trading business.
Infrastructure AOP of £0.2bn (H1 2024: £0.5bn) impacted by lower commodity prices in Spirit Energy and Nuclear, and lower seasonal gas price spreads in Centrica Energy Storage+ (“CES+”).
Net finance income of £26m (H1 2024: £20m) due to lower interest costs as a result of lower interest rates and a benefit from repurchasing debt in 2024, partially offset by lower interest income on cash balances.
Adjusted basic EPS for the first half of 7.0p (H1 2024: 12.8p).
Statutory operating loss of £69m (H1 2024: £1.7bn profit) includes a net loss on re-measurements of derivative energy contracts and impairments of assets of £618m (2024: £642m gain). Statutory basic EPS for the first half was 5.1p loss (H1 2024: 25.1p profit).
Statutory net operating cash flow of £0.3bn (H1 2024: £0.8bn) includes £22m of margin cash and collateral outflow (H1 2024: £0.1bn inflow), closing with total margin cash posted of £0.1bn.
Modest increase in capital expenditure to £244m (H1 2024: £221m), as we retain our disciplined focus on returns.
Free cash flow of £0.2bn (H1 2024: £0.8bn) reflects lower EBITDA and dividends from associates.
Balance sheet remains strong, with closing adjusted net cash of £2.5bn (FY 2024: £2.9bn).
The IAS 19 pension deficit increased to £315m in the period (FY 2024: £21m deficit), largely reflecting updated assumptions following the triennial pension review, which was agreed in February 2025. The technical provisions deficit and funding plan are unchanged.
£0.5bn cash returned to shareholders in the first half of 2025; £374m share buyback and £150m dividends. In-line with progressive dividend policy, interim dividend per share increased to 1.83p.
Bord Gáis Energy strengthens its renewable energy portfolio with the announcement of multiple long-term Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with prominent renewable energy developers.
The projects, which total over 629 MW of installed renewable capacity spanning both solar and onshore wind technologies, are supported under Ireland’s Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS). Once the projects are operational Bord Gáis Energy will be the largest off taker of solar powered energy from the RESS scheme.1
This announcement significantly bolsters Bord Gáis Energy’s net zero commitments, with the newly signed agreements more than doubling the company’s renewable energy portfolio. This means that Bord Gáis Energy is supplying more green energy to the grid, helping customers on their journey to net zero and energising a greener fairer future.
Anne-Catherine Brieux appointed VP, Alpine Industrials Operations As part of this appointment, Anne-Catherine Brieux will keep her position as VP Industrials Operations of Ampere. She will join Alpine Management Committee and report functionally to Philippe Krief. Anne-Catherine Brieux, a graduate from INSA Rouen, joined Renault in 1997 as a manufacturing engineer at the Cléon plant (Rouen, France).
Two years later, she joined the engineering teams, where she led key product standardization projects within the Renault-Nissan Alliance. In 2006, Anne-Catherine became head of an Engine Design Office at the Mechanical plant, where she led the first decentralized engine design in the factory for the Duster project.
After 12 years in engine design and development, she joined the Manufacturing department,
where she initially managed the Engine Assembly department and later oversaw Machining at the Cléon factory. After serving as deputy operations manager, she took over the management of the Renault Motores plant (Valladolid, Spain) in 2017, then the management of the Palencia plant.
In 2023, she was promoted VP, Quality Strategy, Suppliers, and Development within Renault Group’s Quality Department before being appointed in 2024, VP, Ampere Industrials Operations.
| Oil and Gas Blends | Units | Oil Price | Change |
| Crude Oil (WTI) | USD/bbl | $66.20 | Up |
| Crude Oil (Brent) | USD/bbl | $69.35 | Up |
| Bonny Light 23/07/25 CBN | USD/bbl | $71.72 | Down |
| Dubai | USD/bbl | $70.26 | Up |
| Natural Gas | USD/MMBtu | $3.13 | Down |
| Murban | USD/bbl | $72.50 | Up |
| OPEC basket 23/07/25 | USD/bbl | $70.31 | — |
Mercedes-Benz Trucks introduces Axor for Brazilian market Mercedes-Benz do Brasil Ltda., the Brazilian subsidiary of Daimler Truck, has recently launched the all-new Mercedes-Benz Axor 2038 4×2 and Axor 2545 6×2 for the Brazilian market, designed for medium- and long-distance road freight transport and logistics operations. The new Axor is featuring BlueTec 6 technology, which complies with Euro 6 legislation, and comes with 62 and 68 tons of Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR), making it suitable for use with 4-axle semi-trailers.
“With the launch of the new Axor, our portfolio in South America is more complete and more robust than ever. We are better equipped to meet the diverse needs of our customers,” says Achim Puchert, CEO Mercedes-Benz Trucks. “Brazil remains one of the most important markets for Mercedes-Benz trucks globally. I see great market potential in the new Axor. Not only in Brazil, but also in exports markets in Latin America.”
The Mercedes-Benz Axor is equipped with a 13-liter Mercedes-Benz OM 460 engine in the 380 or 450 horsepower version and comes with a 12-speed PowerShift 3 Advanced automated transmission for faster gear changes and more fuel-efficient driving.
Mercedes-Benz is offering the new Axor with two cab versions: a sleeper cab with a low roof and version with a high roof, both come with the ergonomic pneumatic seat with up to 11 adjustments. A multifunction steering wheel, a combined gear lever and an engine brake on the steering column are further increasing the driver’s comfort.
Mercedes-Benz Trucks is introducing the next generation of its proven steering system with torque overlay. The system is used in vehicles with high front axle loads and offers a wide range of technical and functional advancements. Like its predecessor, the new Servotwin system is based on a dual-circuit steering setup with separate hydraulic and electric power supplies. It combines the steering torque applied by the driver with an electronically controlled supplementary steering torque – for maximum steering precision and finely adjustable control.
The Servotwin system impresses with numerous advantages
Steering precision has been further enhanced – especially at higher speeds, this results in noticeably smoother and safer handling. At the same time, the steering torque can now be metered even more precisely, further improving vehicle control in all driving situations.
An active steering wheel return automatically brings the wheel back to the center position after cornering. This significantly relieves the driver and increases driving comfort – particularly in urban and distribution operations.
A new additional feature: via the driver instrument, the driver can choose between three modes, which differ in steering assistance and active return behavior at speeds below 30 km/h. This allows the steering characteristics to be customized to individual preferences.
Straight-line stability has also been specifically improved. At higher speeds, the vehicle remains more stable in its lane and is less sensitive to ruts – a real benefit for long-distance applications.
Maneuvering while stationary is particularly convenient. Thanks to the combination of hydraulic power assistance and an integrated electric motor, the vehicle can be steered with minimal effort even at low speeds or while stationary.
Sustainability in Porsche pre-development Carla Römisch is active in the pre-development of vehicles and helps shaping technical innovations with a focus on sustainability at Porsche’s research and development center in Weissach. In the interview, she reports how the development of future-oriented technologies can contribute to reducing Porsche’s environmental impacts. Carla Römisch: I am firmly convinced that we as a society have a responsibility for our actions and our environment – especially in a world with finite resources and increasing global challenges such as climate change and social inequality. My professional path reflects this personal commitment: I first gained experience at Porsche in materials engineering, a field dedicated to the selection, development, and testing of materials. Even then, my focus was on resource-efficient materials. I then deepened my knowledge in the field of electromobility at a technology consulting company. Back at Porsche, I developed a method for the early prediction of CO₂ emissions in the supply chain. Today, I work in pre-development of vehicles, striving to drive forward sustainable product development and deliver innovative technical solutions for our customers.
Mercedes-Benz VLE succeeds in next major development steps In 2026, the all-electric VLE will hit the roads and mark the beginning of a new era at Mercedes‑Benz Vans. With up to eight seats, the VLE portfolio will range from flexible vehicles for families and leisure active customers, to exclusive VIP shuttles. As added value for customers is key for Mercedes-Benz, the future VLE will suit perfectly the customers’ needs and demands, in terms of design, functions and usability. Bringing the best of two worlds together, the all-electric VLE combines limousine-like driving behaviour with MPV-like versatility.
Now, prototypes of the VLE successfully passed the next major steps in the development program by proving its uncompromising efficiency in three different disciplines:
Starting in 2026, the VLE will be the first model based on the newly developed, modular, and scalable van architecture – ushering in a completely new era. This architecture allows for a clear differentiation between privately positioned Grand Limousines – the Mercedes-Benz VLE and the Mercedes-Benz VLS – and commercial transporters. While the VLE with up to 8 seats will range from flexible vehicles for families and leisure active customers to exclusive VIP shuttles, the VLS will expand the Mercedes‑Benz MPV portfolio into the top-end-segment.
Xpeng X9 in Indonesia Xpeng Motors made its debut at the 2025 Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS 2025), the largest automotive event in Southeast Asia. At the exhibition, Xpeng Motors officially announced that Indonesia has become the first country in the world for Xpeng Motors to start localized production, and the first Xpeng X9 produced locally in Indonesia has been delivered to an Indonesian car owner. This marks that starting from Indonesia, Xpeng Motors will officially start its global localized production strategy.
FEN responds to the publication of DESNZ’s transmission blending consultation The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) has today launched an open consultation on hydrogen blending into the GB gas transmission network.
Commenting, a Future Energy Networks (FEN) spokesperson said:
“We welcome the Government’s consultation on blending hydrogen into the gas transmission network. Blending low carbon hydrogen into the existing network supports the early development of the hydrogen economy and is an important signal to investors that the government sees a strategic role for hydrogen to help deliver Clean Power and Net Zero.
“Britain’s world-class gas networks not only keep homes warm and businesses running every day of the year, they can play a crucial role in accelerating our journey to Net Zero, transporting a mixture of green gases with minimal disruption to homeowners, businesses and industry.”
Iberdrola successfully completes the capital increase of €5 billion Iberdrola has successfully closed the accelerated capital increase of €5 billion, aimed at financing the investment plan in electricity grids in the United States and the United Kingdom. The transaction was oversubscribed by 3.8 times, demonstrating the strong market support for the company’s strategy.
The capital increase closed at a price of €15.15 per share, above the guaranteed price and 7.5% higher than the average share price of the last year.
During the same period, shareholder remuneration reached €0.645 per share, including the final dividend, already discounted, which becomes effective tomorrow, July 24. The operation was carried out at a discount of 4.687% to the closing share price yesterday, July 22. The new shares are scheduled to begin trading on July 25.
The quality of the book has been very high, with broad participation from top-tier investors, both current and new, and with broad international diversification.
This expansion will allow Iberdrola to take advantage of unprecedented investment opportunities in the network business, estimated at €55 billion between 2026 and 2031, representing an increase of 75% compared to the previous period. These investments will be made in markets with stable and predictable regulatory frameworks, and attractive returns, with an estimated average return on equity of around 9.5% in net terms.
Scottish Power Renewables completes installation for East Anglia Three offshore wind farm ScottishPower Renewables, the renewable energy subsidiary of the Iberdrola Group in the United Kingdom, has completed the laying of the first section of the export cable for its East Anglia THREE offshore wind farm, reaching a new milestone in this clean energy project valued at around €4.7 billion.
The cable has been connected to shore at Bawdsey, Suffolk (UK). The electricity generated offshore will travel approximately 147 kilometres from the wind farm to the coast. From there, the energy will travel another 37 kilometres by land to the HVDC converter station at Bramford, near Ipswich, using the infrastructure previously developed for East Anglia ONE.
East Anglia THREE will have a capacity of 1.4 gigawatts (GW) and, once operational at the end of 2026, will become the Iberdrola Group’s largest wind farm and one of the largest in the world, with the capacity to supply more than one million homes.
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OilandGasPress Energy Newsbites and Analysis Roundup | Compiled by: OGP Staff, Segun Cole , victor@oilandgaspress
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