Author: AWJ Research Desk

With Chinese EV Automakers setting their sights on Europe, a transformation is brewing in the continent’s auto industry. Driven by soaring exports and looming tariffs, Chinese EV giants are laying groundwork to manufacture locally, targeting a greater share of the European market. This move intensifies competition for European automakers, already grappling with pricing pressures and slower demand at home. Here’s an overview of major Chinese automakers’ strategies and expansion plans. Surge in Chinese EV Imports to Europe Chinese-made EV imports have surged across Europe, offering budget-friendly alternatives that often undercut local prices. In response, the European Union (EU) has imposed…

The global automotive industry, producing millions of vehicles each year, is a substantial contributor to environmental waste. Alongside vehicles, which generate over 1.5 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO₂) annually, the industry produces considerable waste in the form of hazardous fluids, metals, plastics, and emissions. If not properly managed, this waste can lead to soil, water, and air contamination, posing health and safety risks. With the sector projected to grow from $2.9 trillion in 2020 to $3.8 trillion by 2030, the need for sustainable waste management practices has never been more urgent. Types and Environmental Risks Automotive waste falls…

Mexico City: The International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA), the largest union of maritime workers in North America, is set to strike at Atlantic and Gulf Coast ports from 1 October. The action threatens to disrupt the automotive supply chain, particularly in the handling of containerized vehicles and parts logistics. Representing over 85,000 dockworkers, the ILA is demanding a new contract from the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX), which represents dock employers, including Maersk’s APM Terminals and SSA Marine. The union argues that workers deserve wages aligned with the significant profits earned by ocean carriers. Contract talks between the ILA and USMX…

The self-car wash market is experiencing remarkable growth across the globe, driven by increasing consumer preference for convenient and cost-effective vehicle cleaning solutions. As car ownership continues to rise, especially in urban areas, the demand for self-service car wash facilities has surged, leading to the rapid expansion of the market. This growth is supported by advancements in technology, changing consumer behavior, and the desire for eco-friendly car wash options. Market Overview Self-service car wash systems allow vehicle owners to clean their cars at their convenience, offering a range of options from basic rinsing to comprehensive cleaning. These systems typically feature…

India, China, and ASEAN countries dominate the global two and three wheeler markets. In 2023, sales in these regions hit 19 million, 17 million, and 14 million units respectively. Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Thailand lead within ASEAN, with Two and Three Wheeler sales surpassing light-duty vehicles. Despite a global decline in electric two wheeler sales, India and ASEAN countries bucked the trend, driven by robust policy support and substantial subsidies. India’s Market Flourishes India, the world’s second-largest market for electric two wheelers, saw sales grow by 40% in 2023, reaching 880,000 units. The market is dominated by major domestic…

The pandemic has profoundly impacted economies globally, causing significant disruption across various sectors, including the automotive industry. Even before the pandemic, this sector was grappling with shifts towards electric mobility and ridesharing. The pandemic, however, has intensified these existing challenges and introduced new ones. 1. Sustainability and Policy Regulatory Pressure: The automotive sector faces stringent environmental regulations. For instance, the European Union aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from new cars by 55% by 2030 compared to 2021 levels, compelling automakers to invest heavily in electric vehicle (EV) technology and sustainable practices. Corporate Commitments: Major players like Volvo and Nissan…

Seoul: South Korea experienced a significant decline in exports of hydrogen-powered fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) during the first five months of 2024. Shipments dropped by 74.2%, from 233 units in the same period last year to only 60 units. This decline culminated in zero exports in May 2024. Key FCEV models from South Korea, including Hyundai Motor’s Nexo SUV and Xcient heavy-duty truck, have been impacted by this downturn. Despite this setback in the FCEV market, South Korean automakers Hyundai and Kia continue to dominate the US electric vehicle (EV) market, highlighting the complex and evolving landscape of the…

Electric vehicles (EVs) are transforming urban commutes in India, offering unmatched efficiency and affordability. While limited charging infrastructure remains a hurdle, city dwellers with home or work charging access are finding EVs increasingly appealing. This article, “Top 5 Budget-Friendly Electric Cars in India,” showcases the most affordable EVs perfect for navigating Indian cities. MG Comet EV: Leading the pack of compact EVs designed for city driving, the MG Comet EV is exceptionally easy to maneuver and park, thanks to its small size. While its 230 km range might seem modest, MG claims an impressive 1,000 km travel cost of just…

The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) is revolutionizing the automotive industry. In the coming years, this will bring about profound changes in the auto parts industry. As EVs become more prevalent, the demand for traditional automotive components is expected to decline, giving way to a surge in the need for specialized parts unique to electric vehicles. This transformation presents both challenges and opportunities for auto parts manufacturers, requiring them to adapt to new technologies, supply chain dynamics, and regulatory landscapes. Negative Impacts: Reduced Demand: EVs have far fewer moving parts than internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, eliminating the need for…

Electric vehicles (EVs) represent a significant step forward in reducing global carbon emissions, with batteries playing a central role in their operation and efficiency. The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the development and management of EV batteries is poised to revolutionize this sector by enhancing battery life, improving charging times, and optimizing energy usage. Key Areas of AI Application: Design Optimization: AI algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data to optimize the design of EV batteries, improving their energy density, lifespan, and charging speed. This can lead to lighter, more efficient batteries with longer ranges. Manufacturing Efficiency: AI-powered systems…