Author: Central Desk

MAHLE, a leader in automotive innovation, showcased cutting-edge advancements at IAA Transportation in Hanover, aiming to revolutionize the commercial vehicle sector with sustainable solutions. As global road transport is projected to expand by over 40% by 2030, the group is focusing on carbon-neutral mobility to drive the future of transportation. The highlight of MAHLE’s presentation was a fully integrated system for fuel cell trucks, combining fuel cell peripherals, thermal management, and a heavy-duty electric axle. Key to this innovation is the bionic high-performance fan, inspired by owl feathers, which halves sound pressure during full load or charging, solving one of…

Volkswagen is set to introduce a new compact SUV that will sit beneath the Taigun in its lineup. Set to launch first in Brazil next year, the model represents a strategic push into emerging markets. Codenamed the ‘Volkswagen A0 SUV,’ the vehicle will be based on the versatile MQB A0 platform, a proven architecture used across several Volkswagen models like the Polo, Nivus, and T-Cross. Tailored for emerging markets, this platform underscores Volkswagen’s intent to cater to specific regional demands efficiently. Upon its official release, the A0 SUV is expected to carry the name ‘Volkswagen Yeh.’ Measuring roughly four meters,…

Kia’s flagship electric SUV, the EV9, has secured the prestigious Gold trophy at the 2024 International Design Excellence Awards (IDEA), marking a first-ever Gold win for the automaker at this event. Following earlier victories at the Red Dot ‘Best of Best’ and iF Design Gold awards, the EV9 continues to gain recognition. This electric SUV impressed judges in the Automotive and Transportation category, reflecting Kia’s bold ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy. With its latest win, the EV9 adds another accolade to an already impressive list, which includes two honours at the World Car Awards 2024. Karim Habib, Executive Vice President and…

The Chinese electric SUV Neta X has officially entered production in Indonesia, following its debut at the Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS 2024). On September 13, 2024, Neta Auto Indonesia celebrated the first assembly of the vehicle in Completely Knocked Down (CKD) form at the PT Handal Indonesia Motor plant in Bekasi, West Java. Liu Lei, Vice President of Overseas Business at Neta Auto, emphasized the significance of the event, stating, “Today is an important moment for us as we can realize one of our commitments and strategic plans in developing our product line for the electric car market…

The Nissan Qashqai has entered the Guinness World Records, not for fuel economy or handling skills, but through an audacious bungee jump. In a bold stunt, a modified Qashqai e-POWER SUV launched off a platform in France, plummeting an astounding 65 meters to set a new world record for automotive bungee diving. French stunt driver Laurent Lasko took charge of the stripped-down SUV, steering it into a breathtaking freefall, marking the centerpiece of Nissan’s upcoming TV campaign. Cars don’t typically bungee jump, but Nissan turned the idea into reality with this daring challenge. Engineers spent a month crafting a custom-built…

General Motors (GM) and Hyundai Motor have taken the first steps towards a groundbreaking alliance, focusing on key areas of shared interest: passenger and commercial vehicles, electric mobility, and essential raw materials. As cost pressures intensify and the race to scale production quickens, this potential partnership could redefine the competitive landscape of the automotive industry. Blueprint for Collaboration The two automotive giants formalized their intent with a memorandum of understanding signed by GM’s CEO Mary Barra and Hyundai Motor Group’s Executive Chairman Euisun Chung. The agreement sets the stage for an immediate evaluation of cooperative projects. Among the key areas…

Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) unveiled its new brand platform, ‘Move And Be Moved.’ The company is set to redefine its identity during a key phase of its 104-year legacy, seeking deeper resonance with today’s consumers. With unprecedented sales growth that surpasses industry trends, Mazda is recalibrating its approach to offer more than just products, focusing on experiences and innovative marketing. The platform’s introduction will be marked by the launch of ‘Choose to Be Moved,’ airing on September 12 during Thursday Night Football on Amazon Prime. At the core of this shift is Mazda’s dedication to understanding its customers at…

The German auto industry has voiced strong support for the EU’s fight against deforestation, but with sharp criticism of the current regulation’s practicality. The rules, designed to prevent deforestation-linked materials like soy, rubber, and wood from entering the European market, have sparked concerns from industry leaders about their operational impact. Hildegard Müller, President of the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA), emphasized, “We support the goal of combating deforestation worldwide and thus contributing to the preservation of biodiversity and the containment of climate change. The automotive industry acknowledges its responsibility to make an active contribution here.” The industry’s call…

Ford and Toyota have bolstered their push into blockchain technology, significantly increasing their patent filings during the second quarter of 2024. Data from GlobalData Patent Analytics and Just Auto shows both companies are doubling down on efforts to advance blockchain-based vehicle solutions. Ford’s patent filings soared to 14 in Q2, up from just three in Q1, while Toyota pushed its total from 25 to 29 over the same period. These filings reflect a combined total of at least 43 blockchain-related patents between the two automakers. Ford’s latest innovation seeks to secure vehicle ownership data with blockchain technology. Their new system…

Xpeng Motors has achieved another milestone with its G6 ultra-smart coupe SUV, securing a prestigious five-star safety rating from the 2024 Euro NCAP, further strengthening its position as a leader in electric vehicle safety. Euro NCAP, known for its demanding evaluations, awarded this top rating after a series of rigorous crash tests, assessing critical factors such as occupant protection, road user safety, and advanced driver assistance systems. The five-star rating sets a benchmark, signaling the G6’s superior ability to safeguard passengers and reduce risks to others on the road. This exceptional result stems from Xpeng’s innovative engineering. The G6 integrates…