Author: Central Desk

Heavy-duty transportation is entering a transformative era, with electric trucks spearheading the shift. At the forefront stands the MAN eTGX, which recently clinched first place in the world’s inaugural comparison test for heavy-duty electric trucks, affirming its leadership in sustainable transport. Expert journalists from the esteemed trade magazine ‘Trucker’ conducted a rigorous test, awarding the MAN eTGX an impressive 568 points. The vehicle’s low unladen weight, balanced drive system, and exceptional comfort set it apart, earning it recognition as an outstanding overall package. Its sophisticated operating concept further cemented its status as the top choice among commercial vehicle professionals. Friedrich…

Indian IT’s Engineering Research and Development (ER&D) sector faces mounting challenges as automakers globally forge strategic tech alliances, potentially diminishing their dependence on traditional IT outsourcing. Rising insourcing has already exerted pressure on Indian IT firms, and these newly formed partnerships among automotive giants could further disrupt the ER&D landscape. Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) such as Volkswagen, Rivian, Xpeng, Honda, Nissan, Volvo AB, and Daimler Truck have recently initiated significant collaborations. These alliances focus on joint software and architecture development, signaling a potential reduction in the tech spend typically directed toward Indian ER&D firms. Redirection of Tech Investments The automotive…

Hyundai Motor and Kia received top marks in critical safety tests on their EVs. The latest evaluations, announced on Sunday, reinforce the brands’ commitment to safety and innovation in the electric vehicle sector. Five models from these South Korean automakers, built on Hyundai Motor Group’s Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), have secured the highest five-star rating from the European New Car Assessment Program (Euro NCAP). The Genesis GV60, Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6, and Kia’s EV6 and EV9 have all emerged as leading contenders in the safety arena, according to Yonhap. Recognition doesn’t stop at Europe’s borders. In the United…

The global auto industry is facing a downturn, with German carmakers reporting a significant earnings slump in the first half of the year. A recent analysis by auditing and consulting firm EY reveals a stark decline among key players in the industry. Volkswagen, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz, cornerstones of Germany’s automotive might, collectively generated €25.9 billion in operating profit (EBIT) from January to June 2024. This figure reflects an 18% decrease from the previous year, signaling underlying weaknesses in the market. EY’s study, which scrutinized the financial performance of the 16 largest car manufacturers worldwide, highlights a concerning trend. Despite a…

The automotive sector in Pakistan faces criticism for missing the export targets outlined in the Auto Industry Development and Export Policy (AIDEP) 2021-26. Despite the underperformance, auto manufacturers have managed to secure temporary relief through legal channels after the government attempted to revoke their licenses. This situation came to light during a Senate Standing Committee on Industries and Production session led by Senator Aon Abbas on Friday. Secretary of Industries Saif Anjum presented the facts, stating that the manufacturers did not achieve the export goals set by the government. “The manufacturers have failed to meet these targets,” Anjum reported. “The…

China’s Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) recently held a critical meeting to explore the possibility of raising tariffs on imported vehicles with large-displacement engines. This gathering of industry experts, representatives from automotive companies, and scholars underscores a growing focus on aligning China’s automotive sector with environmental sustainability goals. A statement from MOFCOM revealed the meeting involved extensive discussions with key stakeholders from industry organizations and research institutions. The dialogue aimed at gathering insights on the proposed tariff adjustments, reflecting a serious consideration of stricter regulations on high-emission vehicles. This initiative follows previous calls for action. In May, Liu Bin, chief expert…

Volvo Group has announced plans to construct a new heavy-duty truck manufacturing facility in Monterrey, Mexico. This move is a key part of the company’s strategy to meet the growing demand for Volvo Trucks and Mack Trucks in the U.S., Canada, and Latin America. The new plant is scheduled to be operational by 2026. Monterrey was selected for its strategic location, offering a significant logistical edge. Situated near the U.S. border, the city provides streamlined access to critical markets in the southwestern and western United States, as well as throughout Mexico and Latin America. The city’s infrastructure further supports Volvo…

As the U.S. presidential election draws closer, the auto industry is actively pushing to secure the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), a crucial law that has fueled billions of dollars in investment into electric vehicle (EV) production, battery manufacturing, and the broader automotive supply chain. This legislation, two years old, has become a key driver in the U.S.’s strategy to enhance its position in the global EV market. The IRA, alongside the bipartisan infrastructure law and the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022, has triggered a significant transformation in U.S. industrial policy. These laws have encouraged automakers, suppliers, and battery manufacturers…

Oxa, a leader in self-driving vehicle software, has executed its third commercial deployment across the United States by joining forces with Beep, a key player in autonomous shared mobility solutions. This venture marks Oxa’s inaugural West Coast initiative, with Oxa Driver now operational on autonomous shuttles in a pilot project led by the Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA). The pilot, branded as PRESTO, serves the Rossmoor Walnut Creek community, a thriving hub for active seniors. Beep oversees the deployment of electric, autonomous shuttles, which navigate a predetermined route within Rossmoor, offering transport for up to seven seated passengers. Operating from…

Škoda Auto, the Czech automotive giant, recently revealed its latest compact SUV, the Škoda Kylaq, marking a pivotal moment in its India 2.5 strategy. This announcement represents Škoda’s global strategy, targeting India’s burgeoning car market after exiting Russia and planning a phased withdrawal from China. Global Vision with Local Precision Set for a 2025 global debut, the Kylaq enters India’s fiercely competitive compact SUV segment, a sector ripe with opportunity. Constructed on the MQB-A0-IN platform—shared by the successful Kushaq SUV and Slavia sedan—the Kylaq merges Škoda’s European engineering with enhancements tailored specifically for Indian roads. High ground clearance, ample wheel…