Author: Central Desk

Toshiba Electronics Europe has launched engineering samples of its new TB9084FTG, a MOSFET gate driver IC designed for three-phase brushless DC (BLDC) motors. This cutting-edge device addresses the increasing adoption of BLDC motors in automotive applications, offering enhanced performance, compact design, and robust reliability. The TB9084FTG aligns with the automotive industry’s shift from brushed DC motors to BLDC motors, which provide quieter operation and extended lifespan. The device is engineered to drive BLDC motors powering key body system applications, such as powered sliding doors, power tailgates, and adjustable seats. It is also suitable for improving the efficiency of electric pumps…

Volkswagen AG, alongside its Chinese partner SAIC Motor, has exited its operations in Xinjiang, China, selling its Urumqi-based plant and other facilities in a move addressing international concerns over alleged human rights abuses in the region. The factory, originally built in 2013 with a capacity of 50,000 vehicles annually, had ceased vehicle production and served as an inspection site. The sale ensures job retention for its 170 workers under the new owner, Shanghai Motor Vehicle Inspection Center. The divestment follows years of scrutiny over allegations of forced labor involving Uyghur Muslims in Xinjiang. While Volkswagen denies wrongdoing, citing independent audits,…

Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has made a groundbreaking advance in recycling polyurethane seat foam from its used vehicles, successfully reintegrating the material into new seat production. This marks the first time closed-loop seat foam content has been used in automotive manufacturing, achieved in collaboration with Dow’s MobilityScience and seating specialist Adient. Towards Sustainable Mobility JLR is testing the recycled material in its full production process, with plans to trial its use in pre-production vehicles next year. Polyurethane foams, traditionally challenging to recycle due to their durability, often end up in landfills. By establishing a closed-loop supply chain, JLR aims to…

Shares of major automakers fell on Tuesday following President-elect Donald Trump’s announcement of a 25% tariff on imports from Mexico and Canada. The proposed tariffs, set to take effect after his inauguration on January 20, would disrupt the global automotive industry, which relies heavily on low-cost production in Mexico and Canada since the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) began in 1994. Industry Impact The automotive sector accounts for 26% of U.S. imports from Mexico and 12% from Canada, according to UBS. Major automakers, including General Motors (GM) and Stellantis, produce vehicles and parts in these countries. GM’s highly profitable…

Kia India has achieved a significant milestone by exporting 1,00,000 CKD (Completely Knocked Down) units since shipments began in June 2020 from its Anantapur facility. The milestone underscores Kia India’s role as a major export hub, contributing 50% of Kia Corporation’s global CKD exports. In 2024, Kia India plans to export over 38,000 CKD units to markets such as Uzbekistan, Ecuador, and Vietnam. This success highlights the international appeal and competitive pricing of models like the Seltos, Sonet, and Carens. Joonsu Cho, Chief Sales Officer, stated, “India is a key market for Kia Corporation, serving as both a strong sales…

General Motors (GM) and TWG Global have partnered with Formula 1 to launch the Cadillac Formula 1 Team in 2026. Alongside this initiative, GM will introduce an F1 power unit, aiming to establish the team as a ‘full works’ operation by the end of the decade, producing both vehicles and power units. This marks the first new team to join the Formula 1 grid since 2016, expanding the roster to 11 teams. The venture underscores GM’s commitment to innovation, leveraging cutting-edge technology in electrification, powertrain development, software, and internal combustion engines. These advancements are expected to enhance GM’s global transportation…

The Shanghai Jiading Comprehensive Bonded Zone and Porsche Motorsport Asia Pacific have renewed their strategic partnership at the Shanghai International Circuit. The agreement focuses on enhancing cooperation in racing car trade, services, and motorsport promotion, alongside classic car imports and exports. Porsche Motorsport Asia Pacific, the first motorsport enterprise in the bonded zone, has advanced activities such as car sales, repairs, and event organization. This renewal builds on their 2021 partnership, which achieved success in motorsport, bonded storage, display, transactions, and repairs. The collaboration aims to create a comprehensive ecosystem for the racing and classic car sectors, focusing on resource…

Volkswagen has provided a glimpse of its upcoming ID.2-based electric SUV, showcasing its commitment to an ambitious electric vehicle (EV) strategy despite the ongoing challenges in the global EV market, particularly in Europe. The teaser offers a silhouette of the subcompact SUV, which will be built on the foundation of the ID.2 All concept revealed in 2022. Foundation for Entry-Level EVs The ID.2 All concept has been pivotal in shaping Volkswagen’s entry-level EV lineup. Its design drew inspiration from the iconic Polo hatchback, which enjoys a legendary status in the global automotive market. The forthcoming SUV is expected to carry…

H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council, met Oliver Blume, CEO of Porsche, during his visit to the Icons of Porsche Festival at Dubai Design District (d3). The meeting, attended by Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism, and Manfred Bräunl, CEO of Porsche Middle East and Africa, underscored Dubai’s role as a hub for luxury automotive innovation and events. H.H. toured the festival, exploring Porsche’s innovative technologies and advanced solutions. He also viewed a showcase of classic cars, high-performance sports models, and new concept vehicles developed…

MP Industry Group, a leading Romanian automotive supplier, has inaugurated its first auto parts factory in Morocco, a milestone underscoring the country’s rising prominence as a manufacturing hub. Situated in Tanger Automotive City (TAC), the facility spans 35,000 square meters and specialises in producing plastic components for the automotive industry using advanced injection moulding technology. Major Investment and Job Creation Backed by a 437.62 million dirham investment, the project is expected to create 150 direct jobs. The factory’s cutting-edge operations also integrate sustainable practices, including photovoltaic panels and plastic waste recycling systems. The inauguration ceremony was graced by Industry and…