Author: Central Desk

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…

Regionalverkehr Köln (RVK) has taken a decisive step toward greener public transport by integrating its first articulated Solaris hydrogen buses. Delivered at the start of September, these advanced vehicles form part of an 18-bus order placed last year, showcasing RVK’s long-standing commitment to sustainability. The fleet expansion brings eight 18-meter Solaris Urbino hydrogen buses to Cologne’s streets, complementing the 46 hydrogen buses already operational under RVK. This marks another milestone for the transport company, which anticipates further deliveries as part of a subsequent order for 20 additional hydrogen-powered buses. Upon fulfillment, RVK will command Europe’s largest hydrogen bus fleet, totaling…

Volvo Trucks increses the use of low-CO2-emission steel across its vehicle range. After pioneering the introduction of this steel in electric trucks back in 2022, Volvo now extends its application to all drivelines. Sourced from Swedish manufacturer SSAB, the steel—named SSAB Zero—derives from recycled materials, produced using fossil-free electricity and biogas. This innovative process slashes CO2 emissions by 80% compared to traditional methods reliant on fossil fuels. By the coming year, Volvo will equip around 12,000 Volvo FH and FM trucks with frame rails made from this low-emission steel, achieving a projected reduction of 6,600 tons of CO2 equivalents. As…

Stellantis is securing an 18% market share across EU29 countries as of August. Ranking second among competitors, the company’s growth has been bolstered by stellar performances from its Citroën, Dodge, and Jeep brands. France stands out with Stellantis capturing a 30% year-to-date market share, led by top-selling models like the Peugeot 208, 308, 2008, and Citroën C3. Italy remains a key player, with the brand commanding over 32% of the market, featuring standout models such as the Fiat Panda, Lancia Ypsilon, and Jeep Avenger. The Avenger has rapidly climbed the ranks, establishing itself as Italy’s best-selling SUV. Germany, too, saw…

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has challenged India’s auto component manufacturers to shift focus from imports and scale up domestic production. He outlined an ambitious goal: reach $100 billion in exports by 2030, a jump from the current $21.5 billion. Addressing industry leaders, Goyal voiced concerns about continued reliance on foreign suppliers, particularly from Korea, Japan, and Taiwan. “Many of our component manufacturers still import, I do not know whether (due to) any compulsion or voluntarily, their needs of inputs from Korea, Japan, Taiwan and one of the neighbours,” he said. With a vast domestic market and global opportunities…

Vietnam is positioning itself at the forefront of the global green transport revolution, as VnExpress prepares to host the Vietnam Sustainable Mobility Show 2024 in December. This major event in Hanoi will spotlight cutting-edge solutions that drive the shift toward environmentally conscious transportation. The international automotive landscape is evolving rapidly, with sustainability goals transcending electrification. Modern approaches focus on lightweight vehicle designs, the use of recycled and non-invasive materials, and the integration of smart technologies. Vietnam’s upcoming show highlights the nation’s readiness to adopt these advances, pushing the boundaries of sustainable mobility. Yen So Park will serve as the venue…