Author: Central Desk

German carmakers expressed alarm on Saturday, warning that the European Union’s recent decision to impose punitive tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles could lead to higher costs for consumers and potentially damage Germany’s automotive industry. Thomas Peckruhn from the German Association of Motor Vehicle Trades (ZdK) voiced concern that the EU’s tariffs of up to 35.3% on battery-powered electric vehicles from China could come into effect as soon as early November, unless a compromise is reached between Brussels and Beijing. Germany voted against these tariffs, with Peckruhn noting that such measures could adversely affect business confidence. “Punitive tariffs are not a…

The Global Small Electric Vehicles Market (SEVs) is witnessing significant growth, indicating a global shift towards sustainable transportation. Valued at $16.5 billion in 2023, the SEV market is projected to reach $68.65 billion by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 22.59%. This growth is driven by increasing environmental awareness, government incentives, and technological advancements in electric vehicles. The broader electric vehicle market is also on the rise, with over 10 million electric vehicles sold globally in 2022. By 2030, projections suggest there will be nearly 250 million electric vehicles on the road, accounting for more than…

Los Angeles: The United Auto Workers (UAW) union announced that members at Stellantis’ Los Angeles parts distribution center voted to authorize a strike if the carmaker fails to address grievances over U.S. investments. This is expected to be one of several similar votes as the union puts pressure on Stellantis. UAW President Shawn Fain recently accused Stellantis of failing to honor product and investment commitments made during contract negotiations last autumn. In response, Stellantis filed a federal lawsuit, stating that the UAW violated the contract by threatening a strike over delays in planned investments. The company seeks to hold the…

Toyota has delayed its plans to begin manufacturing electric vehicles (EVs) in the United States, citing a slowdown in the global demand for battery-powered cars. Initially slated for late 2025 or early 2026, the Japanese automaker now expects to start production at an unspecified point in 2026, according to a company spokesperson. The decision comes amid a broader industry trend, with several major automakers, including Volvo and Ford, also scaling back their EV ambitions. Despite the delay, Toyota remains committed to its global target of producing 1.5 million battery electric vehicles by 2026. “We’re still focused on our global (battery…

Renault and SUEZ are expanding their partnership on recycling waste metal and recovering end-of-life vehicles, with new strategic agreements aimed at supporting the automotive sector’s ecological transition. Together, they aim to advance The Future Is NEUTRAL initiative, positioning it as a leader in the automotive circular economy. Renault Group CEO Luca de Meo said SUEZ’s investment in The Future Is NEUTRAL confirms the value of their model.Our joint investment will allow us to accelerate in order to provide an open circular economy platform that meets the needs of all players in the automotive industry, in growing activities. We are doing…

Toyota will invest $500 million in Joby Aviation, which is developing electric air taxis for commercial passenger use. This investment supports the certification and commercial production of Joby’s electric air taxis, moving forward the shared vision of both companies for sustainable air mobility. The investment, in two equal tranches, is subject to regulatory approvals, commercial agreements, and other conditions. It will increase Toyota’s total investment in Joby to $894 million. The first tranche is expected later this year, with the second in 2025. JoeBen Bevirt, founder and CEO of Joby Aviation, said, “Today’s investment builds on nearly seven years of…

U.S. East and Gulf Coast port workers commenced a strike early Tuesday, which seriously effecting automotive supply chain. These ports processed $37.8 billion in vehicle imports over the past year, and the strike now risks delaying the timely delivery of vehicles and crucial auto parts. Bill Long, CEO of the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA), warned that a prolonged disruption could result in plant shutdowns and job losses, stating, “If it’s a lengthy strike… it’s going to be a disaster.” The strike follows the expiration of a labor contract between the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA), which represents 45,000 port…

VinAI is set to unveil its latest innovation, DrunkSense, at InCabin Europe 2024 in Barcelona. DrunkSense is the world’s first system that detects drunk driving without requiring a breathalyzer, representing a major advancement in road safety. This technology, with an impressive accuracy rate of up to 85%, is being introduced to the European market for the first time. DrunkSense is designed for next-generation smart vehicles and uses a combination of sensors to detect alcohol impairment. It tracks facial expressions, monitors vehicle control, and analyzes air alcohol levels, achieving an 85% sensitivity rate—an 8% improvement over current standards. Unlike traditional breathalyzers,…

Porsche once again claims the crown in J.D. Power’s U.S. Automotive Brand Loyalty Study, securing the top spot in the premium car category for the third year in a row. J.D. Power, a leading global firm specializing in consumer insights, revealed this accolade, recognizing Porsche’s sustained dedication to customer retention. “Customer loyalty is at the core of the Porsche brand,” remarked Timo Resch, President and CEO of Porsche Cars North America. “Every one of us, from our independently owned and operated Porsche Centers across America to our headquarters here in Atlanta, is committed to creating a world-class experience from start…

Ferrari has switched off its trigeneration plant at the Maranello factory, advancing its transition towards renewable energy and reducing its methane gas consumption. Ferrari is taking major effort to work towards carbon neutrality by 2030. The trigeneration plant, operational since 2009, generated electricity, heat, and cooling energy but was shut down three months earlier than scheduled. Ferrari aims to cut its annual Scope 1 and 2 CO2 emissions by 60% and reduce methane gas consumption by 70% by ending the use of this gas-fuelled plant, in line with the decarbonisation goals set in 2022. Ferrari is boosting its renewable energy…