Author: Central Desk

Tesla CEO Elon Musk’s support for Donald Trump’s presidential bid has propelled Tesla’s market value to unmatched heights, surpassing traditional automakers. As competitors face challenges like China’s economic slowdown and potential Trump tariffs, Tesla’s stock has surged, hitting a $1 trillion valuation last Friday — a level last seen in April 2022. Tesla now outvalues the combined worth of the next 15 largest automakers, including Toyota, General Motors, Stellantis, and Hyundai. Only when adding in smaller brands like Kia, Renault, and Nissan does the valuation gap close. Tesla’s U.S.-based production in California and Austin also shields it from import disruptions…

Covestro, a global leader in polymer materials, has broaden its ties with Chinese recycling company Ausell to advance plastics recycling in the automotive sector. Building on their initial work recycling polycarbonate water barrels, the partnership now focuses on reclaiming plastics from end-of-life vehicles, supporting the industry’s shift toward circularity by converting waste into materials for new automotive components. Since 2020, Covestro and Ausell have recycled one million 19-liter polycarbonate water barrels annually, creating high-performance post-consumer recycled (PCR) polycarbonates for electronics, home appliances, and automotive applications. Under the enhanced partnership, Ausell will supply recycled polycarbonates from discarded automotive headlamps, which Covestro…

Thailand is revising its automotive excise tax structure to align with global trends towards electric vehicles (EVs), aiming to bolster its position as a regional EV production hub. Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul announced that the new auto tax system, which reflects the growing shift towards battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), is set to come into effect from 2026. Paopoom emphasized the need for a balanced tax approach that supports both BEVs and PHEVs, given uncertainties in the global auto market. “A tax structure that leans exclusively towards EVs may not be the answer. We…

Stellantis and Nissan are undergoing major changes affecting their workforce and engineering paths. Stellantis, known for brands like Jeep and Chrysler, is reevaluating the future of its iconic Hemi V8 engine, while Nissan announces layoffs as it realigns focus in an increasingly electrified market. The Hemi V8, long a symbol of performance, may be phased out or redesigned as Stellantis shifts toward hybrid and electric vehicles to meet stricter emissions regulations and changing consumer demands. This move reflects Stellantis’s broader strategy to innovate and appeal to eco-conscious customers. While the Hemi’s legacy is powerful, Stellantis’s shift mirrors the industry’s transition…

A survey by Anyline, a leader in AI-powered mobile data capture technology, reveals a strong demand for data-driven tools among automotive service technicians, emphasizing the growing importance of digital solutions in the tire and automotive service sector. The findings, presented at the 2024 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) tradeshow, underscore a shift toward advanced technology to meet industry challenges and enhance customer service. According to the survey, 70% of automotive technicians now rely on technology for at least half of their daily tasks, and 68% report confidence in using advanced digital diagnostic tools. Notably, 60% of technicians expressed interest in…

At the China International Import Expo (CIIE), Japanese automakers Nissan and Toyota showcased their driverless taxi models, underscoring the growing competition in the autonomous mobility sector. Nissan, attending the event for the sixth time, highlighted its electric, driverless Nissan Ariya taxi. In partnership with the Chinese company WeRide, Nissan launched the ‘e23 Go!’ project in 2022, initially testing the Nissan Leaf in Suzhou before upgrading to the Ariya. The project aims to refine route-planning systems that optimize real-time road conditions and improve operational efficiency, with plans for expansion across China. Toyota, in collaboration with Pony ai, displayed its bZ4X robotaxi…

Chinese automotive giant Geely is set to expand its footprint into Uzbekistan by 2025, aiming to offer a new standard of automotive technology, safety, and luxury to Uzbek consumers. With plans to introduce a selection of electric, hybrid, and traditional vehicles, the company is committed to delivering reliable, innovative, and service-oriented solutions tailored to the Uzbek market. As one of the world’s largest automotive groups and a Fortune Global 500 company—ranked 185th in 2024—Geely brings a wealth of expertise and a robust portfolio of premium brands including Volvo, Polestar, Lotus, Zeekr, Lynk & Co, and Smart. Notably, Geely stands as…

Japanese automaker Nissan announced on Thursday it will cut 9,000 jobs globally and reduce its annual sales forecast, citing a sharp decline in profitability and challenges in key markets like North America and China. Nissan reported a 93 percent drop in net profit for the first half of the fiscal year, largely due to weak sales in North America. CEO Makoto Uchida stated, “Facing a severe situation, Nissan is taking urgent measures to turnaround its performance and create a leaner, more resilient business capable of swiftly adapting to changes in the market.” The company will reduce global production capacity by…

With the growing demand for transportation in Vietnam, experts highlight significant opportunities for the automotive and motorbike industries. Vietnam’s auto sector has shown notable progress, driven by favorable government policies and efforts by businesses to expand production and align with global trends. The country’s localisation rate is rising as investments in domestic car production increase, aided by new policies and a surge in foreign investment. According to the Ministry of Industry and Trade, exports of electrical wire components reached $1.17 billion last year, accounting for 38% of the automobile component export value and positioning Vietnam third globally in this category.…

Honda has announced the development of the world’s first forced-induction V-3 engine for motorcycle. This pioneering engine, specifically designed for large-displacement motorcycles, introduces new advancements to meet the demands of modern motorcycling. Although Honda has kept most of the details under wraps, the company has confirmed that this V-3 engine, cooled by water, features a unique 75-degree V-formation. The design includes two forward-tilted pistons on one side and one rearward-tilted piston on the other, achieving a narrow, compact build that optimizes space—a crucial factor in motorcycle engineering. Central to this innovation is the engine’s forced induction system, powered by an…