Author: Central Desk

The President of the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA), Hildegard Mueller, has called for urgent reforms to ensure the global competitiveness of Germany’s auto industry. Speaking at the VDA’s annual press conference, Mueller stressed policy and mindset shifts to sustain economic growth, achieve climate goals, and secure jobs in 2025. “Our aim is to produce the best digital and climate-neutral mobility products in the world,” Mueller said, reinforcing the global reputation of German automotive brands. From 2025 to 2029, German automakers are projected to invest €320 billion in research and development and €220 billion in plants and equipment.…

Former US President Donald Trump rescinded a key executive order from the Biden administration on Monday, targeting federal support for electric vehicles (EVs) and reaffirming his commitment to traditional energy industries. Speaking at Capitol One Arena before an enthusiastic crowd, Trump signed a series of executive orders, including one that revokes a 2021 order aimed at ensuring half of all new vehicles sold in the US by 2030 are electric. “The United States will not sabotage our own industries while China pollutes with impunity,” Trump declared, emphasizing his stance against what he views as policies that disadvantage American manufacturers in…

The European Commission will initiate a Strategic Dialogue on the future of the automotive industry on 30 January, a critical step to address the challenges and opportunities in a sector vital to the EU’s economy and climate objectives. The initiative, announced by President Ursula von der Leyen during a European Parliament address on 27 November 2024, reflects the Commission’s commitment to safeguarding the industry’s long-term competitiveness, sustainability, and resilience. The automotive sector is a cornerstone of European prosperity, contributing 7% to the EU’s GDP and employing over 13 million people. The dialogue will bring together key stakeholders, including manufacturers and…

HORSE, a global leader in innovative and low-emission powertrain systems, has commenced production of its state-of-the-art eMotor at its Aveiro facility in Portugal. Designed to enhance performance and efficiency, this cutting-edge radial flux eMotor is aimed at next-generation plug-in and hybrid vehicles. The eMotor is engineered to integrate seamlessly with HORSE’s HR12, HR16, and HR18 internal combustion engines. Supporting both full hybrid and plug-in hybrid applications, it delivers an impressive maximum power output of 49 kW and 212 Nm of torque, underscoring HORSE’s commitment to advancing vehicle electrification technologies. HORSE CEO Patrice Haettel expressed confidence in the product’s potential: “The…

The Confederation of Japan Automobile Workers’ Unions (JAW), representing approximately 780,000 workers, has planned to seek five additional nonworking days annually during upcoming labor-management negotiations. This request, the first of its kind since 1995, reflects growing concerns over working conditions and the Japan auto sector’s ability to attract new talent. Current Working Conditions Automotive workers currently receive around 121 days off per year, fewer than the 125 days typically granted in other industries and to public servants. The disparity stems from major automakers designating public holidays as working days to boost production efficiency while allowing extended breaks during the Bon…

Chinese new energy vehicle (NEV) manufacturer Li Auto has inaugurated its first overseas research and development (R&D) center in Munich, Germany. The center aims to deepen collaboration between China and Germany in the rapidly growing NEV sector. The Munich R&D facility will collaborate with Li Auto’s Chinese team to develop next-generation vehicle technologies, including power semiconductors, smart chassis systems, electric drivetrains, and advanced vehicle design. Additionally, the center will focus on understanding the European market, aligning with local regulations and consumer preferences to deliver innovative and family-friendly mobility solutions. “This R&D center marks the official start of Li Auto’s global…

Canada’s automotive industry is deeply concerned about incoming U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed 25% tariffs on all imports from Canada. Industry leaders warn that such measures could severely damage the integrated North American auto sector, increase costs for consumers, and put thousands of jobs at risk. The industry is bracing for the potential economic fallout as Mr. Trump’s inauguration approaches, with his administration linking the tariffs to demands for stricter border security. In response, Canadian officials are preparing retaliatory tariffs, raising fears of a trade war that could push the nation into recession. Brian Kingston, president of the Canadian Vehicle…

BYD has unveiled the BYD Shenzen, the world’s largest roll-on/roll-off (ro-ro) car carrier, as the Chinese electric vehicle (EV) giant accelerates its global expansion. The vessel, capable of transporting 9,200 vehicles, reflects BYD’s aggressive strategy to strengthen its presence in international markets following record-breaking sales in 2024. Record Sales and Global Expansion In 2024, BYD sold 4.25 million new energy vehicles (NEVs), a 40% increase over the previous year. This includes fully electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids, positioning BYD to surpass global automakers like Ford, Honda, and Nissan in annual sales. The company aims to capitalize on this momentum in…

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Bharat Mobility Expo 2025, India’s premier automotive event, showcasing the nation’s growing influence in the global automotive landscape. With a focus on electric vehicles (EVs), sustainable mobility, and cutting-edge technologies, the event features over 1,500 exhibitors and expects more than five lakh visitors. Alongside the main expo, complementary exhibitions like the Auto Expo Motor Show, the Battery Show, and Mobility Tech are spotlighting India’s advancements in the automotive sector. PM Modi’s Vision for the Auto Industry Addressing the attendees, PM Modi emphasized India’s readiness to lead the future of mobility. “India’s automotive industry is…

Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI) is joining forces with the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) to safeguard the country’s auto industry amid growing competition from Chinese electric vehicles (EVs). BOI Secretary-General Narit Therdsteerasukdi acknowledged the disruptive potential of Chinese EVs on Thailand’s internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle industry. To counteract this, the BOI is collaborating with the FTI and the Thai Automotive Parts Manufacturers Association to encourage the use of locally produced automotive components, particularly from Thai small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Boosting Local Content Current regulations prioritize essential local parts, but the BOI plans to offer additional incentives for…