Author: Central Desk

Toyota, a Japanese automaker giant, projects a rebound in Pakistan’s auto sector. Despite a recent 50% plunge in vehicle sales, the company anticipates reaching 500,000 unit sales by 2030. Recent data from the Pakistan Automotive Manufacturers Association (PAMA) and Karachi’s Topline Securities reveals a sharp decline. Auto sales dropped to 7,700 units in November, a 60% fall from the previous year. This downturn extends to the first five months of the current fiscal year, with sales halving to 33,638 units. Despite the downturn, optimism prevails among automakers. Statista, a renowned business intelligence platform, forecasts Pakistan’s passenger-car market to exceed $4…

Cummins, a prominent US engine manufacturer, has agreed to a staggering $1.67 billion settlement with the Justice Department. This decision comes after allegations that the company installed defeat devices in numerous pickup truck engines, bypassing emissions controls. Civil Fine Under the Clean Air Act This fine marks the largest civil penalty ever under the Clean Air Act, which mandates compliance with emissions standards for vehicle and engine manufacturers. The Justice Department’s enforcement of this act underscores its commitment to upholding environmental and public health standards. Allegations Against Cummins Accusations against Cummins centered on the use of defeat devices in engine…

Tesla, the renowned American electric car maker, embarks on a fresh venture by constructing an energy-storage battery factory in Shanghai. This initiative signals a pivotal shift towards renewable energy solutions. State media reports confirm Tesla’s land deal for a new factory, is set to start construction soon. Unlike Tesla’s automobile production, this facility focuses on batteries for utilities and industries, a vital component for renewable energy systems. The Shanghai factory aims to roll out 10,000 Megapack units per annum. These large-scale batteries are key in harnessing intermittent renewable sources like solar and wind, providing a consistent energy supply for various…

A major stride for electric vehicle (EV) technology unfolds as China’s BYD, a leading EV manufacturer, unveils its plan to establish the first European EV factory in Hungary. This announcement propels Hungary to the forefront of global EV manufacturing. Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó disclosed that BYD’s new facility will rise near Szeged, promising thousands of jobs and energizing the local economy. Revealed through his Facebook page, this news sparks anticipation and optimism. Tagged as a monumental investment in Hungary’s economy, Szijjártó highlights the government’s commitment through financial incentives to BYD, with details pending. The plant’s establishment promises to fortify Hungary’s…

The UK and European Union admitted to postpond electric vehicle (EV) tariffs until 2027. This major move, part of the ongoing adjustments post-Brexit under the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA), responds to global supply chain disruptions resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical tensions. Revised Rules of Origin The TCA initially set to take effect in January 2024 mandated increased local content for EVs to qualify for tariff-free trade. This requirement meant a jump from 40% to 45% of an EV’s value and 60% for the battery pack. The change would challenge many EVs, especially those with batteries manufactured…

Milan’s bold stride into environmental sustainability reaches a new peak with the acquisition of 105 Urbino 18 electric buses from Solaris Bus & Coach. This move firmly plants the city on the map of urban centers revolutionizing transportation with an eco-conscious approach. Since 2014, Milan has been at the forefront of adopting greener transportation, with public transport operator ATM Milano becoming a prime recipient of Solaris’ zero-emission buses. The partnership has flourished, resulting in nearly 500 vehicles from Solaris enhancing Milan’s transit system, particularly since 2018 when the focus shifted exclusively to zero-emission models. Javier Iriarte, CEO of Solaris Bus…

The Indian auto component sector is poised for a momentous expansion, with the Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA) announcing plans to invest $6.5 to $7 billion over the next five years. This strategic move, aimed at capacity enhancement and technological advancement, is set to meet the rising demand, as outlined by ACMA President Shradha Suri Marwah. This development follows a strong fiscal performance, with the industry witnessing a 12.6 percent increase in revenue, totaling Rs 2.98 lakh crore in the first half of the current fiscal year. Marwah anticipates sustained growth, with expectations of continued double-digit increases in…

Daihatsu Motor, a subsidiary of Toyota Motor, has announced an immediate suspension of all vehicle shipments. This drastic action follows an admission of extensive cheating on safety tests for a majority of its models in production. A third-party investigative team, appointed in May, uncovered falsified tests affecting 64 vehicle models and three engines. This revelation, announced on December 20, extends the scope of the scandal far beyond initial estimates. The team, under Makoto Kaiami’s direction, cited pressure on engineers and a history of dishonest practices dating back 34 years. Concurrent with the announcement, the transport ministry scheduled a comprehensive search…

Mercedes-Benz strides ahead as the first global car maker to secure permits for special turquoise exterior marker lights, dedicated to automated driving. These groundbreaking permits, sanctioned by California and Nevada, signal a major shift in automated vehicle and road user dynamics. Safety and Communication Revolution The California permit, with a two-year validity, sets the stage for extensive vehicle tests. Nevada’s permit extends to Mercedes-Benz’s 2026 models. These authorizations are key for Mercedes-Benz to understand automated vehicles’ integration with traditional traffic. Marker lights, expected to significantly enhance public acceptance of automated driving, are pivotal for safety. Visible from the outside, these…

ABB, a pioneering force in robotic automation, announces a major expansion of its partnership with Volvo Cars, owned by Geely. This collaboration, set to supply over 1,300 robots and various functional packages, marks a significant step in the production of next-generation electric vehicles (EVs). Aligned with Volvo Cars’ sustainability objectives, this project arrives at a crucial time in the automotive industry, transforming under the growing demand for electric vehicles and a shift towards more sustainable operations. Marc Segura, ABB Robotics President, highlights the evolving landscape of the automotive sector, emphasizing the blend of new opportunities and challenges for global manufacturers.…