Author: Central Desk

VinFast, Vietnam’s rising automotive star, is shaking up the electric vehicle (EV) market with its VF 8 model. Though still gaining traction in Europe, this vehicle has begun to capture the interest of early adopters, drawn by its distinct combination of design, technology, and value. French systems engineer Armelin Asimane, one of the first to own a VF 8, found its unique design and advanced features compelling. “I was drawn to the VF 8’s striking design and advanced technology. As a newer brand with room to grow, VinFast was the perfect fit, allowing me to make a statement on the…

Morocco has ascended to the pinnacle of Africa’s automotive industry, surpassing South Africa in both production and export value, establishing a new benchmark for the continent. The Kingdom’s automotive sector has shattered previous records, with exports of vehicles and components reaching 80.54 billion dirhams during the first half of 2024, marking a 9% increase compared to the same period last year. This follows a remarkable 28% surge in 2023, where exports soared to 141.76 billion dirhams. For the first time, Morocco has definitively taken the lead as Africa’s top automobile producer. The industrial sector anticipates over 610,000 units rolling off…

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles (VWCV) has reached a pivotal milestone, welcoming the 750th ServicePlus partner into its global network. This achievement underscores VWCV’s commitment to delivering unparalleled service standards tailored specifically to the needs of commercial customers, ensuring their businesses remain operational and efficient. Grafschafter Autozentrale Krüp in Nordhorn, Germany, now joins a select group of ServicePlus partners offering specialized services for commercial clients. Services provided include extended operating hours, quick-turnaround appointments, access to dedicated loaner vehicles, and expert service personnel. This ensures commercial vehicles receive the meticulous care required to keep them on the road and businesses running smoothly. Lars…

Archer Aviation, has delivered its first Midnight aircraft to the United States Air Force (USAF) under the AFWERX Agility Prime program, a contract valued at up to $142 million. This delivery signals a major advancement in the adoption of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) technology, placing the U.S. at the forefront of global military innovation. The U.S. Department of Defense’s acceptance of Midnight’s military airworthiness assessment confirms the aircraft’s readiness for rigorous testing by AFWERX. This milestone allows for comprehensive government-directed evaluations, focusing on the aircraft’s potential across a range of mission profiles. Transforming Military Capabilities Archer’s Midnight aircraft…

Freudenberg Sealing Technologies has redefined efficiency in heavy-duty vehicles through advanced central tire inflation systems (CTIS). These advanced seals automatically adjust tire pressure for several terrains and loads, enabling operators to optimize vehicle performance with a single button press. This innovation reduces CO2 emissions, extends tire life, and enhances operational efficiency. Tire Pressure: The Critical Factor Across Terrains Tractors working vast fields and trucks navigating highways share a crucial factor: tire pressure. For farmers, correctly inflated tires reduce fuel consumption, improve speed, and minimize soil damage, while over-inflation risks harming the land and reducing operational effectiveness. For trucks, precise tire…

For a sustainable move General Motors (GM) announced a groundbreaking 15-year renewable energy purchase agreement with NorthStar Clean Energy. The partnership aims to power three of GM’s assembly plants, reinforcing the company’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint while advancing sustainability initiatives. The Newport Solar project, located in Newport, Arkansas, plays a pivotal role in this venture. With a formidable capacity of 180 megawatts, it will supply renewable energy directly to GM’s Lansing Delta Township Assembly and Lansing Grand River Assembly in Michigan, as well as the Wentzville Assembly site in Missouri. Notably, the Newport site has the potential to…

Polestar has commenced production of its luxury SUV, the Polestar 3, at a cutting-edge facility in South Carolina, USA. This development positions the Polestar 3 as the first model in the brand’s lineup to roll off assembly lines on two continents, a move reflecting the company’s strategic vision for global expansion. The South Carolina plant now serves customers across the United States and Europe, providing a crucial link in Polestar’s manufacturing network, which includes an established production base in Chengdu, China. This dual-continent approach bolsters Polestar’s operational agility and strengthens its presence in critical markets with rapidly accelerating demand for…

Kia India is poised for a major market disruption with the October 3, 2024, launch of the all-new Kia Carnival. This move aligns with Kia’s broader strategy to deepen its presence in the Indian automotive landscape, bringing cutting-edge global models to a discerning consumer base. The upcoming Carnival is a key component of Kia’s aggressive rollout plan, which sees several new passenger vehicles entering the Indian market over the next 12 to 18 months. A new compact SUV, slated for 2025, will strategically slot between the Sonet and Seltos, while a refreshed Carens targets mid-2025. Additionally, Kia is venturing into…

Ford Motor Company has issued an urgent do-not-drive warning for a various number of vehicles worldwide, citing a severe and immediate risk from defective Takata airbag inflators. This move addresses a lingering danger where aging airbags could violently explode during deployment, potentially causing life-threatening injuries from shrapnel within the vehicle. This advisory affects approximately 765,600 vehicles across several regions, including 374,300 in the United States. The models subject to this warning include: 2004-2006 Ford Ranger 2005-2014 Ford Mustang 2005-2006 Ford GT 2006-2012 Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan, Lincoln MKZ / Zephyr 2007-2010 Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX 2007-2011 Ford Ranger …

Hankook, the premium tyre manufacturer, introduces the Dynapro HPX, a tyre engineered to set new benchmarks in safety, comfort, and durability for SUVs and all-wheel-drive vehicles. This innovation is poised to meet the diverse demands of drivers across Europe and North America, where performance in varied conditions is paramount. The Dynapro HPX represents a significant leap in tyre technology. With a newly developed material mix and an enlarged contact surface, it ensures uniform tread wear and extended mileage—crucial factors for SUVs and all-wheel-drive vehicles. The enhanced design offers a 15% reduction in braking distance on wet surfaces compared to its…