Author: Central Desk

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.…

Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) unveils a bespoke insurance service for Range Rover clients in the UK, redefining luxury car ownership amidst rising industry premiums. This tailored solution, part of Land Rover Insurance, blends convenience with flexibility. Range Rover owners now access online quotes, managing their insurance with a monthly rolling subscription. This adaptable approach allows policy modifications or cancellations sans fees, a rare feature in the insurance landscape. The policy’s hallmark is its commitment to authenticity and quality. Repairs, conducted solely at JLR-authorized bodyshops using genuine parts, assure vehicle longevity and client safety. Financially, the plan stands out. Free from…

Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks has entered a new era of vehicle technology by testing a Unimog prototype with a hydrogen combustion engine. This test, conducted on a decommissioned highway stretch between Bayreuth and Bamberg, signifies a leap in alternative fuel utilization. The prototype, based on the Unimog U 430, underwent various operational tests including mowing, acceleration, and refueling at public gas stations. This is part of the ‘WaVe’ project, a collaborative effort with 18 partners focused on enhancing hydrogen combustion engine technology. Real-world testing under diverse environmental conditions is key to this project’s success. Franziska Cusumano, head of Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks,…

Thailand’s Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin recently invited Japanese companies to collaborate on developing Thailand’s digital economy and auto industry. This proposal was a highlight at the Tokyo meeting during the Japan-ASEAN special summit, celebrating a half-century of Japan-ASEAN relations. The focus of this initiative is to tackle energy and climate change challenges. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida expressed enthusiasm for starting discussions about the next-generation auto industry, a topic that dominated the summit’s agenda. Kyodo News reported Kishida’s suggestion for a framework to guide these discussions. The envisioned collaboration seeks to explore sustainable measures to maintain Thailand’s industrial competitiveness, particularly…

Nissan Motor has made a strategic decision to sell its China-made EVs, to a worldwide audience. This significant move revealed on Sunday, marks Nissan’s commitment to leveraging Chinese innovation and partnerships to boost its electrification efforts. Masashi Matsuyama, the Vice President of Nissan Motor and President of Nissan China, emphasized the company’s goal to export various range of vehicles from China. This lineup will contain not only existing internal combustion engine models but also upcoming pure electric and plug-in hybrid cars. At the press conference in Beijing, Matsuyama hinted at targeting markets similar to those of Nissan’s Chinese competitors, such…