Author: Central Desk

Ford has upgraded its hands-free highway driving capabilities with the introduction of Automatic Lane Change on the new BlueCruise 1.5 software. This feature, developed by Ford’s Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) team, allows for smoother and more efficient hands-free driving on highways, addressing issues such as slower-moving traffic. When activated, BlueCruise 1.5 can autonomously perform lane changes to bypass slower vehicles, maintaining the driver’s set speed without the need for manual intervention. This functionality not only enhances the flow of traffic but also maximizes the duration drivers can remain in hands-free mode. Designed to enhance user experience, the system carefully…

Mercedes-Benz has launched Europe’s first battery recycling plant with an integrated mechanical-hydrometallurgical process, making it the first carmaker globally to close the battery recycling loop within its own facility. Located in Kuppenheim, Germany, the plant establishes a circular economy for battery materials and supports the company’s sustainability efforts by reducing the need for primary resources. The facility is designed to recover over 96 percent of valuable materials, including lithium, nickel, and cobalt, which can be reused in new batteries for future electric vehicles. The company has invested tens of millions of euros in the project, enhancing value creation in Germany.…

Omoda and Jaecoo, though relatively new in the automotive world, are diversifying their crossover lineup to cater to a broader range of customer preferences. During the 2024 Omoda Jaecoo International User Summit, the brands introduced the Jaecoo J5, an entry-level SUV designed not only for urban youth but also incorporating pet-friendly features. The Jaecoo J5, classified as a B-segment SUV, is comparable in size to models like the Omoda 5, Geely Coolray, and GAC GS3 Emzoom. Its boxy design is inspired by the larger Jaecoo J7, delivering a striking presence despite its compact size. Inside, the J5 offers premium features…

China’s auto industry, already a global leader in new energy vehicles (NEVs), is now shifting its focus toward intelligent development, driven by advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and smart technology. As competition intensifies, Chinese automakers are developing strategies to maintain their edge in this evolving market. The 2024 World Intelligent Connected Vehicles Conference (WICV), held in Beijing from October 17 to 19, showcased China’s growing prominence in this field. Over 250 auto companies and institutions, both domestic and international, participated in the event, debuting more than 200 new technologies and products. The event underscored China’s dedication to transitioning from traditional…

The Indian auto industry has experienced a surge in demand during the ongoing festive season, with the second week of October (October 10–October 16) witnessing major improvement in vehicle registrations across several segments. According to a report by BNP Paribas India, this rebound in sales outperformed the growth observed in the first week of the festive period, signaling a positive trend for the sector. Two-wheelers (2Ws) recorded mid-single-digit growth compared to the same period during last year’s festive season (October 22–October 28). Mopeds, on the other hand, showed even stronger performance, achieving low double-digit growth, indicating robust consumer demand. Passenger…

For the first time in two decades, Italian autoworkers staged a national strike on Friday, protesting across the heart of Rome. The strike, which saw tens of thousands of workers from the country’s troubled automotive sector march through the capital, highlighted concerns over deteriorating work conditions and job security. The workers carried banners and waved union flags, calling for immediate government intervention to safeguard their industry. Riccardo Falcetta, a representative from the UIL metalworker union in Bari, expressed the workers’ frustrations: “We are working one to two days a week when it goes well. So, what we are saying today…

Ferrari has selected Michelin as the exclusive tire supplier for its new Ferrari F80 supercar. Michelin has developed a bespoke tire, the K1 MICHELIN Pilot Sport Cup 2 R, specifically designed to match the high-performance demands of this exceptional vehicle. Drawing inspiration from the renowned Pilot Sport Cup 2 R range, Michelin engineered this tire to push the boundaries of dry surface performance, boosting its expertise in cutting-edge engineering. The K1 tire is Michelin’s most advanced offering for Ferrari, taking only 15 months to develop. It features two industry-first innovations, utilizing new motorsport technologies and processes. In addition, the tire…

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa reaffirmed his government’s dedication to transforming the country’s automotive industry, acknowledging both the challenges and opportunities this transition brings. Speaking at the South African Auto Week, held from Oct. 15 to 18 under the theme ‘Reimagining the Future, Together: Celebrating 100 Years of Automotive Heritage,’ Ramaphosa emphasized the sector’s crucial role in the economy. In his keynote address, Ramaphosa highlighted that 2023 marks a century of vehicle manufacturing in South Africa, noting that last year the industry contributed 20% of local manufacturing value and 15% of total exports. “The auto sector continues to be one…

Vietnam’s automotive market has seen strong growth, driven by government initiatives for boosting domestic vehicle production. Despite these efforts, imported cars remain the preferred choice among Vietnamese consumers, outpacing sales of domestically assembled vehicles, according to the Vietnam Automobile Manufacturers Association (VAMA). Annual sales of new vehicles have surpassed 400,000 units, demonstrating the market’s expanding potential. However, the proportion of imported cars in Vietnam’s auto market has increased significantly over recent years. From 2016 to 2023, the market share of imported cars rose from 22.1% to 30.8%, with this trend continuing into 2024. Data from the first nine months of…

CUPRA is offering an unprecedented initiative to attract first-time electric vehicle (EV) buyers with its award-winning, all-electric CUPRA Born. The UK-first ‘Love Me or Leave Me’ scheme allows customers to return their CUPRA Born after three months if they find that electric car ownership doesn’t suit their lifestyle. This initiative aims to ease the transition to electric vehicles for those who remain uncertain about whether EVs will meet their needs. CUPRA’s offer gives potential EV owners the chance to experience the benefits of electric driving, including impressive battery range, dynamic handling, and charging convenience, without the long-term commitment. The offer…