While there is some debate over whether Nissan “invented” the crossover sport utility vehicle (SUV) with the launch of the Qashqai in 2007, its influence in making this vehicle type a global favorite is clear. This review focuses on the interior technologies and materials of the facelifted third-generation model. Cabin materials The interior focuses on practicality and features upgraded materials that differ by trim level. Base models come with durable plastics and fabrics, while highe...

The Subaru Crosstrek has long been a favorite among drivers looking for a mix of tough capability and everyday practicality. For 2025, Subaru continues this tradition, offering an interior that’s functional, comfortable, and well-equipped, although not without a few compromises. Here is our review of its cabin, focusing on seats, infotainment, connectivity, practicality, space and materials. Seating The Subaru Crosstrek, replacing the outgoing XV, arrived in showrooms in January 2024. Bu...

Volkswagen has updated the T-Roc compact sport utility vehicle (SUV) with new features to keep it competitive. This refresh introduces new performance variants, including the sporty R and the open-top Cabriolet. Size-wise, it measures 4,236 mm in length, 1,584 mm in height and 1,819 mm in width, making it shorter, wider and taller than the Golf. Notably, its trunk space is 17% larger than that of its sibling, further enhancing its appeal for those seeking a practical compact SUV. The wheelbas...

The automotive industry is at a crossroads, facing intense pressure to meet strict emissions regulations while catering to a growing demand for efficient and sustainable vehicles. The integration of battery systems with internal combustion engines (ICEs) in hybrids is not just an option; it is a necessity. This integration poses challenges that require a sharp focus on performance, efficiency and compliance. At the heart of this effort is the need for detailed drive-cycle models that inform the ...

The electric vehicle charging industry has rapidly evolved, driven by the global shift toward sustainable transportation and the increasing adoption of EVs. This sector includes home chargers, public charging stations and fast-charging networks, all essential for supporting the growing number of EVs on the road. A notable triumph of the industry is the expansion of charging infrastructure. Governments and private companies are investing heavily in charging stations, making it more convenient ...

The rise of software-defined vehicles (SDVs) is revolutionizing chassis systems, transforming them from simple mechanical frameworks into sophisticated, software-driven powerhouses. This shift is all about enhancing performance, safety and comfort through advanced technology. A major game-changer in this evolution is the integration of advanced driver assistance systems. These systems harness data from multiple sensors and cameras to improve vehicle control and stability. For example, adaptiv...

The automotive industry is amid a radical transformation, and software-defined vehicles (SDVs) are at the heart of it. These vehicles are not just cars; they are sophisticated machines powered by cutting-edge software that controls everything from entertainment systems to critical safety functions. This shift is about more than just tech; it is about redefining what a vehicle can do. One of the most game-changing developments is the rise of over-the-air (OTA) updates. Forget the days of bring...

A smart grid is an advanced electrical system that uses digital technology to improve the reliability, efficiency and sustainability of electricity distribution. By incorporating information and communication technologies, smart grids allow for real-time monitoring and management of energy flow. This capability is especially important as the number of electric vehicles on the road continues to grow, putting extra pressure on traditional power systems. Charging stations for EVs are vital parts...

The fast-charging sector for electric vehicles is evolving with new technologies and changing consumer needs. A major trend is the rise of ultra-fast charging stations, which can recharge an EV's battery to 80% in just 15 to 30 minutes, significantly reducing drivers’ wait times. Smart charging technologies are also gaining traction, optimizing charging based on grid conditions and energy prices. This includes demand response programs that allow EVs to charge during off-peak hours or when r...

The automotive industry is undergoing a bold transformation as sustainability takes the spotlight. Companies are stepping up, prioritizing sustainable materials and embracing circular economy principles that champion recycling and reuse. With consumers increasingly demanding transparency, businesses are compelled to implement robust traceability solutions to keep a close eye on material lifecycles and meet evolving regulations. This is not just about compliance; it is about accountability and bu...

Honda has refreshed its fourth-generation Jazz and Jazz Crosstar, introducing a range of exterior and interior enhancements across all trims. This review delves into the new technologies and materials that elevate this popular supermini. Inside story The Elegance and Advance trims feature revamped black interior trim, now complemented by contemporary seat fabrics that enhance the overall esthetic. In the Crosstar variants, the interior benefits from updated transmission tunnel edging an...

The Honda CR-V has long been a cornerstone of the compact sport utility vehicle market, and the latest sixth-generation iteration reinforces this legacy with a pronounced emphasis on practicality, comfort and usability. This review delves into the interior aspects of the CR-V, examining materials, comfort levels, infotainment features, connectivity, boot space, practicality and advanced driver assistance systems. Material matters Notable enhancements have been made in the quality of m...

The automotive steel industry is experiencing notable changes driven by sustainability concerns. Key trends include the adoption of lower carbon production methods, increased recycling efforts and a focus on responsible sourcing practices. One significant trend is the transition from traditional steelmaking processes to electric arc furnace (EAF) technology. EAFs primarily use recycled scrap steel, resulting in a reduction of carbon emissions compared to conventional blast furnaces, which rel...

The emergence of software-defined vehicles (SDVs) is transforming the automotive industry by integrating advanced technologies, enhancing connectivity, and redefining the relationships between original equipment manufacturers and suppliers. SDVs leverage software to provide enhanced driving automation and improved user experiences, facilitated by advanced driver assistance systems and innovative vehicle interiors. The increasing reliance on data sharing between OEMs and suppliers is paramount, a...

The automotive industry is undergoing a significant transformation through the integration of AI technologies. AI is being leveraged to enhance various aspects of vehicle performance, safety and user experience. One of the most prominent applications is in the development of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), which utilize machine learning algorithms to improve safety features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance and collision avoidance. These systems analyze vast amo...

S&P Global Mobility’s Matthew Beecham has engaged senior executives from 42 suppliers in the automotive supply chain for an end-of-year interview initiative. This initiative seeks to gather valuable insights into the challenges faced in 2024 and the strategies being formulated for 2025, prioritizing genuine experiences over elaborate strategies. This report is the final volume in a four-part series. The key discussion points include the challenges faced by automotive suppliers in 2024, ...

S&P Global Mobility’s Matthew Beecham has engaged senior executives from 42 suppliers in the automotive supply chain for an end-of-year interview initiative. This initiative seeks to gather valuable insights into the challenges faced in 2024 and the strategies being formulated for 2025, prioritizing genuine experiences over elaborate strategies. This report is the third of four volumes. The key discussion points include the challenges faced by automotive suppliers, including increased r...

S&P Global Mobility’s Matthew Beecham has engaged senior executives from 42 suppliers in the automotive supply chain for an end-of-year interview initiative. This initiative seeks to gather valuable insights into the challenges faced in 2024 and the strategies being formulated for 2025, prioritizing genuine experiences over elaborate strategies. This report is the second of four volumes. The key discussion points include ongoing supply chain disruptions, labor shortages, and regulatory ...

KPIT is an Indian-headquartered company best described as a software integrator solely focused on automotive. Its 13,000 employees provide services, solutions and products on a worldwide basis. KPIT is supporting six original equipment manufacturers in North America, Europe and Japan in its software-defined vehicle (SDV) journey from defining the electrical/electronic (E/E) architecture to the development of domains such as advanced driver assistance systems, powertrain and connected vehicles. W...

S&P Global Mobility's Matthew Beecham has engaged senior executives from 42 suppliers in the automotive supply chain for an end-of-year interview initiative. This initiative seeks to gather valuable insights on the challenges faced in 2024 and the strategies being formulated for 2025, prioritizing genuine experiences over elaborate strategies. This report is the first of four volumes published in late 2024. Key discussion points encompass significant trends impacting suppliers, such as sh...

The automotive industry is increasingly focused on reducing vehicle weight to enhance fuel efficiency, reduce emissions, and comply with stringent regulations. Steel, a primary material in vehicle construction, plays a pivotal role in this lightweighting trend. The shift toward lighter vehicles is driven by regulatory frameworks such as the EU's CO2 emissions targets, which mandate a reduction in average fleet emissions to 93.6 g/km by 2025, and the UK's zero-emissions vehicle (ZEV) mandate, whi...

Stellantis is a global automotive leader formed from the merger of Fiat Chrysler and PSA Group, encompassing 14 brands such as Jeep, Peugeot and RAM. The company focuses on electrification, connected technologies and operational efficiency, aiming for a sustainable future while addressing diverse consumer needs across major markets. The original equipment manufacturer is committed to achieving a 100% zero-emission lineup in Europe by 2030, focusing on affordability and technological innovatio...

As regulatory pressures to reduce emissions intensify, manufacturers are increasingly turning to aluminum to boost fuel efficiency. Vehicles made from aluminum can weigh up to 50 percent less than their steel counterparts, leading to significant reductions in fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. This lightweighting trend aligns with global regulatory frameworks designed to lower carbon footprints, including the European Union's strict CO2 emissions targets and the US Corporate Avera...

The automotive industry is increasingly adopting diverse materials to achieve lightweighting, crucial for enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. Traditional materials like steel are being complemented or replaced by advanced high-strength steels, aluminum, composites and magnesium. Advanced high-strength steel (AHSS) allows for thinner sections without compromising strength, enabling manufacturers to reduce weight while maintaining safety and structural integrity. Aluminum, known f...

The automotive industry is increasingly turning to sustainable materials, particularly advanced polymers and composites, to achieve lightweighting and enhance vehicle efficiency. Lightweight vehicles contribute to fuel efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Advanced polymers, such as bio-based plastics and thermoplastics, offer an eco-friendly alternative to traditional materials, while composites, which combine materials like carbon fiber with resins, provide strength without the weigh...

Lightweighting in the automotive industry is a pivotal strategy aimed at enhancing vehicle performance, efficiency and sustainability. As the demand for alternative and future mobility concepts grows, polymers emerge as key enablers, offering design flexibility and integration capabilities for advanced applications such as autonomous driving technologies. However, the transition to alternative materials raises critical considerations, including reliability, safety and the challenges of recycling...

The software-defined vehicle (SDV) is a new buzz phrase in the car industry. It refers to vehicles that can enhance their capabilities through software updates, eliminating the need for physical part replacements. SDVs use software to govern operations, incorporate new features, and facilitate the integration of novel functionalities. This concept marks an advancement in the automotive industry, laying the foundation for autonomous driving and vehicle connectivity technologies. To learn more,...

Four-dimensional (4D) imaging radar is a key technology for autonomous driving, providing real-time and accurate information about the surrounding environment. To learn more, we spoke to executives from Aptiv. Four-dimensional imaging radar is an emerging key technology for autonomous driving, providing real time and accurate insights into the surrounding environment. It complements other sensors such as cameras and is used in conjunction with these in the automotive industry. The 4D imaging ...

The emergence of software-defined vehicles (SDVs) represents a seismic shift in the automotive industry and the broader mobility ecosystem. SDVs go beyond being traditional vehicles and function as platforms for connectivity, data generation, personalization and monetization. They have the potential to disrupt established business models, drive innovation and reshape our perception of vehicles. SDVs have implications that extend beyond the automotive sector, impacting public transportation, city...

A digital twin (DT) is a virtual replica of a physical asset that uses real-world data and models to improve operations and aid in decision-making. It incorporates real-time and historical data, as well as engineering, simulation and machine-learning models. By creating a DT, the automotive industry can gain insights into the performance and behavior of physical assets, optimize operations and make more informed decisions. The use of DTs in the automotive industry should become more widesprea...

A digital twin (DT) is a virtual replica of a physical asset that uses real-world data and models to improve operations and aid in decision-making. It incorporates real-time and historical data, as well as engineering, simulation, and machine learning models. By creating a digital twin, the automotive industry can gain insights into the performance and behavior of physical assets, optimize operations and make more informed decisions. The use of DTs in the automotive industry is expected to be...

A digital twin (DT) is a virtual replica of a physical asset that uses real-world data and models to improve operations and aid in decision-making. It incorporates real-time and historical data, as well as engineering, simulation, and machine learning models. By creating a digital twin, the automotive industry can gain insights into the performance and behavior of physical assets, optimize operations and make more informed decisions. The use of DTs in the automotive industry is expected to be...

A digital twin (DT) is a virtual replica of a physical asset that uses real-world data and models to improve operations and aid in decision-making. It incorporates real-time and historical data, as well as engineering, simulation, and machine learning models. By creating a digital twin, the automotive industry can gain insights into the performance and behavior of physical assets, optimize operations and make more informed decisions. The use of DTs in the automotive industry is expected to be...