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    FISITA World Mobility Conference 2025: Key themes and concerns for the automotive industry
    One thing is abundantly clear after the FISITA World Mobility Conference (WMC) last week. Megatrends impact everything. No longer can chassis development, braking, safety validation and so forth stand alone without impact from the broader drive towards electrification, the AI revolution or SDVs, to name a few.  The event’s sessions gave the impression that electrification is already baked into the industry, particularly in Europe where the debate on (regulation-pushed) direction is ...
    Insights
    Beyond horsepower: Compute becomes the new competitive edge for OEMs
    Automotive compute power is becoming a defining metric of vehicle capability — not just for autonomy, but across cockpit systems, connectivity and life-cycle software deployment. As vehicles transition toward centralized electrical/electronic (E/E) architectures and software-defined platforms, silicon performance is now a core determinant of what a vehicle can do — and how long it will remain competitive in the field. Two metrics have emerged as industry standards for measuring this compu...
    Insights
    Wayve strengthens engineering leadership with three new expert appointments
    Wayve, a company specializing in embodied AI for automotive applications, announced the appointment of three industry experts — Rob Flenniken, Uri Wolfovitz and Dennis Jackson — to enhance its engineering leadership, according to a June 26 press release. Flenniken was named vice president of vehicle software, charged with creating and maintaining a stable and scalable vehicle software platform. He will be responsible for facilitating rapid AI model development and integrating with au...
    News
    Nuro unveils modular sensor architecture for scalable autonomous vehicle integration
    Nuro announced further details about the Nuro Driver’s next-generation sensor architecture, engineered to offer “unmatched safety, performance and scalability,” the company said on June 18. The latest iteration of the Nuro Driver's sensor architecture has been designed for scalability, utilizing commercially available automotive-grade sensors to ensure high performance and reliability at reduced costs. The modular design allows for quick integration with various vehicle platforms, accom...
    News
    Silicon Motion's UFS solution validated on Qualcomm Snapdragon cockpit platform
    Silicon Motion Technology Corporation, a global company specializing in NAND flash controllers for solid-state storage devices, announced the successful compatibility validation of its Universal Flash Storage (UFS) solution on the Qualcomm Snapdragon Cockpit SA8295P Platform, as reported in a press release on June 26. This development allows automotive customers to integrate Silicon Motion's UFS solution into designs featuring the Snapdragon Cockpit SA8295P platform. The UFS solution is noted...
    News
    Garrett Motion opens Wuhan Innovation Center for zero-emission technology advancement
    Garrett Motion Inc. inaugurated its Wuhan Innovation Center, located within the Garrett Wuhan Plant, to expand its zero-emission research and development capabilities. This center, the second in mainland China after the Shanghai R&D Center, forms a dual innovation hub that promotes turbocharging technologies and zero-emission solutions. The opening of this facility aims to advance Garrett's electrification efforts and enhance its position as a provider of differentiated technology for dec...
    News
    Uber and Waymo launch second US robo-taxi service in Atlanta
    In a press release on June 24, Uber and Waymo introduced their second US robo-taxi service in Atlanta, following an initial launch in Austin, Texas. This collaboration combines Waymo's autonomous vehicle technology with Uber's ride-hailing app to offer electric, driverless rides. In Atlanta, users can start their journey by requesting an UberX, Comfort or Comfort Electric ride via the Uber app. They may then be matched with a fully autonomous Waymo Jaguar I-PACE vehicle at no extra charge. Ri...
    News
    Toyota to assemble battery packs for hybrid RAV4 in Ontario plants by 2026
    Toyota is planning to assemble its own battery packs at its Ontario plants for the production of the all-new 2026 RAV4 SUV, which will be launched exclusively as a hybrid model. Toyota will add battery-pack assembly lines to its Ontario facilities as part of these preparations. These batteries will be built from cells manufactured at Toyota's newly opened battery plant in Kentucky. This move marks Toyota's effort to support the production of the hybrid RAV4 by retooling its Cambridge and Wood...
    News
    Clarios to launch Manufacturing Technology & Training Center as part of $6 billion strategy
    Clarios, a global company specializing in advanced energy storage solutions, has unveiled plans to establish a Manufacturing Technology & Training Center in the United States. This initiative is part of the company's $6 billion American energy manufacturing strategy, which includes a $600 million investment in cutting-edge manufacturing. The center aims to serve as a dedicated hub for workforce development, research and development (R&D), and technology validation, providing a secure,...
    News
    Federal judge orders release of EV charging infrastructure funds impacted by Trump administration
    A federal judge, Tana Lin, has ordered the Trump administration to release billions of dollars earmarked for the construction of electric vehicle charging stations in more than a dozen US states. This decision grants a preliminary injunction for the distribution of funds under the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program, which was allocated $5 billion and was set to be utilized from 2022 to 2026. The program was originally signed into law by President Joe Biden in 2021, but fa...
    News
    50% of new battery production could be decoupled from virgin raw materials within 20 years: CATL
    During London Climate Action Week, CATL and the Ellen MacArthur Foundation discussed their goal of transitioning to a circular battery economy by decoupling new battery production from the use of virgin raw materials. This approach aims to achieve meaningful sustainability and growth without relying on the extraction of critical materials used in battery production. Both entities that forged a strategic partnership earlier in the year have been working on applying circular economy principl...
    News
    Cadillac launches connected services in Australia and New Zealand
    Cadillac is set to enhance the driving and ownership experience for its customers in Australia and New Zealand with the introduction of Cadillac Connected Services. This initiative, launched on 25 June 2025, will offer a suite of digital capabilities including connected infotainment and over-the-air updates, all accessible via the Cadillac Mobile App. These features will be rolled out in the region from late 2025, starting with the Cadillac LYRIQ, which is currently available for sale. Additiona...
    News
    BMW Group Korea, KERI partner to establish EV charging interoperability testing center
    BMW Group Korea, led by CEO Han Sang-yoon, has entered into a business agreement with the Korea Electrotechnology Research Institute (KERI) to establish a Global Interoperability Testing Center (GIOTEC). The testing center, which is set to open in the second half of this year at KERI's Ansan branch, aims to enhance the compatibility of EV charging systems by evaluating interoperability among various EV models and charging systems. The collaboration between BMW and KERI intends to improve t...
    News
    Eleport partners Supernova Group to install 200 ultra-fast EV chargers across Croatia and Slovenia
    Eleport, a leading charge point operator in the Central and Eastern European region, entered a strategic partnership with Supernova Group, a local retail real estate operator. The collaboration aims to introduce about 200 ultra-fast charging points at 30 Supernova shopping centers in Croatia and Slovenia, addressing the increasing demand for electric vehicle (EV) charging in urban and transit areas. The initiative reflects Eleport's mission to establish long-term partnerships that innovate...
    News
    CATL executive warns of risks from EV discount war in Greater China, urges government to step in
    A senior executive from Contemporary Amperex Technology Limited (CATL), the largest manufacturer of EV batteries, has called for authorities in mainland China to intervene to address the ongoing price war in the new-energy car market. Ni Jun, CATL's chief manufacturing officer, emphasized that the discount war will not end unless Beijing steps in, as the strategy of reducing prices to gain market share threatens smaller competitors. BYD, the world's largest EV manufacturer, initiated signific...
    News
    Volkswagen plans updates for ID. 4 and ID. 3 with return to physical controls
    Volkswagen is planning extensive updates for its ID. 4 all-electric SUV, aligning it visually with the upcoming ID. 2, and reintroducing physical controls within the vehicle, Autocar reported on June 24. Volkswagen's technical development head, Kai Grünitz, confirmed to the automotive publication that the ID. 3 will feature a new design language similar to the 2023 ID. 2all concept, which will also be applied to the ID. 4 to maintain their appeal until their replacements arrive later in th...
    News
    General Motors recalls 62,000 Chevrolet Silverado trucks over brake pressure fire risk
    General Motors (GM) is recalling over 62,000 vehicles due to a brake pressure issue that poses a fire risk, USA Today reported on June 26. The affected vehicles comprise various models of the Chevrolet Silverado, specifically the 4500 HD, 5500 HD, and 6500 HD trucks from the year 2019 to 2024. The company had informed the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) of this recall on June 25, citing a potential leak in the brake pressure sensor assembly, which could lead to a...
    News
    Hankook Tire unveils iON HT for electric light-duty trucks
    Hankook Tire has introduced the iON HT, a new highway-terrain tire designed specifically for electric light-duty trucks. This tire is part of the Hankook's iON product family and includes an XL load designation, enhancing strength and rigidity for additional cargo and the heavy battery packs associated with electric vehicles. The iON HT offers all-season versatility, low rolling resistance, ride comfort, and improved durability to meet the unique demands of electric light-duty trucks. ...
    News
    Apollo Tyres launches Aspire 5 ultra-high-performance tire for luxury vehicles
    Apollo Tyres Ltd. has launched the Aspire 5, an ultra-high-performance (UHP) tire developed in India, targeting the luxury vehicle market, Autocar Professional reported June 26. Designed to cater to electric vehicles (EVs) and global markets, the tire is available in sizes ranging from 17 to 20 inches, prioritizing ride comfort, grip and low noise performance. The Aspire 5 will be sold in both domestic and international markets, including in Europe and Asia. As demand for UHP tires — with r...
    News
    Murata Manufacturing begins mass production of new high-capacitance MLCC for automotive applications
    Murata Manufacturing Co. Ltd., under the leadership of President Norio Nakajima, has commenced mass production of its new multilayer ceramic capacitor (MLCC), the GCM21BE71H106KE02. This product is notable for being the first in the 0805-inch size to offer a capacitance of 10µF with a 50Vdc rating, specifically designed for automotive applications. This development represents a significant advancement in the field of MLCC design by maintaining capacitance and voltage rating within a reduced pac...
    News
    Geotab and Mercedes-Benz announce integrated fleet telematics solution
    Geotab Inc. and Mercedes-Benz USA have announced a joint initiative to integrate Mercedes-Benz's connectivity services with Geotab's fleet management platform. This collaboration aims to provide a unified telematics solution for fleet managers, enhancing efficiency and real-time insights for electric and internal combustion engine vehicles. The integrated solution enables direct data transfer from Mercedes-Benz vehicles into Geotab's MyGeotab platform, removing the need for aftermarket hardware ...
    News
    Audi integrates AirConsole gaming platform for vehicles
    In collaboration with gaming platform AirConsole, Audi is transforming its vehicles into interactive gaming environments. Passengers can access a range of games through the central infotainment system. In cars equipped with an MMI passenger display, these games can even be played during the drive, thanks to a dynamic privacy mode that prevents the driver from being distracted. Smartphones can be used as game controllers by connecting to the vehicle via a QR code. The AirConsole platform off...
    News
    BYD God’s Eye system triggers momentum in the Level 2+ market
    BYD Auto recently unveiled its new “God’s Eye” advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), which will be integrated across all its models — including subsidiary brands Denza, Fangchengbao and Yangwang, as well as the affordable Seagull hatchback priced at 70,000 Chinese yuan (about $9,600). More recently, BYD has begun offering wide-ranging price discounts of about 10% to 30% on its Dynasty and Ocean lineup of models in China until June 30, reducing the Seagull’s price to 55,800 Chinese...
    Insights
    Intel closes automotive business amid strategic downsizing and layoffs
    Intel has announced substantial layoffs and the closure of its Automotive Chip division, aimed at cost reduction and operational efficiency, according to a report published by Hans India on June 26. This strategic shift comes under the guidance of newly appointed CEO Lip-Bu Tan, who has prioritized lean operations and diminished bureaucracy. According to a WARN Act filing, 107 employees at Intel's headquarters in Santa Clara, California, will face layoffs starting July 15. This reduction...
    News
    EasyMile's EZTow tractors achieve Level 4 autonomous logistics at European manufacturer
    EasyMile's driverless technology has been implemented in two EZTow autonomous tow tractors at a major European automotive parts manufacturer in Germany, as reported in a press release on June 24. The tractors are capable of pulling a 16.1-meter tandem load, surpassing the length of the longest road-legal semitrailers in Europe and the US, showcasing a significant advancement in autonomous industrial transport capabilities.  The EZTow vehicles are designed to tow payloads of 14 metri...
    News
    Valeo provides VSS360 system for European premium OEM vehicle platform
    Valeo has been chosen to provide its Valeo Smart Safety 360 (VSS360) for a premium European original equipment manufacturer vehicle platform, the company reported June 25. The system combines Valeo's expertise in hardware, software development and system integration to enhance vehicle safety, reduce accidents and support the progression of autonomous vehicles. VSS360 offers optimized driver and parking assistance in a scalable advanced driver assistance system solution, allowing OEMs to ...
    News
    Elektrobit partners with Foxconn to develop AI-centric software platform for EVs
    In a press release on June 25, Elektrobit announced a joint development agreement with Hon Hai Technology Group (Foxconn) to create EV.OS, an AI-centric software platform aimed at advancing software-defined electric vehicles. The collaboration aims to develop a smart EV platform, integrating both hardware and software, to introduce groundbreaking supply chain innovations. The goal is to develop automotive platform solutions that minimize complexity, reduce the total cost of ownership, scale prod...
    News
    U Power launches Battery-Bank initiative using blockchain for EV energy solutions
    In a press release dated June 25, U Power Ltd. announced the launch of its innovative Battery-Bank initiative and a Battery-Token solution, leveraging Web 3.0 blockchain and token-based economics. The company, which specializes in comprehensive electric vehicle battery-swapping solutions, aims to evolve into a smart energy grid solutions provider with this new strategy. The announcement was made by U Power's strategic investor, Chatchaval Jiaravanon, at the Web 3.0 Battery Swap Ecosystem...
    News
    Cobco begins lithium-ion component production at new plant in Morocco's Jorf Lasfar
    Sino-Moroccan company Cobco has commenced production at its plant for lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery components in Jorf Lasfar, located 125 km south of Casablanca, Morocco. Cobco is a collaboration between Moroccan investment fund Al Mada and CNGR Advanced Materials, a mainland Chinese battery materials producer. Morocco's strategic proximity to Europe, its automotive industry, free trade agreements, and abundance of phosphates and cobalt make it appealing to mainland Chinese electric vehicle batt...
    News
    Group14 Technologies revolutionizes silicon battery technology with SCC55
    Group14 Technologies announced a significant advancement in silicon battery technology, revealing that its material SCC55 has enabled substantial improvement in battery cycle life, with results showing a range from 1,500 to over 3,000 charge cycles across various applications. This development, which was supported by data from over 20 customers worldwide, marks a new standard for rechargeable batteries. According to Rick Luebbe, CEO and co-founder of Group14, this performance milestone sugges...
    News
    Ubitricity to install 2,000 EV charge points in London Borough of Tower Hamlets by 2025
    The London Borough of Tower Hamlets has partnered with Ubitricity, the UK's largest electric vehicle charge-point operator and a wholly owned subsidiary of Shell, to install 2,000 on-street residential EV charge points by the end of 2025. This initiative is part of the borough's effort to reduce emissions and improve air quality. The charge points, which can be installed in less than 30 minutes, will be integrated into existing lampposts, enabling residents to conveniently charge their vehicl...
    News
    PlaxidityX partners with GlobalLogic to enhance security in software-defined vehicles
    PlaxidityX announced a strategic partnership with Hitachi Group company GlobalLogic to integrate its DevSecOps platform into GlobalLogic's software-defined vehicles (SDVs) cloud framework, an infrastructure management solution designed to streamline deployment for SDV projects. The integration helps vehicle manufacturers secure every phase of the development lifecycle. The collaboration creates a coherent cloud framework for SDVs, assisting original equipment manufacturers and Tier 1 s...
    News
    Spectrum partners with Nexar to enhance road intelligence via improved wireless connectivity
    Spectrum has announced a partnership with Nexar, a company specializing in AI-powered mobility solutions, to enhance road intelligence through improved network connectivity. This collaboration grants Nexar access to Spectrum's extensive managed wireless network, allowing for faster and more efficient delivery of critical roadway insights to the cloud. This should contribute to advancements in vehicle safety, autonomy and data-driven mobility infrastructure. Nexar's AI platform turns everyday ...
    News
    Continental supplies digital access system for Audi Q6 e-tron
    Continental is providing Audi's new premium Q6 e-tron sport utility vehicle with an advanced access system that includes both a traditional car key and the digital CoSmA intelligent access system. This digital system, which uses highly secure ultra-wideband technology (UWB), allows for vehicle access without needing to physically handle a key or smartphone, though the option to use a physical key remains. The system is compatible with numerous smartphone models from major providers. The Aud...
    News
    Envisics to provide augmented reality head-up display for 2026 Cadillac VISTIQ and LYRIQ-V models
    Holographic display technology expert Envisics has been named the exclusive provider of augmented reality head-up displays (AR-HUDs) for the 2026 Cadillac VISTIQ. This advanced technology has been developed specifically for both the Cadillac VISTIQ and the Cadillac LYRIQ-V models. Envisics has received investment from GM Ventures in strategic funding rounds in 2018 and 2023, highlighting a long-standing collaboration with General Motors (GM). Jamieson Christmas, CEO and founder of Envisics, expr...
    News
    Northvolt receives bid for Swedish operations amid bankruptcy proceedings
    The bankruptcy trustee for Swedish battery maker Northvolt received an indicative bid from a foreign party interested in acquiring the company's business in Sweden, according to Swedish radio. Northvolt filed for bankruptcy in Sweden in March. The move marked one of Sweden's largest corporate failures, setting back Europe's ambitions to build a local electric vehicle battery value chain and reduce dependence on mainland China. Bankruptcy trustee Mikael Ku...
    News
    Waste not, want not: Transforming sustainability practices
    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...
    Insights
    QuantumScape achieves successful integration of advanced Cobra separator process into baseline cell production
    US-based solid-state battery technology company QuantumScape Corp. has announced a significant advancement in its production capabilities with the integration of its Cobra separator process into its baseline cell production. This development is crucial to QuantumScape's strategy to enhance the production of its next-generation solid-state lithium-metal battery technology. The Volkswagen-backed company's Cobra process represents a major improvement in ceramic separator manufacturi...
    News
    CATL prioritizes global expansion amid persisting price war in mainland China
    Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd. (CATL), the world's largest electric vehicle battery manufacturer, is prioritizing its overseas expansion amid intense competition in mainland China's domestic EV and EV battery market. The move comes as Ni Jun, CATL's chief manufacturing officer, highlighted the unhealthy nature of the competitive landscape, which mirrors concerns previously expressed by Stella Li, BYD's executive vice president, regarding the sustainability of the ongo...
    News
    Blink Charging appoints Alex Calnan as managing director of European operations
    US-based charge point operator Blink Charging Co., appointed Alex Calnan as the new managing director of European operations. Calnan, who served as the managing director of the UK business, will now oversee Blink's operations in the UK, Ireland, Belgium and the Netherlands, effective July 1. Calnan will continue to work from Blink's UK headquarters in St. Albans, Hertfordshire, with support from the existing European leadership team. Mike Battaglia, president and CEO of Blin...
    News
    ASK Automotive forms JV partnership with TD Holding to produce sunroof control cables and helix cables for passenger vehicles
    Indian supplier ASK Automotive Ltd. announced that its board of directors approved the establishment of a joint venture with T.D. Holding GMBH (TDH) to manufacture and supply sunroof control cables and helix cables specifically designed for passenger vehicles, Autocar Professional reported June 25. ASK Automotive owns a 49% equity stake in the proposed JV company, while TDH has a controlling stake of 51%. ASK Automotive plans to invest 24.5 million rupe...
    News
    Sekisui Chemical invests in new manufacturing facility to produce injection-molded parts in India
    Sekisui Chemical has announced plans to invest in a new manufacturing plant in Chakan, near Pune in Maharashtra, India, to produce injection-molded parts for the Indian automotive market. The Japanese supplier will invest about $3 million in the new facility, its sixth in the country, with the goal of commencing operations by January 2026.  Sekisui Chemical's high-performance plastic company has identified the injection-molding business within the mobility sector as a...
    News
    Forvia unveils NAFILean Vision sustainable materials for automotive interior trims
    Forvia’s sustainable materials subsidiary, Materi'act, has unveiled NAFILean Vision, a groundbreaking advancement in sustainable biocomposites for injection technology in the automotive industry. Building on the success of NAFILean-R, a recyclable biocomposite made from recycled plastics reinforced with 20% hemp fibers, this new material family not only meets stringent performance standards but also enhances aesthetic quality by making biomass visible, setting a new benchmark for eco-frie...
    News
    Bosch unveils compact Bluetooth-enabled microelectromechanical system sensor for tire pressure monitoring
    Bosch has introduced a highly compact microelectromechanical system (MEMS) sensor, the SMP290, featuring an integrated Bluetooth low energy (BLE) interface for measuring tire pressure in vehicles. The sensor incorporates all critical components required for a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), including a microcontroller, Bluetooth interface, two-axis acceleration sensor, and pressure and temperature sensors. The highly integrated sensor is also energy efficient, allowing for an operat...
    News
    Rheinmetall secures major order for hybrid vehicle components from mainland Chinese manufacturer
    Rheinmetall has secured a significant order from a leading mainland Chinese manufacturer of new-energy vehicles, focusing on hybrid vehicles. The order, valued in the upper double-digit million euro range, involves the supply of electronic throttle bodies and delta pressure valves, which are pivotal in enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. These components are tailored for hybrid and range-extender electric vehicle engines and feature a modular platform design aligned with the spe...
    News
    Uber partners with C40 Cities to enhance EV charging access for drivers
    Uber has entered into new agreements to enhance access to electric vehicle charging for over 55,000 drivers in major cities such as London, Boston and Phoenix through a partnership with C40 Cities. The collaboration aims to address the primary barrier of charging accessibility that prevents drivers from transitioning to EVs, surpassing even the cost issue. To support this initiative, Uber has introduced the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Estimator (EVIE) tool. This tool is designed to assist...
    News
    Sunnoo unveils first solar-powered EV charging station for grid-independent deployment
    Sunnoo, a US clean energy company, announced the launch of its first grid-independent, solar-powered electric vehicle charging station, marking a significant advancement in sustainable transportation solutions. This fully renewable, self-contained unit operates solely on solar power and was developed over six years, with more than 20,000 hours dedicated to component testing. The flagship system is undergoing real-world testing at Sunnoo's facility in Las Cruces, New Mexico. The company plans ...
    News
    EV Edison launches largest multiclass charging hub on East Coast in New Jersey
    EV Edison has inaugurated its flagship electric vehicle charging and fleet services hub in Kearny, New Jersey, strategically positioned near key transport routes such as the Port of Newark and the Holland Tunnel. The site is recognized as the largest multiclass charging hub on the East Coast, featuring 30 high-power charging ports capable of delivering 180 kW each. The facility offers a range of services for fleet operations, including 24/7 high-security access, parking and staging for trucks...
    News
    CATL, Ant and HelloRide form Zaofu Intelligent Technology JV to advance Level 4 driving autonomy
    On June 23, Zaofu Intelligent Technology was officially registered in Shanghai, as reported by 36Kr on June 24. The new company is a joint venture established by Contemporary Amperex Technology (CATL), Ant Group and HelloRide through their investment branches. With a registered capital of 1.288 billion yuan (about $180.3 million), Zaofu will focus on the research, development, safety applications and commercialization of Level 4 autonomous driving technology. The name Zaofu is inspired by a l...
    Briefing
    May Mobility and MUFG Bank partner to advance autonomous vehicle services
    MUFG Bank has announced an investment in and partnership with May Mobility to accelerate the global deployment of autonomous vehicle services, as reported in a press release on June 16. This collaboration will see MUFG Bank leveraging its extensive network and advanced financial services to support May Mobility in expanding its fleet alongside existing and new fleet operators. The partnership aims to drive economic growth in Japan and internationally by introducing autonomous driving technology ...
    News
    Torc opens new engineering center in Ann Arbor for autonomous truck development
    In a press release on June 24, Torc announced the opening of a new engineering center in Ann Arbor, Michigan. This expansion is a strategic move as Torc aims for commercialization in 2027, with the intention of accelerating its productization initiatives while leveraging the rich automotive and technology talent available in the region. In establishing the Ann Arbor location, Torc collaborated with the Michigan Economic Development Corp. to secure incentives, supporting its significant h...
    News
    EPC introduces EPC9196 high-performance motor drive inverter for medium-voltage applications
    Efficient Power Conversion Corp. (EPC) has introduced the EPC9196, a high-performance 25-amperes-root-mean-square (ARMS), three-phase brushless DC (BLDC) motor drive inverter reference design, as reported in a company press release on June 10. This design is powered by the EPC2304 gallium nitride field-effect transistor (eGaN FET) and is specifically tailored for medium-voltage (96 V-150 V) battery-powered motor drive applications. These applications include steering systems in au...
    News
    Capital Market Day 2025: Continental confirms plan to sell ContiTech sector in 2026; revises FY2025 financial outlook
    At its Capital Market Day in Frankfurt, Germany, held on June 24, Continental confirmed the planned sale of its ContiTech group sector. This will transform Continental, which is on track to spin off its Automotive group sector into an independent public company by September 2025, into a pure-play tire company. The sale, pending approval from Continental’s supervisory board, is scheduled for 2026, following the sale of ContiTech's Original Equipment Solutions (OESL) business area later in 2025....
    Briefing
    2025 Connected Car Consumer Study: Connecting the dots of connected services
    To understand consumer sentiment toward S&P Global Mobility’s technology forecasts, the Connected Car and Consumer Insights research teams conduct an annual consumer survey that serves as a quantitative input to these forecasts. By asking vehicle owners of certain model years a series of questions to gauge activation decisions, subscription lengths and costs, feature desirability and willingness to pay, analysts are able to develop the ‘Feature Desirability & Willingness to Pay’...
    Insights
    Faraday Future launches OpenAI-driven FF AI 2.0 upgrade
    Faraday Future has announced FF AI 2.0, an upgrade to its AI-powered in-car operating system (OS), for its flagship FF 91 EV that was launched in 2023. FF AI 2.0 is deeply integrated with OpenAI and is scheduled to be available on the FF 91 via an upcoming over-the-air (OTA) update, with a planned rollout for the FX line in the future. This release of the FF AI 2.0 system can switch between over 50 languages in real time, remembers conversational context, and understands complex comman...
    News
    Ex-Northvolt executive Emma Nehrenheim appointed as new managing director of European Battery Alliance
    Emma Nehrenheim has been appointed as the new managing director of the European Battery Alliance (EBA), led by InnoEnergy under the mandate of the European Commission. InnoEnergy manages the EBA's industrial development program under the European Commission's mandate. These programs aim to build a competitive and sustainable battery industry in Europe, crucial for the continent's clean energy transition. Nehrenheim, who has previously served Northvolt as the chief environmental officer and...
    News
    Horse Powertrain develops fully-integrated hybrid powertrain assembly
    Horse Technologies, a division of Horse Powertrain, announced its new integrated hybrid drive unit, the HR18 HEV. This new powertrain is the first complete unit designed, developed and produced under the Horse Powertrain brand. Developed at research and development centers in Romania and Spain, the HR18 HEV will be manufactured at Horse Technologies' plants in Bursa, Turkey; and Valladolid, Spain. The hybrid powertrain consolidates key technologies into a singular, efficient unit, which inclu...
    News
    Eleport partners Ampeco to deliver standardized EV charging experience in Europe
    Eleport, one of the leading electric vehicles public charging service providers in Central and Eastern Europe, has partnered with Ampeco, a global EV charging software provider, to deliver a seamless and standardized EV charging experience across the region, the two companies said in a joint announcement on June 24. Eleport operates a rapidly expanding charging network that spans Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Poland. The company plans to expand its EV charging network further through 20...
    News
    ChargeZone opens one of India’s largest EV charging hubs in Bengaluru
    ChargeZone has launched one of India's largest electric vehicle charging hubs in Bangalore. The facility aims to bolster India's national EV infrastructure, especially in urban areas with high fleet activity. The hub features over 210 charging points, which include 80 DC fast chargers with 160 outlets and 50 AC chargers with 50 outlets. With an installed capacity of more than 4 MW, the facility is not only vast but also one of the most potent EV charging sites in the country. It is tailored t...
    News
    11 European automotive OEMs and suppliers sign MOU to jointly develop open-source software
    With the support of the German Association of the Automotive Industry (Verband der Automobilindustrie [VDA]), 11 automotive companies have entered into a precompetitive cooperation for open-source software development, signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) at the 29th International Automotive Electronics Congress (AEK). This initiative addresses the growing complexity and importance of vehicle software by promoting a collaborative ecosystem aimed at increasing development speed, effic...
    News
    Volvo recalls 14,000 vehicles in the US over braking software issues
    Volvo is recalling 14,014 electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles in the US due to a software issue that could cause brake failure in certain conditions. The affected vehicles, which include various models such as the S60, V60, S90, XC60, XC90, XC40, C40 plug-in hybrids, and EX40 and EC40 battery-electric vehicles, may experience brake failure when coasting downhill for more than one minute and 40 seconds without using the brake or accelerator pedals while in B mode on PHEVs or On...
    News
    RAC Insurance and Ticker partner to offer telematics products for young drivers
    RAC Insurance has partnered with Ticker to offer enhanced telematics products specifically designed for new and young drivers, primarily targeting those aged 17 to 21, as well as slightly older individuals who passed their driving test within the past eight years. The telematics product includes a self-installation box that rewards responsible driving by providing future reductions on insurance premiums and allows drivers to maintain their no-claims bonus if they are hit by an uninsured driver. ...
    News
    EIB approves €30 million financing for OLEDWorks under InvestEU program
    The European Investment Bank (EIB) has approved a €30 million financing package for OLEDWorks, a US-based company specializing in next-generation lighting solutions based on organic LED (next-generation display technology OLED). This funding, supported by the European Commission's InvestEU program, is intended to boost OLEDWorks' manufacturing and research and development capabilities, particularly in the automotive sector. The majority of this investment will be utilized in OLEDWork...
    News
    Dolby Laboratories partners with Audi to introduce Dolby Atmos in select car models
    Dolby Laboratories has entered a strategic partnership with Audi to introduce Dolby Atmos in select Audi vehicle models. This partnership aims to enhance the driving experience through advanced audio technology, embedding Dolby's immersive sound capabilities into Audi's premium cars. The first Audi model with Dolby Atmos will be delivered in July. Dolby Atmos is an advanced sound technology that adds a three-dimensional layer to audio. Unlike a traditional surround sound system, whi...
    News
    Salzgitter Group and Volvo Cars expand partnership for steel scrap recycling
    The Salzgitter Group is expanding its strategic partnership with one of its key customers, Volvo Cars. Starting in 2026, significant amounts of steel scrap from the Swedish carmaker’s body parts plant in Olofström, southern Sweden, will be sold to the Germany-based steelmaker. Salzgitter provides high-quality flat steel to Volvo Cars’ plant. The company will also start acquiring substantial quantities of the steel scrap produced there. This scrap will b...
    News
    NHTSA seeks information on Tesla's robotaxi testing issues
    Tesla Inc.'s self-driving taxis experienced issues on their first day offering paid rides, with instances of traffic law violations being captured, Bloomberg reported June 23. One significant incident involved a Model Y that failed to execute a left turn properly, entering a lane meant for opposite direction traffic in Austin. The vehicle swerved and crossed a double-yellow line to reenter the correct lane, an infraction caught on video by Rob Maurer, a Tesla investor, the report said. Additi...
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    Motive acquires InceptEV to enhance EV fleet management with advanced battery intelligence
    Motive, an AI-powered Integrated Operations Platform, has acquired InceptEV, a software startup from Carnegie Mellon University. InceptEV specializes in advanced battery intelligence and machine learning to aid companies in making informed electric vehicle investment decisions. This acquisition enables Motive to integrate patented battery intelligence software into its commercial fleet management platform, offering operations managers enhanced insights into EV performance. Venkat Viswanathan,...
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    Milence expands Landvetter charging hub with advanced megawatt charging system technology
    Milence has expanded its charging hub in Landvetter, Sweden, introducing the Megawatt Charging System (MCS) technology alongside doubling its Combined Charging System (CCS) capacity. This development aims to create Europe's first MCS-enabled corridor, advancing long-distance electric transport. The MCS technology was publicly demonstrated during the EVS38 symposium hosted by Volvo Group alongside a Volvo electric truck. On June 16, the milestone was marked during this global electric mobility...
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    Octopus Energy and BYD launch UK's first vehicle-to-grid bundle for EVs
    Octopus Energy, the UK's largest energy supplier, in collaboration with BYD, a top electric-car manufacturer, has introduced the Power Pack Bundle, the UK's first vehicle-to-grid (V2G) bundle, revolutionizing the electric vehicle experience. Launched at Octopus Energy's Energy Tech Summit, the bundle, costing under £300 per month, includes a leased V2G-ready BYD Dolphin, a bidirectional Zaptec Pro charger, and access to a smart tariff offering free home charging. This feature allows EV drivers ...
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    CATL commits to global collaboration and EV market growth at Belt and Road conference
    Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd. (CATL) plans to foster global collaboration and support emerging economies. Speaking at the second Belt and Road Conference on Science and Technology Exchange, Robin Zeng, chairman and CEO of CATL, highlighted the company's readiness to pursue industrial cooperation and share advanced technologies to promote global energy transition. CATL's strategy includes building factories, forming joint ventures and licensing technology to support partners ...
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    SL Corp. establishes new manufacturing facility in Mexico to produce headlight modules
    SL Mex, a subsidiary of South Korea-based automotive supplier SL Corp., established a manufacturing plant in San Luis Potosí, Mexico, local news portal MexicoNow reported June 23. The South Korean supplier invested $45 million in the first phase of the facility, which is located in the Logistik II industrial park in Villa de Reyes. The San Luis Potosí plant will produce headlight modules for global automakers such as BMW, General Motors, Hyundai and Kia. The plant, spread over 8.9 hectar...
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    AEye joins University of Toronto's WinTOR project for autonomous driving research
    AEye, a company specializing in adaptive, high-performance Lidar solutions, has joined the WinTOR project at the University of Toronto, as reported in a press release on June 23. This initiative focuses on creating advancements in autonomous driving, AI and perception technologies. The collaboration aims to develop innovative perception solutions that will enable autonomous vehicles to function effectively in various weather conditions, particularly in challenging situations such as heavy rai...
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    Toshiba launches second smart motor control driver for automotive applications
    Toshiba Electronic Devices & Storage Corp. has initiated sample shipments of the TB9M001FTG, the second offering in its Smart Motor Control Driver series, SmartMCD, as reported in a press release on June 23. The microcontroller in the SmartMCD features a relay driver and a Local Interconnect Network (LIN) transceiver function, making it adept at driving relays and controlling two brushed DC motors, particularly in automotive environments. The product addresses the increasing dem...
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    Continental's AESS collaborates with GlobalFoundries for semiconductor solutions
    According to a press release on June 23, Continental's Automotive group has formed a new organization named Advanced Electronics & Semiconductor Solutions (AESS) to design and verify automotive semiconductors to meet internal demand. GlobalFoundries (GF) has been appointed as the manufacturing partner for AESS.  The initiative aligns with the Automotive board's strategy to invest in technology and increase autonomy. It aims to establish a resilient supply chain, improve product quali...
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    Interior Insight: Honda Jazz Crosstar
    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...
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    Targa Telematics to provide vehicle data management for Volvo Cars in Europe
    Targa Telematics has formed a strategic partnership with Volvo Cars to integrate data from Volvo vehicles across Europe. This collaboration aims to enhance the development of innovative connected mobility solutions. By integrating data streams from Volvo models directly into Targa Telematics' platform, the partnership seeks to simplify vehicle provisioning processes for fleet managers and drivers. The platform will allow for new mobility services using vehicle data, such as kilometers traveled a...
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    PlateSmart and LensLock team up to revolutionize vehicle intelligence for law enforcement
    PlateSmart Technologies, recognized for its collaborations with numerous law enforcement agencies to address crimes and enhance safety, has formed a strategic alliance with LensLock to expand its reach. This collaboration aims to deliver PlateSmart's advanced technology to a wider range of agencies. Kathleen Chigos, president of PlateSmart Technologies, highlighted LensLock's reputation as a reliable provider of high-quality video solutions, emphasizing that this partnership will equip agencies ...
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    QNX and Vector Informatik to jointly develop foundational vehicle software platform
    BlackBerry's QNX division and Vector Informatik GmbH, a provider of embedded automotive systems, have signed a memorandum of understanding to jointly develop a foundational vehicle software platform aimed at accelerating the development of software-defined vehicles (SDVs) and simplifying automotive software integration. This collaboration combines Vector's middleware technology with QNX's safety-certified operating system and integrates with TTTech Auto's MotionWise Schedule, allowi...
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    Ford recalls more than 300,000 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator SUVs for seat switch issue
    Ford is recalling more than 300,000 three-row sport utility vehicles over issues with second-row seats, Autoweek reported June 19. The recall includes 183,427 Ford Explorers and 121,235 Lincoln Aviators from model years 2020 through 2025. The affected vehicles were produced between Oct. 19, 2018, and Nov. 4, 2024, at Ford’s Chicago Assembly Plant in Illinois, US. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) recall report, the easy-entry fold switc...
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    India’s EV charging software startup Kazam raises $6.2 million in Series B funding
    Bengaluru-based electric vehicle charging software startup Kazam has secured $6.2 million in Series B funding from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), alongside existing investors Vertex Ventures Southeast Asia & India and Avaana Capital. This funding round elevates Kazam's total capital raised to $19.2 million, which includes $13 million from previous equity rounds led by Avaana Capital, Vertex Ventures and Chakra Ventures. Kazam intends to use this new investment to e...
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    CATL establishes a new JV to explore robo-taxi segment
    The world's largest battery manufacturer, CATL, has made a strategic move into the robo-taxi sector by establishing a new joint venture with local partners. The new JV, Shanghai Zaofu Intelligent Technology Co. Ltd., was registered in Shanghai and has a capital of 1.288 billion yuan (about $177.5 million). The newly formed company will focus on developing Level 4 autonomous driving technology. The joint effort includes contributions from Hello, Ant Group and CATL, with initial investments ...
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    Motor Fuel Group plans to expand EV charging infrastructure in London
    Motor Fuel Group (MFG), the UK's largest independent forecourt operator, is accelerating efforts to expand its electric vehicle charging infrastructure in London under its EV Power business. The company plans to introduce ultrarapid-charging hubs with 300 to 400-kW EV chargers across London, aiming for a more than 30% increase in charge points within the M25 area. These EV Power Hubs, which average seven bays each, are already operational at locations such as St Paul's Cray, Bu...
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    Euro Manganese signs offtake term sheet with Integrals Power
    Euro Manganese has strategically advanced its position in the battery materials sector by signing a long-term offtake term sheet with UK-based Integrals Power. According to the agreement, Euro Manganese will supply high-purity manganese sulphate monohydrate (HPMSM) from its Chvaletice Manganese Project in the Czech Republic. This collaboration aims to incorporate Euro Manganese's battery-grade HPMSM into Integrals Power's production of lithium manganese iron phosphate (LMFP) cathode materials...
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    ZKW Group appoints Christian Amsel new CTO, effective June 1
    ZKW Group, the Austria-based lighting supplier, announced in a press release on June 17 that Christian Amsel has been appointed as the new chief technology officer, effective June 1. Amsel took over from Udo Hornfeck, who left the company to explore new professional opportunities. Amsel brings to the ZKW Group more than 22 years of experience in automotive electronics and lighting technology. Most recently, he served in chief technology officer roles at Inalfa Roof Systems and Kongsberg Autom...
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    Uno Minda plans $24.2 million investment in new aluminum die-casting facility in India
    Indian automotive supplier Uno Minda Group announced its plan to invest 2.1 billion rupees (about $24.2 million) in establishing a greenfield aluminum die-casting facility in Sambhaji Nagar, Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India, to cater to the increasing demand for electric vehicles, The Hindu Business Line reported June 19. The investment will be carried out in several phases over the next five years, with funding sourced from a balanced mix of internal accruals and debt. The first phase of the p...
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    High-manganese lithium-ion technology: A way around mainland China’s LFP dominance?
    In a time when electric vehicle demand is undergoing a corrective phase, where consumers are having second thoughts about opting for full EVs and are more inclined toward hybrids, making EVs more attractive to buyers is becoming highly important. Central to this objective will be the battery technology, which dictates vehicle range, cost, safety and overall performance. Among emerging battery chemistries, high-manganese lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries — often referred to as lithium manganese...
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    Sweden expands wireless EV charging in Gothenburg with new station
    Sweden's inductive wireless charging project for electric vehicles is expanding with a new charging station at The Swedish Exhibition & Congress Centre in Gothenburg, Sweden. This development is a collaborative effort between Business Region Gothenburg, InductEV and Svenska Mässan Gothia Towers. The announcement came during the EVS38 conference, following a successful three-year trial that involved a fleet of 20 electric Volvo XC40 taxis. These taxis were wirelessly charged via two stati...
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    U Power plans 55 smart battery-swap stations in Hong Kong to advance zero-carbon goals
    U Power Ltd. announced its plan to build 55 smart battery-swap stations in Hong Kong as part of its strategy to promote zero-carbon living, marking a significant move toward the city's zero-emission target by 2050. This initiative, revealed at the inauguration of Hong Kong's first demonstration smart swap station, includes the construction of four bus-only stations and the world's first ferry swap stations. The event was attended by Hong Kong government officials, business leaders and industr...
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    Lectron launches new smart EV chargers with Wi-Fi and app integration
    Lectron announced the release of its new lineup of smart electric vehicle chargers, featuring six models compatible with the most widely used US charging standards. These chargers, now with Wi-Fi connectivity and the Lectron App integration, allow for enhanced control and performance tracking for EV drivers. The lineup includes Portable Level 1 and 2 Chargers and the V-BOX Pro home charging station, all designed with durability and high performance in mind. The Portable Level 1 Charger, ...
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    ChargeHub partners with Hubject to enhance EV charging in North America using Plug&Charge
    ChargeHub, a prominent roaming platform in North America, has announced a partnership with Hubject, a global eMobility ecosystem provider, to enhance electric vehicle charging in North America using the Plug&Charge system. This collaboration merges Hubject's advanced Plug&Charge ecosystem with ChargeHub's EV roaming hub platform, Passport Hub, to offer eMobility service providers (eMSPs) an integrated solution. The partnership is designed to improve access to Hubject's ecosystem for C...
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    Tesla launches driverless Model Y robo-taxi service in Austin with safety monitors
    Tesla has initiated rides in its driverless Model Y sport utility vehicles in Austin, Texas, marking the first significant test to deploy fully autonomous vehicles utilizing cameras and end-to-end AI, according to a report published by TechCrunch on June 22. This approach contrasts with other companies such as Waymo. Tesla sent invitations to selected customers for early access to the robo-taxi service, allowing them to hail rides using a new app for a flat fee of $4.20 per ride. These invitatio...
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    AutoTechInsight Weekly - 23 June 2025
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    Applied Intuition raises $600 million in Series F funding at $15 billion valuation
    According to a press release on June 17, Applied Intuition has secured a $600 million Series F fundraise and tender offer, bringing its valuation to $15 billion. This funding was coled by BlackRock-managed funds and accounts along with Kleiner Perkins, and aims to support the company's advancements in vehicle intelligence, product expansion and global team growth. New investors include Franklin Templeton, Qatar Investment Authority, Abu Dhabi Investment Council, Premji Invest, Stripes, Grey...
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    Zoox opens new robo-taxi production facility in US
    As reported in a press release on June 18, Zoox has launched the first serial production facility for purpose-built robo-taxis in the US, aimed at supporting the company's planned expansion in robo-taxi services across various markets, starting with Las Vegas and San Francisco, and later including Austin and Miami. This new facility, located in Hayward, California, spans 220,000 square feet and is Zoox's second vehicle production site in the Bay Area, while the first, in Fremont, California, foc...
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    X-FAB expands 180-nm XH018 process with new isolation class for enhanced single-photon avalanche diode integration
    As reported in a press release on June 19, X-FAB Silicon Foundries SE has introduced a new isolation class within its 180-nanometer (nm) XH018 semiconductor process to enhance single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD) implementations. This new class supports more compact and efficient SPAD designs, enabling tighter integration, improved pixel density and a higher fill factor, resulting in a reduced chip area. SPADs are vital in applications such as Lidar for autonomous vehicles, 3D imagi...
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    TCS unveils new automotive delivery and engineering centers in Germany and Romania
    Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) announced the establishment of two new Automotive Delivery Centres in Munich and Villingen-Schwenningen, Germany, along with an Engineering Centre in Romania. These new facilities aim to support the transformation of the automotive sector, especially in the software-defined vehicles (SDVs) space. The centers are part of TCS' strategy to enhance its automotive software capabilities, focusing on autonomous driving, infotainment, safety systems and connected veh...
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    SolidRun partners with Consider it GmbH for advanced vehicle-to-everything communication solutions
    SolidRun, a developer of high-performance system-on-module (SoM) solutions and edge computing platforms, is expanding its role within the global vehicle-to-everything (V2X) ecosystem through its collaboration with Consider it GmbH, a German technology company known for the Communication in Traffic (CiT) brand. This partnership integrates SolidRun's i.MX 8XLite SoM into CiT's new CiT One Onboard Unit (OBU) and CiT One Roadside Unit (RSU), which are designed for intelligent transportation sys...
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    Treon launches innovative vehicle monitoring solution for enhanced fleet management
    Finland-based internet of things company Treon announced the launch of Treon Connect Vehicle Monitoring, an extension to its Treon Connect platform. This new solution offers fleet and operations teams comprehensive visibility into vehicle conditions, usage and performance across various types, manufacturers and locations. Treon Connect Vehicle Monitoring integrates effortlessly into existing operational systems, enabling organizations to optimize fleet performance without the need to replac...
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    American Center for Mobility partners with VicOne and Block Harbor for EV charging security
    The American Center for Mobility (ACM), VicOne and Block Harbor have signed a memorandum of understanding to provide security services for electric vehicle charging infrastructure. This initiative, part of ACM's mission to promote safe and secure mobility technologies, aims to enhance the security of EV charging infrastructure, which is increasingly vulnerable to cybersecurity threats. The collaboration will leverage VicOne and Block Harbor's expertise to bolster the ACM's expandi...
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    Xiaomi secures new land parcel in Beijing for its EV manufacturing plans
    Xiaomi Jingxi Technology Co. Ltd., a subsidiary of Xiaomi, has acquired a new land parcel in Beijing's Yizhuang area for 635 million yuan (about $88.39 million). The land spans 485,133.91 square meters and is leased for 50 years. The land parcel is strategically located next to Xiaomi's existing electric vehicle factory and will be used for a new-energy intelligent connected vehicle manufacturing project. Xiaomi, which announced its entry into the automotive sector in March 2021, had signed a...
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    Tata Motors remains unaffected by mainland China’s rare earth export curbs so far
    Tata Motors, India's largest electric vehicle manufacturer, is not experiencing disruptions in sourcing rare earth magnets, despite mainland China's export restrictions. At its 80th Annual General Meeting, Chairman Natarajan Chandrasekaran assured shareholders that the company is managing its supply needs and is exploring alternative sources to ensure future availability. Mainland China dominates the global supply of rare earth elements (REEs), prompting Tata Motors and other automakers wo...
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    Adaptive dampers market to see robust growth amid rising focus on comfort and performance
    Suspension systems are vital to a vehicle’s chassis to ensure good handling and ride comfort. A vehicle’s suspension system mainly relies on two subsystems: Springs and dampers. Springs absorb the initial shock from the road surface. They compress when the vehicle hits a bump and then expand back. The damper controls the springs' energy by slowing down and stopping the vehicle from bouncing too much. Based on the dampin...
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