Author Archives: Ken Zino

About Ken Zino

Ken Zino, editor and publisher of AutoInformed, is a versatile auto industry participant with global experience spanning decades in print and broadcast journalism, as well as social media. He has automobile testing, marketing, public relations and communications experience. He is past president of The International Motor Press Assn, the Detroit Press Club, founding member and first President of the Automotive Press Assn. He is a member of APA, IMPA and the Midwest Automotive Press Assn. He also brings an historical perspective while citing their contemporary relevance of the work of legendary auto writers such as Ken Purdy, Jim Dunne or Jerry Flint, or writers such as Red Smith, Mark Twain, Thomas Jefferson – all to bring perspective to a chaotic automotive universe. Above all, decades after he first drove a car, Zino still revels in the sound of the exhaust as the throttle is blipped during a downshift and the driver’s rush that occurs when the entry, apex and exit points of a turn are smoothly and swiftly crossed. It’s the beginning of a perfect lap. AutoInformed has an editorial philosophy that loves transportation machines of all kinds while promoting critical thinking about the future use of cars and trucks. Zino builds AutoInformed from his background in automotive journalism starting at Hearst Publishing in New York City on Motor and MotorTech Magazines and car testing where he reviewed hundreds of vehicles in his decade-long stint as the Detroit Bureau Chief of Road & Track magazine. Zino has also worked in Europe, and Asia – now the largest automotive market in the world with China at its center.

Stellantis Startup Awards Honor Technology, Innovations

Since the creation of Stellantis in January 2021, the Company has engaged with hundreds of startups and signed more than 40 contracts. Stellantis’ top executives, including Chief Technology Officer Ned Curic, presented each of the finalists with a customized non-fungible token (NFT) trophy. Created by the Stellantis Design Studio, the NFT is an artistic interpretation of intertwined hands expressing the concept that in turbulent times, ideas prevail. Continue reading

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Alpine Sales up 70% at 1710 for Q1 and Q2

“Alpine turned in a remarkable sales performance in the first semester despite the challenging economic context. Over the last 18 months, the brand has set in motion a vigorous dynamic by restructuring, commercial development and the introduction of new models.” Continue reading

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Our Threatened Middle Class: Union Election Petitions Up 58%

This means that by May 25, FY2022, petitions exceeded the total number of petitions filed in all of FY2021. Unfair labor practice charges have  also  increased though Q3 16% from 11,082 to 12,819 as the Biden Administration recovery continues. Continue reading

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Climate Change: UK Automotive CO2 Output Falls in 2021

The report also pulls together data from where its manufacturing members are in meeting the so-called Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi)* Net-Zero Standard, targeting net-zero manufacturing facilities by 2030, and across the company’s entire supply chain by 2039. The question haunting the industry and people inhabiting Planet Earth as the death dealing effects of Global Warming continue unabated is whether this is too little, too late? Continue reading

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Hyundai Again Recalls 2017-18 Ioniq HEVs, PHEVs for Fires

This recall replaces NHTSA recall number 18V-704. Vehicles already repaired under the previous recall will need to have the new repair completed. The main power relay or PRA was made by: LS IS Company in Korea. Continue reading

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Auto Warranty Scams: FCC Acts Against Robocalls and Texts

“Billions of auto warranty robocalls from a single calling campaign. Billions! Auto warranty scams are one of the top complaints we get from consumers and it’s time to hold those responsible for making these junk calls,” said FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel.  Continue reading

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Off the Engine Rails: Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator Recall

Dealers will perform an engine rail strength test and replace the rails as necessary, free of charge as required by Federal regulations. If the engine rails require replacement, owners will have the option for a vehicle replacement or buyback. Continue reading

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Biden Recovery: Transportation Jobs Equal Pre-Pandemic

“In the second quarter of this year, we created more jobs than in any quarter under any of my predecessors in the nearly 40 years before the pandemic. We have more Americans working in the private sector today than any day during Donald Trump’s Presidency – more people than any time in our history,” said President Biden. Continue reading

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CARB to Launch Small Fleet ZEV Conversion Incentives

The pilot will provide $25 million to implement a range of entries to help small fleets make the transition to zero-emissions. These will include flexible financing, short-term rentals, and full-service leases, such as all-inclusive truck-as-a-service options with enhanced incentives and fueling support. The pilot is contained within the larger Hybrid and Zero-Emission Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Project (HVIP). Continue reading

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DOT Wants Airlines to Seat Families Together for Free

“Today’s announcements are the latest steps toward ensuring an air travel system that works for everyone,” said Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “Whether you’re a parent expecting to sit together with your young children on a flight, a traveler with a disability navigating air travel, or a consumer traveling by air for the first time in a while, you deserve safe, accessible, affordable, and reliable airline service.” Continue reading

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Expedition, Navigator Fire Fix Found After NHTSA Alert

Parts are still not available for some vehicles. Moreover, Ford is expanding the population to include a total of 66,221 Expedition and Navigator SUVs in the U.S. built between July 27, 2020 and Aug. 31, 2021 based on further analysis of the causes for the fires. Ford has received 21 reports of under hood fires – including five since the original recall filing in May. Continue reading

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IMSA Prototype Challenge Nixed for VP Racing SportsCar Challenge

All 2023 IMSA VP Racing SportsCar Challenge races will be streamed live in the United States on Peacock, with television coverage airing post-event on USA Network. Live race streaming for international audiences will be available on IMSA.com. This in AutoInformed’s view is the core IMSA problem – the lack of consistent access to all the races for all fans. Continue reading

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US International Trade Deficit Decreased in May 2022

The May decrease in the goods and services deficit reflected a decrease in the goods deficit of $2.9 billion to $105.0 billion and a decrease in the services surplus of $1.7 billion to $19.4 billion. The average goods and services deficit decreased $0.9 billion to $93.3 billion for the three months ending in May. Continue reading

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Mercedes-Benz Starting Global E-Learning for Employees

This – it’s claimed – will offer employees an unprecedented variety of opportunities to learn independently and flexibly for their current job or future dream job. Free access to the entire range of platforms also gives employees the opportunity to pursue further training according to their personal interests. The company also bears the costs for the licenses here. The rollout will start gradually in the third quarter in administration and in first pilot areas of production. Continue reading

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Infrastructure Law Funds Improving Airport Terminals

“Americans deserve modern airports that meet the needs of their families and growing passenger demand. Funded through President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, today’s grants will improve airport terminals while also creating good jobs in communities across the country,” said US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. Continue reading

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