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.

DOJ – Cruise Deferred Prosecution for Pedestrian Crash

GM’s Cruise autonomous vehicle company* based in San Francisco, fixed a criminal charge in federal court for providing a false record to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) with the intent to impede, obstruct, or influence the investigation of a crash involving one of Cruise’s autonomous vehicles. Cruise has agreed to resolve the charge through a deferred prosecution agreement and payment of a $500,000 criminal fine.

“Federal laws and regulations are in place to protect public safety on our roads. Companies with self-driving cars that seek to share our roads and crosswalks must be fully truthful in their reports to their regulators,” said Martha Boersch, Chief of the Office of the U.S. Attorney’s Criminal Division. Continue reading

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Toyota Huntsville Finishes 168-acre Solar Array

Toyota (NYSE: TM) and Toyota Tsusho America (TAI) and Huntsville Utilities have completed 168-acre solar project. The renewable energy produced will generate ~70 % of Toyota Alabama’s total energy. It is in keeping with the automaker’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality at all of its North American facilities by 2035. In total, the array will generate approximately 62,000 megawatt hours of energy annually, reducing an estimated 22,000 metric tons of CO2 emissions per year.

“Toyota is committed to clean and sustainable power. We know that the collective future for our community and our team members depends on clean mobility, clean air, clean water, and biodiversity,” said Jason Puckett, president of Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Alabama. “We are thankful for our partners on this project who have created a model of environmental stewardship in North Alabama.” Continue reading

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October Global Light Vehicle Sales Rate at 93 Million

The Global Light Vehicle (LV) selling rate for October stood at 93 million units/year, according to an analysis released today by the respected GlobalData consultancy.* Year-over-Year, market volumes rebounded from the previous months’ downward trend. YoY sales were up 6% versus October 2023. However, Year-to-Date sales have a modest increase of 1% compared to the same period last year.

“In October, sales experienced a resurgence across most regions. Sales in China grew 5% YoY, as the domestic market saw a modest recovery driven by subsidies and the ongoing price war. In the US, sales grew nearly 12% for the month, driven by additional selling days and new model releases. Finally, sales in Western Europe remained broadly flat, as the region continues to experience significant political and economic headwinds,” the GlobalData forecast team said. Continue reading

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On Sale? New Vehicle Incentives Rise in October

Kelley Blue Book data reported today shows that the average transaction price (ATP) for a new vehicle in the U.S. was $48,623 in October, up from September and higher than year-ago levels. Incentives increased again as many automakers try to clear their inventory. The electric vehicle ATP dropped month-over-month, but was higher year over year, with incentives at their highest level this year.

“’Tis the season for automakers to make their final push for 2024 sales,” said Cox Automotive Executive Analyst Erin Keating. “While some automakers focus on managing production, many will likely maintain or even increase their seasonal incentives to attract buyers. With competition intensifying, these strategies will be crucial in maintaining market share and driving end-of-year sales. Our team is generally optimistic for new-vehicle sales to close out the year – extra incentives will certainly help.” Continue reading

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Vast Executive Reorganization at Hyundai Group

José Muñoz as President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company is the first non-Korean CEO of Hyundai Motor. Hyundai said he is the ideal fit to further enhance the company’s performance thanks to his merit-based management philosophy and his commitment to recruiting top global talent. Going forward, he is expected to enhance the company’s global management systems and further elevate its stature as a leading global brand. Continue reading

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National Recycling Plan Advancing Circular Economy

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today said its “National Recycling Strategy” is advancing through implementation of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.* EPA is central to the Biden-Harris administration’s efforts to build a circular economy thereby creating jobs and helping the environment. Since 1997, EPA has celebrated the nation’s progress on recycling. This year, EPA is encouraging organizations and individuals to continue expanding the ways they reduce, reuse and recycle. Together with investments from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA’s work has helped to transform recycling and solid waste management across the nation. It was not immediately clear if the incoming Administration is the result of recycled garbage. Continue reading

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First Look New 2025 Acura ADX Compact SUV

Acura today unveiled the  Acura ADX, an all-new premium compact SUV. It’s targeting young buyers to the performance brand with ”an engaging driving experience, a feature-rich interior and top-class cabin and cargo space that supports their active lifestyles.” The new ADX will begin arriving at Acura dealers in early 2025 with a price range starting in the mid-$30,000 range at a time when performance is losing its appeal to younger shoppers, who are viewing car buying as a mathematical equation with lower prices winning.

“The all-new Acura ADX is an exciting new gateway model for the Acura brand expanding our performance SUV lineup to four exceptional models in the most popular segments,” said Mike Langel, assistant vice president, Acura National Sales. “ADX will hit the heart of the premium compact SUV segment, which has grown significantly over the past few years.” Continue reading

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Chinese EV Trade Wars Hits Volvo Cars

Volvo Cars (VOLCAR B:STO) today announced the selling of its 30% stake in Lynk & Co to Zeekr, a transaction representing a consideration of RMB 5.4 billion (~ SEK 8 billion). The transaction will be paid in cash, with 70% of the amount paid at closing, and 30% plus interest paid one year after closing. The transaction is expected to close during the first quarter of 2025. Volvo Cars is currently trading near its all time low.

The transaction involves Volvo Cars (China) Investment Co., Ltd, an indirect subsidiary of Volvo Car AB, selling its share in Lynk & Co Automotive Technology Co., Ltd to Zhejiang Zeekr Intelligent Technology Co., Ltd, an indirect subsidiary of Zeekr Intelligent Technology Holding Limited. Continue reading

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NHTSA Fines Ford $165M for Flouting Recall Law

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration today announced a consent order with Ford Motor Company for failing to comply with federal recall requirements. The consent order includes a civil penalty of $165 million, the second-largest civil penalty in NHTSA’s history after the Takata airbag fiasco and the Takata airbag consent order.

“Timely and accurate recalls are critical to keeping everyone safe on our roads,” NHTSA Deputy Administrator Sophie Shulman said. “NHTSA is committed to ensuring manufacturers comply with the laws designed to keep our roads safe. When manufacturers fail to prioritize the safety of the American public and meet their obligations under federal law, NHTSA will hold them accountable.” Continue reading

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NLRB Rules Against Anti-Union Captive-Audience Meetings

The National Labor Relations Board today issued a decision in Amazon.com Services LLC, ruling that an employer violates the National Labor Relations Act by requiring employees under threat of discipline or discharge to attend meetings in which the employer expresses its views on unionization. Members Prouty and Wilcox joined Chairman McFerran in issuing the decision. Member Kaplan – a Trump appointee – dissented. Continue reading

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GM Recall for Wheel Lockup on Diesel Pickups and SUVs

General Motors (NYSE: GM) is recalling ~462,000 pickup trucks and large SUVs with diesel engines because the rear wheels can lock, increasing the risk of a crash, according to a required recall report made public by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The huge U.S. safety defect recall covers 2020-2022 model year Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickups, as well as the 2021 Cadillac Escalade, GMC Yukon, Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban.

“A transmission control valve in some of these vehicles may be susceptible to excess wear over time, resulting in a gradual loss of pressure within the valve that can cause harsh shifting. In rare cases, the rear wheels may experience a momentary lock up,” GM said in the mandatory filing. “Excessive wear within the transmission control valve body can cause a fluid leak leading to a pressure drop that causes certain valves to move unexpectedly,” GM said. Continue reading

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First Look – Freshened VW 2025 Golf GTI and Golf R

Volkswagen of America says that the 2025 Golf GTI will be offered in three trim levels – S, SE and Autobahn. In addition to the 2025 Golf R, a new Golf R Black Edition joins the line. However, at a time when car shoppers are sunning expensive models, pricing and availability for the 2025 Golf GTI and Golf R will be announced closer to an undisclosed launch date. Kelley Blue Book data shows that the average transaction price (ATP) for a new vehicle in the U.S. was $48,623 in October, up from September and higher than year-ago levels. Incentives increased again as many automakers work to clear their inventory.

“Golf R offers a 13 horsepower increase, making this the most powerful Golf model ever produced by Volkswagen. Refreshed exterior and interior designs offer a more modern and stylish look, with new color options, wheel designs, interior accents, and upgraded infotainment,” VW said in a release. Continue reading

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McKinsey and Hire Heroes USA – Bridging Veteran Career Gaps

McKinsey& Company said today that it is working with Hire Heroes USA to bridge the career gap for veterans. About 60% of the estimated 150,000 U.S. active-duty service members who transition from the military each year earn less during their first year after being discharged versus what they earned during active duty, according to a recent McKinsey article.

“Hire Heroes USA gave me the confidence and tools to return to the workforce. After six years out of the workforce, three years battling cancer, I didn’t know how to navigate job searches and resume writing,” said Samantha Bell, a U.S. Navy veteran who works as a clinical instructor in ABA therapy. “The coaching, friendship, and resources were invaluable as someone who felt lost and alone.” Continue reading

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VW Ensnared in More Takata Airbag Shrapnel Recalls

Volkswagen Group of America is recalling 2017-2019 model year Beetle, Beetle Convertible, 2012-2014 Passat, 2017 Passat Wagon, and 2006-2007 Passat Sedan vehicles, according to documents made public today by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Volkswagen had been refusing to recall the inflators arguing since 2020 about NHTSA’s interpretation of Takata defect data.*

“The driver’s side frontal air bag inflator may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling,” VW said in the required safety defect recall filing. Volkswagens included in this recall are equipped with the Takata SDI-D driver frontal airbag. “An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death,” VW acknowledged. Continue reading

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Renesas and Nidec Announce New EV E-Axle Systems

Renesas Electronics Corporation (TSE: 6723)* today announced what it claims is the world’s first “8-in-1” proof of concept (PoC) for E-Axle systems for electric vehicles. It controls eight functions using a single microcontroller (MCU). Developed in collaboration with Nidec Corporation, this PoC integrates a motor, a reduction gear, an inverter, a DC/DC converter, and an on-board battery charger (OBC). System-level testing was also completed to ensure its performance. This of course awaits verification in deployments on the road.

“The E-Axle is a unit in EVs that combines a drive motor, a gear, and an inverter. By integrating multiple functions, the E-Axle system can reduce system size and weight, simplifying EV design. Renesas provided key components, including semiconductors and a reference design for the new 8-in-1 E-Axle system. Renesas also plans to deliver turnkey semiconductor solutions for various X-in-1 systems based on the reference design verified through this PoC. Armed with these solutions, developers can implement and evaluate X-in-1 systems instantly, accelerating EV development,” Renesas said. Continue reading

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