Category Archives: engineering

IP Software Failure – Hyundai Recalls Genesis Models

Posted on 3 March 2025 by Ken Zino

“An inoperative or degraded IP cluster image could mask essential gauges, such as the speedometer, fuel gauge, and certain on-screen notifications associated with motive powertrain, increasing the risk of a crash,” Hyundai told the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in the mandatory safety defect recall filing, which is apparently still operating with hard-working people in spite of the Trump Administration. Continue reading →

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Software Bugs – VW Recalling Golf GTI Models

Posted on 3 March 2025 by Ken Zino

Volkswagen Group of America is recalling more than 8000 model year 2022-2024 Golf GTI vehicles. A software error may delay or deactivate the rearview camera image, resulting in the rearview camera image not displaying as designed.

The recall population was determined by reviewing factory vehicle build and vehicle maintenance records to identify vehicles that are equipped with the entry infotainment system software versions 1766 or 1767. Vehicles not included in this recall were built with, or updated to, entry infotainment system software version 1805,” VW told the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in the mandatory safety defect recall filing, which is apparently still operating with hard-working government employees in spite of the Trump Administration. Continue reading →

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AC GT Roadster Debut at ModaMiami Tomorrow

Posted on 28 February 2025 by Ken Zino

AC Cars* said today that it is debuting the AC GT Roadster at ModaMiami at the start of March before it kicks off its first client test drives and viewing appointments in the United States. Britain’s oldest active vehicles manufacturer said “it will be showing the iconically styled, but highly advanced, modern sports car to guests at The Biltmore Hotel luxury show, ahead if its initial client engagement events in the US over the following weeks. With the first two years of production already sold, AC cars will also host reception appointments in Miami for the exclusive roadster as it allocates the next round of limited production spaces.” Continue reading →

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First Glance – 800-Volt Volvo ES90

Posted on 26 February 2025 by Ken Zino

Volvo (VOLCAR B:STO) said today that its new, fully electric car – the impending Volvo ES90 sedan – has new 800-volt technology in its latest electric model offering. The ES90 will be revealed globally on 5 March 2025.

“Our 800V technology marks another significant technological upgrade for our customers as we move towards full electrification,” said Anders Bell, chief engineering and technology officer. “It makes our electric cars even more efficient, helps you charge your electric Volvo faster and go further on a single charge.” Continue reading →

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Pleos – Hyundai Motor Group’s Autonomous Software

Posted on 25 February 2025 by Ken Zino

Hyundai Motor Group (KRX: 005380 KS) said today that it is recruiting participants for its new developer conference, called Pleos 25, which will be held at COEX, Seoul, on Friday 28 March. The conference aims to accelerate the transition to a software-defined vehicle (SDV) development system and expand the app ecosystem for Hyundai Motor, Kia and Genesis vehicles. It will unveil ‘Pleos,’ a new software brand that is said to represent the Group’s vision and commitment to providing smart and sustainable mobility solutions and a self-managed, fully autonomous transportation infrastructure. Continue reading →

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Annals of Marketing – Honda Dream Up Anything

Posted on 24 February 2025 by Ken Zino

Honda said today that its all-new 2026 Passport makes its television debut today as part of a new model launch campaign. The multi-channel campaign, led by the 2026 Passport TrailSport, introduces what’s said to be the most off-road capable Honda SUV ever to take weekend explorers further off the beaten path where their next adventure awaits.

“Dream Up Anything uses a series of animated brush strokes to mirror the slope and shape of rugged terrains to draw a connection between the all-new adventure vehicle Honda engineers dreamed up and the challenging roads Passport owners will strive to conquer. The spot is set to a soundtrack by Good People, a single by Mumford & Sons and Pharrell Williams,” Honda said. Continue reading →

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Mercedes-Benz Testing Solid State Battery on Roads

Posted on 24 February 2025 by Ken Zino

Mercedes-Benz said today that its engineers from the road and racetrack worked in collaboration with Factorial cell engineers to deliver an all-new solid-state battery test program, resulting in the first car – a Mercedes-Benz EQS Sedan – powered by a lithium-metal solid-state battery on the road.

“Developing an automotive-scale solid-state battery underlines our commitment to innovation and sustainability. We’re therefore excited to announce that we’ve started road testing with a prototype vehicle equipped with this advanced technology. We will gain crucial insights into possible series integration of this cutting-edge battery technology,” said Markus Schäfer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes‑Benz Group AG. Chief Technology Officer, Development & Procurement. Continue reading →

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Stellantis Unveils STLA AutoDrive

Posted on 20 February 2025 by Ken Zino

Stellantis (NYSE: STLA) today debuted  STLA AutoDrive 1.0, the Company’s first in-house-developed automated driving system. It claims to deliver Hands-Free and Eyes-Off (SAE Level 3) functionality. STLA AutoDrive is a key to Stellantis’ technology strategy, alongside STLA Brain and STLA Smart Cockpit, by advancing vehicle intelligence, automation and user experience. STLA AutoDrive enables automated driving at speeds up to 60 km/h (37 mph), reducing driver workload in stop-and-go traffic. It’s described as ideal for commuters in dense urban areas since , STLA AutoDrive will allow drivers to temporarily engage in non-driving tasks such as watching a movie, catching up on emails, reading a book or simply looking out the window, reclaiming valuable time. Continue reading →

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GM Recalls Sierra 1500 Trucks for Grilles Flying Off

Posted on 17 February 2025 by Ken Zino

General Motors (NYSE: GM) is recalling more than 70,000 2022 model GMC Sierra 1500 pickup trucks equipped with chrome front grille deflectors. The attachments that hold the front grille deflectors in place may fracture, resulting in grille detachment, according to the mandatory safety defect filing made public by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration today. Continue reading →

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Hyundai Motor America recalls 2025 IONIQ 5 EVs

Posted on 17 February 2025 by Ken Zino

Hyundai Motor America is recalling 2025 IONIQ 5 EV vehicles. The rear floor wiring harness may contain an open circuit, which can result in the rear side airbag not deploying as intended, according to the mandatory safety recall filing made public by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration today. The driving will see the Illumination of the airbag warning lamp. A rear side airbag non-deployment may increase the risk of injury to occupants during crashes warranting commanded deployment of the SRS. Continue reading →

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Volvo Car USA Recalls EX90s for Headlight Failures

Posted on 17 February 2025 by Ken Zino

Volvo Car USA is recalling 2025 EX90 electric full-size SUVs. Due to a software error in the low power controller (LPC), the headlight shutters may close over the high and low beams while driving, according to the mandatory safety recall filing made public today by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. A Temporary DIM message is displayed for 2-3 seconds during the safety defect. Continue reading →

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J.D. Power – Three Year Old Vehicle Problems Up

Posted on 14 February 2025 by Ken Zino

The results of this year’s study are consistent with the results of the J.D. Power 2022 Initial Quality StudySM which tracked problems early in the ownership period of 2022 model-year vehicles. That year, initial vehicle quality notably declined from 2021, and problems also reached a record high. Three years later, the issues continue to be problematic for owners, according to findings of the 2025 VDS. (read Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Vehicle Quality Flaws at 36-Year Record High) Continue reading →

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Magna Expands Partnership with Mercedes-Benz

Posted on 12 February 2025 by Ken Zino

Magna said this week that it is expanding its work with Mercedes-Benz.* Heretofore the relationship has spanned multiple areas of the vehicle, including powertrain and drivetrain systems, ADAS technologies, body and chassis components, electrification, interior systems, and vehicle assembly.

“Strong partnerships with our customers are essential for driving innovation and advancing the automotive industry,” said Eric Wilds, Magna Chief Strategy & Commercial Officer. “Our continued partnership with Mercedes-Benz exemplifies how working together can lead to groundbreaking solutions and mutual success.” Continue reading →

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Toyota Recalls 2024-2025 Tacoma Models for Bad Brakes

Posted on 11 February 2025 by Ken Zino

Toyota Motor North America is recalling more than 106,000 model 2024-2025 Tacoma 4-wheel-drive vehicles built in Mexico and California. The clearance between the rear brake hose and wheel may allow mud and dirt to build up, which can damage the brake hose and lead to a brake fluid leak. Continue reading →

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Ford Recalls Expeditions, Super Dutys and Lincoln Corsairs

Posted on 10 February 2025 by Ken Zino

Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) is recalling more than 72,000 model 2021 Expedition, 2021-2022 Super Duty F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, F-600, and 2020-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles. The rearview camera may display a blank or distorted image.

In the required safety defect recall notification  made public by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration this morning, Ford said it doesn’t have fix for the safety defect. The remedy is currently under development. Continue reading →

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