Category Archives: global warming

Mazda and Panasonic Link on Cylindrical Lithium-Ion Batteries

Posted on 6 September 2024 by Ken Zino

Panasonic Energy Company and Mazda Motor Corporation today announced that they will prepare for the supply of next-generation cylindrical automotive lithium-ion batteries, in anticipation of their installation in Mazda’s battery electric vehicles with scheduled production from 2027 onward. In a release they said this follows their formerly concluded agreement and reflects their aim of establishing a medium- to long-term partnership.

Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry also approved today their joint project for the expansion of battery production and technology development as part of its plan for establishing a stable supply of batteries. The Japanese government has positioned storage batteries as a strategic asset for achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, and is working to expand the domestic battery supply chains and improve industrial competitiveness. Continue reading →

Posted in alternative fuels, auto news, electric vehicles, electronics, environment, global warming, manufacturing, milestones, news analysis, public health, shows and events | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

EV Grumblings – Hyundai Motor Changes Its Way

Posted on 28 August 2024 by Ken Zino

Hyundai Motor said today it intends to leverage its expertise to bolster its position in the hybrid market under its new Hyundai Dynamic Capabilities strategy, a flexible response to the EV market based on core capabilities. Executive summary – Hyundai is modifying its EV strategy in the face of weak EV demand. Under this change in ways, Hyundai will expand the application of its hybrid system beyond compact and mid-size cars to small, large and luxury vehicles. This will increase its current range from seven to 14 models. This expansion will encompass not only Hyundai vehicles but also its luxury brand, Genesis, which will offer a hybrid option for all models, excluding those that are exclusively electric.

“In the electrification era, Hyundai has distinguished itself by rapidly launching a comprehensive lineup of EVs, catering not only to mass-market brands but also to the luxury and high-performance segments,” said Jaehoon Chang, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company. “Building on our advanced technology and dedication to innovation, we aim to secure a leading position in the market as the adoption of electrified vehicles gains momentum.” Continue reading →

Posted in auto news, electric vehicles, electronics, engineering, global warming, manufacturing, marketing, mobility company, news analysis, shows and events, software defined vehicles | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Mercedes-Benz 2025 GLC PHEV – 54 Miles Electric Range

Posted on 23 August 2024 by Ken Zino

Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) said this morning in Atlanta that the new 2025 GLC 350e 4MATIC SUV is best in its class at 54 miles of all-electric range, according to EPA certification [see footnotes below – 1]. The Hybrid SUV is available now at U.S. dealerships starting from $59,900 [2].

This in German marketing theory makes “most daily commutes more flexible and economical in all-electric mode without the need to rely on the internal combustion engine.” Further optimizing efficiency, the “Hybrid” drive program prioritizes electric propulsion for the most appropriate driving situations, for example, during city driving. The standard 60-kW DC charging capacity enables a full battery charge to be achieved in as little as 30 minutes. Continue reading →

Posted in auto news, electric vehicles, engineering, environment, fuel economy or emissions, global warming, milestones, mobility company, news analysis, public health | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Shareholder Warning – Ford Delays Next Gen Electric Truck

Posted on 21 August 2024 by Ken Zino

Electric vehicle consumers currently, so to speak, are more cost-conscious than early adopters, looking to electric vehicles as a practical way to save money on fuel and maintenance, as well as time by charging at home. This, along with numerous new electric vehicle choices coming to market during the next 12 months , as well as rising compliance requirements, has multiplied pricing pressures. In short (groan) all automakers to survive must have  globally competitive cost structure, emphasizing some customer and product segments to ensure profitable growth and capital efficiency. Continue reading →

Posted in alternative fuels, electric vehicles, environment, global warming, manufacturing, mobility company, new vehicle, news analysis, shows and events, software defined vehicles | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Customer Deliveries Start – for GMC Sierra EV Denali Edition 1

Posted on 21 August 2024 by Ken Zino

GMC said today that prospective customers can now purchase the 2024 GMC Sierra EV Denali Edition 1 from dealers across the country. The all-electric pickup truck has 440 miles of GM-estimated range with a full charge [see footnote 1 below], GMC “exclusive” CrabWalk mode [3], MultiPro MidGateTM and 10,000 pounds max towing capacity [4] from a GM-estimated 754 horsepower and 785 lb.-ft. of torque in Max Power mode [2]. This by our count means that GMC is the only US brand now with three EV trucks, which won’t likely last long given the US vehicle popularity of trucks. Just bring money –  prices begin at $97,500, plus the $1995 destination charge. Continue reading →

Posted in auto news, electric vehicles, environment, fuel economy or emissions, global warming, marketing, news analysis, shows and events | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Acura Performance EV Concept Debuts

Posted on 16 August 2024 by Ken Zino

“The Acura Performance EV Concept kicks off the exciting next step in our electrification strategy, showcasing the styling direction of our next all-new, all-electric Acura model that will debut next year,” said Mike Langel, assistant vice president, Acura National Sales. “Building on the just-launched all-electric 2024 Acura ZDX, our next all-electric Acura SUV will continue our focus on delivering Acura clients an exhilarating driving experience in the electrified future.” Continue reading →

Posted in concept, design and styling, electric vehicles, global warming, marketing, news analysis, performance, shows and events | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

West European July New Car Market Diesel Share at ~15%

Posted on 16 August 2024 by Ken Zino

In July, for the 12th month in a row, diesel* captured around 15% of the region’s new car market, according to an analysis released today by the respected GlobalData consultancy.**

“In fact, the preliminary July result was exactly that figure with June being confirmed at 14.2%. July historically is a robust month for diesel sales though the reason for this isn’t clear. So, while the MoM diesel share was positive, the YoY comparison was more negative than seen in June,” said the GlobalData European Light Vehicle Powertrain Forecasting Team. Continue reading →

Posted in auto news, environment, fuel economy or emissions, global warming, manufacturing, marketing, news analysis, sales | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

GM Has Renewable Solar Power Deal for Three Plants

Posted on 15 August 2024 by Ken Zino

“By expanding our renewable electricity portfolio, we are taking a major step forward in reducing our carbon footprint and advancing our broader sustainability goals,” says Rob Threlkeld, GM director of global energy strategy. “This facility not only supports our renewable electricity strategy, but also demonstrates our dedication to a sustainable future for all.” Continue reading →

Posted in alternative fuels, auto news, environment, global warming, manufacturing, news analysis | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Bosch Buys HVAC businesses from Johnson Controls, Hitachi

Posted on 24 July 2024 by Ken Zino

The businesses Bosch wants to buy had  sales revenue totaling ~€4 billion in 2023, employing ~12,000 people worldwide. The transaction includes 16 manufacturing sites and 12 engineering locations in more than 30 countries. The product portfolio covers vast HVAC products for residential and light commercial buildings. This includes brands such as York and Coleman in the U.S. and Hitachi in Asia, for which Bosch will be granted a long-term license. Continue reading →

Posted in electronics, energy, engineering, environment, global warming, manufacturing, marketing, milestones, news analysis | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Fleet Owners with EVs and Traditional Vehicles Favor EVs

Posted on 23 July 2024 by Ken Zino

“The electric-vehicle story is much larger than just the retail story,” said Zo Rahim, senior analyst of Research and Market Intelligence at Cox Automotive. “In many ways, electric vehicles can be an ideal solution for many fleet operations, which often have set routes of known distances, vehicles that routinely overnight in the same location, and operations that prioritize the cost of ownership. The fleet business is significant in the U.S. market, and we expect the EV share of the fleet market to expand in the coming years.” Continue reading →

Posted in alternative fuels, customer satisfaction, electric vehicles, environment, global warming, news analysis, transportation | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

EPA Grant to Holcim U.S. for Clean Cement

Posted on 16 July 2024 by Ken Zino

In the U.S., Holcim is the largest cement manufacturer and a top five producer of aggregates and ready-mix concrete, with approximately 7000 employees. Holcim’s so-called Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) Accelerator Project will increase the transparency of data on environmental emissions associated with the production of construction materials; generate robust EPDs with a diversity of manufacturers from across the U.S.; and drive market demand for lower carbon construction materials. These projects represent the three construction materials in Holcim’s portfolio: cement, asphalt, and ultra-high-performance concrete. Continue reading →

Posted in economy, environment, global warming, manufacturing, milestones, news analysis, public health | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Polestar 6 Concept EV Hill Climbing at Goodwood

Posted on 11 July 2024 by Ken Zino

Polestar (Nasdaq: PSNY) is at Goodwood Festival of Speed showing its expanded model line-up with the new Polestar 3 and Polestar 4 electric SUVs joining the Polestar 2. They are accompanied by the Polestar 6 Concept, marking the dynamic debut for the electric roadster concept.

“Now we are a brand with three models in production it’s great to see them here together for the first time at a global event. Goodwood Festival of Speed is full of the most exciting cars and the most enthusiastic crowds,” said Thomas Ingenlath, CEO of Polestar, a Chinese-owned company. Continue reading →

Posted in connected vehicles, electric vehicles, global warming, marketing, performance, shows and events | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Honda CR-V Fuel Cell EV – $389 a Month!

Posted on 28 June 2024 by Ken Zino

Honda this week announced lease options for the 2025 Honda CR-V e:FCEV, America’s first production plug-in hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle. The zero-emissions compact CUV will be available in California starting 9 July, with three leasing options, at $389, $459, and $489 per month. This is a form of space age NASA advanced technology at Honda prices without the requisite trip to the moon, unless you have those views about California. Continue reading →

Posted in auto news, electric vehicles, energy, environment, fuel economy or emissions, global warming, milestones, mobility company, new vehicle, news analysis | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Stellantis Updates Circular Economy Initiatives at IARC

Posted on 19 June 2024 by Ken Zino

“Since the introduction of SUSTAINera, in 2022, we achieved very positive results in areas such as parts re-manufacturing, battery recycling and end-of-life vehicles”, said Alison Jones, Senior Vice President of Stellantis’ Global Circular Economy, who delivered a keynote presentation at International Automotive Recycling Congress (IARC), in Antwerp, Belgium. “We remain committed to our target to increase recycling revenues by ten times and achieve more than €2 billion in total circular economy revenues by 2030 – fully in line with Stellantis’ Dare Forward 2030 strategic plan.” Continue reading →

Posted in economy, environment, global warming, mobility company, news analysis, public health, shows and events | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Chinese Trade Wars – Exports Growing, Prices Dropping

Posted on 17 June 2024 by Ken Zino

Two very real problems are increasing for non-Chinese global automakers. First, is the penetration rate. This is the market share of the vehicles that are the future of the companies that will survive what is an historic reshaping of a global industry. Here, so-called New Electric Vehicles – [NEVs – battery electric vehicles, plug-in hybrids and range-extended electric vehicles combined] that have been heavy promoted, subsidized and pushed forward by the Chinese government are now accounting a 43% share in April, an historic high. The economies of scale are enormous and a clear Chinese competitive advantage. Continue reading →

Posted in auto news, economy, electric vehicles, electronics, environment, global warming, manufacturing, marketing, mobility company, news analysis, public health, sales, software defined vehicles | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment