Category Archives: environment

IIHS President – NHTSA Must Act Decisively on Fatal Crashes

Posted on 26 June 2025 by Ken Zino

Faster, more decisive action is required from America’s vehicle safety regulator is needed “to reverse a drastic escalation in fatal crashes on the nation’s roadways,” David Harkey, president of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, said at a Congressional hearing today.

“The United States is in the middle of a road safety emergency, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is failing to meet the moment,” Harkey said in written testimony submitted to the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Energy and Commerce’s Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade, which convened the hearing on the state of NHTSA and motor vehicle safety. Continue reading →

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ACEA – May 2025 EU Car Sales Flat. Tesla Down Again!

Posted on 25 June 2025 by Ken Zino

During the May 2025 year-to-date (YTD) period, new EU car registrations fell by 0.6% compared to the same period last year, according to data released today by the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association, aka ACEA at AutoInformed based on its original French name. Notably, the anti Elon Musk backlash continued as Tesla sales dropped to 13,863 from 19,227 or -27.9% YoY in May. Year-to Date sales of Musk-mobiles are off -37.1% at 75,196, down from 119,482 YoY.

The lobbying group of 15 major European automakers said that, “Nonetheless, year-on-year (YOY) registrations for May increased by 1.6% compared to the same month last year.” Continue reading →

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SMMT Lauds Launch of UK Industrial Strategy

Posted on 24 June 2025 by Ken Zino

The UK automotive industry today has vowed to build on the foundations laid by government’s Industrial Strategy published yesterday with a 10-point plan to drive the UK back into the top 15 of global vehicle manufacturing locations by 2030 and deliver a £50 billion economic boost over the next decade. {See footnote 1] This is from the home of the Brexit disaster of  British political thinking.

Mike Hawes, Chief Executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) speaking at the industry’s annual Summit in London today said “Government’s long-term Industrial Strategy, including the Drive35 £2.5 billion auto capital and R&D fund, recognizes automotive as a pillar of advanced manufacturing, integral to the world leading innovation that creates the high value jobs, wealth and economic growth that are vital to our country’s future. Now we must make the most of that position and put in place the right conditions for growth.” Continue reading →

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Classic Land Rover Defender Coming to U.S. as an EV

Posted on 19 June 2025 by Ken Zino

“We’ve always believed that great design should last – and with the right technology, it can have a second life that’s even more meaningful,” said Osman Boyner, Founder and CEO of BEDEO. “Partnering with Monarch Defender feels natural; we both share a deep respect for the Defender’s legacy, and a passion for pushing things forward. This partnership is about bringing our technology to the right hands. Monarch Defender understands what makes the Defender so special to people – and they know how to elevate that experience without losing its soul.” Continue reading →

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Honda Joins American Red Cross Disaster Giving List

Posted on 18 June 2025 by Ken Zino

“We are proud to build on our longstanding commitment to American Red Cross disaster recovery efforts,” said Jennifer Thomas, senior vice president of Corporate Affairs, American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “Through the Annual Disaster Giving Program, we will strengthen the ability of the Red Cross to provide immediate support when it is needed in communities across America, where Honda associates, customers, dealers and suppliers live and work.” Continue reading →

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Nissan Shows All-New Third-Generation LEAF

Posted on 17 June 2025 by Ken Zino

Nissan Motor Company (7201T and NSANY ADR) today unveiled the all-new 2026 LEAF. The all-new LEAF will reach U.S. Nissan dealerships in the Fall, with other markets to follow, subject to the of the man who would be King, aka Donald Trump. The all-new Nissan LEAF will be assembled for the U.S. and Canada markets alongside the Ariya at Nissan’s Tochigi plant in Japan.

“Completely reimagined with clean, dynamic body lines, the third-generation LEAF combines a sleek profile with an SUV-like stance. Inside, a refined, minimalist cabin is optimized for roominess, comfort and wellbeing to accommodate all of life’s journeys. With over 15 years of proven dependability and the customer insights of almost 700,000 global sales, the all-new LEAF builds on the model’s DNA of reliable, affordable and attractive EV ownership, delivering strong value for the mass-market,” Nissan said. Continue reading →

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Bike Lane Delivery – Honda Shows Fastport eQuad Prototype

Posted on 17 June 2025 by Ken Zino

Honda (7267.T and NYSE: HMC) today announced the establishment of Fastport, a new business dedicated to transforming the last-mile delivery industry with what it calls “innovative micromobility solutions.” Fastport uses the Honda Mobile Power Pack (MPP) swappable batteries and is a software-defined vehicle (SDV) project. The Fastport eQuad in theory will help address urban congestion and rising consumer demand for faster, more frequent deliveries.

“The Fastport team has worked tirelessly to create the Fastport eQuad, a zero-emission alternative to delivery vans that solves the challenge of last mile urban logistics by meeting the needs of urban residents expecting on-demand deliveries of packages, groceries and other items,” said Jose Wyszogrod, general manager and founding member of Fastport. “Drawing from the deep knowledge of Honda design and engineering talent in the U.S., the Fastport eQuad is a testament to the commitment of Honda to advancing a more sustainable future through innovative mobility solutions.” Continue reading →

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CARB Blasts Trump’s Attack on California Clean Air Act

Posted on 12 June 2025 by Ken Zino

Today the California Air Resources Board Chair Liane Randolph responded to President Trump signing” illegal actions” attacking California’s Clean Air Act waivers for Advanced Clean Cars II, Advanced Clean Trucks, and Heavy-Duty Engine and Vehicle Omnibus. The California Attorney General is challenging the actions in Federal court.

“Despite the President’s signature, this remains an unconstitutional, illegal, and foolish attempt to undermine California’s clean air protections. We welcome Governor Newsom’s and California Attorney General Bonta’s prompt legal action and look forward to judicial review. In the meantime, CARB will use every tool at its disposal to continue our critical work to clean the air and address the climate crisis. The health and well-being of all Californians depends on it– especially those who live in underserved communities with unhealthy air. We look forward to engaging with the state legislature, stakeholders, and the public as we follow the Governor’s executive order to further advance the state’s clean vehicle transition,” said Liane Randolph. Continue reading →

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Milestones – Toyota Indiana Builds 1-Millionth Hybrid

Posted on 12 June 2025 by Ken Zino

Toyota Motor (NYSE: TM and 7203.T) celebrated today the manufacturing of the 1-millionth hybrid vehicle at the Princeton Indiana plant. The Sienna van has been assembled at Toyota Indiana since 2003, with the all-hybrid model being the latest iteration built by the plant’s 7650 team members.

“It’s a significant achievement to reach this milestone and something our team members should be proud of,” said Jason Puckett, president of Toyota Indiana. “The all-hybrid Sienna demonstrates our commitment to electrification and remains a top-selling vehicle in Toyota’s lineup.” Continue reading →

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GM to Invest $888M in V8 Gas Engines

Posted on 28 May 2025 by Ken Zino

General Motors (NYSE: GM) said Tuesday that it plans to invest $888 million in its Tonawanda Propulsion plant to support the production of the sixth generation of GM’s V8 engines, used in full-size trucks and SUVs. The money is for new machinery, equipment, and tools, as well as facility renovations. GM makes money – thousands up thousand of U.S. Dollars a unit – on selling full-size pickup trucks and SUVs with fossil fueled engines. This a prudent move that will help offset the significant costs incurred during the slow walk to non-fossil fueled propulsion systems.

“Our significant investments in GM’s Tonawanda Propulsion plant show our commitment to strengthening American manufacturing and supporting jobs in the U.S.,” said Mary Barra, Chair and CEO. “GM’s Buffalo plant has been in operation for 87 years and is continuing to innovate the engines we build there to make them more fuel efficient and higher performing, which will help us deliver world-class trucks and SUVs to our customers for years to come.” Continue reading →

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House Republicans Flunk Math on Energy Incentives

Posted on 23 May 2025 by Ken Zino

On 22 May the U.S. House of Representatives passed its budget reconciliation bill. The bill. among other economic disasters for U.S. inhabitants and businesses includes proposals to alter existing federal energy tax credits – from fast elimination of several credits to new phase-down schedules, and adding new requirements, including provisions related to foreign entities of concern. Are any of our representatives paying attention to Chinese state-owned and directed capitalism? Take a look at the Chinese lead in new energy vehicles, the adoption of solar energy, the making of 21st century industrial goods and above all the funding of a University research in advanced transportation products, manufacturing technologies and medical drugs. AutoInformed notes the Trump’s big, beautiful bill, obsession with job destroying and inflation creating tariffs, among other things adds up to negative numbers for our economy. Republicans flunk math. Continue reading →

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CARB – U.S. Senate Dumping Clean Air Act Waivers Illegal

Posted on 22 May 2025 by Ken Zino

The California Air Resources Board Chair Liane Randolph today reacted to a vote by the U.S. Senate purporting to disapprove California’s Clean Air Act waivers for Advanced Clean Cars II, Advanced Clean Trucks and Heavy-Duty Engine and Vehicle Omnibus using the Congressional Review Act (CRA).

“California profoundly disagrees with today’s unconstitutional, illegal and foolish vote attempting to undermine critical clean air protections. It’s an assault on states’ rights the federal administration claims to support that puts national air quality standards out of reach and will have devastating effects for the 150 million Americans who breathe unhealthy air every day,” said CARB Chair Liane Randolph. Continue reading →

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Toyota Debuts 2026 RAV4 Compact SUV

Posted on 21 May 2025 by Ken Zino

The 2026 RAV4 also joins Toyota’s list of exclusively electrified models. It will be available with Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) or Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) powertrains. RAV4 also launches new technologies for Toyota, including the Arene software development platform, a new version of the Toyota Audio Multimedia system, and updates to the Toyota Safety Sense active safety suite. Toyota might say customer choice is paramount, but it comes with a bewildering array of options and packages to climb over that are the antonym of the once famous Honda tagline “We Make it Simple.” Continue reading →

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BMW Testing an i7 with Solid State Batteries

Posted on 20 May 2025 by Ken Zino

“Our BMW i7 ASSB test vehicle on the road is a perfect example of the BMW Group’s technology-open mindset. We are continuously advancing the development of new battery cell technologies and are constantly expanding our know-how with valuable partners such as Solid Power,” claimed Martin Schuster, Vice President Battery Cell and Cell Module at the BMW Group. Continue reading →

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Toyota Shows All Electric bZ Woodland Mid-size SUV

Posted on 15 May 2025 by Ken Zino

Toyota (NYSE: TM and 7203.T) today showed a new addition to its expansive Battery-Electric Vehicle (BEV) lineup with the first-ever 2026 model year bZ Woodland. The mid-size SUV has standard all-wheel drive with X-MODE®. The combined system net output is a claimed 375 horsepower with a manufacturer-estimated all electric driving range rating of up-to 260 miles. It also brings additional midsize SUV utility, with 8.3-inches of ground clearance, 3,500-pound towing capacity, and available All Terrain tires. The bZ Woodland is the third BEV recently announced by Toyota.* It joins the refreshed bZ small SUV and the all-new C-HR compact crossover, bringing the total number of electrified models in the Toyota lineup to 21 vehicles in a choice of BEV, Hybrid, Plug-in Hybrid, and Fuel Cell (CA and Hawaii only) powertrains. (Ranges and charging times will vary depending on weather and other factors.) Continue reading →

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