Category Archives: milestones

BMW i Ventures Invests in Skylo Technologies

Posted on 13 February 2024 by Ken Zino

Skylo has launched its initial service across US, Canada, and Europe, in partnership with major chipset makers including Qualcomm, Samsung, MediaTek, and Sony, together with the leading device OEMs and mobile carriers, such as Deutsche Telekom. Continue reading →

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Annals of Marketing – Dag Ødegaard’s F-150 Lightning

Posted on 13 February 2024 by Ken Zino

“This is a dream vehicle for us especially as we love the USA and Texas so much,” Ødegaard said. “Finally we don’t have to drive two cars to transport two teenage children, my wife and all our luggage to our cabin in Trysil. In particular, the fact that it has five seats means that we can finally afford (sic) to buy ourselves a proper family pickup, which is also fully electric and packed with new technology. It is absolutely outstanding both in terms of comfort, space and driving.” Continue reading →

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GM Creates New VP of Batteries Position

Posted on 8 February 2024 by Ken Zino

General Motors (NYSE: GM) said today that it has hired Kurt Kelty, a battery expert and former Tesla executive, to be vice president of Batteries, reporting to GM President Mark Reuss. Kelty in a new position at GM will be charged with GM’s battery cell strategy and what it is calling an “end-to-end approach.” This will include the use of raw materials, research, developing and investing in new technology, commercialization of cells and packs, and end of life opportunities.

“The foundation that GM has established coupled with Kurt’s exceptional battery expertise in leading battery chemistry development, establishing partnerships, building out supply chains and partnering closely with teams that have developed leading battery systems will help us achieve our electrification goals and position GM as a leader in EV technology,” said Reuss. Continue reading →

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Annals of Marketing – RIP MINI Clubman

Posted on 6 February 2024 by Ken Zino

The last MINI Clubman rolled off the production line at MINI Plant Oxford today 55 years after the model’s debut with rear swinging doors in 1969. Since its introduction more than 1.1 million MINI Clubman models have been built, with half of these made at MINI Plant Oxford. Exported to more than 50 countries, the Clubman darts around the globe if they haven’t rusted into premature oblivion. During 2023, the Clubman was pushed with the launch of The Final Edition. It had an edition-specific Shimmer Copper radiator grille and side scuttles, 18” Final Edition 2-tone alloy wheels and exclusive ‘Final Edition’ lettering on the rear. Limited to 1969 units, the Final Edition noted the launch year of the original. Continue reading →

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All 2025 GM Vehicles Get OnStar at No Cost

Posted on 2 February 2024 by Ken Zino

“By standardizing some of our most appealing OnStar features, we can deliver more technology and value at every price point, helping ensure our vehicles and customers stay connected for the long term,” said Marissa West, president, GM North America. “With this move, every new vehicle in our lineup will include a compelling set of safety and connected services that is distinct to GM thanks to nearly 30 years of OnStar experience and innovation.” Continue reading →

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Polestar 4 now on Sale in Europe and Australia

Posted on 31 January 2024 by Ken Zino

“The introduction of Polestar 4 into all our markets through the course of 2024 is key to our success, adding this third model to our line-up. Polestar 4 tackles the premium performance class in the D-SUV segment. Polestar 4’s innovative interpretation of an SUV coupé offers great interior space and a stunning appearance,” said Thomas Ingenlath, Polestar CEO. Continue reading →

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Biden-Harris Administration – 157 More Infrastructure Grants

Posted on 30 January 2024 by Ken Zino

The US Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said today it will award $245.9 million in Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 Airport Infrastructure Grants (AIG). under the. The $245.9 million includes 153 grants in 37 states to modernize airport infrastructure, improve runway safety, and create jobs to build a better America. This trumps the trend during the last decade where political talk without funding delayed the ability to modernize technology and infrastructure that support the airspace. Continue reading →

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Donald Trump is a Scab – UAW Endorses President Biden

Posted on 25 January 2024 by Ken Zino

“This November, we can stand up and elect someone who wants to stand with us and support our cause. Or we can elect someone who will divide us and fight us every step of the way,” said UAW President Shawn Fain. “That’s what this choice is about. The question is, who do we want in that office to give us the best shot of winning? Of organizing. Of negotiating strong contracts. Of uniting the working class and winning our fair share once again, as our union has done so many times in our nation’s history. We need to know who’s going to sit in the most powerful seat in the world and help us win as a united working class,” said Fain. Continue reading →

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GM and Honda Fuel Cell JV Starts Mass Production

Posted on 25 January 2024 by Ken Zino

“This is a historic day for the industry as GM and Honda are the first full fuel cell system manufacturing joint venture to begin volume production of fuel cells for transportation and beyond,” said FCSM president Suheb Haq. “We begin the process with raw materials for membrane and electrode all the way through completed systems. Ongoing investment and commitment by both companies is driving our success at FCSM. This commitment aligns with our mission of making high quality, durable and affordable hydrogen fuel cell systems for a wide range of applications and customers.” Continue reading →

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GMC to Add New Markets – Australia, New Zealand, China

Posted on 19 January 2024 by Ken Zino

GMC (NYSE: GM) said today that it is adding three new international markets. The premium truck brand at General Motors said customers in Australia, New Zealand and China will have the choice of the Yukon full-size SUV in these high-growth markets. China sales are expected to begin in 2024, with Australia and New Zealand following in 2025. This announcement follows the launch of GMC in South Korea in 2023 with the GMC Sierra LD pickup truck, pioneering the premium pickup market in the country. These new markets add to GMC sales in the US, Mexico, Canada and Middle East. Continue reading →

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Milestones – Volkswagen 75th Anniversary in the United States

Posted on 17 January 2024 by Ken Zino

“Over the past 75 years, Volkswagen has grown from a tale of two Beetles into a part of America’s cultural fabric,” said Rachael Zaluzec, Senior Vice President of Customer Experience & Brand Marketing, Volkswagen of America. “We carry people in our name and our heart. As we look forward to the next 75, we will celebrate the real people and real-life moments that have made Volkswagen brand the people’s love story it is today.” Continue reading →

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EPA Wants Stronger Standards for Solid Waste Burning

Posted on 11 January 2024 by Ken Zino

“President Biden believes every person deserves clean air to breathe and the opportunity to lead a healthy life, and EPA’s proposal is just the latest action to achieve this vision. By reducing harmful pollution and improving air quality, this rule will also advance environmental justice for nearby communities already overburdened with pollution,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “EPA is committed to working with communities and state, local, and Tribal governments to ensure that large facilities burning municipal waste utilize the most up-to-date and cost-effective control technologies to reduce pollution and protect public health.” Continue reading →

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Car Star Wars – Honda Debuts New Global EV Line

Posted on 9 January 2024 by Ken Zino

“The mobility we dream of is not an extension of the trend of ‘thick, heavy, but smart’ EVs,” said Toshihiro Mibe, Global CEO of Honda. “We will create a completely new value from zero based on thin, light and wise as the foundation for our new Honda 0 EV series to further advance the joy and freedom of mobility to the next level.” Continue reading →

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China Vehicle Sales at Record High in November 2023

Posted on 4 January 2024 by Ken Zino

“The main driving force of this year’s exports was the improved competitiveness of Chinese products and the breakthrough into the European and American markets. Also, the international brands in the Russian market have now been fully replaced by Chinese vehicles because of the Russia-Ukraine crisis. In addition, a huge export increase has resulted from the improvement in China’s NEV competitiveness. As long as there is stable market demand in the world, there is still plenty of scope for developing China’s auto exports in the future,” GlobalData said. Continue reading →

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US Fuel Economy at Record Highs. CO2 at Record Low

Posted on 2 January 2024 by Ken Zino

“As the United States accelerates towards a clean transportation future, today’s report highlights the historic progress made so far by the industry to reduce climate pollution and other harmful emissions,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “We are thrilled to see manufacturers continue to innovate and develop technologies in multiple vehicle categories that have led to a substantial increase in miles per gallon, passing cost savings onto families across the nation.” Continue reading →

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