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Category Archives: shows and events
Goodyear Completes Sale of Dunlop Brand
The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company* (NASDAQ: GT) said today that it has completed the previously announced sale of the Company’s rights to the Dunlop brand in Europe, North America and Oceania for consumer, commercial and other specialty tires, together with certain associated intellectual property and inventory, to Sumitomo Rubber Industries Ltd (TYO: 5110). Gross cash proceeds at closing totaled $735 million, comprised of $526 million for the Dunlop brand, $105 million for a transition support fee and $104 million for inventory. Goodyear said it intends to use the transaction proceeds to reduce leverage in connection with the so-called Goodyear Forward transformation plan. Continue reading
Posted in aftermarket, auto news, economy, manufacturing, milestones, shows and events
Tagged auto industry commentary, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton, Dunlop brand, Goldman Sachs & Company, Goodyear Tire & Rubber Q1 2025 financial results, Ken Zino, Mark Stewart, Sumitomo Rubber Industries, X @KenAutoinformed
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CARB – Cap and Trade Funds ~$33 Billion of Climate Fixes
Nearly $33 billion has been raised to fund so-called climate solutions in communities across the state with money from the state’s Cap-and-Trade Program, according to a new report published by the California Air Resources Board (CARB)* today. The annual report provides detailed information about California Climate Investments, which tracks funds generated by cap and trade auction proceeds and allocated to 117 programs by the State Legislature.
“California is proving that cutting pollution creates jobs and boosts communities. By holding polluters accountable, we’re sending billions of dollars back to communities and back to people’s wallets through credits on utility bills,” said Governor Gavin Newsom. “And we’ve got the receipts: healthier and cleaner communities and thousands of good paying jobs.” Continue reading
Posted in economy, environment, global warming, news, news analysis, public health, shows and events
Tagged auto industry commentary, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, California Air Resources Board, Cap-and-Trade Program, carb, Governor Gavin Newsom, Ken Zino, Liane Randolph, X @KenAutoinformed
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WillScot Holdings to Provide Hospitality Spaces for IndyCar
Penske Entertainment* today announced a partnership with WillScot Holdings Corp., a provider of temporary spaces, that will see the company become an Official Partner of IndyCar** and Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Through the multiyear partnership, WillScot will provide turnkey space solutions, including mobile offices, storage containers, climate-controlled storage, clear-span structures, restrooms, fencing and other hospitality spaces for use at race events throughout NTT IndyCar Series and IMS seasons. Continue reading
Cabin Fever at Corvette?
Chevrolet (NYSE: GM) said today that for the 2026 model year, the entire Corvette* lineup of Stingray, E-Ray, Z06, and ZR1will have an interior cabin with larger and more advanced driver-centric displays and fresh interior colorways, finishes and materials.
“Corvette is the ultimate American sports car, which is why it has remained the luxury sport segment leader for more than 20 years – with the next competitor a distant second in terms of market share,” said Scott Bell, vice president, Chevrolet. “With these updates, the mid-engine Corvette will continue to cement its leadership for years to come.” Continue reading
Milestones – 20 Years of Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama
Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama (HMMA)** said today that it celebrated its 20th anniversary with a Team Member Appreciation Day on 3 May 3 2025, on the HMMA campus. The event brought together HMMA team members, their families, and special community guests for a day filled with family activities, plant tours, prize raffles, musical entertainment, and a closing fireworks display. The plant’s 20th year of production will officially be marked on 20 May 2025. Continue reading
Posted in auto news, manufacturing, milestones, shows and events
Tagged auto industry commentary, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, Chris Susock, Electrified GV70, Genesis Gives, Genesis GV70, Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama, Hyundai Santa Fe, Ken Zino, Santa Cruz, Tucson, X @KenAutoinformed
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Nostalgia Marketing – 2026 Corolla Hatchback FX Edition
Toyota (NYSE:TM) said today in Texas that for the 2026 model year, the Corolla Hatchback will have an FX edition, which has been dormant in the model since the 1987 FX16. Based on the SE grade Corolla, it should appear in Toyota Dealerships during fall of 2025. The new Hatchback FX Edition will be available in three color choices: Inferno, Ice Cap, and Blue Crush Metallic. There will be 1600 Corolla Hatchback FX Editions assembled for the U.S. Additional details and pricing for the full Corolla lineup will be shared later this year.
“The Corolla Hatchback FX adds a black vented sport wing for aggressive flair and improved aerodynamics. The 18-inch gloss white-finished alloy wheels with black lug nuts give an unexpected wow factor,” Toyota said. Power of the Corolla Hatchback FX Edition is a 2.0-liter Dynamic-Force direct-injection inline four-cylinder engine with claimed ratings of 169 horsepower at 6600 rpm and 151 lb.-ft. peak torque at 4800 rpm. It has a Toyota-estimated 33 combined MPG rating. Continue reading
Posted in auto news, connected vehicles, marketing, new vehicle, performance, shows and events
Tagged 2026 Corolla Hatchback FX Edition, Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, auto industry commentary, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, Bluetooth® phone connectivity, Ken Zino, Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, X @KenAutoinformed
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Milestones – Five-Millionth Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
Mercedes-Benz said today that M-B Vans is celebrating a global milestone with the production of five million Sprinter vans. The five-millionth vehicle, an all-electric eSprinter, was assembled at the company’s facility in Charleston, South Carolina and handed to FedEx, a long-standing Mercedes-Benz Vans customer.
“The global production of five million Sprinter vans and the celebration of the model’s 30th anniversary is a testament to its enduring success. This milestone reflects the dedication of our teams, the trust of our customers, and the continuous evolution of a vehicle that has defined the large van segment for three decades. We are proud of this legacy and excited for the future as we continue to drive progress in the van industry,” said Thomas Klein, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans. Continue reading
Posted in auto news, manufacturing, marketing, milestones, shows and events
Tagged auto industry commentary, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, FedEx, Ken Zino, Mercedes-Benz eSprinter, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van, Pat Donlon, Thomas Klein, X @KenAutoinformed
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Milestones – The Rolls-Royce Phantom at 100
Rolls-Royce* said today that it is marking Phantom’s centenary by reflecting on some of the fascinating stories where Phantom has played a role. The marque’s designers have also created a series of original artworks about Phantom’s legacy, celebrating the motor car’s cultural impact through the decades and “capturing the spirit of each of its eight generations.”
“Phantom is much more than a motor car. For 100 years, it has stood at the pinnacle of all Rolls-Royce motor cars – a cultural phenomenon that both reflects and influences the world around it. From its earliest days, Phantom has been one of the most desired rewards for success and a potent symbol of power and prestige on the world stage. Beyond status, it has always offered its owners a canvas for personal expression, transformed through Bespoke craftsmanship into a moving work of art. Across music, politics, art and beyond, Phantom has been present at many of history’s defining moments. The stories that surround it – and the images they’ve inspired our designers to create – reveal its extraordinary reach, and its enduring connection to greatness,” said Chris Brownridge, Chief Executive, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. Continue reading
Posted in auto news, marketing, milestones, shows and events
Tagged auto industry commentary, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, Charles Sykes, Chris Brownridge, Duke of Edinburgh, Field Marshal Bernard Law Montgomery, HRH Princess Elizabeth, Ken Zino, Maharajah of Nabha, Rolls-Royce Phantom at 100, Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, The British Royal Family, X @KenAutoinformed
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Annals of Marketing – Lotus Emira Clark Edition
Lotus* said today that it will honor one of its works drivers with the introduction of the Emira Clark Edition, in collaboration with the Jim Clark Trust. This model, limited to just 60 cars for selected markets, will make its world debut leading at the Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix. The Emira Clark Edition pricing will be £115,000 in the UK,€140,000 in Germany.
“The legacy of Jim Clark and Team Lotus is forever etched into the history of motorsport. In 1965, Clark secured the Formula 1 World Championship with Team Lotus and triumphed in the iconic Indianapolis 500 – a remarkable double victory that remains unmatched to this day. That same year, Clark further demonstrated his extraordinary talent with championship victories in Formula 2 and the Tasman Series in Australia and New Zealand, as well as winning touring car races in a Lotus Cortina,” Lotus said. Continue reading
Posted in auto news, design and styling, marketing, performance, shows and events
Tagged auto industry commentary, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, Formula 1, Formula 2, Jim Clark and Team Lotus, Ken Zino, Lochcarron Scotland, Lotus Emira Clark Edition, Tasman Series, X @KenAutoinformed
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Milestones – Seven Million U.S. Assembled BMWs
“This beautiful BMW ALPINA XB7 is a testament to the great products we have, the quality of our supplier network, and the unwavering commitment and dedication of our valued associates,” said Dr. Robert Engelhorn, president and CEO of BMW Manufacturing. “For over 30 years, BMW has proudly invested in South Carolina and its people, creating a remarkable legacy. We are excited about our future as we prepare to assemble fully electric vehicles at this plant.” Continue reading
Posted in auto news, manufacturing, milestones, performance, shows and events
Tagged auto industry commentary, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, BMW South Carolina plant Spartanburg, Dr. Robert Engelhorn, Ken Zino, Seven Million U.S. BMW ALPINA XB7, X @KenAutoinformed
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FuelCell Energy and Toyota Get DOE’s Better Project Award
FuelCell Energy and Toyota Motor North America (NYSE: TM) today announced that the first-of-its-kind “Tri-gen” facility at the Port of Long Beach has received the U.S. Department of Energy’s 2025 Better Project Award.* Commissioned by Toyota and owned and operated by FuelCell Energy, Tri-gen produces three products for port vehicle processing operations at Toyota Logistics Services: renewable electricity, renewable hydrogen and usable water.
The Better Project Award is said to recognize accomplishments at individual facilities for innovative and industry-leading accomplishments in implementing energy, water, and waste reduction efficiency measures. Continue reading
Posted in alternative fuels, auto news, economy, engineering, environment, global warming, news analysis, public health, shows and events, transportation
Tagged auto industry commentary, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, FuelCell Energy, Jason Few, Ken Zino, Tom Stricker, Toyota Motor North America, U.S. Department of Energy’s 2025 Better Project Award, X @KenAutoinformed
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Honda 2026 CR-V Adds New TrailSport Hybrid
Honda (7267.T and NYSE: HMC) said today that the 2026 model year CR-V in four trim levels adds More standard equipment, and there will be a new TrailSport Hybrid. It uses fourth-generation Honda two-motor hybrid system. The Honda CR-V lineup now includes three turbocharged trims: LX, EX and EX-L, plus four hybrid-powered trims: Sport Hybrid, the new TrailSport Hybrid, Sport-L Hybrid and the range-topping Sport Touring Hybrid. The hybrid-electric models are positioned at the top of the lineup and represent more than 50% of CR-V sales.
“Our best-selling Honda CR-V is now even more of an industry benchmark with the addition of a rugged new TrailSport model, which has proven to be incredibly popular on our light trucks,” said Jessika Laudermilk, assistant vice president of Honda National Auto Sales. “The combination of rugged design elements and capabilities, incredible on-road dynamics and hybrid powertrain makes the Honda CR-V a more compelling SUV than ever before.”
Continue reading
Posted in auto news, design and styling, electric vehicles, manufacturing, marketing, mobility company, news analysis, shows and events
Tagged auto industry commentary, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, CR-V TrailSport Hybrid, Honda 2026 CR-V, Jessika Laudermilk, Ken Zino, off-road SUVs, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto™, X @KenAutoinformed
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Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 to Pace 109th Indianapolis 500
The 2025 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 will lead the field to the green flag for the 109th Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge on Sunday 25 May, Chevrolet announced today. Capable of 233 mph, the highest top speed of any car ever made in America by an auto manufacturer is up for any challenge. Michael Strahan, a Pro Football Hall of Fame member, has been named honorary Pace Car driver and will pace the field of 33 drivers in the Corvette ZR1 to start “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing.”
“Chevrolet is proud that the 2025 Corvette ZR1, our fastest Corvette ever, will be the Official Pace Car for the 109th Running of the Indianapolis 500,” said Scott Bell, global Chevrolet vice president. Corvette has paced “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” more times than any car. The 2025 race marks the 36th time for Chevrolet to pace dating back to 1948 and the 22nd time overall, all since 1978, for what is arguably America’s sports car. Continue reading
Posted in auto news, marketing, news analysis, racing, shows and events
Tagged auto industry commentary, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, Hoosier milk, INDYCAR President J. Douglas Boles, Ken Zino, Michael Strahan, Scott Bell, The Greatest Spectacle in Racing, X @KenAutoinformed
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A Freshened 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross Debuts
TMNA, the North American arm of Toyota (NYSE: TM) said today in Plano, Texas that the 2026 model Toyota Cross compact SUV has been tweaked.
“The 2026 Corolla Cross is continuing to bring entry SUV customers the combination of style and value that’s just right. For model year 2026 it receives two new front fascia designs, with a modern, color-matched look for the Hybrid version and a bold, rugged design for the gas-powered model. The new front-end designs create a distinct look for each powertrain while also evolving the crossover’s compact, sporty shape. The interior also receives an update with a reconfigured console storage design and larger available touchscreen,” Toyota said. Continue reading →