Category Archives: shows and events

New EV Vans Coming From IVECO and Stellantis

Posted on 14 March 2025 by Ken Zino

Stellantis Pro One and IVECO (EXM: IVG), which designs, manufactures and markets light, medium and heavy commercial vehicles, today announced the signing of agreements for the supply of two all-electric Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs) to IVECO* for the European market. They will be based on the Stellantis Pro One mid-size and large van all-electric platforms, ranging from 2.8 to 4.25 tons Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW). Continue reading →

Posted in auto news, design and styling, environment, global warming, news analysis, shows and events | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Annals of Marketing – Mercedes-Benz and FYI

Posted on 13 March 2025 by Ken Zino

“By integrating FYI RAiDiO into our vehicles, we are redefining the in-car entertainment experience. This collaboration with will.i.am and his innovative AI platform allows us to offer our customers a truly personalized and interactive journey, transforming how they connect with music, news and cultural content. This is a significant step towards the future of in-car entertainment, where technology and creativity converge to enhance the driving experience,” claimed Markus Schäfer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes‑Benz Group AG, Chief Technology Officer, Development & Procurement. Continue reading →

Posted in auto news, customer satisfaction, electronics, marketing, milestones, news analysis, shows and events | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Toyota Motor Starts Crown Estate Sales in Japan

Posted on 13 March 2025 by Ken Zino

Toyota Motor Corporation (NYSE: TM and 7203.T) said today that it is starting  sales of its all-new Crown Estate model in Japan. The Crown launched in 1955 with a history that has grown alongside the development of the post-war Japanese economy and Toyota. The new Crown has also advanced the “making ever-better cars” ideal through TNGA [Toyota New Global Architecture platform] and the in-house company system. In 2022, Toyota unveiled four models with different personalities, rather than just one sedan, to the world as the Crown series. The latest Crown would seem to be a natural addition to the U.S. model lineup, AutoInformed speculates. The powertrain  now includes hybrid (HEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models. Continue reading →

Posted in auto news, design and styling, electric vehicles, marketing, milestones, mobility company, new vehicle, news analysis, shows and events | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Toyota C-HR+, bZ4X and Lexus RZ European Debuts

Posted on 12 March 2025 by Ken Zino

Toyota Motor Corporation announced in Japan today that it will be expanding its battery electric vehicle (BEV) lineup in Europe as part of its multi-pathway approach toward achieving a carbon-neutral society. Continue reading →

Posted in auto news, connected vehicles, design and styling, electric vehicles, electronics, engineering, global warming, marketing, mobility company, news analysis, shows and events | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Interlagos Lap Record – Taycan Turbo GT

Posted on 7 March 2025 by Ken Zino

A Taycan Turbo GT* set a time of 1:42.1 minutes on the 4.3-kilometer Interlagos circuit on 5 February 2025, Porsche said today. The lap time trimmed almost eight seconds off the record set by the Taycan Turbo S in 2022 (1:49.8 minutes). It was also just under a second inside an earlier production-car lap record set by the 911 Turbo S (1:43.087 minutes).

“Coming to Interlagos and getting behind the wheel of the Taycan Turbo GT right after winning the 24 Hours of Daytona was an incredible experience. I expected the strong acceleration and brutal torque but, ultimately, it was the overall performance that really impressed me,” said Porsche works driver Felipe Nasr who was at the wheel. Continue reading →

Posted in electric vehicles, engineering, milestones, news analysis, performance, racing, shows and events | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Annals of  Off-Road Marketing – Silverado EV ZR2

Posted on 5 March 2025 by Ken Zino

Chevrolet (NYSE: GM) today unveiled the Silverado EV ZR2 off-road race truck “concept” at the Mint 400 off-road race, where the truck will also compete as part of the Hall Racing team’s lineup. The Silverado EV ZR2 race truck concept joins the team’s Silverado ZR2 and Colorado ZR2 race trucks. Chad Hall will drive the all-electric off-road race truck in the Open Production EV class.

“There is no better proving ground to test the limits of our vehicles than competitive racing,” said Scott Bell, vice president, Chevrolet. “The Silverado EV ZR2 race truck concept, which uses 98% GM production parts, showcases some of the best of Chevrolet to produce a beyond-capable pickup to tackle a challenging race of the Mint 400’s magnitude.” Continue reading →

Posted in aftermarket, auto news, electric vehicles, marketing, new vehicle, performance, racing, shows and events | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

First Look – All-Electric Volvo ES90 Hatchback

Posted on 5 March 2025 by Ken Zino

Volvo Cars (VOLCAR B:STO) today debuted an all-new, fully electric ES90. With order-books open now in some markets, the ES90 is the latest addition to  Volvo cars. It is the sixth fully electric model in the line, joining the EX90, EM90, EX40, EC40 and EX30 as Volvo continues to covert to full electrification.

“The ES90 combines the refined elegance of a sedan, the adaptability of a fastback, and the spacious interior and higher ground clearance associated with SUVs. It’s a versatile car that does not compromise on comfort or space. A car that allows for bigger adventures and families, striking the perfect balance between your professional and private life, and allowing you to embrace the special moments in life,” Chinese-owned Volvo Cars said. Continue reading →

Posted in auto news, electric vehicles, environment, global warming, marketing, mobility company, new vehicle, shows and events | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Subaru of America to Sponsor 2025 Overland Expos

Posted on 3 March 2025 by Ken Zino

“We are all-in on off-road adventure, and excited to join the thousands of Subaru owners making their way to Overland Expo, a destination event for outdoor enthusiasts. With our unique onsite experiences, Subaru is ready to amplify our customers’ stories and show our appreciation for their dedication to our brand,” said Alan Bethke, Senior Vice President of Marketing, Subaru of America.

The Subaru exhibit will have workshops, live Subie & You Podcast recording sessions, limited-edition giveaways, exclusive Subaru gear, and the newest accessories from outdoor brands such as REI and Thule. Continue reading →

Posted in auto news, marketing, mobility company, shows and events | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Honda Alabama Starts Production of the 2026 Passport

Posted on 28 February 2025 by Ken Zino

Associates at the Honda Alabama Auto Plant (AAP) today celebrated the start of production of the all-new 2026 Honda Passport and Passport TrailSport, American Honda Motor Company said today.* The fourth-generation Passport lineup includes the Passport TrailSport, promoted as “the ultimate Honda adventure SUV with authentic off-road capability and versatility, together with exceptional on-road performance.” It has a 3.5-liter DOHC V-6  built at the engine plant in Lincoln . Moreover it has Passport’s first 10-speed automatic transmission., the 2026 Passport offers a number of new rugged features to improve  off-road driving.

“Honda associates in Alabama worked with ingenuity and determination to bring to market the most rugged Honda SUV ever for our customers, the all-new 2026 Honda Passport,” said Lamar Whitaker, plant leader of the Alabama Auto Plant. Continue reading →

Posted in auto news, manufacturing, milestones, new vehicle, news analysis, shows and events | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Mitsubishi Revises 2025 Outlander SUV

Posted on 24 February 2025 by Ken Zino

Mitsubishi Motors North America (MMNA) said today its 2025 Outlander has Extensive interior and exterior changes, along with updates steering and suspension. “Sound insulation material achieves a reduction of more than 0.5dB in road noise and nearly 6dB in overall sound isolation compared to the 2024 model. For 2025, the use of steel for the hood and front fenders enhances the vehicle’s NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) damping characteristics,” Mitsubishi said. Continue reading →

Posted in auto news, design and styling, marketing, news analysis, shows and events | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

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 →

Posted in auto news, engineering, marketing, new vehicle, news analysis, shows and events | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

MINI Oxford Edition – Rerun for 2025

Posted on 20 February 2025 by Ken Zino

MINI USA is bringing back the Oxford Edition for the 2025 model year MINI lineup, the BMW Group USA said today. It claimed that that premium design and innovative features can come in a compact, city-friendly package. The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the Oxford Edition 2 Door starts at $24,950 and the 4 Door at $25,950, plus a destination and handling fee of, gulp, $1175. This makes the total price $26,125 for the 2 Door and $27,125 for the 4 Door.

“The Oxford Edition includes all the standard features of the MINI Cooper models, plus exclusive options at no additional cost. Customers can choose from three stunning exterior paint options: Sunny Side Yellow, Nanuq White Metallic, and Blazing Blue Metallic. The Oxford Edition also comes with 18″ Slide Spoke 2-Tone wheels with summer tires, adding a sporty touch to its iconic design,” said MINI. Continue reading →

Posted in auto news, marketing, new vehicle, news analysis, prices, shows and events | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

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 →

Posted in auto news, autonomous vehicles, connected vehicles, electronics, engineering, milestones, news analysis, shows and events, software defined vehicles | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Michigan Signs MOU With UAE

Posted on 19 February 2025 by Ken Zino

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer joined His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), and leaders from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and the University of Michigan (U-M) to sign a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to advance global innovation, entrepreneurship, economic growth, and job creation. The ceremony was attended by Robert Raines, Consul General of the United States in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, along with a delegation of business, academic, and innovation leaders from the State of Michigan.

“Michigan is an international leader in manufacturing and innovation,” said Governor Whitmer. “By signing a Memorandum of Understanding with RAK and the University of Michigan, we are highlighting our advanced manufacturing strength, engineering talent, and cutting-edge R&D while showing the world why they should continue to create jobs and invest in Michigan.” Continue reading →

Posted in auto news, economy, environment, milestones, news, news analysis, shows and events | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Society of Automotive Analysts – New Board of Directors

Posted on 18 February 2025 by Ken Zino

The Society of Automotive Analysts (SAA) today announced its Board of Directors for 2025. Adam Bernard, Founder and Principal of AutoPerspectives, will serve as SAA president, while Jeff Schuster, President of Forecasting, GlobalData, moves into the vice president role. The SAA’s stated goals are to provide automotive professionals exclusive access to industry leaders, early insights and outstanding networking opportunities. “SAA members include every automotive industry professional interested in timely and useful auto industry data, discussion and dissemination of ideas, concepts and solutions,” the SAA said. Continue reading →

Posted in auto news, connected vehicles, economy, environment, financial results, fuel economy or emissions, news analysis, people, quality, sales, shows and events | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment