Light-Duty Fuel Cell Trucks – Isuzu, Toyota Collaboration!

Posted on 15 April 2026 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Light-Duty Fuel Cell Trucks – Isuzu, Toyota Collaboration!

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Isuzu Motors (OTC: ISUZY, 7202T) and Toyota Motor (NYSE: TM, 7203T) said today that they have agreed to collaborate on the development toward the mass production of a next-generation light-duty fuel cell (FC) electric truck.*

“The vehicle is based on Isuzu’s ELF EV BEV (footnote 3 below) light-duty truck and combines Toyota’s new fuel cell system (3rd-generation FC system footnote 2). Both companies will jointly develop the system to ensure its compatibility, and aiming to start production in FY2027. Both companies will further advance technologies capable of supporting the high-utilization operating conditions unique to commercial vehicles, based on its multi-pathway approach to powertrains, while helping build a hydrogen society and carbon neutral logistics sector,” the Japanese companies said in a release. Continue reading →

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Airbag Malware – Honda Recalls ~440,000 Odyssey Vans

Posted on 15 April 2026 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Airbag Malware – Honda Recalls ~440,000 Odyssey Vans

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American Honda (7267.T and NYSE: HMC) said today that it is recalling ~440,000 model-year 2018-2022 Odyssey vans in the U.S. to reprogram or replace the airbag (SRS ECU) module.

“The SRS ECU deployment threshold margin calibration was too sensitive to under-body impacts, which could cause the side curtain or side airbags to deploy unexpectedly when subjected to strong impacts caused by potholes, speed bumps, or debris on the road, increasing the risk of a crash or injury. As of 2 April 2026, there have been 25 reports of injury and no reports of death related to this issue from 24 January 2017 until today. Continue reading →

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Trumped – Used Car Prices Spike after Hitting 12-Month Low

Posted on 14 April 2026 by Ken Zino

CARFAX said today that its data show used car prices are climbing sharply after hitting their lowest point in the past year. The average price of a used vehicle is now about $25,500, up ~$1500 in just one month. (Read AutoInformed.com on: CARFAX Report Now Predicts a Vehicle’s Future)

“With rising prices, flexibility is important,” said Sri Melkote, Chief Analytics Officer at CARFAX. “Shoppers should consider different makes, models, years, trims, or even nearby markets to find the best deals that fit their budget. This type of swing in prices suggests a volatile market, so tracking prices right now is crucial. Once you’re ready, a vehicle history report can help you avoid costly surprises and ensure real value.”* Continue reading →

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Nissan in Survival Mode Sheds Models for Next Gen Products

Posted on 14 April 2026 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Nissan in Survival Mode Sheds Models for Next Gen Products

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Nissan Motor Company (7201T and NSANY ADR) today announced another, yet another turn-around strategy.* The so-called “Mobility Intelligence for Everyday Life,” supposedly integrates mobility through Nissan’s focus on AI-Defined Vehicles (AIDV). This will it’s said offer a choice of electrification technologies to meet diverse customer and market needs. [With this role of the Company dice, loss-making Nissan is betting on the come line. Wagering that new products in the future will be profitable enough to ensure survival – AutoCrat.]

“This is the right moment to articulate Nissan’s long‑term vision as we move beyond the Re:Nissan recovery plan and set a clear path for the future. Our vision defines where Nissan is headed, with customer experience as our guiding priority. By advancing mobility intelligence, we will deliver intuitive, advanced, and reliable products and technologies that offer outstanding value and enrich how mobility is experienced,” said Ivan Espinosa, the latest President and CEO of Nissan. Continue reading →

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IONNA Partners with Circle K on EV Charging

Posted on 14 April 2026 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on IONNA Partners with Circle K on EV Charging

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IONNA today announced a partnership with the convenience brand Circle K to expand access to high-powered EV charging across the United States. The partnership moves forward IONNA’s aspiration to build 30,000 high-power charging bays by 2030. IONNA was founded in 2023 by BMW, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, Stellantis. Toyota subsequently joined the joint venture.*

“We are honored that Circle K has recognized IONNA as a leader in the industry and entrusted us to serve their customers with the same care and commitment to excellence that they show now,” said Aaron Wolff, COO of IONNA. “Circle K’s scale, customer focus, and quality of location make them an ideal partner as we rapidly expand high-power charging where drivers already want to stop.” Continue reading →

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IndyCar Makes Single Car Qualifying Permanent with Tweaks

Posted on 13 April 2026 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on IndyCar Makes Single Car Qualifying Permanent with Tweaks

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IndyCar announced today an expansion of controversial Firestone Fast Six single-car qualifying, including an updated format, for the remaining four street circuit events of the 2026 NTT IndyCar Series season. This starts with the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach to be held on Friday-Sunday, April 17-19 on the Streets of Long Beach.

“The debut of single-car Firestone Fast Six qualifying in Arlington was extremely popular and well received,” claimed IndyCar President J. Douglas Boles. [Not with some driver’s and teams at the Good Ranchers 250-AutoCrat.]* “Following the event, we reached out to stakeholders to help evaluate the format and look into ways to improve an already exciting session. This slight update will provide the fastest from the Top 12 an earned advantage of choosing when they would like their run in the Fast Six, while tire selection before lining up at pit out will save time and more closely equalize the session.” [Precisely – changing track conditions and allowed tire changes for late qualifiers made a mockery of the pole position -AutoCrat.] Continue reading →

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EcoCAR Innovation Challenge Pits General Motors v Stellantis

Posted on 13 April 2026 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on EcoCAR Innovation Challenge Pits General Motors v Stellantis

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The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and Argonne National Laboratory (Argonne) today selected 20 universities to participate in the EcoCAR Innovation Challenge. This is the 15th episode of DOE’s Advanced Vehicle Technology Competitions (AVTC) series, which challenges university students to design and build “intelligent mobility solutions and innovative products” using emerging technologies, now including artificial intelligence for engineering tools, machine learning, and exascale computing. [Exascale computing involves supercomputers capable of performing at least one quintillion calculations per second. AutoCrat]*

“The Innovation Challenge is an investment in the next era of the American workforce,” said Assistant Secretary of Energy (EERE) Audrey Robertson. “This unprecedented collaboration between GM and Stellantis underscores the importance of building a skilled US workforce and promoting innovation. We hope to fast-track technological breakthroughs, improve the competitiveness of the American auto industry, and expand the range of options available to American consumers.” Continue reading →

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Mercedes-Benz and MBUSA Post Q1 2026 Sales Drops

Posted on 13 April 2026 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Mercedes-Benz and MBUSA Post Q1 2026 Sales Drops

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Mercedes-Benz Group (MBG.DE, MBGAF OTC U.S.) sold 499,700 cars and vans globally during Q1 2026. Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) reported retail sales of 78,500 vehicles during Q1 of 2026, with 70,000 passenger cars and 8500 vans.*

“The first quarter was characterized by sales growth outside of China, alongside an excellent market response to our newly launched models. The new electric GLC has generated more orders in the first three months than any other electric vehicle in our history, while order intakes for the other new models, including the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class, significantly exceed our expectations. Further tailwinds will come from the recently unveiled GLE and GLS, alongside the upcoming world premiere of the all-new electric C-Class. As the availability of our new products scales up, we remain highly focused on converting this strong customer interest into overall sales momentum in the coming months,” said Mathias Geisen, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, Sales & Customer Experience. Continue reading →

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Porsche AG Q1 2026 Sales Drop 15%

Posted on 10 April 2026 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Porsche AG Q1 2026 Sales Drop 15%

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Porsche AG (P911.DE) said today that it delivered a total of 60,991 vehicles to customers worldwide in the first quarter of the year (previous year: 71,470), representing a decline of 15%. The discontinuation of tax incentives for electric and hybrid vehicles in the United States by the Trump mis-Administration was clearly a factor as North America is Porsche’s largest market.*

“Following the end of the combustion-engine 718 and the strong deliveries of the fully electric Macan at market launch, our figures are below the prior‑year level but are overall in line with our expectations. Strong demand for the 911 and the high proportion of top derivatives clearly demonstrate that the core of our sports car brand remains exceptionally strong,” claimed Matthias Becker, Member of the Executive Board for Sales and Marketing at Porsche AG. “In the coming months, our focus will be on the market launch of the all‑electric Cayenne, which will be delivered to its first customers from summer onwards.” Continue reading →

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Volkswagen ID.4 U.S. Production Ends. Atlas Begins

Posted on 10 April 2026 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Volkswagen ID.4 U.S. Production Ends. Atlas Begins

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Volkswagen Group of America has updated its production plans in the U.S. market for the Volkswagen brand. Volkswagen’s Chattanooga assembly plant will shift its primary focus to higher‑volume models in North America. Chattanooga, formerly the only VW plant without worker representation, now is a UAW plant. The launch of the all‑new, second‑generation Atlas for model year 2027 begins production this summer. Atlas will be available in dealerships this fall.*

“The Chattanooga plant has been, and will continue to be, a cornerstone of Volkswagen’s strategy in the United States,” said Volkswagen Group of America President and CEO Kjell Gruner. “This strategic shift underscores the company’s commitment to Chattanooga and its workforce as we position the plant for long-term success and future product opportunities.” Continue reading →

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AAA – Pump Gasoline Prices Still Soaring

Posted on 9 April 2026 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on AAA – Pump Gasoline Prices Still Soaring

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The national average for a gallon of regular gasoline went up 8 cents since last week to $4.16, according to the latest data published by AAA. The last time the national average reached that price was in early August of 2022.*

“Crude oil prices remain high, even as they’ve fluctuated in recent days following the announcement of a 2-week ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran. The price for a barrel of crude dropped below $100 but then rose again, highlighting the volatility of oil markets and fluidity of geopolitical events,” AAA said in a release.** Continue reading →

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Magna to Sell Lighting and Rooftop Systems Firms

Posted on 9 April 2026 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Magna to Sell Lighting and Rooftop Systems Firms

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Magna International Inc. (TSX: MG; NYSE: MGA) today said that it has entered into definitive agreements to divest its Lighting business through two separate transactions, as well as its Rooftop Systems business in a third transaction.*

“Today’s announcement underscores our commitment to actively managing our portfolio in line with our guiding principles,” said Swamy Kotagiri, Magna Chief Executive Officer. “Magna will continue to focus on businesses that advance our long-term growth, margin, and return objectives. We are committed to ensuring a smooth transition for employees, customers, and all other stakeholders.” Continue reading →

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Stellantis N.V. Securities Fraud Lawsuit Announced

Posted on 8 April 2026 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Stellantis N.V. Securities Fraud Lawsuit Announced

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The Rosen Law Firm, which bills itself as a global investor rights law firm, today announced a class action lawsuit on behalf of purchasers of common stock on the New York Stock Exchange of Stellantis N.V. (NYSE: STLA) between 26 February 2025 and 5 February 2026, inclusive (the so-called “Class Period”). A class action lawsuit has already been filed.*

“If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than 8 June 8 2026, Rosen Law said in a release. “If you purchased Stellantis common stock on the NYSE during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement.” Continue reading →

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AB Volvo Board Meeting Approves Extraordinary Dividend

Posted on 8 April 2026 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on AB Volvo Board Meeting Approves Extraordinary Dividend

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AB Volvo held its Annual General Meeting today in Göteborg, Sweden. The Board adopted the income statement and balance sheet, as well as the consolidated income statement and the consolidated balance sheet. In accordance with the Board’s proposal, the Meeting resolved that an ordinary dividend of SEK 8.50 per share and an extraordinary dividend of SEK 4.50 per share should be paid to the shareholders – 10 April 2026 is the record date for the right to receive dividends.*

The Annual General Meeting resolved to not approve shareholder Kapitalforeningen MP Invest’s proposal that AB Volvo report on the alignment of their lobbying efforts with the 1.5°C Paris Agreement goal.[Whether this is insular and arrogant or appropriate is a matter of debate – AutoCrat.]** Continue reading →

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Penske Truck Rental – New Indy 500 VIP Contest

Posted on 7 April 2026 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Penske Truck Rental - New Indy 500 VIP Contest

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Penske Truck Rental today announced the launch of its new “Rev Up Your Rental” contest, an exclusive promotion that gives fans the chance to experience the excitement of IndyCar racing* firsthand while attending the 110th Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge – The Greatest Spectacle in Racing – on Sunday 24 May 2026. Through the Penske Truck Rental website, participants may enter for an opportunity to win a VIP trip to the legendary Indianapolis 500. There is no purchase needed. **

“Penske Truck Rental has always been about moving lives and businesses forward—and for true racing fans, the Indianapolis 500 is the ultimate fan destination,” said Kevin Malloy, senior vice president of rental at Penske. “This new contest celebrates the stories that move us all, and we’re honored to help two passionate fan’s dreams come true of attending this legendary race and enjoying a VIP experience.” Continue reading →

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