First Look – 2025 Audi RS-3 Sedan

Posted on 20 March 2025 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on First Look - 2025 Audi RS-3 Sedan

Click to enlarge.

Audi of America today released pricing and specifications for the 2025 Audi RS 3. It retains the Nürburgring-Nordschleife record in the compact class. It also has the unique Audi five-cylinder engine.

Audi said the RS-3, “reaffirms the compact sport sedan’s position as the attainable entry point to the Audi Sport portfolio. Featuring a combination of visual enhancements to both the interior and exterior, more standard equipment, and performance benefits of fine-tuning; the latest rendition of the RS 3 invites drivers to experience the progressive union of luxury with the track-proven performance demonstrated through the new record lap set in the compact vehicle class on the Nurburgring-Nordschleife with 7:33.123 minutes.” Continue reading →

Tweet
Posted in auto news, engineering, marketing, new vehicle, news analysis, performance | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Nissan and SK On Reveal EV Battery Deal

Posted on 19 March 2025 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Nissan and SK On Reveal EV Battery Deal

Click for more.

Nissan (7201T and NSANY ADR)* and SK On said today that SK On will supply ~100GWh of U.S.-made batteries from 2028 to 2033.  This is Korean SK On first partnership with a Japanese automaker.

“This agreement with SK On is a significant milestone for Nissan’s electrification journey and supports further investment in U.S. manufacturing,” said Christian Meunier, chairman, Nissan Americas. “Through this smart partnership with SK On, we can leverage their growing U.S. production capacity to deliver innovative, high-quality electric vehicles that meet the needs of our customers.” Continue reading →

Tweet
Posted in alternative fuels, electric vehicles, energy, environment, global warming, manufacturing, milestones, news analysis, public health, shows and events | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

CFC Reduction Induces Ozone Layer Fixing

Posted on 19 March 2025 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on CFC Reduction Induces Ozone Layer Fixing

Click to enlarge.

A new MIT-led study confirms that the Antarctic ozone layer is healing as a direct result of global efforts to reduce ozone-depleting substances such as chlorofluorocarbons or CFCs. This is significant because scientists have observed signs of ozone recovery in the past. However, the new study is the first to show, with high statistical confidence, that this recovery is due primarily to the reduction of ozone-depleting substances, instead of other influences such as natural weather variability or increased greenhouse gas emissions to the stratosphere.

“There’s been a lot of qualitative evidence showing that the Antarctic ozone hole is getting better. This is really the first study that has quantified confidence in the recovery of the ozone hole,” says study author Susan Solomon, the Lee and Geraldine Martin Professor of Environmental Studies and Chemistry. “The conclusion is, with 95% confidence, it is recovering. Which is awesome. And it shows we can actually solve environmental problems.” Continue reading →

Tweet
Posted in environment, global warming, milestones, news analysis, public health, results, shows and events, Trump Truth Tests | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

ZEV Truck Adoption Stalled by Costs

Posted on 18 March 2025 by Ken Zino

Cutting the total cost of ownership could boost the transition to zero-emission truck fleets. A new study released by the respected McKinsey & Company consultancy observes that the total cost of ownership (TCO) for ZEVs remains significantly higher than that of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. The TCO gap ranges between 30% and 50% compared to ICE vehicles running on dirtier diesel fuel.

“Trucking is a significant source of emissions. Given that transportation is the second-largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the United States, with medium- and heavy-duty trucks accounting for about a quarter of these, transitioning fleets to zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) has emerged as an urgent priority. [footnote 1] McKinsey’s recent survey of more than 200 US trucking fleets found that while two-thirds are committed to decarbonization and over half are piloting ZEVs, fewer than 10% see a viable path to scaling the use of ZEVs. [2] Adoption currently sits at a few thousand units per year, and even with decarbonization targets, there is uncertainty around scalable and timely zero-emission truck adoption,” McKinsey said. Continue reading →

Tweet
Posted in alternative fuels, electric vehicles, energy, environment, fuel economy or emissions, global warming, news analysis, public health, transportation | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Acura 2025 ADX SUV Bets on Pricing

Posted on 18 March 2025 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Acura 2025 ADX SUV Bets on Pricing

Click for more.

The 2025 ADX, an all-new premium compact SUV, begins arriving at Acura dealerships today. It’s billed as a new access model that will heighten the appeal of Acura as a destination brand for a new generation of buyers looking for youthful styling, top-class features and an engaging driving experience, all at an allegeable attainable price point. The bet on pricing is that a $36,000 to $45,000 SUV – plus options – will attract younger buyers, who are in a perilous position given a U.S. economy facing another Trump Administration trade-war and tariff -induced recession. (Read AutoInformed.com on: First Look New 2025 Acura ADX Compact SUV)

“As the new gateway to the Acura SUV lineup, the ADX* builds on the incredible success of Integra and expands our Acura lineup into the fast-growing premium compact SUV segment,” said Mike Langel, assistant vice president, Acura National Sales. Continue reading →

Tweet
Posted in auto news, design and styling, marketing, new vehicle, software defined vehicles | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Range Rover Recalls for Bad Seat Belts

Posted on 17 March 2025 by Ken Zino

Jaguar Land Rover North America is recalling more than 7000 model year 2025 Range Rover and Range Rover Sport vehicles built at the Solihull Vehicle Assembly Plant. The second-row center seat belt buckle may not latch correctly due to a manufacturing error by the Autoliv Rovinari, Romanian supplier.

“A concern has been identified where, on certain Range Rover and Range Rover Sport vehicles, the second-row center seat belt buckle may be manufactured away from specification. One of the jigs used at the buckle supplier did not secure the buckle’s internal cable in the correct location during a riveting process. Continue reading →

Tweet
Posted in auto news, customer satisfaction, manufacturing, news analysis, quality, recalls, safety | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Wheel Lockup Recalls on Cadillacs and Camaros

Posted on 17 March 2025 by Ken Zino

General Motors (NYSE: GM) is recalling more than 2019-2020 Cadillac CT6, 2020-2021 CT4 and CT5, and 2020-2022 model year Chevrolet Camaro vehicles equipped with a 10-speed transmission. The transmission may become damaged internally cause the wheels to lock-up. Drivers may notice harsh shifting.

“A transmission control valve in some of these vehicles may be susceptible to excess wear over time, resulting in a gradual loss of pressure within the valve that can cause harsh shifting. In rare cases, the wheels may experience a momentary lock up,” GM said in the mandatory safety defect recall filing made public this morning by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Continue reading →

Tweet
Posted in auto news, customer satisfaction, news analysis, quality, recalls, safety | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Mercedes-Benz USA Recalls Four EQEs

Posted on 17 March 2025 by Ken Zino

Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) is recalling four, yes four, 2023 EQE 350 4MATIC and EQE 350+ vehicles. The mounting of the wheel rim inserts might not withstand the forces while driving.

As a result, “the rim inserts may detach from the wheels while driving,” according to the mandatory safety defect recall filing made public this morning by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Continue reading →

Tweet
Posted in auto news, customer satisfaction, manufacturing, news analysis, quality, recalls | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

New EV Vans Coming From IVECO and Stellantis

Posted on 14 March 2025 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on New EV Vans Coming From IVECO and Stellantis

Click for more.

Stellantis Pro One (NYSE: STLA) and IVECO (EXM: IVG), which designs, makes 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).

“We are excited to add two innovative and versatile battery electric vans to our Light Commercial Vehicle line-up, boosting our competitiveness in the van segment. By choosing to partner with Stellantis Pro One, we are leveraging the extensive know-how and strong presence in Italy and Europe that historically tie our companies. I am confident that this winning collaboration will benefit our European customers, in particular for the success of their last-mile logistics businesses,” said Luca Sra, President, Truck Business Unit, Iveco Group. Continue reading →

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

Mercedes-Benz Debuts New CLA in Rome?

Posted on 14 March 2025 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Mercedes-Benz Debuts New CLA in Rome?

Click for more.

The all-new Mercedes-Benz CLA (MBGAF) was launched in Rome yesterday, a surprising site for a German automaker. Mercedes said a launch of this magnitude deserves a backdrop of equal prestige…, which is why it chose Rome – a metropolis defined by timeless elegance, flair and progressive vision. Amidst the hype and hoopla some details of what is and has been a significant Mercedes car emerged.*

“The premiere of the new CLA in Rome – a city just as iconic and timeless as Mercedes-Benz – was more than just another car launch. It marks the beginning of a new era for Mercedes-Benz and for our customers: The CLA will be the most efficient and the most intelligent Mercedes we’ve ever made. It’s the one-liter car for the electric age – and at the same time will also be available as a highly efficient hybrid version. It is the first in a series of new models we’re adding to the Mercedes-Benz family,” said Ola Kaellenius, Chief Executive Officer, Mercedes-Benz Group AG. Continue reading →

Tweet
Posted in auto news, connected vehicles, design and styling, electric vehicles, engineering, marketing, new vehicle, news analysis, software defined vehicles | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Annals of Marketing – Mercedes-Benz and FYI

Posted on 13 March 2025 by Ken Zino

Click for more

Mercedes-Benz (MBGAF) said today that it has a partnership with FYI, an AI-powered platform founded by creative artist, producer and tech entrepreneur will.i.am. FYI RAiDiO (sic ) launched last year. FYI RAiDiO is an AI-infused interactive, conversational media platform. It will be available in US Beta Program starting from March 13th for customers with eligible vehicles. [footnote 1]

“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 →

Tweet
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
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Toyota Motor Starts Crown Estate Sales in Japan

Click for more.

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 – AutoCrat] 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. However in the SUV dominated United States, there might not be enough demand for a station wagon even though they dominated the family segments decades ago. The powertrain  now includes hybrid (HEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models.

“Following the launch of the Crossover, Sport, and Sedan, comes the fourth model in the lineup of the Crown series, the Estate. It brings dynamic styling and functionality so drivers can enjoy an active lifestyle with family and friends. The result is a vehicle that embodies both the dignity and functionality of the Crown in what Toyota calls a Mature Active Cabin. The powertrain lineup includes hybrid (HEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models to cater to a wide range of customer lifestyles,” Toyota said. Continue reading →

Tweet
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
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Toyota C-HR+, bZ4X and Lexus RZ European Debuts

Click for more.

Toyota Motor Corporation (NYSE: TM and 7203.T) 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.

“Compared to other regions, Europe has a high rate of electrified vehicle ownership and a high level of BEV ownership. As a result, there is a need to further strengthen BEV products. To accelerate the multi-pathway approach, after launching the all-new Urban Cruiser at the end of last year in Europe, Toyota will be launching the three new models as a lineup that can cover the B-, C-, and D-SUV segments, which are major parts of the European market,” Toyota said. Continue reading →

Tweet
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

Porsche Posts €5.6B Profit in 2024

Posted on 12 March 2025 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Porsche Posts €5.6B Profit in 2024

Click for more.

Porsche AG (P911.DE) said today that it finished the 2024 financial year with a Group operating profit of €5.6 billion based on record sales in four out of five regions of the world. The operating profit dropped -22% Year over Year. Electrified vehicles accounted for a 27% share of the 310,718 vehicles sold. This is a 14.1% return on €40.8 billion in sales revenue (-14% YoY). (Read AutoInformed on: Porsche AG Changes Its Executive Board)

“We have renewed five out of six model lines and extensively refreshed our product portfolio. This has laid the foundation for our success in the coming years, with the clear goal of exciting our customers with our iconic sports cars,” said CEO Dr Oliver Blume. “In view of the changed circumstances, we have adjusted our product strategy in all segments. And we further developed our proven and successful Porsche strategy over the course of last year to make the company even more flexible, robust and high-performing,” claimed Blume. Continue reading →

Tweet
Posted in auto news, electric vehicles, financial results, mobility company, news analysis, results, sales | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Volkswagen Group 2024 Results Drop Significantly

Posted on 11 March 2025 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Volkswagen Group 2024 Results Drop Significantly

Click to enlarge.

Volkswagen Group said today that 2024 operating result declined significantly to €3.9 billion, mainly due to restructuring expenses related to the site in Brussels and residual value effects, as well as intense competition and the current model offensive. The operating Margin was a scant 6.0%. (Read AutoInformed.com on Pablo Di Si Out at VW Group of America and VW Group – €2.6 Billion Exposure Over EV Plant Closing)

“In 2024, Volkswagen Group has set a decisive strategic course. With innovative, emotional products. With trailblazing strategic decisions. In 2025, we will continue to focus on consistent implementation. As our transformation gains in traction, the new strength of Volkswagen Group comes to life. Our continuing model offensive, regionally tailored products for our markets around the globe and strong partners constitute the basis for sustainable positive development. With the ramp-up of affordable e-mobility, our autonomous vehicle fleet and the battery cell production in Germany, Volkswagen is showcasing European innovation for the world as the global automotive tech driver,” claimed Oliver Blume, CEO Volkswagen Group. Continue reading →

Tweet
Posted in auto news, economy, financial results, news analysis, results | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment