Penske Automotive Group Buys 15 UK Dealerships

Posted on 11 December 2023 by Ken Zino

Penske Automotive Group, Inc. (NYSE: PAG)* today announced that it has agreed to acquire Rybrook Group Limited consisting of 15 premium dealerships in the United Kingdom, including four BMW dealerships, four MINI dealerships, four Volvo dealerships, two Land Rover dealerships and one Porsche dealership. Three of the BMW locations also retail BMW Motorrad motorcycles. The dealerships to be acquired represent estimated annualized revenues of $1 billion. The Company has received certain regulatory approvals. The acquisition is anticipated to be funded using the Company’s existing liquidity and is expected to close in January 2024, subject to customary conditions.”**

“The Rybrook dealerships represent exceptional brands with a strong commitment to providing exceptional customer service. We look forward to continuing this legacy and welcoming these franchises to our team,” said Darren Edwards, CEO of the Company’s Sytner Group subsidiary in the UK. Continue reading →

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Annals of Marketing – Ducati Diavel for Bentley Mulliner

Posted on 11 December 2023 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Annals of Marketing - Ducati Diavel for Bentley Mulliner

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Ducati and Bentley jointly announced a new, limited-edition motorcycle that celebrates the best of both brands: the Ducati Diavel for Bentley. It is the result of a collaboration between the two manufacturers as the project links Ducati and Bentley “with a vision of performance, craftsmanship and exclusivity.” The bike was revealed last Friday night at a ‘fuorisalone’ event at Art Basel in Miami, the overseas edition of a European contemporary art fair. This joint project stems from Ducati and Bentley both being part of the Volkswagen Group’s “Progressive Brand Group,” which also includes Audi and Lamborghini.

“On the sophisticated technical base of the high-performance and comfortable Diavel V4, Ducati has integrated characterizing elements of the Bentley Batur – of which only 18 examples will be handcrafted by Bentley – to create a motorcycle unique in terms of elegance and design. The Diavel for Bentley will be created in a numbered series limited to 500 examples, plus an additional 50 even more special “Ducati Diavel for Bentley Mulliner” motorbikes. The latter are reserved for Bentley customers, and include the personalization and individuality that is so intrinsic to the Batur on which the bikes are based,” Bentley said. Continue reading →

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CHIPS and Science Act Phase 2 – Growth and Defense

Posted on 11 December 2023 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on CHIPS and Science Act Phase 2 - Growth and Defense

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The Biden-Harris Administration today said the US Department of Commerce and BAE Systems have signed a non-binding preliminary memorandum of terms (PMT)* to provide ~$35 million in federal incentives under the CHIPS and Science Act to support the modernization of the company’s Microelectronics Center Nashua, New Hampshire.

“We have been clear since day one that the CHIPS for America Program** is about advancing our national security and strengthening domestic supply chains, all while creating good jobs supporting long-term U.S. economic growth. As national security becomes as much about the chips inside of our weapons systems as the weapons systems themselves, this first CHIPS announcement shows how central semiconductors are to our national defense,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. “Thanks to President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, we have reached preliminary terms to make a substantial investment in New Hampshire’s expanding defense industrial base, which will help make our country and supply chains more secure and bolster the economy of the Granite State.” Continue reading →

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New Ford Mustang GT3 Racing Documentary Starts Next Week

Posted on 8 December 2023 by Ken Zino

Ford Motor (NYSE: F) said today that starting next week, people can follow the development of the Ford Mustang GT3 leading up to its inaugural season at the world’s toughest endurance races in a documentary series. (Full episode 1 Click Here

The Ford Mustang GT3 race car, based on the 2024 Mustang Dark Horse, was unveiled last year during the centenary celebration on the eve of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Ford will enter the Mustang in to the global FIA GT3 racing category. Ford’s last victory at Le Mans was in 2016 with the Ford GT. Ford is also showed a new Ford Performance branding that will now be used on all its racing vehicles. Continue reading →

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Bosch Puts Entertainment and Driver Assistance on One Chip

Posted on 7 December 2023 by Ken Zino

Robert Bosch has debuted integrated functions from previously separate vehicle domains on a computer chip. Now it has infotainment and driver assistance functions on one chip. So-called software-defined automobility goes hand in hand with a centralized vehicle and electric/electronic (E/E) architecture.

“Central vehicle computers are the heart of software-defined cars,” said Dr. Markus Heyn at a trade show. Continue reading →

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Fossil Fuel Powered Vehicles Plagued with Connectivity Bugs

Posted on 7 December 2023 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Fossil Fuel Powered Vehicles Plagued with Connectivity Bugs

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Nearly one third (29%) of owners with internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles say that they have experienced a connectivity-related issue when using their manufacturer’s mobile app, according to the J.D. Power 2023 U.S. OEM ICE App ReportSM. Just made publicly available. Of the connectivity-related issues experienced by ICE vehicle owners, 64% say that they at least occasionally experience a slow app connection. These connectivity issues hinder overall usage of manufacturers’ mobile apps for ICE vehicles, which remains flat year over year at 73%.

“Smartphone apps remain a highly problematic vehicle feature, even as manufacturers continue to focus on resolving connectivity-related issues,” said Jason Norton, senior manager of global automotive consulting at J.D. Power, “It’s clear that customers will have a better overall ownership experience if they have a better smartphone app experience.”   Continue reading →

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The Quantum Mobility Quest from Airbus and BMW Group

Posted on 6 December 2023 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Airbus and BMW Group - Quantum Computing Competition

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Airbus and BMW Group launched today the so-called “The Quantum Mobility Quest” to address challenges in the data-driven aviation and automotive industries that remain insurmountable for classic computers. This could be a first-of-its-kind attempt to develop applications to harness quantum technologies for real-world industrial applications. The companies said it has the potential to forge more efficient, sustainable and safer solutions for the future of transportation. This nascent technology could play a key role in simulating various industrial and operational processes, opening up opportunities to shape future mobility products and services.

“This is the perfect time to shine a spotlight on quantum technology* and its potential impact on our society. Partnering with an industry leader like BMW Group enables us to mature the technology as we need to bridge the gap between scientific exploration and its potential applications. We’re seeking the best-in-class students, PhDs, academics, researchers, start-ups, companies, or professionals in the field, worldwide to join our challenge to create a massive paradigm shift in the way aircraft are built and flown.” said Isabell Gradert, Vice President Central Research and Technology at Airbus. Continue reading →

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Pilot Travel Centers, GM, Evgo Open Fast Charging Network

Posted on 5 December 2023 by Ken Zino
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Pilot Travel Centers, General Motors (NYSE: GM) and EVgo (NASDAQ: EVGO) today announced the opening of the first 17 locations of a previously announced national electric vehicle fast charging network. Now  in 13 states, the network claims an “elevated charging experience,” providing EV travelers access to the same amenities offered at existing Pilot and Flying J travel centers.

“EV drivers are eager for a better charging experience and to have more charging locations along America’s most traveled corridors. These new charging locations and the many more to come, will be critical for improving range confidence,” said Adam Wright, Pilot Travel Centers chief executive officer. “As interest in EVs continues to grow, we believe our network can be a catalyst to getting more EV drivers on the road.” Continue reading →

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Michigan State Fleet – All to be Zero-Emission Vehicles  

Posted on 5 December 2023 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Michigan Carbon Neutral Plan.com on 2020 NAIAS

Governor Gretchen Whitmer.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan today signed Executive Directive 2023-5, which will transition the State of Michigan’s fleet to zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs). All state-owned light-duty vehicles will be zero-emission vehicles by 2033, with medium and heavy-duty vehicles by 2040 under the awakened and enlightened policy.

“Michigan automakers are on the cutting-edge of the world’s switch to zero emission vehicles, and with today’s executive directive to transition our state-owned fleet by 2040, the State of Michigan is leading by example,” said Governor Whitmer. “Getting this done will help drive demand of Michigan-made electric vehicles, lower gas and maintenance costs for the state since ZEVs cost far less to fuel and maintain and reduce air and noise pollution in our communities.”  Continue reading →

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Ford Pro and Xcel Energy to Install 30,000 Fleet EV Chargers

Posted on 5 December 2023 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Ford Pro and Xcel Energy to Install 30,000 Fleet EV Chargers

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Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) said today that its Ford Pro commercial division and Xcel Energy (NASDAQ: XEL) will work on deploying 30,000 electric vehicle (EV) charging ports in Xcel Energy service territories across the US by 2030 in a program dubbed 30×30.*

“Ford Pro and Xcel Energy are pioneering a whole new way to scale EV charging infrastructure,” claimed Amanda Rome, Executive Vice President, Group President, Utilities & Chief Customer Officer at Xcel Energy. “Ford Pro is a trusted provider in fleet electrification, scaling charging infrastructure for fleets with smart vehicle, charging and software.” Continue reading →

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Magna Joins Northstar for 5G Autonomous Driving Development

Posted on 4 December 2023 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Magna Joins Northstar for 5G Autonomous Driving Development

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Magna, the Canadian mega supplier (NYSE:MGA; TSX:MG) said today that ii is enhancing its automated driving capabilities by joining NorthStar Telia Sweden and Ericsson’s 5G innovation program for industrial enterprises.* As part of the agreement, Telia and Ericsson have built a dedicated, private 5G network at Magna’s test track located in Vårgårda, Sweden, where new Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) applications in vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) and vehicle-to-everything (V2X) connectivity are being tested. This follows, in some cases by years, other automotive companies use of 5G.** (AutoInformed: Magna Buys Veoneer Active Safety Business)

“By utilizing the latest advancements in mobile networks, we are able to accelerate the automotive domain by offering sensor enhancements and as a result offer more capable and competitive ADAS products,” said Bill Snider, President of Electronics. “Our focus is not only on meeting challenging technical requirements, but also on developing products that can help anticipate critical situations to prevent accidents, ultimately making the roads safer for all.” Continue reading →

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Recalls on 2015-16 Lincolns, Fords for Sudden Door Openings

Posted on 4 December 2023 by Ken Zino

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling 2015 Fiesta, 2016 Fusion, and 2016 Lincoln MKZ vehicles sold, or ever registered in certain US regions, According to documents released today by National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall number 20V-177 from several years ago. The build date ranges for vehicles built in Mexico at Cuautitlan and Hermosillo Assembly Plants have been extended, partially due to NHTSA Office of Defect Investigations monitoring of customer vehicle complaints (VOQs) made to the Federal Safety Agency.

A component piece made by Kiekert USA inside the door latches may break, which can make it difficult to latch or possibly allow the doors to open while driving. In some of the affected vehicles, the door latches have a pawl spring tab that may break. The latch pawl spring tab design is susceptible to cracking and failure in areas with high ambient temperatures. This safety defect will typically prevent the door from latching. If the customer is able to latch the door after repeated attempts to shut the door, there is potential the door may unlatch while driving, increasing the risk of injury. Continue reading →

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US Light Vehicle Sales up Again in November 2023

Posted on 4 December 2023 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on US Light Vehicle Sales up Again in November 2023

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US Light Vehicle (LV) sales grew by 8.5% year-on-year (YoY) in November, to 1.22 million units, according to preliminary estimates from the respected consultancy GlobalData.* The daily selling rate was estimated at 48,900 units/day in November, compared to 48,200 units/day in October. Despite the uptick in the daily selling rate, it appears that November sales were slightly disappointing, with Thanksgiving and Black Friday sales not delivering quite as robust an acceleration as hoped. 

“With the UAW strikes over, the industry could focus on more typical matters of LV demand and the extent to which Thanksgiving sales would spur the market, against the backdrop of many households feeling squeezed and interest rates remaining high. In the end, sales grew by 8.5% YoY, but there was a feeling that results could have been better. Continue reading →

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Annals of Marketing – Honda Offers EV at Hybrid Price

Posted on 1 December 2023 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Annals of Marketing - Honda Offers EV at Hybrid Price

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Honda UK said today that it is helping people to ‘Go electric’ by offering eNy1 Electric Elegance for the same monthly payment* as HR-V Hybrid Advance. The all-new eNy1 is available with 5.9% APR and a £8000 deposit. For £346 per month, customers can choose between eNy1 Electric Elegance or HR-V Hybrid Advance for the exact same monthly payment.* The offer is valid from 1 December 2023 until 31 January 2024. It’s the latest example of how the proposition that EVs are too expensive ignores marketplace competition combined with automaker advantages of scale and decades of innovation in manufacturing, design and cost cutting will relentlessly and inevitably make EVs desirable.

“We want to make it easier for consumers to make the transition to electric vehicles and we know that the price point of EVs is one of the main concerns people have,” said Rebecca Adamson, Head of Automobile at Honda UK. “We have decided to make our eNy1 Electric Elegance the same monthly payment as our HR-V Hybrid Advance equivalent, allowing customers to choose the powertrain that suits them best.” Continue reading →

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The US’s first public EV-charging Roadway Unveiled in Detroit

Posted on 30 November 2023 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on The US’s first public EV-charging Roadway Unveiled in Detroit

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Detroit Deputy Mayor Todd Bettison, Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) Director Brad Wieferich and other partners yesterday celebrated a milestone in the future of mobility and electrification  at the Michigan Central* innovation district in Detroit as crews have finished installing the nation’s first wireless-charging public roadway.

Using technology from Israeli company Electreon,** 14th Street is now equipped with inductive-charging coils between Marantette and Dalzelle streets that will charge electric vehicles (EVs) equipped with Electreon receivers as they drive on the road. The road will be used to test and improve this wireless-charging technology in a real-world environment before making it available to the public in the next few years. Continue reading →

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