-
Recent Posts
- Ford Motor Posts 2025 Loss of $8.2B on Record Revenue
- Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company Posts 2025 Loss of $1.7B
- Huge Recalls for Jeep and RAM Spring and Brake Failures
- Toyota Recalls 2023-2024 Prius Prime, 2023-2026 Prius, 2025-2026 Prius Hybrids
- Stellantis Sells NextStar Energy Canadian Battery Plant
- Stellantis €22.2B Charges. Dividend Cancelled. Stock Tanks
- Toyota Motor Posts Q3 FY 2026 Net Income of $7.6 billion
- UAW Southern Advance – Tentative VW Chattanooga Contract
- Volvo Cars Posts a -44% Group Earnings Drop in 2025
- U.S. Jobs – Trump Slump Continues
- Electrify America Now Has 5600 Chargers
- FAA Certifies HondaJet Elite II Emergency Autoland
- Indiana – Subaru Forester Hybrid Now in Production
- Monumental Sports to Sell IndyCar Freedom 250 Sponsorships
- Milestones – 40 Years for BMW Group Plant Regensburg
Recent Comments
- Michigan Governor Whitmer on Pew – Confidence in Trump Dips, Fewer Support His Policies
- Porsche Motorsport Daytona Victory on Daytona 24 Hours – Old and New Stars Getting Ready to Run
- UAW Ford Department Director VP Laura Dickerson on Trump's Ford Plant Visit on Whitmer Stands in Stark Contrast to Trump at Detroit Auto Show
- Ken Zino on Ford Fuel Injector Leak Recall Now at ~694,000
- Laverne Oliver on Ford Fuel Injector Leak Recall Now at ~694,000
Archives
Meta
Tag Archives: auto industry commentary
Stellantis Bets the Company on STLA Frame
Stellantis (NYSE: STLA) has debuted a new multi-energy Platform: dubbed STLA Frame. Purposely designed for full-size, body-on-frame trucks and SUVs, STLA Frame can use internal combustion, hybrid, hydrogen, battery electric (BEV) and range-extender electric vehicle (REEV) technologies. In short, struggling Stellantis’ future is dependent on this new architecture. (read AutoInformed.com on: Beleaguered Stellantis Cuts 2024 Financial Guidance, and Stellantis Q3 2024 – Shipments and Revenues Plunge)*
“Like STLA Medium and STLA Large, STLA Frame combines an unprecedented range with new levels of capability and performance to offer best-in-class range, payload and towing for our customers who need reliable and powerful trucks and SUVs, to haul their families or power their businesses,” said Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares. “With full EV and extended-range EV tech coming soon, we’re bringing ‘no compromise’ solutions to buyers who may be hesitant on trying their first electric vehicle. We’re proud of this engineering marvel and look forward to seeing it come to life in our upcoming product blitz on Jeep and Ram.” Continue reading
Posted in auto news, electronics, engineering, fuel economy or emissions, global warming, manufacturing, marketing, milestones, mobility company, news analysis, shows and events
Tagged auto industry commentary, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, carlos tavares, jeep, Ken Zino, ram, Stellantis, STLA Frame, X @KenAutoinformed
Leave a comment
Large European Job Cuts Coming at Ford, Again
Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) announced today its restructuring plans to create a badly needed more “cost-competitive structure.” The main focus is the health of Ford’s passenger vehicle business in Europe, where it incurred significant losses for years. Ford is also lagging in the European shift to electrified vehicles, and new competition – especially Chinese – has been disruptive. Through Q3 of 2024, Ford sales are down ~18% in Europe. Continue reading
Posted in auto news, economy, environment, labor issues, manufacturing, milestones, mobility company, news analysis, people
Tagged auto industry commentary, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, Dave Johnston, John Lawler, Ken Zino, NYSE F, X @KenAutoinformed
Leave a comment
Lexus, Honda Top 2025 U.S. ALG Residual Values
“Honda stayed disciplined with pricing in 2024, avoiding the aggressive manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) increases that diminished affordability at other brands, while Lexus’ restraint with incentives paid dividends, as incentives have a direct negative effect on the resale values of older models,” said Danny Battaglia, managing director of ALG customer success at J.D. Power. “Additionally, the top brands consistently employ a balanced strategy with regard to trim levels, powertrains and pricing, which helps bolster residual performance and long-term value for consumers who are shopping in a highly competitive market.” Continue reading
Pablo Di Si Out at VW Group of America
Volkswagen Group of America effective December 12. Gruner succeeds Pablo Di Si, “who has stepped down from his position on his own request.” It was a short two year stint for Di Si. Until Kjell Gruner* takes office, Gerrit Spengler, the chief human resources officer of Volkswagen Group of America, will perform the function of interim CEO. So car guy out, Human resources in.
Yes, that’s right Human Resources is running a car company. It’s just the latest example of the chaos at VW globally as three plants are shutting in Germany and VW and Audi models are being dumped, and its plan to sell Scout vehicles directly is legally under attack by dealers. During the first nine months of the year, 769,000 vehicles were delivered in North America, an increase of more than 7% compared to the previous year. In the main US market though, the Volkswagen Group grew by only 1.5%. Continue reading
DOJ – Cruise Deferred Prosecution for Pedestrian Crash
GM’s Cruise autonomous vehicle company* based in San Francisco, fixed a criminal charge in federal court for providing a false record to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) with the intent to impede, obstruct, or influence the investigation of a crash involving one of Cruise’s autonomous vehicles. Cruise has agreed to resolve the charge through a deferred prosecution agreement and payment of a $500,000 criminal fine.
“Federal laws and regulations are in place to protect public safety on our roads. Companies with self-driving cars that seek to share our roads and crosswalks must be fully truthful in their reports to their regulators,” said Martha Boersch, Chief of the Office of the U.S. Attorney’s Criminal Division. Continue reading
Posted in auto news, autonomous vehicles, connected vehicles, litigation, mobility company, news analysis, quality, safety, software defined vehicles, software defined vehicles
Tagged 000 criminal fine, auto industry commentary, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, Cruise $500, Cruise Deferred Prosecution agreement, Ken Zino, Martha Boersch, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, X @KenAutoinformed
Leave a comment
Toyota Huntsville Finishes 168-acre Solar Array
Toyota (NYSE: TM) and Toyota Tsusho America (TAI) and Huntsville Utilities have completed 168-acre solar project. The renewable energy produced will generate ~70 % of Toyota Alabama’s total energy. It is in keeping with the automaker’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality at all of its North American facilities by 2035. In total, the array will generate approximately 62,000 megawatt hours of energy annually, reducing an estimated 22,000 metric tons of CO2 emissions per year.
“Toyota is committed to clean and sustainable power. We know that the collective future for our community and our team members depends on clean mobility, clean air, clean water, and biodiversity,” said Jason Puckett, president of Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Alabama. “We are thankful for our partners on this project who have created a model of environmental stewardship in North Alabama.” Continue reading
Posted in alternative fuels, auto news, energy, environment, global warming, manufacturing, milestones, news analysis, public health, shows and events
Tagged auto industry commentary, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, Chris Simmons, Jason Puckett, Ken Zino, Toyota Tsusho America, Wes Kelley, X @KenAutoinformed
Leave a comment
October Global Light Vehicle Sales Rate at 93 Million
The Global Light Vehicle (LV) selling rate for October stood at 93 million units/year, according to an analysis released today by the respected GlobalData consultancy.* Year-over-Year, market volumes rebounded from the previous months’ downward trend. YoY sales were up 6% versus October 2023. However, Year-to-Date sales have a modest increase of 1% compared to the same period last year.
“In October, sales experienced a resurgence across most regions. Sales in China grew 5% YoY, as the domestic market saw a modest recovery driven by subsidies and the ongoing price war. In the US, sales grew nearly 12% for the month, driven by additional selling days and new model releases. Finally, sales in Western Europe remained broadly flat, as the region continues to experience significant political and economic headwinds,” the GlobalData forecast team said. Continue reading
On Sale? New Vehicle Incentives Rise in October
Kelley Blue Book data reported today shows that the average transaction price (ATP) for a new vehicle in the U.S. was $48,623 in October, up from September and higher than year-ago levels. Incentives increased again as many automakers try to clear their inventory. The electric vehicle ATP dropped month-over-month, but was higher year over year, with incentives at their highest level this year.
“’Tis the season for automakers to make their final push for 2024 sales,” said Cox Automotive Executive Analyst Erin Keating. “While some automakers focus on managing production, many will likely maintain or even increase their seasonal incentives to attract buyers. With competition intensifying, these strategies will be crucial in maintaining market share and driving end-of-year sales. Our team is generally optimistic for new-vehicle sales to close out the year – extra incentives will certainly help.” Continue reading
Vast Executive Reorganization at Hyundai Group
José Muñoz as President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company is the first non-Korean CEO of Hyundai Motor. Hyundai said he is the ideal fit to further enhance the company’s performance thanks to his merit-based management philosophy and his commitment to recruiting top global talent. Going forward, he is expected to enhance the company’s global management systems and further elevate its stature as a leading global brand. Continue reading
National Recycling Plan Advancing Circular Economy
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today said its “National Recycling Strategy” is advancing through implementation of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.* EPA is central to the Biden-Harris administration’s efforts to build a circular economy thereby creating jobs and helping the environment. Since 1997, EPA has celebrated the nation’s progress on recycling. This year, EPA is encouraging organizations and individuals to continue expanding the ways they reduce, reuse and recycle. Together with investments from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA’s work has helped to transform recycling and solid waste management across the nation. It was not immediately clear if the incoming Administration is the result of recycled garbage. Continue reading
Posted in economy, environment, news, news analysis, public health, shows and events
Tagged America Recycles Day, auto industry commentary, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, Biden-Harris National Recycling Strategy, Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Ken Zino, Michael S. Regan, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, X @KenAutoinformed
Leave a comment
First Look New 2025 Acura ADX Compact SUV
Acura today unveiled the Acura ADX, an all-new premium compact SUV. It’s targeting young buyers to the performance brand with ”an engaging driving experience, a feature-rich interior and top-class cabin and cargo space that supports their active lifestyles.” The new ADX will begin arriving at Acura dealers in early 2025 with a price range starting in the mid-$30,000 range at a time when performance is losing its appeal to younger shoppers, who are viewing car buying as a mathematical equation with lower prices winning.
“The all-new Acura ADX is an exciting new gateway model for the Acura brand expanding our performance SUV lineup to four exceptional models in the most popular segments,” said Mike Langel, assistant vice president, Acura National Sales. “ADX will hit the heart of the premium compact SUV segment, which has grown significantly over the past few years.” Continue reading
Chinese EV Trade Wars Hits Volvo Cars
Volvo Cars (VOLCAR B:STO) today announced the selling of its 30% stake in Lynk & Co to Zeekr, a transaction representing a consideration of RMB 5.4 billion (~ SEK 8 billion). The transaction will be paid in cash, with 70% of the amount paid at closing, and 30% plus interest paid one year after closing. The transaction is expected to close during the first quarter of 2025. Volvo Cars is currently trading near its all time low.
The transaction involves Volvo Cars (China) Investment Co., Ltd, an indirect subsidiary of Volvo Car AB, selling its share in Lynk & Co Automotive Technology Co., Ltd to Zhejiang Zeekr Intelligent Technology Co., Ltd, an indirect subsidiary of Zeekr Intelligent Technology Holding Limited. Continue reading
Posted in auto news, electric vehicles, financial results, news analysis, results, shows and events
Tagged auto industry commentary, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, Eric Li, Geely Automobile Holdings, Geely Holding, Ken Zino, Li Shufu, Lynk & Co, VOLCAR B:STO, Volvo Cars, X @KenAutoinformed, Zeekr
Leave a comment
NLRB Rules Against Anti-Union Captive-Audience Meetings
The National Labor Relations Board today issued a decision in Amazon.com Services LLC, ruling that an employer violates the National Labor Relations Act by requiring employees under threat of discipline or discharge to attend meetings in which the employer expresses its views on unionization. Members Prouty and Wilcox joined Chairman McFerran in issuing the decision. Member Kaplan – a Trump appointee – dissented. Continue reading
Posted in labor issues, litigation, news analysis, people, shows and events
Tagged Amazon.com Services anti-union captive meetings, auto industry commentary, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, David M. Prouty, Gwynne A. Wilcox, Ken Zino, Lauren McFerran, Marvin E. Kaplan, National Labor Relations Board, nlrb, X @KenAutoinformed
Leave a comment
Hyundai Debuts 2026 IONIQ 9 EV SUV
Hyundai Motor Company today revealed IONIQ 9, a three-row, all-electric SUV in Los Angeles. The 110.3 kWh battery delivers a WLTP-projected driving range of 620 km [see footnote 2].* The E-GMP architecture delivers 10% to 80% recharge in 24 minutes[3]. The seven seat IONIQ 9 will be shown publicly at the LA Auto Show and on sale in Korea and the United States during the first half of 2025. Rollouts are planned for Europe and other markets subsequently. It has the longest wheelbase of any Hyundai model, at 3130 mm. (read AutoInformed.com on:Vast Executive Reorganization at Hyundai Group)
“IONIQ 9 embodies Hyundai Motor’s unwavering commitment and confidence in electrification,” said Jaehoon Chang, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company. “Based on Hyundai Motor Group’s acclaimed Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), IONIQ 9 offers outstanding interior space, providing customers with unique value while solidifying our leadership in the global EV market.” Continue reading →