British car production dipped 2.1% in January according to figures released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders yesterday. Reduced demand from car manufacturing plants and additional shutdowns related to the coronavirus pandemic have caused the fifth successive month of decline. A global snowball effect is expected to continue as the industry anticipates the upcoming budget. This … [Read more...]
In car challenges and opportunities down the road
Connected cars will be both an opportunity and a challenge to the suppliers and manufacturers, according to a new report. The report, “Key Players and Business Models in the Connected Car,” examines the complex ecosystem of connected car players and helps clients navigate the opportunities and challenges on the road ahead. “The connected car marketplace – and the opportunities surrounding it – … [Read more...]
Coronavirus threatens many car makers
Car makers, suppliers and Government officials in Japan will work together to solve issues arising from the effects of the Far East coronavirus. Some Chinese suppliers have closed and are struggling to return production hampered by internal blockades, quarantine and labour shortages and the Japanese economy which heavily relies on automotive sector wants to limit damage and ensure it is ready to … [Read more...]
Tradelines 19 February
Hyundai Motor Group has announced its next generation ev platform for Hyundai and Kia cars will be developed by Los Angeles based Canoo. Their “skateboard” design is infinitely capable of working with various bodies and can be scaled to meet diverse needs. The National Association of Motor Auctions reports strong business at the end of 2019 and superminis were the most sought after. Louise … [Read more...]
Newslines 18 February
Jaguar I-Pace manufacturing in Austria has halted for a week, because it cannot get enough traction batteries from LG Chem’s Poland plant. It is the brand’s fourth best seller, reaching 17,355 units last year and the Polish plant also makes packs for Ford Mustang Mach E and forthcoming Transit E. Although nothing has been given to UK customers, Volkswagen Group is compensating some German … [Read more...]
Vredestein tyres have grip on SUV sector
European premium tyre manufacturer Apollo Vredestein continues to fulfil the UK tyre replacement market growth trends in 2019 with its award-winning range of SUV tyres and all-season tyres. Moreover, the recent development and expansion of Vredestein range of all-season tyres for wheel diameters of 17” and above, frequently fitted on SUVs, has allowed the manufacturer to offer the largest choice … [Read more...]
EVs will spark boom in UK power and transport
Electric vehicles will be good for the UK's power systems and transport network, say experts. A Government-backed taskforce bringing together key players in the energy, infrastructure and transport sectors has demonstrated that an effectively managed integration of electric vehicles with the energy system can significantly improve electricity network efficiency, increase system resilience and … [Read more...]
Five companies interested in whole Ford Bridgend site
Five major international companies have expressed interest in taking over the whole of the Ford Bridgend Engine Plant site, it was revealed today, writes Robin Roberts. They are among 21 businesses who have asked for details of the 1.2M sqft site when Ford end production there in September, said Welsh Economy Minister Ken Skates after meeting the Ford Bridgend Task Force seeking future use of the … [Read more...]
Newslines 3 January
The Welsh Government is considering changing the law under its powers to fine registered vehicle keepers if anyone inside is seen throwing litter onto the roads. Currently the person throwing the litter can be fined but it’s proved difficult to trace them and enforce the law, so the change will result in an automatic fine after photographic evidence has been viewed or a vehicle’s details are … [Read more...]
Scottish kit car announced
The latest new car to be built in Scotland since the Hillman Imp in the Seventies – and the first ever to come from Dundee – has been revealed. Called the ADO Coupe after the initials of the three men behind the project, it brings to life a concept from 1964 which was intended to be a replacement for the iconic MG Midget. Although an early version was built as a prototype by BMC, it … [Read more...]