European politicians and car components makers are worried about developments in the automotive industry and agreed to establish an action plan to save jobs and businesses. This dialogue is a critical step in addressing key challenges for the sector's immediate future, CLEPA said in a statement. “Suppliers announced the loss of 54,000 jobs in 2024. More than in the pandemic. This is no longer … [Read more...]
Newslines 22 July
Kia UK has ranked first place in the latest UK Customer Satisfaction Index from The Institute of Customer Service. With 81.4 points out of 100, Kia was considerably higher than the automotive sector average of 78 points, further highlighting the brand's dedication to providing excellent customer experiences. The average across all UK industry sectors was 75.8 points. New car sales data for the … [Read more...]
EU car makers holding breath over China duties
Car makers are closely watching developments after the EC decided to impose provisional duties on imports of electric cars manufactured in China, based on initial findings of an anti-subsidy investigation initiated last year. ACEA has consistently affirmed that free and fair trade is essential in creating a globally competitive European automotive industry, while healthy competition drives … [Read more...]
“Alarming gap” in EV network across EU
A new European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association report reveals an alarming gap between the current availability of public charging points for electric cars in the EU and what will be needed in reality to meet CO2-reduction targets. EU electric car sales grew three times faster than charging point installation between 2017 and 2023, ACEA’s report shows. Looking ahead, the EU needs eight times … [Read more...]
Call for urgent open-sourcing of vehicle data
Pressure is mounting to compel vehicle makers to put technical data into an open source. A unique and broad alliance of consumer groups, automotive suppliers, leasing and rental industries, aftermarket operators, vehicle dealers, authorised and independent workshops, data publishers, and insurers have joined forces to call on Commissioner Thierry Breton to urgently bring forward long-planned … [Read more...]
Newslines 3 March
Owners of the latest Kia models can now benefit from the latest infotainment features more quickly and easily, thanks to new over-the-air functionality. Available for all Kia models equipped with Kia Connect from MY22 onwards, OTA capability ensures the customer’s satellite navigation unit can wirelessly receive map and related software updates. Bus services will see a £150M support scheme from … [Read more...]
Tradelines 22 February
Fleets could consider increased support of UK-produced vehicles, FleetCheck is suggesting, as Nissan questioned the future of its Sunderland plant. Peter Golding, managing director at the leading fleet management software specialist said businesses that bought vehicles could have an impact on local manufacturing saying, "UK motor manufacturing has already lost Honda in recent years, electric MINI … [Read more...]
End of the ICE age in 2035
Car makers have agreed to end petrol and diesel engine production throughout Europe by 2035. But they say tough emissions targets can be met only if there is a concerted Governments’ drive to strengthen the vehicle recharging network. Following the EU deal on CO2 targets for cars and vans, the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association urged European policy makers to shift into higher gear … [Read more...]
Chips with everything – you’ll be lucky!
The chips shortage continues to pressure industry and presents a significant to existential challenge for automotive suppliers, highlighting the need for a dedicated semiconductor strategy and tangible action from policymakers. European automotive suppliers welcome the European Commission’s initiative for an EU Chips Act, due to be published 8 February, and present four concrete actions to make … [Read more...]
Fuel suppliers face penalty payment for climate clean up
Fuel companies might in future have to contribute a penalty for each litre they sell to motorists, says environmental group T&E. For a fair and just environmental transition, the EU should pass on part of the carbon price for cars and homes to fuel suppliers rather than European households. The EU can legally require fuel suppliers to absorb part of the EU’s forthcoming carbon levy for … [Read more...]