Author: Benedict Mcdaniel

VinFast Auto, a leading Vietnamese automaker, is set to commence construction at its integrated electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing site in Tamil Nadu on February 25, 2024. This plant will mark VinFast’s inaugural foray into EV manufacturing in India, following a partnership with the Government of Tamil Nadu that was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) announced on January 6, 2024. The collaboration between VinFast and the Government of Tamil Nadu includes a commitment of $500 million for the initial phase of the facility over five years. The site is expected to generate approximately 3,000 to 3,500 local job opportunities,…

Indian steel conglomerate JSW is reportedly in discussions with the Volkswagen Group to forge a joint venture aimed at manufacturing electric vehicles in India. This news comes alongside reports suggesting that Volkswagen is contemplating the potential sale of its Indian subsidiary, Skoda Auto Volkswagen India. Initial reports surfaced on Moneycontrol, drawing from sources familiar with the ongoing negotiations. According to these sources, talks commenced earlier this month and are progressing towards an exclusivity arrangement, indicating that both parties may soon commit solely to each other for partnership discussions, sidelining other potential collaborators. See also: JSW Group to Invest $4.82 Billion in…

Rivian, the electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, is gearing up to expand its brand reach with the introduction of its more affordable R2 electric SUV. Ahead of the R2’s official debut, Rivian’s CEO RJ Scaringe identified $48,000 as an “important sweet spot” for buyers transitioning from gas vehicles. He also positioned the upcoming R2 as a competitor in the same market segment as Tesla’s popular Model Y. In an interview with Forbes, Scaringe outlined Rivian’s ambitions to tap into the mass market. “The average transaction price of a vehicle, any vehicle in the United States, is around $48,000,” he noted. “We…

Qualcomm, the semiconductor giant known for powering smartphones, is making a bold move to establish a significant presence in the automotive industry. The company recently introduced a cutting-edge connectivity platform tailored specifically for vehicles. Named Snapdragon Auto Connectivity QCA6797AQ, this new platform is designed to support the latest connectivity standards. It boasts cellular support up to 5G, Wi-Fi 7, and the latest Bluetooth technology, along with C-V2X and precise positioning tech. See also: Sony-Honda Afeela EV to Harness Qualcomm’s Super Chips for Cutting-Edge Performance In practical terms, this translates to significantly faster and more reliable connections for vehicles. Features like quicker…

Bulls, the e-bike manufacturer, has introduced its latest electric mountain bike, the 2024 Sonic Eva TR 1 29, in Europe. The new model is designed for countryside rides and off-road adventures, catering to riders seeking a high-performance e-MTB. The Sonic Eva TR 1 29 features a Bosch Bulls Sonic Eva TR 1 29 motor, providing reliable power for challenging terrain. The bike is available in three sizes (S, M, and L), each featuring a metallic off-white finish on the aluminum frame, giving it a sleek and modern look. See also: Bulls Launches Vuca Evo FSX1 E-Bike with Integrated Gears and Full…

Denza, the high-end brand under BYD specializing in premium vehicles, has unveiled an enticing limited-time offer for its Denza D9 model. Running from February 19 to February 25, just before the launch of the YangWang U9, customers can take advantage of a special offer to purchase the Denza D9, including both the DM-i and EV models, at a discounted rate. Buyers who issue a unified invoice for motor vehicle sales during this period will receive a cash discount of 25,000 yuan along with 70,000 points. See also: Everything You should know about Denza D9 Specifications The Denza D9 is available in…

A consortium led by the AIT Austrian Institute of Technology is focusing on thermal management in electric vehicles as part of the MINDED research project, with a particular emphasis on innovative infrared heating panels. The MINDED project, an abbreviation for “Thermal and energy Management for INcreased Driving range of an Electric minibus including improved user-centric Design and thermal comfort,” involves eleven European partners aiming to develop an electric eDaily minibus with a 20% improved range at 0°C lifting temperature compared to current models. The key innovation lies in integrating highly efficient infrared heating panels controlled by an optimized thermal and…

Tesla’s Cybertruck continues to make waves in the electric vehicle and automotive industries since its first customer deliveries in November. After being showcased in North America, the Cybertruck has now made its way to Asia, with recent stops in China and Japan, marking a significant move for the Australian market, the world’s largest right-hand-drive market. EV enthusiast Billy recently spotted the Cybertruck in Japan, where it is being showcased for the first time to locals at teamLab Planets, an arts and technology facility in Tokyo. The photos from the venue show the Cybertruck drawing attention from hundreds of visitors, with…

Warburtons, the renowned British bakery brand, has recently bolstered its commitment to sustainable transportation by adding four new E-Tech D16 electric trucks from Renault Trucks to its delivery fleet. This move comes after the successful deployment of their first electric lorry in Enfield. Additionally, two new electric vans have been incorporated into their operations. The new electric trucks are strategically placed, with one joining the existing Renault lorry in Enfield, and the other three being deployed in Bellshill near Glasgow, Bristol, and Bolton. Furthermore, the two Master E-Tech trucks will serve routes in Enfield and Bristol. See also: Renault Trucks Commences…

Fisker, the electric vehicle startup, is facing significant challenges as it attempts to launch its first battery-electric vehicle (BEV). The company is currently under federal investigation and is at risk of being delisted from the stock exchange. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has initiated probes into two separate issues with the 2023 Fisker Ocean. The first probe, initiated last month, addresses complaints of partial loss of braking. The second probe, opened recently, focuses on complaints of unintended vehicle movement and an inability to shift into park or other intended gears. See also: Fisker’s Ocean SUV Under NHTSA Investigation for…

The Tesla Cybertruck, a symbol of innovation in the electric vehicle market, has encountered an unexpected challenge mere months after its release. Despite its reputation for toughness and durability, some owners have reported the appearance of surface rust on their vehicles, sparking concern among enthusiasts and critics alike. The issue gained traction when several Cybertruck owners shared photos highlighting what appeared to be rust spots on various panels of their six-figure trucks. This raised questions about the vehicle’s durability and resistance to environmental factors, especially considering its emphasis on rugged performance. See also: Tesla Cybertruck Shines on 1/8 Mile Strip with…

Genesis with its Electrified G80 and Electrified GV70 clinching top honors at the 2024 Canadian Car of the Year Awards (CCOTY). The Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC) bestowed the Electric Car of the Year award upon the Electrified G80, while the Electrified GV70 secured the Electric Utility Vehicle of the Year title. This year, the CCOTY Awards underwent a revamp, condensing the categories into four: Canadian Car of the Year, Canadian Utility Vehicle of the Year, Canadian Electric Car of the Year, and Canadian Electric Utility Vehicle of the Year. The streamlined approach ensured that all 2024 model-year vehicles,…