Author: Derick Munoz

Tesla’s Giga Berlin has emerged victorious in a dispute over works council elections, overcoming opposition from the labor union IG Metall. The court has ruled in favor of Tesla, allowing the company to hold elections within the previously set timeframe. The works council elections at Giga Berlin are scheduled to take place in mid-March as originally planned, according to Juve. Tesla and the election commission have successfully won a fast-track trial before the State Labor Court in Berlin-Brandenburg. This comes after the labor court in Frankfurt an der Oder had previously halted the elections at the request of IG Metall,…

EV startup REE Automotive is making headlines this week with three major announcements showcasing its innovative technology and strategic moves. The company’s recent collaborations and financial milestones highlight its growing presence in the electric vehicle market. Collaboration with Airbus UpNext REE has entered into a collaboration with Airbus UpNext, the aerospace developer’s research and technology demonstration arm. This partnership will see REE providing technological solutions, including its x-by-wire and REECorner systems, for one of Airbus UpNext’s demonstrator vehicles. While specific details remain undisclosed, this collaboration underscores REE’s cutting-edge technology and its potential applications beyond the automotive industry. Successful Public Offering…

Canadians set another record in 2023 for zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) sales, with Tesla continuing to dominate the segment. According to S&P Global Mobility data, the Model Y saw significant volume increases and ended the year as the top-selling ZEV, accounting for 18.6% of the overall ZEV market. This placed it ahead of offerings from VW, Chevrolet, Ford, and others. See also: Tesla Executive Aims for Cybertruck Sales in Canada Soon Despite the Model Y’s success, Tesla’s overall registration figures dropped across the country last year, indicating a broader range of ZEV options in Canada. In Ontario, Tesla’s share of ZEV new…

Luxury automaker Mercedes-Benz has announced the availability of its new Wallbox EV charger for customers across the United States. The Level 2 home charger, designed in true Mercedes-Benz style, offers internet-connected capabilities such as remote functions and over-the-air updates. Specific Mercedes customers are eligible to receive a complimentary Wallbox charger with the purchase of an electric vehicle (EV). Mercedes-Benz, renowned for its luxury vehicles, has been expanding its electric vehicle lineup under its EQ brand, incorporating its distinctive design language and technological expertise into EVs. See also: Mercedes Introduces Flexible Charging System Pro for Simplified EV Charging To support the shift…

British automaker Jaguar is undergoing a major transformation, officially ending the production of its internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles by June as it prepares to become an electric vehicle (EV)-only brand next year. This move marks a significant shift for the company, which is known for its luxury cars and iconic designs. The transition includes the end of production for its current lineup of gas- and diesel-powered vehicles, including the XF sedan, E-Pace and F-Pace crossovers, and the F-Type roadster and coupe. The electric I-Pace will also cease production, likely by next year. This decision comes as Jaguar looks to…

Tesla has reportedly agreed to buy battery ingredients from South Korean company EcoPro Materials Co. to meet US requirements for federal tax credits for clean vehicles, according to a report by The Korea Economic Daily. EcoPro Materials, a precursor maker, announced on Monday that it has signed a mid- to long-term supply contract with the US automaker. However, the company did not disclose specific details such as the name of the client or the size and value of the transaction. See also: CATL’s M3P Battery Likely to Power Tesla Models “We will supply (materials) based on the customer’s request and discussions,”…

General Motors, Magna, and Wipro announced on Tuesday a partnership to establish a sales platform for buying and selling automotive software. The joint venture, named SDVerse, aims to connect buyers and sellers through a digital platform, enabling the listing of software features and attributes. Wipro revealed in a regulatory filing an investment of $5.85 million, representing a 27% stake in SDVerse, with GM and Magna holding 46% and 27% stakes, respectively. The transaction is expected to be finalized by the end of March. See also: General Motors Introduces Cadillac Lyriq Electric SUV in European Markets The platform, currently in its development…

Hyundai Mobis has intensified its focus on future mobility by filing numerous patents in the electric and autonomous driving fields. The company disclosed on Monday that it had applied for over 1,200 patents last year, focusing on core areas such as electrification, self-driving technology, and in-vehicle infotainment systems (IVI). See also: Hyundai Mobis Unveils Automated Parking Technology for Stress-Free Parking These filings account for half of the total 2,500 patents filed by Hyundai Mobis globally last year, with over 1,200 in South Korea and over 1,300 overseas. The company’s cumulative patents, including designs and trademarks, now exceed 9,200. Hyundai Mobis has…

Faraday Future has initiated legal action against Ding Lei, the founder of Human Horizons Holdings, the parent company of HiPhi. Faraday Future accuses Ding Lei of infringing on its trade secrets and engaging in unfair competition. The lawsuit, filed by Faraday Future and its Chinese subsidiary, was lodged in the Intermediate People’s Court of Shenzhen, China. According to a statement from Faraday Future, Ding Lei is a former executive of the company. See also: Li Auto CEO Calls for M&A Mechanism Amid HiPhi Production Halt Faraday Future is seeking monetary damages and is requesting the court to compel Human Horizons to…

Avvenire is breaking barriers with the introduction of the Tectus, a mobility scooter designed for both convenience and adventure. Unlike traditional scooters confined to the “mobility aid” category, the Tectus offers a blend of freedom and innovation. With its sleek, enclosed cabin, the Tectus is a head-turner. It features modern comforts such as air conditioning, heating, and tech-friendly options like a rear-view camera, GPS navigation, and wireless charging. Avvenire has also considered storage, adding a modular rear end for extra cargo space. See also: Kofa and TAILG Launch Jidi Electric Motorcycle with 100km Range for African Markets Beyond its aesthetics, the…

Volkswagen announced on Friday that it anticipates a slowdown in sales growth in 2024, aligning with competitors’ warnings of a weaker economic outlook, increased competition, and higher costs. The top European carmaker, known for brands such as Audi, VW, and Lamborghini, forecasts sales to grow by up to 5% this year, following a 15.5% increase to 322.3 billion euros ($349 billion) in 2023. This growth projection indicates potential 2024 sales of up to 338 billion euros, surpassing the 316 billion euro analyst estimate compiled by LSEG. Volkswagen’s Chief Financial Officer, Arno Antlitz, acknowledged the “muted economic outlook and intense competition”…

British energy service provider Mitie has placed an order for 650 VW ID. Buzz Cargo vehicles, marking a significant milestone as the 4,000th electric vehicle added to its fleet. The company aims to transition its entire fleet to electric vehicles by the end of 2025. The 4,000th electric vehicle, a silver-painted ID. Buzz Cargo, was welcomed into the fleet at a special ceremony attended by representatives from the political sphere. The vehicle is part of a major order placed by Mitie with VW Commercial Vehicles. See also: DHL Express and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Collaborate on ID.Buzz Cargo Pilot Fleet in South…