1. Strategic context: Policy overview Greater China’s Implementation Plan for High-Quality Development of the Aluminum Industry (2025–2027) outlines a comprehensive roadmap to elevate the region’s aluminum sector into a global leader in sustainability, innovation and resource security. Key targets include: 15 million tons of recycled aluminum production by 2027, reducing reliance on primary production. 30% clean energy adoption in electrolytic aluminum smelting. 3%–5% increa...

As automated driving become more prevalent, such vehicles are increasingly capable of controlling both longitudinal and lateral vehicle dynamics. However, these systems still operate in defined conditions and rely on the driver to remain attentive and ready to take over when needed — either immediately or after a period of time communicated in advance. In scenarios where the driver becomes unresponsive or unable to regain control, the system cannot continue operating indefinitely. Disengaging ...

The Nvidia GPU Technology Conference (GTC) 2025 took place from March 17 to 21, 2025, at the San Jose Convention Center, California. This event continued to serve as a platform for developers, researchers, engineers and innovators to explore the latest advancements in GPU technology and its applications across various industries, such as AI and autonomous vehicles. At Nvidia's GTC 2025, CEO Jensen Huang's keynote highlighted the transformative potential of agentic AI using accelerated computi...

Even as global trade reels under the impact of the Trump administration’s tariffs, countries are in for another jolt from the other end of the world. In response to the US tariffs, mainland China has imposed its own limitations on exporting various medium and heavy rare earth metals, a sector in which it holds a dominant position. According to reports, mainland China controls more than 90% of global rare earth metal production. These key metals are used in almost all manufacturing industrie...

The automotive industry has long been recognized as a high-capital, low-return sector, grappling with various economic pressures and competitive challenges. In recent years, the landscape has shifted dramatically, particularly with the rise of mainland Chinese automotive companies. Here we review the profitability trends between original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and suppliers, and the implications of macroeconomic factors that shape the industry. The automotive sector is currently in tu...

The ruling by the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is designed to address national security concerns related to the Information and Communications Technology and Services (ICTS) supply chain for connected vehicles. It specifically targets two critical systems: vehicle connectivity systems (VCS) and automated driving systems (ADS). VCS encompasses hardware and software that enable vehicles to communicate externally, while ADS includes software capable of performing the entire dynamic driving...

The advent of electric vehicles has kept the demand for lithium-ion batteries growing for over the last decade. The battery supply chain industry, including cell manufacturing and battery materials, have witnessed huge investments leading to significant capacity buildup across several regions globally. However, the recent slowdown in EV demand has placed the supply chain in a tough spot as capacity addition resulted in an oversupply situation, which reduced the cost of all key battery materia...

The ability to charge an electric vehicle to a 400-km range in just 5 minutes represents a significant shift in EV technology with advanced semiconductor technology. BYD's Super e Platform achieved this through its newly developed car-grade silicon carbide (SiC) power chips. These chips are rated for 1,500-V operation, essential for supporting the platform's 1,000-V architecture and enabling megawatt-level charging capabilities. While Ron (on-resistance) is a critical factor in evaluating SiC...

The adoption of electric vehicles has not progressed as smoothly as anticipated five years ago. Many have questioned whether the transition to EVs is beneficial, as concerns about their practicality in everyday use persist, despite the advantage of zero tailpipe emissions. According to the S&P Global Mobility consumer survey conducted in 2024, primary concerns include the availability of charging stations, long charging times and the range on a single charge. Nearly half of the respondent...

Presenting the Union budget for financial year 2025-26 on Feb. 1, India’s Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the removal of the basic customs duty (BCD) on the import of various battery materials. This includes cobalt powder, lithium-ion battery scrap, lead, zinc and 12 other essential materials. The budget also proposed to add 35 capital goods and equipment used in manufacturing batteries for electric vehicles to the list of exempted capital goods. The move is expected to not...

Mainland China has been hit by tariffs from several key trade partners including countries in North America and Europe, most recently the additional tariffs from the Trump administration. In fact, trade restrictions against mainland Chinese companies have been getting stricter in the last 12 months. Electric vehicles, in which China is a runaway leader, has been one of the main targets for tariffs. In October last year, Europe levied additional duties which were as high as 35.3% on companies ...

Stellantis has announced the readiness of its in-house developed STLA AutoDrive 1.0, a Level 3 automated driving system enabling hands-free and eyes-off operation at speeds up to 60 km/h (37 mph). This positions Stellantis alongside Mercedes-Benz (2022) and BMW (2024) in the Level 3 race. The development of Stellantis' Level 3 also draws on the expertise acquired during the partnership with BMW several years ago. The Jeep Wagoneer will be the first vehicle to offer this tech, with Alfa Romeo and...

New steel and aluminum tariffs, scheduled to take effect March 12, represent a significant shift in US trade policy. The tariffs were announced by President Trump on Feb. 10, and they expand the 2018 measures imposed under Section 232 aiming to protect domestic industries. However, the tariffs are expected to increase costs for the automotive sector, which would ultimately lead to higher consumer prices. Additionally, the potential for retaliatory trade actions introduces further uncertainty and...

The new Trump administration has begun operations, and it has not been the most comfortable two weeks for the US’ neighbors and trade partners. Donald Trump has started his second tenure as president of the US by announcing a slew of tariffs on Canada, Mexico and mainland China. The White House, in a release, said, “The extraordinary threat posed by illegal aliens and drugs, including deadly fentanyl, constitutes a national emergency under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (...

In the March 2024 electrical/electronic (E/E) semiconductor report titled "Global chessboard of chips: geopolitical shifts reshaping the automotive semiconductor landscape", we highlighted that restrictions on mainland China's access to critical AI chips and autonomous vehicle technology may not solely serve to limit its capabilities. Instead, these measures could potentially accelerate mainland China's efforts to develop domestic alternatives. Over recent years, mainland Chinese companies have ...

Over the years the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) has become a center stage for automotive innovations. CES 2025 focused on the practical implementation of existing technologies rather than introducing new concept models, highlighting a shift toward refining and deploying previously unveiled innovations. Software-defined vehicles (SDVs) emerged as a central theme at CES 2025, reflecting their growing prominence and the intensified support from the broader automotive ecosystem. However, particip...

Earlier in 2024, S&P Global Mobility conducted a consumer survey related to electric vehicle, to gauge what the consumers are expecting out of the new age EVs. The survey aimed to understand the minimum range an EV should have and the longest acceptable time for a full charge. Most respondents expressed willingness to wait 30 minutes to an hour for a charging session. The aim is to reduce charging times as close as refueling times for an internal combustion engine (ICE). Installing fast-c...

The recent directive from the US Commerce Department to Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) requires the company to halt shipments of advanced chips used for AI applications to mainland Chinese companies. Effective Nov. 11, 2024, this order targets chips of 7 nanometers (nm) and below, which are essential for supporting AI workloads and graphics processing units (GPUs). TSMC's decision to restrict the use of 7 nm or below processes for AI companies reflects its strategic positioning...

On Dec. 23, 2024, leading Japanese carmakers Nissan Motor Co. and Honda Motor Co. signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to further ongoing discussions for establishing a joint holding company, overarching the Honda and Nissan brands. While the merger could create the world’s third-largest vehicle manufacturer by sales, Nissan and Honda expect that the revenue of a joint holding company could exceed ¥30 trillion ($192.66 billion) with a 10% operating profit margin. This level of profit...

Mobileye hosted its Innovation Day on Dec. 9 and 10, 2024, in Munich, Germany. This event provided analysts and industry stakeholders with an in-depth look at Mobileye's technological advancements, strategic objectives and commercial progress. The agenda featured real-world demonstrations of the EyeQ5-based SuperVision system in production vehicles and the Drive system in robo-taxi vehicles. Additionally, Mobileye presented its technical approach to autonomous vehicle, introduced new technolo...

During the first half of 2024, automakers have notably advanced the integration of generative AI across multiple segments, such as infotainment systems, vehicle personalization and in-car personal assistants. This integration has enhanced the user experience by providing personalized content, real-time navigation, and intelligent voice interactions, transforming vehicles into more intuitive and adaptive environments. Generative AI is also poised to redefine autonomous driving by enabling systems...

The US Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has officially implemented substantial revisions to its 5-Star Safety Ratings program, a critical initiative aimed at enhancing road safety across the nation. These updates involve the integration of advanced driver assistance technologies, the introduction of a crashworthiness pedestrian protection program, and the establishment of a strategic plan for future modifications over the next decade. The r...

Lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery prices have decreased around 90% over a past decade. In the past one year itself, prices have fallen nearly 25%. What’s causing the prices to fall so dramatically? This was primarily due to the fall in prices of critical battery metals: Lithium, cobalt and nickel. For example, the price of cobalt has fallen from roughly $70,000 per metric ton in 2022 to about $30,000 in 2024. Similarly, the price for lithium carbonate has also fallen from a high of approximately $7...

In October 2024, French Energy company Engie SA ceased operations of EV Box, an Amsterdam-based supplier of EV charging stations for residential and commercial purposes, after failing for months to find a buyer for its loss-making subsidiary. The only saving grace was that Engie managed to sell off EV Box’s DC business, named EVTronic, to engineering and electrical installation services company Financière de Pessac, which took over EV Box’s facility in Bordeaux, France. Although Engie sa...

In the aftermath of the US election, President-elect Donald Trump’s impending return to the Oval Office has sparked widespread speculation about the implications of his second term, particularly in the automotive sector. As the world watches, the intersection of politics and innovation becomes a focal point, with the administration's stance on the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and its impact on electric vehicle supply chains taking center stage. Meanwhile, the alliance between Elon Musk and th...

The advent of autonomous trucking represents a significant paradigm shift within the broader mobility industry, with far-reaching implications for logistics and supply chain management. However, the roadmap for autonomous truck deployment is continuously being dialed back as technology maturation, capital investment, business case rationalization, and regulatory hurdles prove more challenging than expected. Despite these challenges, the potential for autonomous trucks to revolutionize freight tr...

In recent years, Qualcomm, building on its automotive connectivity solutions, aggressively expanded into automotive domains using system-on-chips (SoCs), focusing on two major areas — the cockpit experience and advanced driver assistance systems. These efforts were showcased by including automotive for the first time in its annual Snapdragon Summit, where Qualcomm revealed its vision and developments for shaping the future of mobility. Key highlights from Snapdragon Summit 2024 Qualcommâ...

Tesla’s "We, Robot" event on Oct. 10 was highly anticipated, especially with expectations centered around the unveiling of robo-taxis, updates on Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology and the evolution of Tesla's AI-driven vehicle plans. However, the event began an hour later than scheduled and left much to be desired in terms of substantive demonstration of progress. While some new concepts were introduced, overall the event was more of a teaser than a revelation. Tesla shares dropped nearly 9% ...

In late September, Hurricane Helene caused significant damage across the southern US. The storm brought heavy rainfall, widespread power outages and forced many residents to evacuate. The damage will impact individuals, families, communities and entire regions for weeks, months and perhaps years. Spruce Pine, NC, a small town vital to the global semiconductor supply chain, was among the hardest hit. It is home to the largest known deposit of high-purity quartz (HPQ), supplying over 70% of the wo...

The bid to make lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries more efficient and safer has been an ongoing process, with discussions mostly revolving around cell technology and chemistry advancements. As the traditional Li-ion cell chemistries approach the advancement ceiling, avenues other than the cell are being considered for increasing the safety and efficiency of batteries. Battery pack enclosures have become an intrinsic part of the discussions around battery pack performance and their overall impact ...

Automotive semiconductor companies have declared their latest financial results for the year, as they continue to execute their strategy. In the first half of 2024, most experienced a decrease in revenue compared to the previous year, after three consecutive years of double-digit growth. Key players such as Infineon and NXP experienced slight year-over-year declines, with Infineon down by about 0.8% and NXP by 4.4%. STMicroelectronics suffered the biggest revenue drop, with a year-over-year decl...

Automotive manufacturers are in a race to distinguish themselves in the fast-evolving landscape of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving technologies. As competition intensifies, original equipment manufacturers are adopting diverse strategies to integrate these features, ranging from enhancing safety and convenience with ADAS to pushing the boundaries with fully autonomous capabilities. A recent example of this strategy is Mercedes-Benz, which in August became the ...

BMW has initiated a recall involving over 1.5 million vehicles globally, citing issues with the integrated braking system (IBS) supplied by Continental AG. This recall encompasses significant models such as the BMW 5-Series, 7-Series, Rolls-Royce Spectre, Mini Cooper, Mini Countryman and numerous BMW crossovers. The defect lies in the brake-by-wire (BBW) technology, an innovative system aimed at enhancing braking efficiency through electronic signals rather than traditional hydraulic mechanisms....

The electric vehicle charging space in India is powering up. The past few quarters have brought many announcements of collaborations between automakers, power companies, oil retailers, charging hardware manufacturers and service providers to expand the network of public EV charging stations across the country. However, the path is far from smooth with several obstacles remaining to be navigated around. This week, Tata Power, one of India's largest integrated power companies, announced it had ...

The Indian automotive market is rapidly evolving, and semiconductor suppliers are eyeing it as a fertile ground for expansion. The demand is particularly high in infotainment, telematics and in-car entertainment systems with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) also showing signs of growth in the Indian market, although penetration of such drive assist technologies is relatively low compared to the EU and US markets. In recent years, leading semiconductor companies have been turning thei...

The 2029 automated emergency braking (AEB) mandate, encapsulated in the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 127, represents a pivotal shift in automotive safety standards in the United States, setting forth stringent requirements for advanced AEB systems to enhance vehicle safety. With a compliance date set for Sept. 1, 2029, this mandate aims to significantly reduce the incidence of rear-end collisions and pedestrian injuries by ensuring that vehicles can detect imminent threats a...

Intensifying competition and a global slowdown in the demand for electric vehicles are increasingly pressuring carmakers to explore ways to reduce the cost of manufacturing for wider adoption. The growing focus on lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery technology is emerging to be a key step in that direction with almost all global automakers looking to integrate LFP chemistry into their battery portfolios, irrespective of their location. While the battery makers from mainland China, such as CA...

Longer range and faster charging speeds are probably the two most important aspects that prospective owners look for in an electric vehicle. While battery technology is important, power electronics play an equally important role in ensuring these attributes are met in an EV. Power electronics is a term that refers to a process that controls the flow of current and voltage and converts it into a form that is appropriate for user loads. A power electronics system converts electrical energy into...

Recent public announcements from key players in the automotive and semiconductor industries have raised alarms about a potential chip shortage expected to hit in the later half of 2025 or 2026. A top executive from Continental has indicated that, based on current forecasts, the industry may face another round of semiconductor shortages around the third or fourth quarter of 2025. During its second-quarter earnings call, TSMC CEO C.C. Wei highlighted that the supply of advanced chips is unlikely t...

The Chinese government's proactive approach and the competitive dynamics among industry players are accelerating the development of autonomous driving technologies. While the road ahead is uncertain, the potential benefits of safer, more efficient transportation systems make this an exciting and transformative period for the automotive industry. The central and municipal governments in China play key roles in the advancement of the autonomous vehicle industry. For instance, the announcement o...

Since the second half of last year, the electric vehicle segment is facing strong headwinds, much to the surprise of many, as EVs have been witnessing a strong demand in the last few years in several markets around the world. The ambitious zero-emission (ZEV) sales targets by both governments and the automakers painted a rosy picture about the EV industry and how quickly it is expected to evolve. As the novelty of EVs fades, the last several months have brought forth the realization that ther...

In June, Volvo recalled the EX30 electric small sport utility vehicles (SUVs) owing to a software issue. The software update, intended to enhance features and functionality, instead led to a multitude of problems and a surge in customer returns and refund demands. This situation has resulted in a range of issues, including blacked-out infotainment screens, incorrect information displayed on functioning screens and driver profiles reverting back to factory settings. Furthermore, driver aids have ...

The implementation of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) R155 cybersecurity regulation has ramifications for the automotive industry that are more immediate than one would ordinarily expect in the vehicle planning process. It has led to some shuffling of vehicle portfolios among original equipment manufacturers due to inputting cost-benefit scenarios into the vehicle planning process. Porsche's decision to discontinue sales of the internal combustion engine (ICE)-powered M...

The Automotive Computing Conference (ACC) is a premier event that brings together professionals, researchers and enthusiasts from the automotive industry and computing field. Topics covered include autonomous driving technologies, vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure communication, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), in-vehicle infotainment systems, and the application of artificial intelligence in automotive technologies. Representing S&P Global Mobility, Richard Dixon...

The automotive semiconductor market grew another 18% in 2023 based on revenue share analysis. A solid performance, but 6 points lower than the previous forecast. What happened? What does it mean for the 2024 outlook and beyond? 2023 was good, but not as good as expected The automotive semiconductor market experienced a more than 25% increase in revenue in both 2021 and 2022, demonstrating significant momentum. Subsequently, in 2023, the market continued its upward trajectory with an increa...

Two major mainland China-based lidar suppliers, Hesai Technology and RoboSense, have recently announced the launch of new lidar products aimed at advancing autonomous mobility and intelligent driving systems. Hesai's ATX lidar boasts an ultra-wide field of view (FOV) and long-range detection capabilities, providing vehicles with enhanced 3D perception. It features a compact design, low power consumption, and intelligent rain and fog identification. The ATX has already gained interest from lea...

In 2023, the EU passed a new regulation called the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR) as a replacement to the original Directive 2014/94/EU on alternative-fuel infrastructure, the Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Directive (AFID). On April 13, 2024, the new regulation came into effect, with the aim to improve user experience and convenience while charging electric vehicles at public chargers. The AFIR sets binding targets for refueling infrastructure powered by electricity or o...

Introduction: The transition to electric parking brakes (EPBs) from conventional cable-operated mechanisms represents a significant advancement in automotive technology. Electric brakes not only effectively immobilize parked vehicles, but also introduce additional functionalities, including hill start assist and hill hold, thereby enhancing both safety and convenience for drivers. Furthermore, they adhere to stringent safety standards, such as ISO 26262 and require less frequent maintenance c...

Owing to the geopolitical uncertainties prevalent in the battery supply chain, automakers are always looking to have more control on the sourcing of various battery components. There are three main components that make up a conventional electric vehicle lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery — the cell, the module and the pack. Automakers can, and generally have, different levels of control on the value chain of these components. A few automakers have complete vertical integration where all the three...

Digitization in our daily lives has transformed the world around us with high-speed cellular networks and the ubiquity of connected devices — be it TVs, smartphones, watches or consumer electronics. This exponential boom in the digital lifestyle mirrors the automotive industry with the soaring volumes of connected cars. Prospective new buyers, especially Gen-Z who are accustomed to using digital applications, crave for a seamless user experience inside their vehicles. Automakers recognize the ...

In July 2023, seven global carmakers — BMW, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz and Stellantis — came together to set up a joint venture focused on providing a reliable, high-speed electric vehicle charging network across North America. The JV has a goal of providing a reliable DC charging network that can offer a seamless charging experience, aimed at exceeding customer expectations in a market that is marred by a lack of adequate EV charging networks, range anxiety, dysfunct...

South Korean battery-makers are working overtime to put solid-state batteries into mass production, along with developing new innovative chemistries to achieve quick charging times. The InterBattery 2024, which was organized in Seoul, South Korea, between March 6–8, saw South Korean battery companies demonstrating the latest innovations in battery technologies, in addition to unveiling their business roadmaps through this decade. For the first time, Samsung SDI, one of the big-three South K...

The year gone by was sort of a mixed back for electric vehicles in several countries around the world. While demand for plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) went up significantly in some emerging EV markets, most leading countries witnessed a lower-than-expected demand in 2023, especially during the second half of the year. In fact, demand in leading markets like Germany and Norway fell in 2023, compared with 2022. Although the global demand for PEVs grew 36% year on year, it was lower than what was...

The Automotive Ethernet Congress is a high-profile event that brings together leading technology experts to discuss the future direction of new vehicle network architectures and all-automotive Ethernet network communication. This congress, typically held annually, focuses on current and future technology and product developments in the automotive Ethernet industry. The event provides a platform for professionals to share knowledge and insights on advanced features of automotive Ethernet technolo...

New-car buyers desire bigger, and more advanced displays, and high-quality audio for music and streaming as the overall in-car entertainment quotient is on the rise. To attract customers' attention by way of differentiation, automakers around the world are introducing innovative entertainment features in their cars. Such a trend is not just about the driver and the front passenger anymore, but a lot of focus is on the rear seat, ensuring occupants that often consist of families get a variety of ...

Introduction: BWI Group and Thyssenkrupp signed a contract for the development and production of cutting-edge electromechanical brake (EMB) technology. The collaboration between BWI Group and Thyssenkrupp to evolve EMB systems marks a significant step in the automotive industry's journey toward autonomous driving. This partnership underscores a commitment to innovation and a shared vision to redefine vehicle motion control, emphasizing safety, efficiency and comfort in autonomous vehicles. ...

Nvidia’s GPU Technology Conference (GTC) 2024 took place March 18–21, 2024, at the San Jose Convention Center in San Jose, California. GTC serves as a platform for developers, researchers, engineers, and innovators to explore the latest advancements in GPU technology and its applications across various industries such as AI, autonomous vehicles and more. The conference featured keynote presentations, technical sessions, hands-on workshops and demonstrations all aimed at fostering collabor...

Taiwan's semiconductor industry is a global powerhouse, home to industry leaders like Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC), MediaTek, United Microelectronics Corp. (UMC) and more. These companies are crucial contributors to the global supply of advanced semiconductor chips, which serve as vital components in numerous technological devices, including automobiles. On April 3, 2024, Taiwan was hit by the most powerful earthquake in 25 years, registering a magnitude of 7.4 off the island...

The automotive semiconductor companies have declared their fourth-quarter financial results for 2023, as the companies continued to execute their strategies. Some of the companies have seen better-than-expected yearly results. In fiscal year 2023, automotive semiconductor revenue continued its significant growth trajectory, buoyed by various factors such as the increasing adoption of electric vehicles, advancements in autonomous driving technologies and the proliferation of connected car feat...

The power of software in the automotive industry is one big trend that has been gaining in popularity. The vehicles today literally and figuratively are computers on wheels, ran by a labyrinthine of software programs. In some cases, these programs run with over 1 million lines of code. The fast electrification of vehicles, the constantly increasing electric and electronic content, speedier connectivity, and customers' obsession with great features and seamless user experiences are augmenting the...

The automotive industry is shifting toward sustainability by reevaluating materials used in manufacturing. Manufacturers are embracing circularity rather than relying solely on petroleum-based plastics by repurposing waste materials like landfill scraps and agricultural by-products. This shift reduces reliance on virgin resources, minimizes waste generation and fosters a circular automotive economy. Approximately 30% of vehicle materials are recycled for new vehicles, indicating a firm trajector...

The evolution of exhaust emission standards, particularly in the road transport sector, has significantly impacted air quality over the years. The shift from Euro-1 to Euro-7 standards has notably reduced exhaust particulate matter (PM) emissions, demonstrating a tangible improvement in environmental quality. However, as exhaust emissions decrease, the focus shifts to non-exhaust sources, such as those from brake and tire wear, which are projected to become the dominant contributors to PM pollut...

At CES 2024, held in Las Vegas, Smart Eye showcased its cutting-edge Emotion Generative AI capability, alongside key partnerships with industry leaders such as Aptiv, Cerence, Forvia and others. This marks a significant leap in the integration of advanced AI technologies within vehicle human-machine interfaces (HMIs), promising empathetic and immersive experiences for drivers. The cornerstone of Smart Eye's showcase at CES 2024 is its Emotion AI Prompt Engine, a pioneering concept that merges ad...

bitsensing develops a variety of radar solutions such as its flagship 4D imaging radar solution for autonomous driving, the next-generation traffic radar Traffic Insight Monitoring Sensor (TIMOS), and AI Wellness Radar for illness prediction. The company generated 12 billion South Korean won ($10 million) in revenue in 2023, and its autonomous driving solution is currently undergoing further development for mass production in collaboration with a global automotive tier 1 supplier. bitsensing ...

Car buyers globally love sleek design and seamless user experience in their vehicle cockpits, often mirroring their smartphones. Responding to the rapidly changing consumer choices, automakers are rolling out cars with larger, exquisite displays operated by touch. Vehicle control by touch is so mainstream today that it has left behind the more traditional tuning knobs and buttons for vehicle control. The EU is reversing this global trend within the next two years. Alarmed by increasing driver...

The French government has put out several new updates in its electric vehicle policy, including the rollback of €1,000 in the ecological bonus that was applicable on the acquisition of new private cars and vans for households with the highest income in the country. In the official decree published Feb. 12, the government modified the terms of the ecological bonus for the purchase or rental of a private electric car by reducing the earlier incentive of €5,000 to €4,000 for individuals wi...

Over the past few years, the automotive industry has focused on using recyclable materials to reduce its carbon footprint and create a circular economy. There have been significant developments to improve recyclability in electric vehicle batteries, use green steel and even substitute polyurethane (PU) with vegetal waste for the car’s interior; however, recyclability in automotive lighting is at a nascent stage. Over the past year, establishments such as BMW, Hella and Covestro, among others, ...

The surging popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) is intricately tied to an escalating demand for copper, marking a transformative trend in the automotive sector. The demand for copper associated with EVs is anticipated to experience a remarkable compound annual growth rate (CAGR), exceeding 17% between 2024 and 2032. The increasing demand for copper emerges as a critical factor in the evolution of autonomous vehicles, driven by the shift toward electric and self-driving technologies. Thi...

The faster digitization of the automotive industry is rapidly transforming vehicle cockpits. In this changing trend, displays have gained prominence inside the cabin as the number of screens and their sizes continue to rise. Vital driver and passenger tools such as the instrument cluster, center stack display or front passenger functions use different displays. Starting with premium models, displays are now ubiquitous across models of luxury cars and percolate down to mass-market segments. ...

The automotive industry has been in search of a viable alternative to lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries, which is cheaper and more sustainable to produce. While experimenting with several cathode chemistries, including iron-based Li-ion batteries in low-end models and variants, the industry has also been working on sodium-ion batteries for some time now. Although iron-based Li-ion batteries such as lithium iron phosphate (LFP) and lithium manganese iron phosphate (LMFP) are cheaper, they are una...

Usage-Based Insurance (UBI) also known as pay as you drive (PAYD) or pay how you drive (PHYD), is a type of vehicle insurance whereby the costs are dependent upon the type of vehicle used, measured against time, distance, driving behavior and place. It also promises multiple benefits to customers, such as the choice to buy as they use their vehicles, bring down costs and encourage safer driving practices.   Insurance has been an integral element of car buying and ownership for decad...

Breaking free from the old ways: The rise of the e-pedal In the ever-changing world of car improvements, the regular brake pedal is going through a big change, making room for the exciting brake-by-wire pedal, also known as the e-pedal. This super modern technology is quickly becoming popular, catching the interest and excitement of manufacturers and customers. Say goodbye to the old mechanical link between the brake pedal and hydraulic braking system as the e-pedal becomes the star. This ...

While the market size is not as big as for traditional seat belts, active seat belt systems will gain prominence in the era of autonomous mobility. It functions in close collaboration with the vehicle’s safety systems to reduce the impact of injuries in an event of an accident. The active seat belt system uses braking and stability control sensor information to sense a potential accident. It secures the driver and passenger seat belts by removing seat belt slack so that the seating position of...

At Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2024, Magna introduced a breath- and camera-based predevelopment technology designed to prevent impaired driving. The solution represents a significant milestone in the evolution of driver and occupant monitoring systems. The new safety technology determines if drivers are "fit to drive" in a fast, reliable, and affordable way. The integrated solution combines key elements of the interior-sensing system, which utilizes camera technology to detect driver dist...

StoreDot is at the forefront of developing a next-generation lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery that is expected to enable extreme fast charging. The Israel-headquartered startup is developing silicon-based Li-ion batteries that replace graphite from the anode. The company has partnered with some of the leading electric vehicle manufacturers and is already testing its cells with them. StoreDot is on the verge of demonstrating its technology in a production-bound EV model and is expecting commercializa...

Evolution of active damping systems: The automotive industry is undergoing significant changes driven by safety regulations, emissions standards and consumer demands for comfort. Key trends include a shift to electric mobility, integrated safety features and autonomous driving. This evolution is reshaping the role of active damping systems, which are transitioning from stand-alone to fully integrated and networked systems. As vehicles become more automated, the discomfort and motion sickne...

In the last decade, the automotive industry has seen most of the features inside the cabin taking huge technological leaps, including the audio systems, primarily led by greater connectivity. While demand for in-car entertainment has been as old as the industry, a high-quality sound system is now a prerequisite for car buyers as they are intensely focused on a superior entertainment experience. The modern acoustic system has been gaining prominence, thanks to the advancement of infotainment syst...

In an ever-evolving trade war between two of the world’s largest economies, China’s Ministry of Commerce announced on Oct. 20, 2023, that it would deploy a temporary export control measure on graphite, a critical raw material used in manufacturing batteries. The measure was later implemented as a state policy on Dec. 1, 2023. Mainland China’s implementation of the graphite export control policy came about four months after it had announced restrictions on exports of germanium and galliu...

Aptiv has announced the discontinuation of capital support for the commercialization of Motional's robo-taxi service set for 2024. Aptiv, involved in a $4 billion joint venture with Hyundai to establish Motional, made the announcement during its fourth-quarter earnings call, highlighting challenges related to the high costs involved, particularly in hardware development, hindering widespread adoption in the on-demand mobility market. Aptiv's Chairman and CEO, Kevin Clark, stated during the ca...

The increasing integration of aluminum in the automotive industry is underpinned by its multifaceted contributions to various critical components. The propulsion systems benefit from aluminum's ability to reduce weight, thereby enhancing fuel efficiency in both internal combustion engines and electric vehicles. Additionally, aluminum's formability and strength-to-weight ratio make it an ideal material for lightweight and durable battery casings in energy storage devices. In body structures, alum...

The technological advancement of vehicle connectivity in the automotive industry paved the way for a deluge of features, technologies and user-friendly tools inside the vehicle. And the sustained innovation using the internet of things, faster cellular networks and increasing software made connectivity a major trend. This massive boom in connected car technologies is powering the entire ecosystems comprising original Equipment manufacturers (OEMs) suppliers and consumers greatly.  Every ...

CES 2024 focuses on fulfilling past promises in the automotive industry regarding electric vehicles, autonomous capabilities and software-defined vehicles. This year emphasizes a pragmatic approach, showcasing tangible advancements and the maturation of key enablers, rather than introducing a multitude of new promises. The customary display of autonomous vehicles and advancements in automated-driving technology declined this year, indicating a shift toward a more grounded exhibition of substa...

The Consumer Electronics Show, or CES, is an annual exhibition which features a vast spectrum of technologies targeting various industries, including automotive. Held in Las Vegas from Jan. 9 – 12, 4000 exhibitors, of which more than 1000 were startups, participated in the 58th edition of the show. The growth of software-developed vehicle strategies has led to the creation of various interesting in-vehicle technological concepts. The article looks at the several interior products and soluti...

The high-performance semiconductor platforms showcased at CES 2024 underscore the pivotal role of advanced computing in driving the integration of AI capabilities into the next generation of vehicles. This emphasis on cutting-edge computing lays the foundation for transformative advancements in the automotive landscape. In the short term, the impact and volume of these innovations are expected to center around incremental advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) capabilities. The technical a...

Solid-state batteries (SSB) have long been projected as the next big thing in lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries that can address most of the technological limitations associated with Li-ion batteries. Many believe that SSBs can change the electric vehicle landscape completely by making EVs a lot more practical and safer. However, the road to mass production of SSBs is still long with several challenges that need to be ironed out. Srikant Jayanthan of S&P Global Mobility spoke with Arwed Niestro...

A little over 15 months after the US President Joe Biden signed the US Inflation Reduction Act (US IRA) into law, the government has released guidance on the foreign entity of concern (FEOC), further raising the eligibility criteria for electric vehicles to qualify for a total tax credit of $7,500. On Dec. 1, 2023, the US Treasury Department and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) published guidance on compliance with the prohibitions around FEOC in relation to the IRA’s Section 30D Clean Ve...

Over the course of 2023, the automotive lighting industry saw many exciting innovations on both the exterior and interior of the vehicle. The growth of autonomous driving, the emphasis on safety systems, as well as the push for the use of sustainable materials and processes led to companies announcing various new projects in 2023. Sustainability In January 2023, Hella unveiled the Nalyses research project to develop climate-friendly automotive headlamps. The German government funded three-...

The landscape of automotive engineering is currently witnessing a profound transformation in electronic and electrical (E/E) architectures. This evolution is currently traversing through various stages, which range from today’s distributed set of electronic control units (ECUs) to centralized domains and is now embracing the concept of zonal architectures. The surge in vehicle data generation, fueled by the integration of cutting-edge technologies has been a primary catalyst for this shift. As...

Over the years, the opinions on the feasibility of battery swapping technology have ranged from one extreme to the other with some stakeholders being optimistic about its future, and others believing it to be too niche and complicated to be a mass-market solution. The technology has come under spotlight again with Stellantis and Ample announcing a partnership in December 2023 for battery swapping solution. The two companies signed a binding agreement to establish a partnership under which Amp...

One of the two biggest impediments to a faster uptake of electric vehicles is the concern about charging times. Depending on the type of charger and the charging rate capacity of the EV, charging times can vary from fewer than 30 minutes to several hours. To ascertain what charging times are acceptable to a consumer, S&P Global Mobility conducted a consumer analysis survey in 2023. The methodology followed was the target split of 30/70 for EV/hybrid vehicle owners and non-owners that were...

The introduction of steer-by-wire (SbW) technology in the Tesla Cybertruck marks a pivotal moment in automotive innovation, propelling the industry into uncharted territory. While this cutting-edge system has been in the works for a decade, its manifestation in the Cybertruck is a bold departure from traditional mechanical steering systems, creating a ripple effect in the automotive landscape. The Cybertruck's SbW technology not only eliminates the direct mechanical linkage between the steeri...

In the dynamic realm of the global steel industry, the impending acquisition of the United States Steel Corp. (US Steel) by Japan's Nippon Steel Corp. (NSC) has set in motion a captivating narrative of strategic intricacies, financial dynamics and the nuanced navigation of domestic ownership considerations. This tale unfolds against the backdrop of a steel industry undergoing transformative shifts, reflecting the broader evolution within the global automobile sector. The tale begins in August, w...

After decades of slower adoption, head-up displays (HUDs) are now gaining polarity in cars. Factors such as the increasing implementation of human-machine interaction (HMI), the proliferation of digital and connected technologies, and new electric vehicle cockpits that are far more advanced and primarily led by software are the key enablers. Besides, once only restricted to premium and luxury cars, the market growth of HUDs was bolstered by the removal of three main factors — cost, size and en...

On Dec. 4, 2023, at its annual capital market day, Continental informed investors of its intention to carve off its Automotive User Experience (UX) business into an independent unit to explore new strategic options for its Displays and Human-Machine Interface (HMI) Control business. The UX vertical, which comprises display solutions, head-up displays (HUDs) and digital instrument clusters, is a highly attractive business with a stronger order pipeline. In each one of the products, the company co...