Automotive Technology Insight | Forecasts | Industry News

Tariff trouble: Will Mexico's auto investment engine splutter?

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...

Inching closer to commercialization: Curious case of autonomous trucks

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...

Charge point operators struggle for profitability amid BEV slowdown, high costs

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...

Snapdragon Summit 2024: Qualcomm launches next-gen automotive chips to boost AI and ADAS features

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 Qualcomm�...

Tesla's ambitious autonomous vision of robotaxi – promising concepts or big gamble?

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% ...

Hurricane Helene: Implications for the semiconductor supply chain

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...

Lighter and safer: The evolving market of battery pack enclosure

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 ...

Auto semiconductors’ 2024 performance: Navigating H2 and beyond

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...

From ADAS to autonomy: The strategic moves shaping the future of automakers

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's recall rumble: Brake-by-wire woes

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....

Watt’s up? India’s EV infrastructure growth is nearly fully charged

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 ...

Chip suppliers eye India as new frontier for growth

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 road ahead: Navigating the 2029 US AEB mandate and its impact on automotive safety

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...

We will see a conflict of technologies between battery swapping and fast charging: Vikramadithya Gourineni, Executive Director, Amara Raja Energy & Mobility Limited

S&P Global Mobility: With a global slowdown in the sale of battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), several legacy automakers are beginning to increase their focus on hybrid vehicles. In India too, there are two lobbies — one that favors leapfrogging to BEVs and the other that looks at hybrids as the next best step. For Amara Raja, while hybrids and BEVs both translate into business, how do you otherwise view this transition? Vikramadithya Gourineni: I have mixed views on this transition. Both...

South Korean battery companies accelerate development, scale for lithium iron phosphate battery ecosystem

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...

Application of GaN in EV power electronics will be niche, but important

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...

High demand from other industries signals a looming automotive semiconductor shortfall

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...

Self-driven economy: China's market dominance in autonomous vehicles

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...

Assault on battery: The impact of EV slowdown on battery investments

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...

Volvo's software hurdles: Is software the new Achilles' heel of legacy automakers?

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 ...

Making waves in the autonomous driving industry: Wayve’s funding splash

Wayve's recent funding represents the largest AI fundraising in the UK to date. One notable aspect of Wayve's approach to automated/autonomous driving technology is its focus on empowering a variety of manufacturers through its 'Embodied AI' technology. Unlike many competitors that rely heavily on high-definition maps and pre-programmed routes, Wayve utilizes a machine learning model that learns from vast amounts of data, simulating human learning. This adaptability enables Wayve's system to han...

Navigating compliance costs: OEMs' dilemma in making legacy vehicles compliant with cybersecurity

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...

Central computers: While some OEMs chase central computing, others pursue a more pragmatic route

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...

There are companies that scale too quickly and too early in a developing marketplace: Alex Hearn, CEO and Co-Founder of Lightstate Ltd.

S&P Global Mobility: Please tell us about the origins of Lightstate. How did it come into being? Is it the opportunity size that pulled you? Alex Hearn: The purpose starts with passion rather than financial motivation. The origin of Lightstate lies in the idea to help tackle climate change and the path to net-zero emissions. We have seen rapid decarbonization in power generation around the world. However, we are still emitting about 14.9 billion metric tons of carbon a year, and transport...

Soft landing for automotive semiconductor industry in 2024

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...

Chinese lidar suppliers RoboSense and Hesai dominate sales forecast

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...

AFIR comes into force. What does this mean for EV charging players in the EU?

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...

Electric parking brakes: Making handbrakes feel outdated

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...

How OEMs’ involvement in the battery value chain is evolving

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...

Significance of the thriving automotive apps ecosystem

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 ...

Ionna reflects automakers’ intent to step into EV charging space to win consumers

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...

InterBattery 2024: South Korean battery companies rush to commercialize solid-state batteries

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...

Thailand accelerates toward EV powerhouse status in South Asia

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...

Exploring the future of vehicle network architectures: highlights from the Automotive Ethernet Congress

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...

Futuristic concepts stirring up the rear-seat entertainment market

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 ...

Brake through: BWI & Thyssenkrupp's EMB alliance

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 GTC 2024: Accelerating automotive innovation through AI

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...

Policy environment will have an effect on how fast we invest: Voltera

Established in 2022 and headquartered in Palo Alto, California, Voltera develops, owns and operates charging and refueling infrastructure for zero-emission vehicle fleets. Owned by EQT, a Swedish global investment organization, Voltera delivers turnkey fleet EV charging infrastructure for customers by acquiring real estate, setting up power connections, procuring chargers and charge point operation software, and operating and maintaining it. Voltera is working on a multibillion-dollar plan to ac...

Recent earthquake in Taiwan put semiconductor industry to test

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...

Fiscal year 2023 review of key semiconductor suppliers in automotive tech

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...

Head unit operating system market to log persistent growth

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...

Driving green: Automotive giants drive sustainability

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...

Navigating brake emissions in a Euro-7 world

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...

INTERVIEW: Emotion in motion - Smart Eye's vision for emotion-aware automotive technology

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...

INTERVIEW: bitsensing on 4D imaging radars for automotive industry

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 ...

Euro NCAP pushes comeback of buttons over displays

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...

French government rolls back some EV incentives, but will it impact demand?

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...

INTERVIEW: Covestro on recyclability in automotive lighting

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, ...

Copper's vital role in powering the EV revolution

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...

OLED and mini-LED displays gaining share in passenger car cockpit

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. ...

Has sodium-ion battery technology finally turned the corner in light-vehicle applications?

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: OEMs converge toward higher penetration

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...

The brake pedal evolution and the road to brake-by-wire pedal (e-pedal)

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 ...

We are going to asset heavy routes and develop our own EV charging sites: Aatish Patel, president, XCharge North America

S&P Global Mobility: XCharge is present in Europe, mainland China as well as in North America. Please tell us about the company and how it was established. Aatish Patel: It is an interesting story. XCharge has its origin in China, with the conception and the pilot. The two main founders were actually employees of Tesla when it was initially expanding its presence there. They were involved in Tesla’s EV [electric vehicle] infrastructure buildout in China, in both the DC and Level 2 charg...

Active seat belt adoption likely to be driven by Euro NCAP Vision 2030

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...

INTERVIEW: Targeting intoxication before ignition: Magna unveils impaired driving prevention technology

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...

INTERVIEW: Being asset light is a huge advantage for us, but also a challenge to scaling: StoreDot

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...

Rising interest in active dampers despite challenges in achieving precision

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...

Greater China races ahead in adoption of unbranded high-tech acoustics system

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...

How will mainland China’s graphite export curbs impact battery demand

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’s capital withdrawal puts Motional's robo-taxi ambitions at risk

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...

Aluminum insight tracker: Navigating over 75 components in automotive evolution

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...

Connected car technologies: Startups making waves

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: Autonomy technology industry highlights

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...

CES 2024: Review of automotive interior technologies

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...

CES 2024: E/E and semiconductor technology industry highlights

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...

INTERVIEW: Manufacturing solid-state batteries cost-effectively is the biggest challenge, says Sakuu’s Arwed Niestroj

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...

Will new FEOC guidelines narrow the funnel for Chinese companies to qualify for IRA tax credits?

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...

Automotive lighting: 2023 in review

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-...

Powering the future: The shift from centralized to decentralized automotive power distribution

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...

Battery swapping: On a comeback trail?

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...

Overcoming range anxiety: Consumers weigh in on acceptable EV charging time and range

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...

Cybertruck's launch marks a turning point for steer-by-wire technology

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...

Nippon Steel's strategic overture in the US with the US Steel acquisition

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...

Panoramic HUD: The next big shift in car display

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...

Continental to spin off user experience vertical: A precursor to wider industry consolidation?

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...

Startups assume key position in next-generation EV battery technology development

There is a viewpoint that the current generation lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery for electric vehicles is close to reaching its performance peak and would need to evolve to meet EV owners’ requirements. The advancement of EV battery technology will be one of the keys to making EVs more practical and affordable. Several novel battery technologies are under development currently, and it remains to be seen which one takes the lead. With the automotive industry’s investments already stretched th...

INTERVIEW: Ethernovia on ethernet communication system for automotive industry

Ethernovia Inc. develops an ethernet system to process the bandwidth demands of the future. It offers a virtual communication solution that enables the software-defined vehicle (SDV) for future automobile communication. The company was incorporated in 2018 and is based in San Jose, California. Earlier this year, Ethernovia closed a $64-million Series A funding round with investors including Porsche SE, Qualcomm Ventures, AMD and Venturetech Alliance. In September, the company announced a p...

Analysis: Why CO2 emissions matter in automotive, EV battery supply chains

As global leaders recently met in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on the sidelines of the ongoing COP28 to discuss progress on the race to net zero, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change’s (UNFCCC's) latest yearbook revealed that although businesses, investors, governments and states are stepping up to take climate action in greater numbers than ever before, the efforts are still not at the scale needed to limit the global temperature rise to 1.5°C within this century. The...

ADAS evolution in India: a surge in vehicle tech and its market implications

In the rapidly evolving landscape of automotive technology, the global push toward autonomy has been fueled by a combination of mandatory regulations in Europe and strategic national priorities in Mainland China. As the automotive industry undergoes a transformative shift, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and automated driving technologies are at the forefront of this revolution. S&P Global Mobility estimates that by 2035, the market for automated vehicles will witness a surge, w...

Understanding consumer mindset for automotive displays

The global automotive industry is currently undergoing a significant transformation with the digitization of cockpits. Digital technologies and software have revolutionized these spaces with advanced features that are not only essential but also key influencers in vehicle purchase decisions. This trend has prompted automakers to continuously innovate and equip their cabins with these advanced features to gain a competitive edge in an intensely competitive market. The growing customer appetite...

The intelligent transformation of chassis with by-wire systems

The automotive industry is undergoing a significant transformation, shifting from mechanical to electronic control systems and emphasizing connectivity to the cloud. Intelligent chassis control systems are emerging as a central focus, driven by complexity, integration, higher levels of autonomy and the widespread adoption of electrification. Original equipment manufacturers are adopting by-wire systems to integrate various vehicle systems, reducing costs, and enhancing efficiency. A trend tow...

Which car features are worth the money? Consumers weigh in on human-machine interface tech

Increasing digitization and rapidly advancing connectivity have enabled passenger car cockpits toward a giant technological leap. The profound focus on personalization and user-friendly features, with the growing use of software, promises greater in-car entertainment, convenience, comfort and a unique user experience. Car owners crave different attributes and are willing to pay for customization, providing limitless opportunities to automakers. The S&P Global Mobility Annual Human-Machine...

High installation costs continues to hinder mass deployment of public EV chargers

Hundreds of thousands of electric vehicle charging stations are needed around the world to support the transition to electric mobility. However, not all countries are moving at the same pace to build public EV charging infrastructure. This is due to many reasons, including the growth rate of EV sales and cost of acquiring and installing charging stations, which can vary significantly in many countries due to state and federal credits, rebates and incentives. For public charging station compan...

Renesas’ strategy on processor roadmap for next-generation automotive systems on chip and microcontroller units

In November, Renesas Electronics Corporation unveiled its latest automotive semiconductor strategy targeting all major applications across the automotive digital domain. While industry giants like NVIDIA, Qualcomm and Mobileye dominate discussions on next-generation automotive electrical/electronic (E/E) platforms, Renesas has carved out a unique position by announcing its new addition to the R-Car platform, R-Car Gen 5 systems on chip (SoCs) and chiplet options. This comprehensive semiconductor...

Plastic recycling needs regulation, innovation and collaboration

The increasing use of plastics in the automotive industry, particularly in the context of electric vehicles, has brought about a complex challenge in the realm of recycling. As the demand for lightweight materials rises, plastics play a crucial role in offsetting the additional weight of EV batteries. Not only do certain high-performance plastics enhance safety in collisions, but they also contribute to the overall efficiency and sustainability of automotive design. Recycling plastics from ba...

Solid-state batteries: SSB is not as easy as ABC

Hard to believe, but the lithium-ion battery, which has been synonymous with the auto industry’s electrification phase, not to mention the proliferation of personal electronic goods, is ripe for redevelopment. There have been different chemistries coming in and out of vogue, mainly involving the choice of cathode material, but the fundamentals have remained in place since the first commercialization in 1981. Now, development is advanced for one of the most fundamental elements of the ...

Front passenger display: A niche market poised to take off

Cockpits with advanced user-friendly features and innovative technologies are prevailing norms in the automotive industry. The growing connectivity, high-speed wireless bandwidth, and increasing software content prompted original equipment manufacturers to push boundaries to attract new-age car buyers with distinct features. This trend is further accelerated by the proliferation of electric vehicles that are getting tech-laden cockpits. Among the impressive list of new features finding their way...

Four factors shaping the battery metals market

Amid persistent macroeconomic uncertainty, spot demand for battery metals has waned over 2023, contributing to a general weakening of metals prices, down from record price highs in 2022. But the horizon for energy transition-related demand has arrived, spurred forward by various government initiatives that have supported plug-in electric vehicle uptake to decarbonize the transport sector and a focus on renewable energy sources. Batteries are the most expensive component of electric vehicle...

ZF's pioneering influence in 2023 and beyond

ZF's steer-by-wire (SbW) innovations and future market projections: ZF showcased advanced X-by-Wire technologies at IAA Mobility 2023, encompassing SbW, brake-by-wire (BBW) and active damping. These technologies collectively create a highly integrated and responsive vehicle control system, marking a significant leap toward software-defined vehicles. ZF’s SbW systems enable full autonomous control for shuttles and robo-taxis, with added features such as retractable steering wheels and imp...

Precision, strength, sustainability: The trifecta reshaping automotive manufacturing in the 21st century

The automotive industry is currently undergoing a profound transformation, driven by a relentless pursuit for enhanced performance, weight reduction and the electrification of vehicles. This paradigm shift is reshaping materials and manufacturing processes, with notable implications for the entire supply chain. One prominent shift is the anticipated decline in the usage of mild steel, making way for higher-strength materials such as steel alloys, aluminum and advanced composites. Advanced hig...

Wireless EV charging: Anywhere close to taking off?

In mid-October, Nikkei reported that Japanese city Kashiwa is testing a technology that will allow electric vehicles (EV) to recharge wirelessly while being driven on public roads. Japan has joined a growing list of countries in Europe, mainland China and North America, where such projects are underway to gauge the safety, reliability and commercialization aspects of the technology. In the Japanese project, where charging coils have been embedded in the road surface at traffic signals, tests are...

The brakes of tomorrow: From mechanical to electric revolution

Braking beyond boundaries: The electromechanical brake (EMB) breakthrough The landscape of braking systems in modern automobiles reflects a dynamic interplay between innovation, safety and environmental consciousness. The evolution of brakes, once primarily mechanical, has taken on a new dimension with the infusion of electronic components and a keen focus on intelligent, integrated systems. In the realm of safety, the integration of electronic features, such as automatic braking systems (...

CATL focuses on innovation and overseas investments to keep growing

Mainland China-based battery-cell maker Contemporary Amperex Technology Ltd. (CATL) is already one of the leading lithium-ion (Li-ion) cell suppliers to the automotive industry. Established in 2011, CATL catered to more than 29% of the demand of Li-ion batteries from the light-vehicle segment in 2022. The company competes with suppliers such as LG Energy Solution, Samsung SDI and Panasonic. In 2022, CATL Group (including all its joint ventures) supplied more than 187 GWh of Li-ion cells to th...

Chiplets: Tiny building blocks can make a big difference

The automotive industry is currently experiencing profound shifts, ranging from electrification to the introduction of innovative vehicle features. Central to these transformations is the escalating importance of semiconductors. Traditional computing capacities housed in electronic control units (ECU) based on microcontroller units (MCUs) are rapidly becoming inadequate in the face of the expanding computational demands brought on by advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), communication proto...

Will outsourcing gigacasting body sections form an emerging industry in China?

According to S&P Global Mobility, the production of electric light vehicles in mainland China is expected to exhibit a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16% between 2023 and 2030, reaching a total of 19 million units. The electric vehicle industry in mainland China has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, firmly establishing the country as a global leader in the EV sector. China holds the distinction of being the world's largest EV market, contributing to over half of g...

Review of interior concepts at IAA Mobility 2023

The IAA Mobility is an annual auto show held in Munich, Germany, encompassing various automotive trends and technologies. Held at the Munich Exhibition Center from September 5 to September 10, the show attracted more than 500,000 people from all over the world. This edition saw more than 300 world premieres and innovations from about 750 exhibitors. While autonomous and electric mobility inevitably grabbed the attention, there were numerous interesting developments covering the vehicle’s inter...

Battery recycling climbs up the priority list of OEMs

During the life cycle of an electric vehicle (EV), battery cell manufacturing and raw material mining has the biggest contribution toward CO2 emissions. The other major challenge is with the supply of critical raw materials, such as cobalt, nickel and lithium. As EV uptake picks up pace, production of lithium-ion battery cells will also have to expand in line to meet the demand. This is expected to put huge pressure on the raw material supply chain of these materials. Along with availa...

Impact of autonomous MaaS deployment on urban mobility

Autonomous Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) is a vision of future transport that involves driverless vehicles providing on-demand and personalized transportation services to users. Autonomous MaaS has the potential to offer many benefits, such as lower costs, higher convenience, improved safety, reduced emissions, reduced downtime and increased accessibility. However, there are also many challenges that need to be overcome before autonomous MaaS can become a reality. MaaS and robo-taxis are nonet...

Can the industry follow Tesla’s transition to 48V architecture soon?

Recently, Tesla announced that it will transition its electrical and electronics (E/E) architecture from 12V to 48V. The purpose behind this decision is to structurally improve power efficiency and further advance vehicle lightweighting. The decision is in line with Tesla's strategy to pursue architectural and modular innovation, and signifies the strengthening of its component ecosystem. During Tesla's Investor Day in March, the company hinted at the adoption of a 48V-based E/E architecture....