January 2024

Ford recalls nearly 140,000 Focus, EcoSport vehicles



(January 11, 2024) WASHINGTON — Ford is recalling nearly 140,000 Focus sedans and EcoSport crossovers in the U.S. for faulty engine oil pumps that are linked to a federal investigation and an alleged crash with two injuries. The recall covers certain 2016-18 Focus and 2018-22 EcoSport vehicles with 1.0-liter engines and 6F15 automatic transmissions, according to an Automotive News report.

Mercedes-Benz showcases 'the hyper-personalized user experience'



AI-powered MBUX Virtual Assistant
transforms Mercedes user interface


(January 11, 2024) Mercedes-Benz is pushing forward with a new range of digital advancements set to transform the customer experience — both in-car and beyond. Central to this is a new MBUX Virtual Assistant that uses generative AI and advanced 3D graphics making interactions between the customer and vehicle more natural, intuitive and personalized.

Honda debuts new global 'Honda 0" EV Series with concept models



(January 11, 2024) LAS VEGAS — Honda has announced the “Honda 0 Series,” a new global EV series launching in 2026, represented by the world premiere of two concept models, Saloon and Space-Hub, at CES 2024. In 2026, Honda will introduce a model of the Honda 0 Series based on the Saloon concept in North America, followed by model introductions in Japan, Asia, Europe, Africa and the Middle East and South America.

BMW's Munich plant to produce all-electric models by end of 2027



(January 10, 2024) MUNICH, Germany — A new era is dawning for BMW Group Plant Munich — from 2026, the iconic parent plant will produce the Neue Klasse sedan. Just one year later, the factory will manufacture nothing but all-electric models, making the Munich plant the first location in the BMW Group’s existing production network to have successfully completed the transformation to E-mobility from the end of 2027.

Lotus Robotics showcases latest technologies at CES



(January 10, 2024) LAS VEGAS — Lotus Robotics, the self-driving technology unit of Lotus, is showcasing its latest offerings at the 2024 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. The company provides a range of autonomous software and services for businesses wanting to deploy self-driving technology in their operations safely, securely and efficiently.

Special-edition Dodge Durango SRT 392 AlcHEMI keeps HEMI alive



Dodge Durango SRT 392 AlcHEMI
production limited to 1,000 units


(January 10, 2024) AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — Dodge is kicking off a yearlong celebration of the brand’s high-performance SUV with the introduction of the 2024 Dodge Durango SRT 392 AlcHEMI, the first in a series of “Last Call” models that will commemorate the final calendar year of V-8 HEMI engine production for the Dodge Durango.

Kia announces 'Platform Beyond Vehicle' future strategy at CES 2024



PBV platform offers users a blank
canvas to redefine space and mobility


(January 10, 2024) LAS VEGAS — Kia has revealed its Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) future strategy at the 2024 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. Kia’s PBV business will initially be based around the introduction of an all-new, modular vehicle, previewed by the Kia Concept PV5.

Hyundai reveals vision for hydrogen energy and software solutions



Hyundai projects to off-take 3 million
tonnes of hydrogen per year by 2035

    

(January 9, 2024) LAS VEGAS — Hyundai Motor Company has presented its vision for a hydrogen-powered, software-driven transformation beyond mobility applications at CES 2024. Under the theme ‘Ease every way,’ the company held its Media Day at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas to highlight its future blueprint for a hydrogen energy ecosystem and a vision for software and artificial intelligence (AI).

After peaking at 4 million in 2017, GM’s China sales have steadily dropped



(January 9, 2024) General Motors' China sales dropped 8.7 percent to 2.1 million last year, allowing the United States to become the automaker's biggest market for the first time in more than a decade. The slide in sales was led by declines at SAIC-GM, GM’s Chinese passenger-vehicle joint venture with SAIC Motor Corp., which builds and markets Cadillac, Chevrolet and Buick cars and light trucks. according to Automotive News.