Inside the Industry

Porsche waters down electric vehicle ambitions



(July 23, 2024) BERLIN — Porsche expects the transition to electric vehicles will take longer than it initially thought having previously said its aim was for 80 percent of sales to be all-electric by 2030. It has now watered down that goal by tying it explicitly to customer demand and developments in the electromobility sector, saying in a statement only that it could now deliver on the 80 percent target if those factors warrant it.

Chrysler Pacifica hybrids recalled for fire risk



(July 23, 2024) WASHINGTON — Stellantis said it is recalling about 24,000 plug-in hybrid minivans worldwide because of fire risks and urging owners to park outside and away from structures pending recall repairs. Stellantis said the recall of 2017 through 2021 model year Chrysler Pacifica Hybrids includes about 19,500 U.S. vehicles. 

Mecum Auctions returns to Pennsylvania Farm Show complex



Estimated 1,200 classic and
collector cars expected in Harrisburg

(July 23, 2024) HARRISBURG, Pa. — Since its inaugural iteration in 2014 at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex, the annual Mecum Harrisburg collector car auction has attracted motivated consignors, eager bidders and enthusiastic spectators from across the nation, and the 2024 event, set to take place starting Wednesday (July 24), will continue the tradition with an estimated 1,200 vehicles to be auctioned and live broadcasts to air on MotorTrendTV and MAX.

2025 Honda Odyssey gets enhanced styling, technology upgrades



Styling updates include new grille
and reshaped front and rear fascias

    
(July 23, 2024) The Honda Odyssey is reasserting its leadership for 2025 as the ultimate fun family vehicle with sporty new styling, more standard features and an updated cabin experience with technology improvements for the whole family. Arriving at Honda dealerships today, the 2025 Odyssey will be available in four well-equipped trim levels, EX-L, Sport-L, Touring and Elite, with prices starting at $43,315 including destination charge.

NextStar Energy battery plant celebrates first year anniversary


    
(July 22, 2024) WINDSOR, Ontario — NextStar Energy, the joint venture formed by Stellantis and LG Energy Solution, is celebrating its first anniversary, marking a year of progress and significant milestones achieved in the clean energy sector. As part of its ambitious goal, once complete, NextStar Energy aims to have an annual production capacity of 49.5 gigawatt-hours and will create more than 2,500 new jobs, serving as Canada's first large-scale electric-vehicle battery manufacturing facility.

BMW introduces electrically powered exhaust purification in paint shops



(July 22, 2024) MUNICH, Germany — The BMW Group is now powering exhaust purification in its first paint shops electrically. Thanks to a new method, the high temperatures needed for the thermal purification of exhaust from paint booths and drying areas can now be generated by electricity. With that, a further production process can now be carried out without using natural gas.

Auto repossessions surge 23% in U.S. during first half of 2024


MotorwayAmerica.com

(July 21, 2024) Car repossessions rocketed higher in the first half of the year, a sign of rising consumer distress as the U.S. Federal Reserve weighs interest rate cuts.  According to Cox Automotive data, so far in 2024, repos are up 23 percent compared with the same period last year. 

Honda opens new distribution center in Phoenix



Warehouse will serve Honda's
Southwestern dealer network


(July 20, 2024) PHOENIX — American Honda has announced a partnership with global logistics-services leader Maersk on the opening of a new 150,000-square-foot distribution center in Phoenix. The facility will support Honda's Powersports and Products division, strengthening the company's ability to serve its regional dealer network in the Southwestern United States.

1934 Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 Lungo Spider to be auctioned at Monterey



RM Sotheby expects classic
to bring as much as $6 million

(July 20, 2024) MONTEREY, Calif. — RM Sotheby has announced the auction of the stunning 1934 Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 Lungo Spider by Eagle Coach Works at the upcoming Monterey Car Week. Having never been offered at auction before, this highly respected example of the legendary “2.3” combines rich history, striking design, and remarkable originality, making it a highlight of the event.

2025 Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid and Panamera GTS unveiled



Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid —
771 hp and 737 lb.-ft. of torque


(July 19, 2025) The Porsche Panamera has redefined the luxury sedan segment. It combines a high level of driving comfort with the properties of a Porsche sports car in a unique way. Now two charismatic new variants have been added to the model range. These are cars with different priorities: the Panamera GTS is a dynamic sports sedan that places a particular emphasis on the emotional driving experience.