Tag: Automotive

Hyundai Won’t Buy Back Russian Plant Amid Ongoing War
News

Hyundai Won’t Buy Back Russian Plant Amid Ongoing War

South Korean automaker Hyundai has put the brakes on its plan to repurchase a former production facility in St Petersburg, Russia. The company can’t move forward with buying back the plant if the war in Ukraine continues.Key TakeawaysThe contractual option for Hyundai to buy back the asset expires in January 2026 and won't be extended due to ongoing conflict.Halted production at the St Petersburg plant since March 2022 after Moscow's invasion of Ukraine disrupted supply chains.Hyundai recorded a Won287bn impairment charge from disposing of the facility in 2024, which is equivalent to selling off an entire fleet of older Hyundai Elantras.The St Petersburg plant was one of Russia's largest car factories owned by foreign companies before operations were suspended. The factory had a capacity o...
Inside the Launch of a New Car: Behind Closed Doors
EV & Electric Cars, Industry & Business, News

Inside the Launch of a New Car: Behind Closed Doors

The launch of a new car is more than just an event; it's a carefully orchestrated spectacle designed to captivate audiences and set sales records. But what happens behind closed doors before that reveal?Key TakeawaysNew cars often debut with advanced technology features like augmented reality displays.The average launch event costs automakers around $5 million, up 10% from last year.Audi's latest model has a battery range of 482 km compared to Tesla’s Model S Long Range at 637 km.Car launches are meticulously planned affairs that start months in advance. Marketing teams finalize the story and messaging for each vehicle, crafting narratives around its unique selling points.The reveal itself is a high-stakes moment where engineers balance technical specifications with executive demands for s...
One in Four Cars Totaled After Crashes Due to Tech and Age
News, Tech & Autonomous

One in Four Cars Totaled After Crashes Due to Tech and Age

According to a new report, one out of every four cars involved in crashes is now declared totaled. It's not because drivers are worse; it’s due to the growing complexity of automotive technology and older car fleets.Key TakeawaysTotal loss frequency rose from 22.1% in 2024 to 22.8% in 2025, a significant increase.The aging car population is majorly contributing to the rise in total losses as older vehicles are more costly to repair.Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and integrated electronics make repairs complicated and expensive.In 2025, nearly one-quarter of all cars involved in crashes ended up being totaled. This isn't because drivers aren’t paying attention or driving recklessly; it's due to the increasing complexity of modern vehicles.ADAS-equipped cars have sensors and camer...
Mahindra XUV 7XO Debuts with Harman Kardon Audio Upgrade
News

Mahindra XUV 7XO Debuts with Harman Kardon Audio Upgrade

Mahindra is set to unveil the updated XUV 7XO next week, featuring a premium audio system from Harman Kardon that supports Dolby Atmos. The SUV will also include an upgraded dashboard and rear seat entertainment screens.Key TakeawaysThe new model features a 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system with Dolby Atmos support, replacing the existing Sony audio setup.XUV 7XO will come equipped with a triple-screen dashboard and provisions for rear seat entertainment screens.Other updates include an electric co-driver seat with boss mode and new styling revisions such as redesigned grille and tail lamp elements.The XUV 7XO's Harman Kardon audio system boasts Dolby Atmos technology, which enhances the in-cabin sound experience compared to its predecessor. This upgrade positions it competitively agai...
GWM Recalls Hybrid Models Over Wiring Issue
EV & Electric Cars, News, Pickup Trucks

GWM Recalls Hybrid Models Over Wiring Issue

GWM, a Chinese automaker known for its affordable SUVs and electric vehicles (EVs), has issued recalls on three hybrid models due to potential wiring problems that could lead to performance issues. The affected models include the Cannon Alpha utility vehicle (UTE) and two versions of the Tank SUV series.Key TakeawaysThe recall affects all 2021-2024 model year GWM Cannon Alpha UTEs, Tank 300 HEVs, and Tank 500 HEVs worldwide.GWM estimates that around 6% of the total production run for these models is impacted by this issue.Owners are advised to contact their nearest dealership immediately to arrange a free repair under warranty.The recall comes after multiple complaints from customers experiencing reduced acceleration and engine stalling when driving at higher speeds. The problem stems from...
Ten Cars Named After Women Highlight Automotive Tradition
News

Ten Cars Named After Women Highlight Automotive Tradition

From classic to modern times, automakers have chosen feminine names for their vehicles. This tradition includes tributes like the Hispano Suiza Carmen and innovative models such as the Honda Jade.Key TakeawaysThe Lancia Fulvia pays homage to Roman heritage with its name inspired by Via Fulvia, a historic road connecting Tortona to Turin.Honda introduced the Jade in 2013 for China and later Japan, emphasizing luxury through hybrid technology and precious gemstone symbolism.Hispano Suiza's Carmen honors family legacy while showcasing cutting-edge electric power with over 1,000 horsepower options.The Lancia Fulvia stands out as a classic example of automotive naming traditions. Introduced in 1963 at the Geneva Auto Show, it was built on the Flavia platform and named after Via Fulvia, reflecti...
Porsche and Volkswagen Dealerships Face Challenges in China
Industry & Business, News

Porsche and Volkswagen Dealerships Face Challenges in China

Empty showrooms, delayed deposits, and operational suspensions are hitting Porsche and Volkswagen dealerships across central and southwestern parts of China. The Beijing Shijingshan Porsche Center is expected to close soon due to these issues.Key TakeawaysPorsche deliveries in China fell 26% year-over-year, dropping from a peak of 95,000 vehicles in 2021 to just under 32,200 units by Q3 2025.The affected dealerships are owned and operated by Dong'an Holdings, which has put all employees on leave while addressing customer deposits.Porsche China issued a public apology for the situation and is cooperating with police to protect consumer rights.Local media reports show that some Porsche centers in Zhengzhou and Guiyang are now empty. Vehicles were removed overnight, leaving behind bare showro...
Changan Shipment Marks Chinese Auto Export Milestone to Europe
EV & Electric Cars, Industry & Business, News

Changan Shipment Marks Chinese Auto Export Milestone to Europe

Chinese automaker Changan has shipped its first batch of locally produced Deepal S05 vehicles from Thailand to Europe, marking a significant export milestone for the company. The shipment consists of 500 units and follows similar moves by other Chinese manufacturers like BYD.Key TakeawaysChangan's Rayong plant shipped its first batch of Deepal S05 vehicles to Europe, totaling 500 units.The shipment follows similar export moves by other Chinese automakers like BYD and GAC.This marks Changan’s expansion into the European market as a key player in electric vehicle production.Changan's Rayong plant, which started operations on May 16 this year, is now exporting its first batch of vehicles to Europe. The Deepal S05 SUVs are produced locally and tailored for right-hand-drive markets like the UK ...
Why You Should Never Use A Dropped Microfiber Towel On Your Car Again
EV & Electric Cars, News

Why You Should Never Use A Dropped Microfiber Towel On Your Car Again

Detailing your car is a labor of love, and microfiber towels are an essential tool for achieving that showroom shine. But here's the thing: once these soft cloths hit the ground, they're off-limits to your paintwork. That's right, you won't want to use them again after picking up dirt from the floor.Key TakeawaysAvoid using microfiber towels that have touched the ground on car paint as they pick up grit and can cause scratches.New packs of high-quality microfibers cost around $10, making it a small price to pay for protecting your vehicle's finish.There are alternative ways to reuse dropped cloths inside the house or by keeping them separate from car cleaning supplies.The rule about dropping microfiber towels might seem extreme, but there’s solid reasoning behind it. Microfibers attract du...
Ferrari F80: Hybrid Supercar Pushes the Limits
News, Supercars

Ferrari F80: Hybrid Supercar Pushes the Limits

In a year filled with automotive marvels, Ferrari's new flagship hybrid supercar, the F80, stands out for its groundbreaking engineering and performance. The car combines a twin-turbocharged V-6 engine producing 888 hp with three electric motors that boost output to an astonishing 1184 horsepower.Key TakeawaysFerrari F80 packs 1184 hp from a V-6 and electric motors.Misano racetrack tests highlight the car's performance capabilities.The hybrid setup offers superior power density compared to traditional engines.At Misano, Ferrari showcased how the F80 handles track conditions with ease. The V-6 engine and electric motors work in harmony to deliver a driving experience that pushes the boundaries of what's possible in automotive engineering.The 3.0-liter V-6 is no ordinary unit; it's designed ...