Hybrid powertrains will continue to support the transition to vehicle electrification Weak EV demand, critical mineral supply challenges and tariff-driven market uncertainty keeps hybrid vehicles in the big picture for model development and production investments. Ian Henry
How Arno Güllering wants DRÄXLMAIER Group to harness shopfloor visualisation and genAI in production and maintenance The tier-1 supplier has established a highly connected production and logistics network, with a strong emphasis on data visualisation and a roadmap for AI. But to stay competitive and resilient, COO Arno Güllering wants to ensure both plants and HQ have a mindset ready to embrace change. Christopher Ludwig
Honda ramps up motorcycle production in India with new line at Gujarat plant Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) is significantly expanding its production footprint in the world’s largest motorcycle market with the announcement of a new production line at its fourth manufacturing plant in Vithalapur, Gujarat. AMS
Nissan to slash 20,000 jobs and abandon battery plant as new CEO restructures operations after mounting losses in US and China Nissan is preparing to axe 15% of its workforce, close multiple plants and abandon a billion-dollar EV battery factory, as new CEO Ivan Espinosa steers the carmaker through worsening losses and market missteps. Ilkhan Ozsevim
China’s rapid rise in electric vehicle adoption is reshaping global auto manufacturing, forcing Western OEMs to rethink costs, portfolios and consumer strategies As China leads the global EV transition with record-breaking sales and technology advances, Western carmakers face mounting pressure to cut costs, target regional needs and rethink loyalty strategies. Ilkhan Ozsevim
China’s rare earth magnet export ban threatens global EV and automotive manufacturing, as US, European and Asian carmakers scramble to secure critical materials The global automotive sector is facing renewed disruption as China tightens control over exports of heavy rare earths and magnets. With EV powertrains and chips at risk, OEMs are now racing to diversify supply. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Will exports drive production growth across India? Building on the rising value of vehicle exports and components, the Indian government wants 50% of vehicles made in India to be exported by 2030 but there is some way to go before this ambition can be realised. Ian Henry
Toyota and Gorilla join forces to deploy AI warehouse tools and drive a global rollout of smart factory automation starting from Thailand Toyota Material Handling Solutions Thailand is partnering with AI firm Gorilla Technology Group to co-develop intelligent warehouse tools. The collaboration launches in Thailand with a global rollout planned. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Ambitious targets and big investments for India’s carmakers After a period of downsizing or complete withdrawal by some foreign OEMs, investment in Indian production is on the rise again with the domestic vehicle makers leading the way. Ian Henry
Nissan transfers Rogue SUV output from Japan to Tennessee to hedge against new US tariffs and preserve its share of the American market Faced with rising tariffs on imports, Nissan will reduce Rogue SUV production in Japan and ramp up output in Tennessee. The move is a clear response to tightening US trade policy and reflects a wider recalibration of global manufacturing among carmakers. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Skoda expands manufacturing operations with new Vietnam assembly plant Skoda has officially begun local assembly of its Kushaq SUV and Slavia sedan at a newly established facility in Vietnam’s Quang Ninh province. Developed in partnership with Thanh Cong Group, the plant marks a significant step in Skoda’s global expansion, strengthening its foothold in Southeast Asia’s rapidly growing automotive market. Nick Holt
Honda to source hybrid vehicle batteries from Toyota’s new US plant as tariff threats and shifting EV policies force Japanese carmakers to rethink their supply chains Honda will source hybrid batteries from Toyota’s $14bn US factory starting in 2025, as rising tariffs under Trump and declining EV incentives prompt Japanese carmakers to reinforce local supply chains Ilkhan Ozsevim
India targets $500bn in EV investment as government boosts manufacturing incentives and new players like Tesla, VinFast prepare entry Significant investments are now under way at domestic and international vehicle companies in India, in component production, electric and hybrid vehicle production for the domestic market, and to facilitate rising exports across the world. This is being encouraged under the government’s strapline of “Make in India for the world.” Ian Henry
Honda scales back China ICE production as it accelerates EV plans in response to intensifying domestic competition and shifting market demand Honda is restructuring its China operations, cutting ICE production and focusing on EVs after a sharp sales decline. The automaker is betting on its new electric SUV, the S7, to reclaim market share amid intensifying domestic competition and a rapidly evolving industry. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Zeekr consolidates Lynk & Co to streamline production, enhance cost efficiencies and accelerate EV manufacturing under Geely’s restructuring Zeekr’s acquisition of a majority stake in Lynk & Co marks a pivotal moment in EV manufacturing. The integration is set to enhance production efficiency, cut costs and accelerate global expansion. Ilkhan Ozsevim
India aims to become a global player in automotive manufacturing India is potentially on the cusp of becoming a major global player in vehicle production. Whether it can achieve this status will become clear in the next couple of years. The transition to EVs adds to the national challenge as the domestic players are not really leaders in this sector. Meanwhile, the Indian EV supply base is nascent and dependent on foreign investors. Ian Henry
Trump’s 25% tariffs on Mexico & Canada take effect, China import tax rises to 20% Donald Trump’s 25% tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada have officially taken effect, along with an additional 10% increase on Chinese goods, raising the total import tax to 20%.
How China’s BYD surpassed Tesla with production and battery tech - reshaping the global EV market BYD has surged onto the global stage, challenging industry giants like Tesla with its aggressive expansion and pioneering battery technology. BYD’s production soared from half a million to over 4 million vehicles. As the company celebrates its 30th anniversary, its blend of vertical integration, cutting-edge automation, and global supply chain mastery has redefined the EV landscape. Anushka Dixit
Accelerating EV innovation transforms design and manufacturing processes as Toyota and Volkswagen lead cross-functional integration and digital twin adoption for future production Industry experts at the AMS Evolution panel examine the accelerating EV shift and its impact on design and manufacturing. Toyota and Volkswagen share insights on engineering flexibility and digital twin simulation to streamline production Ilkhan Ozsevim
Why global automotive innovators must embrace Design For Manufacture to power production in an environment of increasing complexity and fierce foreign competition Automotive manufacturers are streamlining production with Design for Manufacture (DFM), cutting complexity, reducing costs and driving EV innovation. In In this article, experts reveal the key strategies and digital tools that are reshaping vehicle production. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Nissan slashes jobs, closes 3 factories and scales back production in a bid to recover from sustained losses and a failed merger with Honda Nissan is closing factories, slashing jobs and scaling back production as it fights to reverse sustained losses. CEO Makoto Uchida is under pressure after merger talks with Honda collapsed. But analysts warn the measures may not go far enough to secure the company’s future. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Nissan to amplify green steel usage in Japan by 500% aligning with global automakers in pursuit of carbon neutrality by 2050 In an important move towards enhanced sustainable production, Nissan has declared a fivefold increase in the utilisation of green steel in its vehicle manufacturing. The initiative is part of the OEM’s wider carbon neutrality targets and reflects a growing industry trend. Ilkhan Ozsevim
DeepSeek’s AI model raises questions over the future of computing power, Nvidia’s dominance and automotive AI development The fact that a Chinese startup trained its AI model cheaply caused a stock price crash in the USA. For experts, however, this is a sign that artificial intelligence can be developed more quickly - including in the automotive industry. Timo Gilgen
US tariffs on Mexico and Canada threaten North American auto production and supply chains, raising costs for manufacturers The US is threatening to impose tariffs on automotive imports from Canada and Mexico, testing the resilience of North American manufacturing. The move could drive up costs, disrupt supply chains, and challenge the stability of the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), just as the industry navigates nearshoring, investment shifts, and electrification. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Nissan plans to cease AD van production in November as merger discussions with Honda progress towards 2026 integration In a strategic move preceding its anticipated merger with Honda, Nissan announces the cessation of its AD compact van production by November. This decision reflects efforts to streamline operations and address surplus capacity as the OEMs plan to integrate by 2026. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Polestar plans European production of imminent Polestar 7, moving away from China in nearshoring drive, solving for supply chain complexities Polestar aims to hit profitability by 2025 with Polestar 7 to be built in Europe, exiting China in regionalisation move enhancing supply chain resilience. The carmaker’s strategy includes streamlined product lines eyeing growth targets for premium EV market. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Dürr to equip BYD’s first European passenger car factory in Hungary with advanced sustainable painting and cleaning technologies, marking a milestone for both companies, and the EU tariff question BYD, one of China’s largest EV makers, has chosen Dürr to equip its first European car plant in Hungary with advanced painting and cleaning technology. This collaboration combines precision engineering with sustainability, showcasing the future of European EV production. Ilkhan Ozsevim
The automotive industry weighs the challenges of geopolitics and market factors in 2025 Trade wars, geopolitical tensions, mergers, increasing competition are all considerations that need to be addressed and navigated by vehicle makers and suppliers. Ian Henry highlights some of the key factors to look out for in 2025. Ian Henry
How AI is transforming automotive manufacturing: A deep dive into key technologies, optimisations and efficiency gains Automotive production is undergoing a seismic transformation with Artificial Intelligence driving unprecedented innovation. From predictive maintenance to autonomous robotics and generative design, here’s how AI is enhancing precision, adaptability and efficiency. Anushka Dixit
Mazda to build module pack plant for cylindrical lithium-ion batteries Mazda’s new plant will be located in Iwakuni City, Japan and will produce battery packs for its new EVs. Nick Holt
Thomas Dose discusses leadership, diversity, and challenges at BMW’s Chennai Plant How do you go from being a consultant to being a plant manager? Thomas Dose, managing director of the BMW plant in Chennai, India, talks in an interview about his path, the challenges and opportunities in India and the importance of diversity and sustainability. Ronja Schmiedchen
Chinese vehicle makers look to international markets for growth, but domestic government pressure and trade barriers may slow expansion. The number of domestic vehicle manufacturers in China has increased rapidly in recent years. Some are spin-offs from previous joint ventures with foreign companies, others entirely new. A few, notably BYD, Geely and Chery, have become significant global players, as well as gradually overhauling the foreign players in their domestic market. Ian Henry
China: Fierce domestic competition sees international brands suffer lower sales and a contraction of output As China’s domestic brands consolidate and grow both at home and internationally, the international brands, which have benefited from growth in the Chinese market over the years, now face serious headwinds. Ian Henry
Skoda’s Andreas Dick on driving flexible manufacturing, digitisation and the role of AI in transforming automotive production for future competitiveness Two measures are at the top of Skoda’s new production boss, Andreas Dick’s, to-do list: digitalisation and flexibility. In the interview, he also reveals what impact the weak demand for electric cars has on his area of responsibility. Yannick Tiedemann
Hyundai Union’s metal workers to strike as calls grow for South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol to step down after his declaration of Martial Law Hyundai Motor’s labour union will hold strikes tomorrow and Friday, adding to mounting political tensions. South Korea’s Metal Workers’ Union threatens a full strike unless President Yoon Suk Yeol resigns after a Martial Law controversy. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Hyundai Motor and Kia Introduce X-ble Shoulder to boost industrial efficiency and worker safety Hyundai Motor and Kia have revealed the X-ble Shoulder, a wearable robot aimed at transforming industrial efficiency and reducing workplace injuries. With plans for global expansion and a broader product lineup, the companies are leading innovation in wearable robotics. Ilkhan Ozsevim
The declaration of Martial Law in South Korea raises challenges for automotive production and global supply chains amid political upheaval The declaration of Martial Law in South Korea has thrown its critical automotive production and logisitics into uncertainty. As political tensions mount, automotive manufacturers and supply chains brace for potential major disruptions in operations and logistics Ilkhan Ozsevim
Honda sets up a demonstration production line for all-solid-state batteries Honda’s demonstration production line will support development for the mass production of solid-state batteries. Nick Holt
Nissan to cut 9,000 jobs globally, reduce Mitsubishi stake and bolster US and China EV plans as profits continue to decline With profits down 85 per cent year-on-year, Nissan is moving to align production with sales projections and reduce its Mitsubishi stake, while accelerating its EV push to compete in critical markets. The automaker’s revised strategy includes job cuts, cost reductions, and renewed alliances as part of its Arc turnaround plan. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Renault, Volkswagen, Stellantis and Geely pursue entry into Korea’s growing auto market as consumer demand rises As Korean consumers increasingly favour imported vehicles, global auto giants including Renault, Volkswagen, Stellantis and Geely plan new market entries with brand launches and expansions, reflecting shifting local preferences and competitive pricing against domestic cars. Ilkhan Ozsevim
How BYD’s partnership with Apple shaped the future of EV battery technology Apple’s secret partnership with Chinese automaker BYD focused on developing long-range EV batteries. While Apple’s car project was shelved, BYD’s Blade battery benefited from the collaboration, becoming a key driver of its success in the competitive EV market. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Honda expands new energy vehicle manufacturing in China with new Wuhan plant Honda opens its first dedicated new energy vehicle (NEV) production plant in Wuhan, China, boosting its electric vehicle production capabilities with advanced automation and eco-friendly technology. Nick Holt
Chinese automaker GAC plans European EV production to counter 45% EU tariffs, aiming for half a million overseas sales by 2030, with first electric SUV launch set for mid-2025 Facing the imposition of tariffs on Chinese-made EVs, GAC, one of China’s largest carmakers, is considering European manufacturing to preserve market access. Its electric SUV Aion V will be showcased at the Paris Auto Show, with sales expected by 2025. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Volkswagen faces manufacturing challenges amid financial troubles Volkswagen is grappling with mounting financial troubles, signalling a worsening situation in its global manufacturing operations. With two profit warnings in three months, the automotive giant faces falling EV sales, factory underutilisation, and tariff threats from China. Ian Henry
Oyak Horse celebrates production of 7.5 million engines at its Türkiye plant while expanding its workforce with 100 new jobs and scaling output to meet rising hybrid demand Oyak Horse has achieved the milestone of producing 7.5 million engines at its Bursa, facility, in Türkiye. As hybrid demand grows, the plant adds 100 jobs, expands to a third shift, and increases daily output. The company continues to play a key role in low-emission powertrain solutions for global markets. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Hyundai, Kia, Hyundai Steel, EcoPro BM partner for LFP battery breakthroughs The Korean consortium aims to eliminate the precursor step in LFP battery cathode material production, reducing emissions and costs. The project, supported by the Korean government, focuses on developing high-purity iron powder and directly synthesised LFP cathode material for improved battery performance. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Hyundai and Skoda sign MOU on hydrogen tech collaboration Hyundai and Skoda will work together on hydrogen fuel cell technologies for mobility applications. Nick Holt
Denso expands electrification-focused inverter line and sustainable digital production Denso is bolstering its position in the electrification market with the launch of inverter production at Denso Fukushima. Simultaneously, the company has unveiled plans for a next-generation, fully automated plant at Zenmyo, set to modernise ECU production with 24-hour unmanned operation and sustainable energy use. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Polestar starts US production of the Polestar 3 Polestar has started production of its Polestar 3 SUV at the Volvo plant in Ridgeville, South Carolina. Nick Holt
Poor financial results and slow EV transition forces Nissan to rethink plans Nissan looks to cut production costs and rebalance production operations in the face of poor financial results. Ian Henry
Despite industry fears, global EV sales reach record highs in 2024 and remain on an upward trajectory How will slowing growth in EVs impact auto industry investment strategies? As the industry navigates challenges from rising costs and charging infrastructure gaps, to consumer range anxiety and rising competition, Daniel Harrison explodes some EV myths. Daniel Harrison
Toyota to build EV battery plant for Lexus in Japanese island Toyota Motor is planning to build an EV battery plant for its Lexus brand in the Japanese island of Kyushu, according to Japanese newspaper Nikkei. Megan Kelly
EV battery supply – potential materials shortages S&P’s Global Mobility division offers some insights into battery raw material supply chains and the impact of market changes. Nick Holt
Electric Dreams: Tesla’s gigafactory network and EV battery production blueprint From Fremont to Berlin, Tesla’s gigafactories are the drivers in its goal to lead the EV market. Each site plays a crucial role in electric vehicle and battery innovation, ensuring Tesla meets global demand and maintains its lead in the electrification race. Ilkhan Ozsevim
ASEAN: Chinese OEMs increase investment through EV production The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is now seeing increasing investment in electric vehicle production with Chinese OEMs leading the way. Ian Henry
Mahindra & Mahindra to pioneer ABB’s Inkjet paint technology in Indian EV market Mahindra & Mahindra partners with ABB Robotics to implement PixelPaint technology in its new EV line. The innovative system ensures precise paint application with minimal waste; a key step in automotive personalisation and efficiency for the Indian market. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Korea: the switch to EV production accelerates Korean vehicle makers invest in flexible production and add more EVs. Foreign OEMs continue to invest in production for export. Ian Henry
BeyonCa sets stage for Hong Kong’s automotive jump with new EV assembly plant Renault (and Dongfeng)-backed BeyonCa plans to transform Hong Kong’s automotive sector with its first EV brand and assembly plant in Tseung Kwan O, potentially shifting towards high-tech production post-2019 protests and COVID-19 challenges. Ilkhan Ozsevim
HORSE Powertrain welcomes Aramco as strategic investor, leveraging chemical expertise Aramco invests 10% in HORSE Powertrain Limited, a joint venture by Renault Group and Geely. This partnership will enhance the development of sustainable powertrains and synthetic fuels, driving the future of automotive decarbonisation. Ilkhan Ozsevim
The future may be all electric, but not just yet With demand for battery electric vehicles lower than expected, OEMs are boosting hybrid output and extending ICE production. Ian Henry
JLR and Chery announce strategic Freelander EV collaboration for China The two automotive giants have signed a Letter of Intent to license the Freelander brand to CJLR for the development of electric vehicles in China. This collaboration leverages Chery’s advanced EV technology and JLR’s design expertise, heralding a new phase for the CJLR joint venture and the rebirth of Freelander as an EV portfolio, poised for future global export Ilkhan Ozsevim
Europe’s tariffs on Chinese EV imports stresses importance of local production The European Commission (EC) has decided to impose additional tariffs of up to 38% on Chinese EVs following preliminary results of its anti-subsidy investigation, which found that prices are being distorted by Chinese state support. Megan Kelly
Vietnam’s VinFast weighs delaying $4 Billion US assembly plant to refocus expansion in Southeast Asia Vietnamese EV maker VinFast is considering another delay for its $4 billion US assembly plant, originally set for July 2024, as it shifts focus to Southeast Asia. Amid challenges in the US market, VinFast plans to open six dealerships in the Philippines and expand its vehicle lineup Ilkhan Ozsevim
US government sues Hyundai, suppliers in Alabama over alleged child labour The US Department of Labour is suing Hyundai and its Alabama partners for alleged child labour violations, highlighting the need for strict compliance and ethical standards across the automotive industry Ilkhan Ozsevim
Vitesco Technologies supplies electric drive system for Honda plug-in fuel cell vehicle Vitesco’s EMR3 axle drive will be integrated into the Honda CR-V e:FCEV and will be the first time this system has been used for a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle. Nick Holt
Nissan to transition to low-CO2 emission aluminium by 2030 Through sourcing and using low CO2 emission aluminium, Nissan aims to significantly reduce CO2 emissions. Nick Holt
Weak demand dims electric future Consumer resistance and trade disputes mean the future may not be so electric after all as vehicle makers express caution on zero emission vehicle targets. Ian Henry
ZF’s Arno Güllering on smart factory innovations and navigating volatility AMS’ chief content officer Christopher Ludwig spoke to Arno Güllering, senior vice president, Operations – Electrified Powertrain Technology division at ZF at the Automobil Produktion Kongress 2024 at Munich to discuss the roadmap for navigating industry challenges and embracing the digital future. AMS
Ford Otosan in Kocaeli, Turkey, demonstrates how automation is driving Ford Transit production The Ford Otosan Plant in Kocaeli, Turkey relies on automation to deal with a very complex number of powertrains and derivatives. Plant Leader, Aysan Hosver, takes us on a tour of one of the most advanced production facilities in the world. With more than 1,200 robots throughout the site, this is how complexity Mark Smyth
Watch on demand: Sustainable Steel Automotive Manufacturing Survey 2024 Webinar Discover the latest insights from a cutting-edge discussion featuring AMS and SSAB on the key challenges faced by automotive OEMs, tier suppliers and other stakeholders in transitioning to sustainable steel.
VW focuses on Chinese market boosting cost competitiveness and local partnerships VW seeks to strengthen its position in the Chinese automotive market through achieving cost reductions in production and boosting local partnerships Nick Holt
Volvo’s Taizhou plant achieves climate neutrality with biogas shift Despite the Taizhou plant’s smaller share in the company’s total emissions, this initiative is critical to Volvo’s goal of climate-neutral manufacturing by 2025 and achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040. AMS and Anushka Dixit
Reshaping the future: Innovations and developments in automotive production engineering: propulsion by Electrification and Digitalisation Manufacturing engineering both powers and underpins production ecosystems across the industry. From BMW’s Munich plant to Porsche’s Zuffenhausen facility and Toyota’s expansions in Kentucky, we take a look at transformative initiatives shaping the industry. Ilkhan Ozsevim
JLR – Putting sustainability at the centre of its strategy Sustainability is a key of JLR’s Reimagine strategy, but this goes beyond developing and manufacturing a new generation of electric vehicles. The OEM’s manufacturing sustainability transformation lead, Garrett Bell, shared some insights in how the business is reducing its carbon footprint across its operations. Nick Holt
Green Revolution: How renewable energy is fuelling sustainable automotive manufacturing Adopting renewable energy in automotive production requires a comprehensive strategy, integrating solar, wind, biogas and electric solutions to drive sustainability and mitigate environmental impact effectively. OEMs, strategies and technologies are converging on different approaches to achieve sustainability goals across regions. Here are some notweworthy projects to keep an eye on… Ilkhan Ozsevim
LEVC starts production of its new L380 MPV The prototype of LEVC’s first fully electric model based on its new Space Oriented Architecture (SOA) has rolled off the assembly line in Yiwu, China Nick Holt
Nissan considers migrating rogue production to Japan amid cost-cutting drive with decision expected to be taken this month In a bid to slash costs and boost competitiveness, Nissan contemplates moving Rogue production to Japan, demanding steep parts price cuts (20%-30%) from suppliers Ilkhan Ozsevim
Automotive production resilience and strategic progress for the UK automotive industry with latest SMMT figures showing record growth SMMT’s latest figures show UK production breaking records for total investments from both public and private sources with £23.7 Billion in commitments. Confidence grows for production innovations and a sustainable future. Ilkhan Ozsevim
How Farasis will bridge the EV battery gap in Europe The Chinese battery manufacturer’s new European general manager, Marcel Brömlage, will lead an evolving strategy in the region including increasing engineering and acquisition capabilities, and targeting automotive as well as non-automotive customers to support the growth strategy for the Siro joint venture and Farasis group. Christopher Ludwig
Antolin expands its production footprint in Asia with a new plant in India The new plant will produce lighting, HMI systems and electronics for leading automotive manufacturers in the Indian market. Nick Holt
