Powertrain
Suppliers will charge the change: opportunities in the EV value chain
While much focus is put on OEM plans to launch more electric vehicles, a great deal of the technology, value, production and services will come from both existing and emerging suppliers across the value chain. We expect many new opportunities for these companies over the next decade.
FCA–PSA fusion: first of the electric shock waves?
The merger attempt by FCA and PSA will be complicated but makes economic and operational sense, including for manufacturing efficiency. Whether or not it goes ahead, more consolidation is likely as the automotive industry gears up for electrification
A divided global electric vehicle market could limit OEM economies of scale in manufacturing
Sales of hybrid and battery electric vehicles are set for significant regional divergence, which could fragment economies of scale across automotive production, R&D and technology costs, according to a new powertrain forecast by Automotive from Ultima Media
Global trade disputes could dim electric vehicle production potential in key markets
Trade uncertainties such as those between the US and China, or the UK and the EU, could put the brakes on growth in the electric vehicle and battery supply chain for some OEMs and countries, despite bullish forecasts for alternative powertrains
FCA to build battery assembly complex
Italy - FCA will construct a battery assembly facility to support its electrification strategy
Mitsubishi Electric builds new component plant
India - Mitsubishi Electric will make power steering units, exhaust gas recirculation valves and giant magnet-resistance sensors at its new plant
Stricter EU CO2 regulations will reshape vehicle platforms and car design
As OEMs try to reduce CO2 and transition to electric vehicles in the face of the high fines, we expect a profound impact on vehicle design.
BorgWarner hits starter production milestone
South Korea - BorgWarner is celebrating a significant milestone at its starter facility in Changnyeong
Suppliers will face squeeze as OEMs push to meet EU CO2 targets
As carmakers strive to reach the more stringent CO2 emissions targets being phased in across the EU next year, we predict that many are likely to put more pressure on their supply base to help reduce emissions
Investment motors on
OEMs continue to repurpose established engine plant sites for the electric age
BMW doubles battery production capacity
US - BMW has doubled its battery production capacity at its Spartanburg plant
Gaining traction
The technologies required by the powertrain systems of electric vehicles offer new possibilities for innovation on the part of supplier companies
GM to make new engine in Tonawanda
US - The 6.2-litre V8 engine will be used in the new Chevrolet Corvette Stingray
Easing into electrification
ZF is offering both hybrid and pure electric powertrain solutions to its customers in order to encourage the auto industry’s transition to electrification. Michael Nash looks into its strategy…
Continental opens new powertrain plant in Wuhu
Continental will make a range of components for powertrains at its new facility in Wuhu, China
FCA starts building BEV production line
Italy - The highly automated line will be used to make the Fiat 500 BEV
BMW Dingolfing
BMW makes batteries and electric motors at its Dingolfing plant, as well as the 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 Series models. The company’s electrified vehicle sales increased by 40% during 2018 when compared to 2017.
Solar flair
Sven Schulz, CEO of battery systems supplier Akasol, speaks to Gareth Price about the company’s involvement with Daimler’s next generation electrified bus
Powering up
Key to the performance of an electric vehicle (EV) is its battery technology. Mike Farish looks at some of the latest developments to improve energy storage
Combined forces
For powertrain component specialists such as BorgWarner, a shift to electrification is bringing challenges and opportunities. Gareth Price reports
