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Analysis tagged 'Daimler AG'
Commercial truck business: fat lady to sing in Europe?
Michael Hinks-Edwards considers the impact of the Eurozone crisis on the world's commercial vehicle industry
Western Star expands product line with the 4700 tractor
Oliver Dixon looks at the significance of the new Western Star 4700 tractor
Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS) 2012
Oliver Dixon looks back at some of the highlights of this year's Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS).
Interview: Dieter Zetsche, Chief Executive, Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars
Dieter Zetsche tells Automotive World that smart is safe, and hints at a possible future B-segment Mercedes.
Market focus: Poland's truck and bus industry
Poland's bus and truck OEMs reported strong results for 2011, thanks to domestic demand and high export sales.
Interview: Peter Kunze, Director, Environmental Policy, ACEA
AutomotiveWorld.com talks to ACEA about how European environmental policies affect automotive manufacturing.
Port Profile: Port Elizabeth, South Africa
Infrastructure improvements have enhanced logistics efficiency at one of Africa's largest vehicle-handling ports
OEMs pair smartphones with smart cars at CES 2012
The smartphone will soon be as vital to a car as its engine, says Roger Stansfield
Interview: Juergen Schenk, Chief Engineer Electric Vehicles, Mercedes-Benz Cars Development
AutomotiveWorld.com talks to Juergen Schenk, Daimler's Chief Engineer for vehicle electrification programmes.
Brazil's automotive gold rush: heavy truck manufacturing investments
Pedro Kutney looks at the high level of investments in Brazil's commercial vehicle manufacturing industry.
Mercedes brings the cloud in-car
@yourCOMAND is a next-generation cloud-connected version of the Mercedes-Benz COMAND driver interface.
The 2011 Tokyo Motor Show
AutomotiveWorld.com's coverage of the key model launches at the 42nd Tokyo Motor Show 2011.
Commercial truck business: the next recession is coming…
As 2011 draws to a close, almost everyone thinks they can see another recession coming, says Michael Hinks-Edwards
Purchasing: the impact of rising and volatile raw material prices
Automotive suppliers and OEMs say the elevated and volatile prices for key raw materials are here to stay.
Rising imports, local assembly: Russia's burgeoning truck market
Foreign truck OEMs are investing in manufacturing plants in Russia to take advantage of the rapidly growing market.
Interview: Dieter Zetsche, chief executive, Daimler AG and head of Mercedes-Benz Cars
Daimler seeks premium segment leadership by the end of the decade, says its chief executive, Dr Dieter Zetsche.
Frankfurt IAA 2011
AutomotiveWorld.com's coverage of the 2011 Frankfurt motor show (IAA)
Interview: Konrad Zwirner, SVP International Sales & Business Development, Hoedlmayr International
Konrad Zwirner of Hoedlmayr discusses the challenges of providing FVL in an expanding European market.
Port profile: the Port of Bremerhaven
The Port of Bremerhaven, Germany is the second largest port in Europe for finished vehicle throughput.
ESC becomes mandatory, but at what cost?
Electronic stability control will soon be mandatory in almost all major automotive markets.
Shell sees co-engineering as the way to smarter mobility
Selda Gunsel, Shell VP Global Commercial Technology, talks about lubricants and alternative fuels.
Interview: Bill Kozyra, chairman, OESA and chief executive, TI Automotive
AutomotiveWorld.com talks to Bill Kozyra, chairman of the Original Equipment Suppliers Association
Manufacturing by decree: the impact of new rules on the Russian automotive industry
Russia's rewritten Decree 166 is set to shake up the Russian automotive industry.
Setting the standard - German OEMs agree on key electronics issues
German OEMs unite on new electronics standards: a 48V grid, a common EV plug, and a CAN partial network
The potential for renewable fuels in diesel engine applications
Pedro Kutney looks at the opportunities for renewable fuels in diesel engine applications.
Commercial truck business: impressive recovery stories…
Michael Hinks-Edwards examines the latest developments in the global commercial vehicle industry
The changing dynamics of India's commercial vehicle industry
Global truck giants like Daimler, Volvo, MAN, Navistar and Nissan have their eyes set on India.
Bosch invests heavily in new technologies
Jesse Crosse looks at some of the key areas of development at Robert Bosch
Diesel hybrids have finally arrived
Diesel-electric hybrids may now be about to be become established in the market.
China's New Energy Vehicle strategy creates new challenges for suppliers
China's Energy-Saving and New Energy Vehicle Development Plan for 2011-2020 has suppliers worried, says Bill Diem.
From F1 to i3: the mass-market potential for carbon fibre
Once exclusive to F1, carbon fibre is set to play a significant role in mainstream vehicle manufacturing.
The Port of Baltimore - a major hub for finished vehicle logistics
The Port of Baltimore provides efficient import and export services for finished vehicle logistics.
Alleviating range anxiety with hydrogen range-extending technology
Fuel-cell range-extending technology could reduce range anxiety without the need for petrol back-up.
Interview: Sandeep Kar, Global Program Manager, Commercial Vehicle Research, Frost & Sullivan
Sandeep Kar manages Frost & Sullivan's global commercial vehicle research programme.
Energy - Renault's new generation of downsized engines
Renault's dCi 130 (R9M) engine is the first of a new "Energy" range of downsized engines.
Interview: Baris Melek Dogan, Manager, Supply Chain, Avon Automotive, Turkey
AutomotiveWorld.com talks to Baris Melek Dogan, Supply Chain Manager at Avon Otomotiv's Bursa plant.
Mercedes-Benz truck power enters a new era
Alan Bunting outlines the importance of the new Mercedes-Benz OM471 heavy-duty diesel engine.
The logistics challenge for Mercedes-Benz USA: balancing cost control and high quality standards
Mercedes-Benz USA is optimising vehicle distribution and preparing for transport capacity shortages
Interview: Dieter Zetsche, Chief Executive, Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars
AutomotiveWorld.com attends a round-table interview with Dieter Zetsche, Daimler CEO, Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars.
Commercial truck business: chart of the decade and other charts
Michael Hinks-Edwards takes his regular look at the performance of the global truck OEMs and their main suppliers
The quiet advance of the hydrogen fuel cell EV
With battery EVs currently capturing headlines, Jesse Crosse considers the resurgence of the hydrogen fuel cell EV.
Interview: Saurabh Mohan Saxena, Gen Mgr Sales Marketing & Business Dev’t, ZF Hero Chassis Systems
AutomotiveWorld.com interviews Saurabh Mohan Saxena about ZF Hero
Mercedes-Benz invests in advanced vehicle technologies
Jesse Crosse examines some of the advanced vehicle technologies being developed by Mercedes-Benz
2011 major vehicle launches by region
Glenn Brooks examines the key major vehicle launches for 2011 by region.
S-in motion: ArcelorMittal's new way of marketing steel
AutomotiveWorld.com examines S-in motion, ArcelorMittal's new marketing strategy for automotive steel
Interview: Jean-Martin van der Hoeven, Chief Marketing Officer, Automotive Europe, ArcelorMittal
AutomotiveWorld.com talks to JM van der Hoeven, Chief Marketing Officer, Automotive Europe, ArcelorMittal
Daimler future model plans: forecasts to 2025
AutomotiveWorld.com analyzes the future model plans of Mercedes-Benz, smart and Maybach passenger car brands
Flybrid Systems brings F1 technology to mainstream cars and vans
Flybrid Systems is developing a new low-cost, low-power mechanical KERS for B/C-segment cars and LCVs
EV Charging Infrastructure conference highlights wide-reaching technical and regulatory challenges
AutomotiveWorld.com reviews the recent EV Charging Infrastructure and Grid Integration 2010 conference
The outlook is positive for dedicated electric vehicle platforms
EVs built on dedicated platforms should quickly account for a significant proportion of EV sales
Commercial truck business: the recovery storyline
Michael Hinks-Edwards takes his regular look at the performance of the global truck OEMs and their main suppliers
Interview: Cameron Watson, Global Technology Manager - OEMs & Direct Sectors, Shell
Shell discusses the synergies it brings to its technical partnerships and its new methane plant in Qatar.
Interview: Tony Harberman, Rest of Europe sales director, HARMAN
HARMAN discusses the company’s HALOSonic Active Noise Management Solutions
Interview: Ian Mathews, Head of Product Planning & Marketing Programmes, Kia (UK)
AutomotiveWorld.com talks to Ian Mathews, Head of Product Planning & Marketing Programmes, Kia (UK)
Auto importers shine in the land of the rising yen
Japan's automotive import sector has shown some impressive degrees of expansion recently after years of decline
Interview: David Paja, VP, Global Marketing and Craig Balis, VP, Engineering, Honeywell Turbo
AutomotiveWorld.com talks to David Paja and Craig Balis of Honeywell Turbo Technology
US fuel efficiency rules signal farewell to 'cowboy trucks'
Flat-fronted, long-bonneted heavy trucks look set to be outlawed by US fuel-efficiency/CO2-emission standards
Interview: Marti Eulberg, VP global sales & marketing, Vic Doolan, director/board member, Fisker
AutomotiveWorld.com speaks to Marti Eulberg, VP global sales & marketing, & Vic Doolan, board member, Fisker
Financing the new era of e-mobility: the OEMs
How are the world's OEMs going to finance the push into electric vehicles?
Interview: Rodrigo Meirelles, Director, Global Product Planning, Commercial Vehicles, Eaton
AutomotiveWorld.com speaks to Rodrigo Meirelles, Director, Global Product Planning, Commercial Vehicles, Eaton
Interview: Rainer Jueckstock, Senior Vice President, Powertrain Energy, Federal-Mogul
AutomotiveWorld.com talks to Rainer Jueckstock, Federal-Mogul's SVP for Powertrain Energy
Interview: Matt Roney, Vice-President for Product Planning, TRW
TRW's Vice-President for Product Planning, Matt Roney, discusses brand philosophy and TRW's global market activity
Autolib: the help-yourself electric vehicle hire model
The Autolib project in France looks set set to give at least one OEM a headstart in the competitive EV industry
Tomorrow's truck & bus diesels
AutomotiveWorld.com reports from the 2010 Heavy Duty Diesel Emissions Symposium in Gothenburg, Sweden
Auto logistics in Russia: gearing up for the rebound
Russia's automotive logistics managers are gearing up for a rebound in demand for new vehicles and aftermarket parts
UK market fragmentation: recession proof?
Market recession has not blunted the tendency for increased fragmentation in the UK new passenger car market
Aston Martin future model plans: forecasts to 2024
AutomotiveWorld.com analyses the future model plans of luxury car manufacturer Aston Martin
Interview: Kobus Meiring, CEO, Optimal Energy
AutomotiveWorld.com talks to Kobus Meiring, CEO of South African EV start-up Optimal Energy
US 2011 model year preview
AutomotiveWorld.com offers a preview of what each of the major brands has in store in the US
Commercial truck business: just when you thought it was safe…
Michael Hinks-Edwards takes his regular look at the performance of the global truck OEMs and their main suppliers
PSA Peugeot Citroen's stop-start diesel future
Valeo's i-Stars stop-start technology looks set to play a major part in PSA's Emissions reduction strategy
Forecasting the market for electric vehicles
Given all the variables in play, forecasting the future market for EVs is proving extremely difficult
2010 International Transport Forum: EVs dominate discussion
Not surprisingly, electric vehicles were a central theme at the recent International Transport Forum
Interview: Detlef Schmidt, Marketing Leader - Driveline Controls, WABCO
Webinar panelist expands on the development of transmission trends in the global commercial vehicles industry
Interview: Frank Kalff, Commercial Director, Cruden BV
Cruden believes simulators can play a bigger role in auto component development processes
Electric vehicle charging standards: Europe's role
Europe's OEMs have reached an agreement that could be critical in the establishment of common EV recharging standards
Diesel turbocompounding: the story so far
Is diesel turbocompounding on the verge of a comeback?
Electric vehicles unplugged: the industry gets serious
Electric vehicle business models dominated discussion at a recent Frost & Sullivan conference in London
Interview: Larry Love, Executive Director, International Marketing, Allison Transmission
AutomotiveWorld.com talks to Larry Love Executive Director, International Marketing, Allison Transmission
Interview: Neil Heslington, Managing Director; Neil Cheeseman, Eng. Prog. Manager, Zytek Automotive
AutomotiveWorld.com talks to Neil Heslington and Neil Cheeseman of EV technology specialist Zytek Automotive
The truck sector's steady shift to AMTs
The automated manual transmission is making steady inroads into truck markets, especially in classes 5 to 7
Interview: Bert Suffis, Development & Application Sales Manager, JSP
AutomotiveWorld.com talks to JSP about the use of new materials in crash protection areas
Variable injector nozzles - the next big diesel advance?
Direct-acting piezos look set to open the way for more sophisticated fuel system control
An update on the hydrogen fuel cell car
OEMs have not lost their faith in the fuel cell vehicle, despite the current obsession with EVs
Commercial truck business: the end of the Roubini recession
Michael Hinks-Edwards takes his regular look at the performance of the global truck OEMs and their main suppliers
SupplierWatch: Autoliv leads consolidation acquisitions
The consolidation of the automotive supply base continues to gather pace, with Autoliv leading the way
Monitoring driver inattention, distraction and drowsiness
Mike Murphy investigates the work being done by OEMs to combat driver inattention, distraction and drowsiness
Daimler & Renault-Nissan: perfect partners?
Is this the first step on the path to ever closer relations between Renault, Nissan and Daimler?
Navistar's quest for self-sufficiency
The introduction of the MaxxForce 15 diesel this year is the latest step in Navistar's vertical integration strategy
A 'Hydrogen Highway' for the UK
Wales looks set to become a major hub for the development of alternative fuel technologies
Commercial truck business: the suppliers
Michael Hinks-Edwards takes his regular look at the performance of the global truck OEMs and their main suppliers
Volkswagen leads the gasoline fightback
The superior efficiency of diesel power is likely, in the coming decade, to face its biggest-yet gasoline challenge
Commercial truck business: the year of muted recovery?
Michael Hinks-Edwards takes his regular look at the performance of the global truck OEMs and their main suppliers
The push for harmonized truck and bus CO2 standards
An increasing number of truck and bus OEMs are getting behind the idea of common emissions standards
Electric vehicle charging: setting the standard
Time is running out for the global auto industry to decide on common EV plug and socket standards
Volvo's each-way bet on NG-diesel bi-fuelling
Volvo looks set to offer a choice of bi-fuel systems thanks to recent agreements with Westport and Clear Air Power
Navistar's revised fuel systems strategy
Navistar looks set to bring fuel systems back in-house
Chain reaction: monitoring and supporting auto suppliers
In the current economic climate, the effective monitoring and support of auto suppliers by OEMs is essential
Foreign OEM R&D investment in key emerging markets: China
Foreign OEM investment in automotive R&D is finally on the rise in China.
Commercial truck business: the Roubini recession - interval
Michael Hinks-Edwards takes his regular look at the performance of the global truck OEMs and their main suppliers
Chrysler Group LLC: new logo, new strategy
Chrysler Group has announced a new five-year plan which it hopes will see it repay government loans by 2014
Foreign OEM R&D investment in key emerging markets: India
Global OEMs are increasing their R&D investment in emerging markets as those markets' potential becomes clear.
Germany: racing towards a hydrogen future
German officials recently signed a deal that could see hydrogen-powered vehicles compete aggressively with EVs
Hybrid trucks: will niche market become mass market?
Hybrid CVs have been somewhat slow to establish a market niche but they are now available in all weight classes
SupplierWatch: Chapter 11 progress report
AutomotiveWorld.com outlines the prospects for the major US auto supplier Chapter 11 cases
In profile: India's auto industry
AutomotiveWorld.com profiles India's rapidly growing auto industry
SupplierWatch: Visteon's Chapter 11 progress
AutomotiveWorld reviews Visteon's Chapter 11 activity
Interview: José Maria Alapont, President & CEO, Federal-Mogul
AutomotiveWorld.com talks to José Maria Alapont, President & CEO, Federal-Mogul
New generation auto suppliers: A123 Systems
In the latest series of features covering up and coming suppliers, AutomotiveWorld.com profiles A123Systems
Interview: Günther Apfalter, President & Johann Ecker, VP Sales & Marketing, Magna Steyr
Automotiveworld.com talks to Günther Apfalter, President, and Johann Ecker, VP Sales & Marketing, Magna Steyr
How the US government is allotting its green auto loans
How the US government is allotting its green auto loans
Commercial electric vehicles: the comeback gathers pace
Commercial EVs are making a comeback more than 120 years after first being launched onto the world's roads.
European light vehicle production by plant and model with implied capacity utilization 2008
Europe's worsening overcapacity problem reached almost 4.74 million units in 2008.
In profile: China's auto industry
AutomotiveWorld.com profiles China's auto industry
The Fuso Canter: More significance than meets the eye?
How significant is the latest incarnation of the Fuso Canter? ‘Highly’ seems a fair estimate.
New generation auto suppliers: Enova Systems, Inc
Enova Systems is well positioned to benefit from rapid growth in the alternative energy market.
NAFTA light vehicle production by plant and model with implied capacity utilization 2008
BMW tops AutomotiveWorld.com's study of NAFTA light vehicle production and capacity utilization in 2008.
Country profile: Russian Federation
Socio-political data
The New Chrysler – a first look
AutomotiveWorld.com takes a first look at the new Chrysler Group LLC and its relationship with the Fiat Group.
New generation auto suppliers: Quantum Technologies
Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide represents one of the new generation of auto suppliers.
Country profile: Brazil
Brazil’s automotive sector appears to have weathered the global economic storms better than most.
Heavy truck NOx emissions: dramatic cuts underway
Major cuts in heavy-duty vehicle diesel emissions are ongoing as legislation bites in key regions.
US: Heavy truck sector still debates SCR versus EGR
The SCR versus EGR argument may be exhausted in Europe, but it still rumbles on in North America.
Commercial truck business: the Roubini recession, act two
Act two of the Roubini recession in the truck sector is closely following the plot of act one.
Electric vehicle recharging infrastructure poised for growth
New projects to establish the extensive private- and public-access recharging infrastructure that a massive shift to electric propulsion will require are being announced with increasing frequency.
Sustainable transport in a global economy
The recent World Truck and Bus Forum focussed on 'Sustainable Transport in a Global Economy'
Consolidation…for a low-carbon age
Huge financial pressures, dwindling vehicle sales and the challenges presented by the low-carbon age are driving renewed interest in the potential shape of industry consolidation.
Europe's new CO2 regulations: what happens next?
The EU's processes have finally delivered a binding regulatory regime for CO2 emissions from cars. Light commercial vehicles and trucks are likely to follow in due course.
Commercial truck business: the Rubini recession, act one
Commercial truck business: the Rubini recession, act one
Third quarter results raise concerns for the short-term future of the global truck industry
The third quarter reporting season has passed, leaving a palpable sense of uncertainty etched upon the collective consciousness of the global truck industry.
Truck manufacturing industry bets on BRIC markets
BRIC markets have become a key focus within the truck industry
Turning towards battery-powered vehicles
The recent Paris auto show was notable for the range of electric vehicles on display, highlighting the scale of research and development now underway.
Weighing the Euro 6 fuel penalty arguments
Debate continues as to what extent Euro 6 standards might adversely impact fuel consumption, with optimists claiming no more than a 3% thirst penalty.
The demise of Sterling Trucks: the start of structural change in the North American truck sector?
While justified as a decisive response to a changed economic environment, Daimler's discontinuation of the Sterling Trucks brand could have wider implications.
Are fuel cell vehicles ever really going to be viable? (Part 1)
Part one examines the high costs of producing and operating a FCV, along with current limitations imposed by an inadequate refuelling infrastructure. Part two will examine the potential CO2 savings that FCVs might offer.
Common-rail fuel systems to become the norm at Euro 6
Common-rail fuel systems to become the norm at Euro 6
EU CO2 legislation one step closer
EU CO2 legislation one step closer
The European heavy truck market: recession and restructuring begin to loom
The last five years have been good ones for anyone involved in the European heavy truck industry, but storm clouds are gathering.
The US ethanol boom – and bust?
The recent boom in US ethanol production and consumption may hold the seeds of an ethanol bust, since the once-sacrosanct biofuel is facing intense criticism.
Is the automotive industry ready for eco-austerity?
What is unique about the current situation and of huge concern to the automotive industry, is the potentially devastating combination of environmentalism with economic stringency.
NAFTA region light vehicle production by plant and model with implied capacity utilization, 2007
Study into light vehicle production and capacity utilization in the NAFTA region.
European light vehicle production by plant and model with implied capacity utilization, 2007
Capacity utilization study reveals an unsolved overcapacity level of 3.58 million units.
Lithium-Ion Batteries – Who’s Doing What with Who?
The battery technology increasingly favoured for hybrids and electric vehicles is that of lithium-ion (Li-Ion).
Country profile: Vietnam
AutomotiveWorld.com profiles Vietnam
Powertrain strategy: Cummins
AutomotiveWorld.com profiles Cummins' commercial vehicle powertrain strategy from 1919 to the present day and beyond
The US heavy truck market: on the verge of structural change?
Pessimism regarding short-term demand trends in the US heavy truck market appears to be growing, although a cyclical recovery in 2009 is widely expected. But it is the possible changing structure of the market that could have more profound implications in
Commercial truck business: what's happening in America?
Michael Hinks-Edwards takes his regular look at the performance of the global truck OEMs and their main suppliers
EPA 10 and the 'EGR versus SCR' debate
Although Selective Catalytic Reduction will provide a route to EPA 10 compliance, Exhaust gas recirculation looks set to be the emissions reduction technique of choice in the US
Daimler Trucks: nobody casts CGI better
Daimler's trucks division has claimed that its foundry in Mannheim, Germany, is more efficient at casting compacted graphite iron products than any other facility in the world
Commercial truck business: still on a roll?
Michael Hinks-Edwards takes his regular look at the performance of the global truck OEMs and their main suppliers
Interview: Bernhard Heil, vice-president of Daimler Trucks' powertrain division
In a follow-up to AutomotiveWorld.com's description of Daimler's new HDEP heavy-duty diesel family, recently launched in 14.8-litre form in the US as the Detroit Diesel DD15, Alan Bunting talks to Bernhard Heil, vice-president of Daimler Trucks powertrain
Tokyo Motor Show 2007: the commercial vehicles perspective
It was strategy rather than product that defined this year's Tokyo Motor Show, which was held recently in Chiba city, Japan
Daimler's truly global heavy-duty diesel family
More details have emerged regarding Daimler's all-new HDEP heavy-duty engine family, which according to the OEM will feature 90% globally-shared components
Turbocompound surprise on DaimlerChrysler's new big diesel
DaimlerChrysler has surprised the industry by adopting the turbocompounding principle for the North American version of its forthcoming HDEP (heavy-duty engine platform) in-line-six diesel
Powertrain strategy: DaimlerChrysler (Truck Group)
In the latest installment in a regular series focusing on the powertrain strategies of the world's major truck manufacturers, Alan Bunting outlines DaimlerChrysler's engine strategy from the 1890s to present day and beyond
Japanese OEM sales (May 2007) and production results (April 2007)
Andrew Mollet takes his regular look at the sales and production results of Japan's OEMs
Commercial truck business: updates on the downturns
Michael Hinks-Edwards takes his regular look at the performance of the global truck OEMs and their main suppliers
Japanese OEM sales (April 2007) and production results (Fiscal 2006/7)
Andrew Mollet takes his regular look at the sales and production results of Japan's OEMs
Japanese OEM sales (Fiscal 2006/7) and production results (February 2007)
Andrew Mollet takes his regular look at the sales and production results of Japan's OEMs
Japanese OEM sales (February 2007) and production results (January 2007)
Andrew Mollet takes his regular look at the sales and production results of Japan's OEMs
Magna eyes developments at Chrysler, but actions may prove modest
It cannot be denied that Magna International has a significant vested interest in the future of Chrysler, but is DaimlerChrysler's US arm a truly viable acquisition target for the Canadian supplier? Colin Whitbread reports
Commercial truck business: the Samuelsson effect
Michael Hinks-Edwards takes his regular look at the performance of the global truck OEMs
Japanese OEM sales (CY 2006) and production results (November 2006)
Andrew Mollet takes his regular look at the sales and production results of Japan's OEMs
Interview: Hubertus Troska, Head of the Mercedes-Benz Trucks Business Unit, DaimlerChrysler
As the truck industry nears its widely predicted downturn Oliver Dixon talks to the man in charge of Mercedes' commercial vehicles unit about the company's prospects for the future
Japanese OEM sales (November) and production results (October)
Andrew Mollet takes his regular look at the sales and production results of Japan's OEMs
Patriotism: the last resort?
Could patriotism be the key to reviving the light truck sales of the Big Three? Dr Paul Nieuwenhuis reports
Japanese OEM sales (August) and production results (July)
Andrew Mollet takes his regular look at the sales and production results of Japan's OEMs
VM Motori to adopt CGI for new diesel
In yet another global exclusive for Automotive World John Mortimer provides details of a new high performance diesel engine that VM Motori is planning to launch in 2008/9
Anticipating the challenges of Euro 6 (Part 1)
Alan Bunting reports from an Integer Research conference focussed on longer-term global truck and bus emission control technologies
Commercial truck business: pre-buying on both sides of the Atlantic
Michael Hinks-Edwards takes his regular look at the development of the global truck markets
DaimlerChrysler's noble experiment
The difficult birth of DaimlerChrysler's new supplier-operated plant in Toledo, Ohio has once again brought into the spotlight the question of how close the supplier/OEM partnership should progress. Colin Whitbread reports
Interview: Dr Gerald Weber, Head of Truck Product Creation, DaimlerChrysler
Dr Gerald Weber, DaimlerChrysler's Head of Truck Product Creation talks to Oliver Dixon about the company's emissions control strategy
Commercial truck business: beating the cycle
Michael Hinks-Edwards takes his regular look at the performance of the major truck OEMs in Europe and the US
Globalisation grips the Mid-America Trucking Show
Oliver Dixon reports from this year's Mid-America Trucking Show, which took place recently at the Louisville Fairground in Kentucky
Piezo common-rail sets Volkswagen's Crafter van apart
The recent update of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and its Volkswagen sibling has seen the two rival ranges growing even closer in engineering terms. However, there are some key differences. Alan Bunting reports
Japan's Big Three eye bigger slice of US market
Japan's Big Three plan to heap yet more pressure on their US rivals in 2006 with the launch of around 20 new or redesigned models. Andrew Mollet reports
Mercedes-Benz Axor: a new product in a difficult market
With its new Axor range Mercedes-Benz may well have – at last – a contender for the eight-wheeler crown. Oliver Dixon reports
Commercial truck business: supplier sales and profits
Michael Hinks-Edwards takes his regular look at the performance of the global truck OEMs and their main suppliers
Looming CO2 controls edge hybrid power into buses and vans
Faced with increasingly challenging emission standards global commercial vehicle manufacturers are turning to hybrid technology. Alan Bunting reports
Global analysis of the HCV industry
The recent cycle of mergers and acquisitions in the HCV industry seems to have been replaced by a major upswing in activity in the emerging markets. Oliver Dixon reports
Commercial truck business – OEM sales and profits: what’s next?
Michael Hinks-Edwards takes his regular look at the performance of the global truck OEMs
Powertrain developments at the Tokyo motor show
Powertrains in concept cars at the 39th Tokyo motor show indicate that automotive research departments are rapidly improving fuel cells and lithium ion batteries. William Diem reports
Commercial truck business: the view from financial markets
Michael Hinks-Edwards takes his regular look at the performance of the global truck OEMs and their main suppliers
Carrots replace sticks in DaimlerChrysler's new approach to suppliers
DaimlerChrysler is transforming the way it negotiates with suppliers. Alan Bunting reports
Carrots replace sticks in DaimlerChrysler's new approach to suppliers
DaimlerChrysler is transforming the way it negotiates with suppliers. Alan Bunting reports
Commercial truck business: sales and profits update
Michael Hinks-Edwards takes his regular look at the performance of the global truck OEMs and their main suppliers
Commercial truck business: markets update
Michael Hinks-Edwards takes his regular look at the development of the global truck markets
Japan and the US: a trade war waiting to happen?
Japanese vehicle manufacturers are enjoying fruitful times in North America at the moment, while the domestic Big Three continue to suffer. Friction between the two camps is inevitable, but is it manageable? Andrew Mollet reports
German MAUT scheme builds Euro 4/5 momentum
Alan Bunting reports from the ‘Euro 4 & 5: Strategies for Buyers and Suppliers’ conference, which took place recently in Brussels
The 2005 Mid-America truck show
Oliver Dixon provides all the news from the Mid-America Trucking Show, which took place recently at the Kentucky Fair and Exposition Center in Louisville, Kentucky
Is bigger always better?
Is the era of economies of scale over in the automotive industry?
Commercial truck business: let the good times roll
Michael Hinks-Edwards takes his regular look at the development of the global truck markets
Volkswagen Nutzfahrzeuge: turning up the heat in Brazil
The battle between Volkswagen and Mercedes-Benz for the top spot in Brazil's commercial vehicle market is about to get very interesting. Rogerio Louro reports
Commercial truck business: more good news?
Financial and operating reports for the world's major truck manufacturers and their major suppliers in 2004 show across-the-board improvements, albeit with the odd case of "margin squeeze". AWKnowledge reports
Commercial truck business: vehicle manufacturer and supplier performance
Has the global truck industry reached the peak of the current business cycle?
Mercedes-Benz to achieve weak earnings in 2005
DaimlerChrysler isn't expecting much in the way of earnings from its Mercedes-Benz Car Group this year. Abhrajit Gangopadhyay reports
Good times in Japan
Most of Japan's vehicle manufacturers posted excellent financial results for the first half of the current fiscal year and, according to Abhrajit Gangopadhyay, the trend looks set to continue
Vertical integration edges closer in US heavy truck business
The US and Canada are moving towards European-style vertical integration in a sector where simple assembly of bought-in powertrain components has traditionally been the norm. Alan Bunting reports
Colouring the automotive industry: Part 1: Who takes the investment risk?
William Diem talks to Dennis Kovalsky of PPG about automotive paint suppliers and their relationships with automotive manufacturers around the world.
Getting the balance right - expatriate and local managers at transplants
The mix of expatriate and local managers in transplanted factories is a tricky issue for global automotive companies.
Labour flexibility: Deconstructing the automotive industry’s favourite buzzword: Part 2
Peter O’Brien and Toby Procter look at the economic issues encapsulated in the biggest current issue in automotive (and other) production strategy.
Labour flexibility: Deconstructing the automotive industry’s favourite buzzword: Part 1
Peter O’Brien and Toby Procter look at the economic issues encapsulated in the biggest current issue in automotive (and other) production strategy.
Rival truck deNOx strategies: Part 1: The case for and against SCR
Are the requirements of Euro IV and V truck and bus emissions legislation best met using SCR (selective catalytic reduction) downstream after-treatment, or EGR (cooled exhaust gas recirculation) inside the engine? Part 1 of Alan Bunting's report on a rece
Seeing Green in a new light
Toyota did it, now PSA have done it. Paul Nieuwenhuis asks - who will be next to use environmental regulations for competitive advantage?
Cylinder deactivation is back on the block
After a false start in 1981, cylinder deactivation technology got serious in 1999 – Michael Murphy reviews its progress and prospects.
Cylinder deactivation is back on the block
After a false start in 1981, cylinder deactivation technology was successfully re-introduced in 1999 – and looks as though it is here to stay.
Facing up to rising C02 pressure
As the CO2 emissions pressure mounts, Toby Procter asks if the automotive industry should draw up clearer battle lines to meet a globalised legislative challenge.
What went wrong at Mitsubishi Motors
Once Japan’s third-largest automotive manufacturer, and maker of the Pajero, one of the most popular SUVs to ever hit the market, Mitsubishi Motors is now fighting to survive after massive recalls and the arrest of former executives over two fatal truck a
Heavy truck markets – the longer-term view
Major changes in the landscape of the world commercial truck industry are rare, but this decade has already seen at least two, possibly three. Michael Hinks-Edwards examines some of the issues.
Truck business data – OEMs
Michael Hinks-Edwards takes a look at how the major truck manufacturers are faring.
The end of the affair
Dr Peter Wells has a look at legacy management in the automotive industry, with a review of past assumptions and a discussion of the lessons to be drawn from recent history.
Assessing the impact of automotive M&A activity (Part 2)
DaimlerChrysler’s misadventures with its allies prompt Toby Procter to review the costs and penalties of mergers, acquisitions and alliances in the pursuit of advantage in global automotive consolidation.
Eco-concepts: what is the purpose of ecological concept cars?
Are ecological concept cars like the token vegetarian option in a German restaurant? Or something more profound? Peter Wells investigates.
Going low for CO2
As various CO2 emission deadlines approach, Paul Nieuwenhuis argues that regulators, and consumers, may need to reconsider what they define as a ‘car’.
The DaimlerChrysler and Mitsubishi saga is still unfinished
Mitsubishi Motors’ difficulties look likely to continue for some time yet as the company looks for ways to recover without DaimlerChrysler’s help. Andrew Mollet reviews the situation.
The changing route map for telematics
Six years from the launch of GM’s OnStar, things have gone very quiet on the telematics front - Toby Procter delves behind the lack of recent headlines to see who, if anyone, will profit.
Lean product creation – an Atkins diet for the obese vehicle manufacturer
Alan Martin comments on the debates about 'lean product creation' at the 2004 SAE conventions and the progress it has made over the past decade
Innovation drives opportunities for automotive suppliers
Despite bleak earnings reports, not all news is bad when it comes to automotive suppliers, especially in the field of technical innovation.
New DaimlerChrysler MPVs feature Stow 'n Go seating world first
DaimlerChrysler has launched the first ever MPVs to offer Stow 'n Go seats in both the second and third rows. Mark Wilkinson reports
Vital statistics – Information is power
The seventh edition of The World's Truck Manufacturers (AWKnowledge) provides some serious food for thought for industry observers says Brian Weatherley.
Venezuela: Mile-high trolleybus makes the grade
Partly funded by a Spanish aid programme the EvoBus network extends over a spectacular difference in altitude between two route terminals located at 800m and 1,800m respectively, to provide a transportation solution for the city.
The Covisint story (Part 1)
John Luscombe’s two-part article on Covisint was written after the December 2003 announcement that its auction service assets were to be sold to FreeMarkets, news which surprised many in the automotive sector. The sale of Covisint to Compuware is covered
The Covisint story (Part 2)
In the second part of John Luscombe's in-depth look at Covisint, the dot.com dream turns into a nightmare, as online B2B proves to be a very different ball game from B2C.
A Smart car to save DaimlerChrysler Brazilian plant
DaimlerChrysler desperately needs a high volume vehicle to justify its investment in Brazil. Could the new Smart SUV be its saviour?
Mitsubishi – between a rock and a hard place
In the light of recent dealings with DaimlerChrysler, Andrew Mollet reviews the prospects for Mitsubishi Motors
Active safety through ICT
An interview with DaimlerChrysler's Prof Wolfgang Merker, head of DC's Information and Communication Research unit (RIC), about the use of ICT research to improve safety and other automotive control systems.
DaimlerChrysler opts for StarragHeckert technology
By introducing new machine tools, DaimlerChrysler has adopted single cycle production methods that enhance quality and productivity.
Mercedes’ new Vito beats rear-drive floor height bogey
Alan Bunting investigates Mercedes’ new-generation Vito
DaimlerChrysler’s global bus and coach business reinforces its position as market leader
The DaimlerChrysler Buses and Coaches business unit has reinforced its position as global market leader. Wolfgang Diez, Head of the Bus and Coach business unit discusses results and prospects.
A conversation with Alex Bernasconi – Freightliner’s VP Sales
Alex Bernasconi, vice president of sales at Freightliner Trucks talks with Alistair Hill about the current State of the business in the United States.
Flagship JCI facility dedicated to Chrysler Jeep plant in Toledo, Ohio
Johnson Controls Inc (JCI) has established a production facility dedicated to the Chrysler assembly plant in Toledo, Ohio. Vanessa Schofield of AutoAnalysis reports
February US light vehicle sales down at the tubes
US light vehicle sales dropped seven percent in February under the combined weight of bad weather, economic jitters brought on the tensions over war in the Middle East, and rising oil prices
A bit of light in Dearborn perks up a gray fiscal picture in Detroit in January
Aggressive incentives in January bolstered sales of new cars, vans and trucks in the US to an annualised rate of 16.2m vehicles
Despite stagnant sales, Mercedes-Benz retains position as world’s number one premium manufacturer
The newly reorganised Mercedes Car Group saw its total passenger car sales rise by around 0.2 percent in 2002, against a world market decline of almost three percent
BMW Z4 sticks to six while Ballard Sprints to the finish
Jesse Crosse reports on two completely opposite powerplants that have been shown in the last month– a pair of straight-six engines and yet another fuel cell configuration from DaimlerChrysler
Smartville adapts for the new Roadster
Production of Smart’s new Roadster begins at Hambach early next year. Rudi Hammerschmidt, vice president production, procurement and supply tells Anna Kochan of the investments that are being made.
The shake-up in the Japanese component supplier industry
Global sourcing and component cost cutting are having a profound effect on the way that Japanese suppliers are working; the Keiretsu gentleman's agreement is no longer the advantage that it used to be
Hella – not just a producer of world-class lighting
Hella took a group of British journalists to its headquarters in Lippstadt, Northern Germany, in March to talk about its new technologies and company strategy. Mark Wilkinson reports
Japanese suppliers face strategy re-think to meet global sourcing demands
The changing nature of the automotive industry is having a profound effect on the Japanese component supply industry: traditional keiretsu relationships are no longer to be relied upon and suppliers are being urged to move overseas to cut costs
ZF NA expands production capacity for 2004 M-class and wins new Ford axle business
ZF began by supplying fully-assembled chassis modules in North America to BMW and DaimlerChrysler transplants: it is now adding Ford US to its list of customers
2002 Los Angeles Auto Show and North American International Auto Show
The decision to hold the 2002 Los Angeles Auto Show a few days before the North American International Auto Show in Detroit was a curious one. Understandably, almost all of the major vehicle manufacturers chose to wait until the Detroit show before unveil
Commercial vehicle manufacturers’ financial results
The latest financial results from the world’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturers, July focuses on the Japanese manufacturers
US heavy diesel makers “make the best” of EGR
Alan Bunting reports on some of the latest attempts by heavy vehicle makers in the US to address emissions
Dismay at looming US truck deadline
There are reports of mounting concern among heavy-duty diesel engine and chassis makers at the immense technological problems still having to be overcome for the “EPA 02” emissions law deadline of 1 October. Alan Bunting reports
DaimlerChrysler backs sustainable future
Dr Hans-Joachim Schöpf, board member responsible for passenger car development at DaimlerChrysler, explained at the DaimlerChrysler symposium in June how he sees passenger cars and their fuels evolving over the next 30 years.
General Motors overtakes Ford in US productivity study
General Motors has finished above Ford in the assembly and overall hours per vehicle measures for the first time in the fourteen-year history of the Harbour report, but still has some way to go before catching the top three Japanese manufacturers
Future engine strategies at DaimlerChrysler
When the marriage took place between Daimler-Benz and Chrysler, priorities driving engine development on either side of the Atlantic were very different. But now the two sides are faced with similar challenges. Jesse Crosse reports on future engine strate
When is 500hp not enough? How about now?
Vehicle manufacturers are constantly trying to outdo each other with the fastest, most powerful, most exclusive vehicle on the road. The horsepower race is beginning to broach the 500hp watershed, resulting in some extremely powerful machines.
