Auto OEM Tracker | Automotive World

OEM Tracker

If you have any questions about this service please contact us +44 29 2070 9302

Analysis tagged 'Ford Motor Company'

Ford's integrated B-pillar debuts in the new B-Max

Ford’s Easy Access Door System incorporates B-pillars into the B-Max's hinged front and sliding rear doors.

Plant profile: AutoAlliance International, Flat Rock, Michigan, US

Automotive World visits AAI's Flat Rock, MI plant which will soon build the new Ford Fusion alongside the Mustang.

Interview: Tim Young, President, Chief Executive, Plant Manager, AutoAlliance International

Automotive World talks to AAI's Tim Young about production of the Ford Mustang and the all-new Ford Fusion.

Video interview: Mike Tinskey, Director, Global Vehicle Electrification and Infrastructure, Ford

Video interview with Mike Tinskey, head of Global Vehicle Electrification and Infrastructure at Ford Motor Company

The GM-PSA alliance

PSA's Philippe Varin outlined the basics of the PSA-GM alliance in a media briefing at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show.

Video interview: Steve Kenner, Global Director, Automotive Safety Office, Ford Motor Company

Automotive World talks to Steve Kenner, Ford's global head of automotive safety

The US feels the pure power of CGI

High-volume output of heavy-duty CGI engine castings is crucial for CGI's development in the US, says John Mortimer

Interview: Peter Kunze, Director, Environmental Policy, ACEA

AutomotiveWorld.com talks to ACEA about how European environmental policies affect automotive manufacturing.

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: Alan Mulally, President and Chief Executive, Ford Motor Company

AutomotiveWorld.com interview with Ford President and CEO Alan Mulally at the 2012 New Delhi Auto Expo

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.

Brazil's automotive gold rush: light vehicle manufacturing investments

Over the next five years, OEM investments in light vehicle manufacturing facilities in Brazil should exceed US$23bn.

OEMs in hot pursuit of police contracts

By developing common requirements for police vehicles, police authorities can cut fleet costs.

Manufacturing ergonomics: the real human-machine interface

Ergonomics is an increasingly important focus in the design of manufacturing machinery and equipment.

EcoBoost powers Ford's drive towards more efficient powertrains

The 1-litre 3-cylinder EcoBoost engine is part of Ford's aggressive drive towards more efficient powertrains

Automotive engineering companies have designs on Brazil

Brazil has become a breeding ground for automotive engineering operations.

Frankfurt IAA 2011

AutomotiveWorld.com's coverage of the 2011 Frankfurt motor show (IAA)

Interview: Marcos de Oliveira, president, Ford Brazil and Mercosur

AutomotiveWorld.com interviews Marcos de Oliveira, the head of Ford's operations in South America.

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.

Russia, the big opportunity on Europe's doorstep

Ian Henry examines the potential for the Russian car industry.

Nexteer invests in R&D and manufacturing to support record future order bookings

The future looks bright for Nexteer: in 2010, it booked future orders worth three times its annual turnover.

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.

Returnable packaging yields logistics cost savings

Advances in returnable packaging vary according to the level of automotive production development.

Diesel hybrids have finally arrived

Diesel-electric hybrids may now be about to be become established in the market.

The rise of heavy duty diesel engine manufacturing in Brazil

Record results and contracts - Brazil is an increasingly lucrative market for heavy duty diesel engine suppliers.

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.

Integrating production logistics in Turkey

The inbound supply chain in Turkey focuses on maintaining lean inventory along with just-in-time production.

Interview: Jim Farley, Group Vice President, Global Marketing, Sales and Service, Ford Motor Company

AutomotiveWorld.com speaks to Ford's Group VP, Global Marketing, Sales and Service, Jim Farley

Tata Motors future model plans: forecasts to 2025

AutomotiveWorld.com analyzes the future model plans of the Tata, Jaguar and Land Rover brands

Interview: Laurent Bresson, VP, Global Sales & Marketing and European region, Nexteer Automotive

AutomotiveWorld.com speaks to Laurent Bresson, Nexteer's VP, Global Sales & Marketing and European region

The impact of fuel efficiency rules on the European market for LCVs

Bill Diem investigates the impact of future fuel efficiency regulations on light commercial vehicles in Europe.

Interview: Doug VanDagens, Global Director of Connected Services, Ford Motor Company

AutomotiveWorld.com speaks to Doug VanDagens, Ford's Global Director of Connected Services (SYNC)

Interview: Saurabh Mohan Saxena, Gen Mgr Sales Marketing & Business Dev’t, ZF Hero Chassis Systems

AutomotiveWorld.com interviews Saurabh Mohan Saxena about ZF Hero

Interview: Dr Andreas Schamel, Managing Director, European Ford Research Center, Ford Motor Company

AutomotiveWorld.com speaks to Dr Andreas Schamel, Managing Director, European Ford Research Center

In search of a lean package

China's automotive sector is focusing on more cost effective techniques for managing its inbound logistics.

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

Interview: Don Runkle, CEO, EcoMotors International

AutomotiveWorld.com speaks to Don Runkle, CEO, EcoMotors International

Interview: Rolf Deges, Chief Program Engineer Ford Mondeo, Ford Motor Company

AutomotiveWorld.com talks to Rolf Deges, Chief Program Engineer, Ford Mondeo, Ford Motor Company

Australia and carbon reduction - the struggles of a late adopter

Although a late adopter, Australia's automotive sector is catching up on the low carbon vehicle front.

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: Ian Mathews, Head of Product Planning & Marketing Programmes, Kia (UK)

AutomotiveWorld.com talks to Ian Mathews, Head of Product Planning & Marketing Programmes, Kia (UK)

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

Financing the new era of e-mobility: the OEMs

How are the world's OEMs going to finance the push into electric vehicles?

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

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

Riding the rails

North American railways are addressing demands from vehicle manufacturers for improved service efficiency

Interview: Kobus Meiring, CEO, Optimal Energy

AutomotiveWorld.com talks to Kobus Meiring, CEO of South African EV start-up Optimal Energy

Interview: Richard Canny, CEO, THINK

AutomotiveWorld.com talks to Richard Canny, CEO, THINK

US 2011 model year preview

AutomotiveWorld.com offers a preview of what each of the major brands has in store in the US

Interview: MMR Research discusses 'BrandPhonics'

MMR talks about automotive brand strategies and why OEMs should be thinking like FMCG companies

Interview: Terry Graham, Managing Director, Zircotec

Zircotec talks exclusively to AutomotiveWorld.com about its new "Performance Diesel" technology

Interview: Mary Henige, Director, Social and Digital Communications, GM

Mary Henige, Director, Social and Digital Communications, GM, discusses GM's use of social media in marketing and PR.

Interview: Frank Kalff, Commercial Director, Cruden BV

Cruden believes simulators can play a bigger role in auto component development processes

Electric vehicles unplugged: the industry gets serious

Electric vehicle business models dominated discussion at a recent Frost & Sullivan conference in London

Interview: Kate Armitage, EDF Energy, and William Cutler, OLEV.

EV Webinar panelists expand on development of zero carbon automotive industry

Interview: Lennart Stegland, President, Volvo Cars Special Vehicles

AutomotiveWorld.com talks to Lennart Stegland, President of Volvo Cars Special Vehicles

SupplierWatch: Autoliv leads consolidation acquisitions

The consolidation of the automotive supply base continues to gather pace, with Autoliv leading the way

Interview: Prof. Dr. Ercan Tezer, General Secretary, OSD

AutomotiveWorld.com speaks to the General Secretary of Turkey's Auto Manufacturers Association

Interview: George Paterson, Engineering Sales Manager, Axeon

AutomotiveWorld.com webinar panelist expands on the development of EV charging infrastructure

Interview: Dr Colin Herron, Manufacturing & Productivity Manager, One North East

EV Webinar panelist expands on development of zero carbon automotive industry

Interview: Magnus Hellsten, Senior Vice President, Manufacturing, Volvo Cars

AutomotiveWorld.com talks to Magnus Hellsten, Senior Vice President, Manufacturing, Volvo Cars

The evolution of passive suspension systems

Engineers continue to refine passive and suspension adaptive systems, despite the growth in active technologies

Ford Motor Company future model plans: forecasts to 2018

AutomotiveWorld.com analyzes the model plans of Ford Motor Company's Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and Volvo brands

Interview: John Viera, Director, Sustainability and Environmental Policy, Ford Motor Company

AutomotiveWorld.com interviews John Viera, Director Sustainability and Environmental Policy, Ford Motor Company

Interview: Dr Ralf Cramer, President, Chassis & Safety Division, Continental AG

Dr Cramer elaborates on Continental's commitment to "Vision Zero"

The market for small cars in India

Capturing a share of India's booming small car market is a key target for the major global OEMs.

US new vehicle market trends into 2010

What does 2010 have in store for the US new passenger car market?

SupplierWatch: Consolidation predators and prey in 2010

2010 looks set to become a year of consolidation for the automotive supplier industry

Navistar's revised fuel systems strategy

Navistar looks set to bring fuel systems back in-house

Interview: Nick Gill, Global Automotive Sector Leader, Capgemini

AutomotiveWorld.com talks to Nick Gill, Global Automotive Sector Leader, Capgemini

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.

Interview: Joao Faria, President - Europe, Middle East and Africa (Automotive), Eaton

AutomotiveWorld.com talks to Joao Faria of Eaton about the future of supercharging

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

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

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.

Interview: Jeff Guyton, Managing Executive Officer, President and CEO, Mazda Motor Europe

Automotiveworld.com talks to Jeff Guyton, Managing Executive Officer, President and CEO, Mazda Motor Europe

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.

BMW keeps faith in the Hydrogen ICE

BMW, Ford and Volvo have not given up on the hydrogen ICE, despite growing interest in hybrids and EVs

New generation auto suppliers: Ener1

In the latest in a regular series of features covering up and coming suppliers, AutomotiveWorld.com profiles Ener1

Ford's 'historic' V8 pickup diesel

In profile: China's auto industry

AutomotiveWorld.com profiles China's auto industry

Optimising transmission performance: the role of lubricants

Optimisation of transmission efficiency is placing increasing demands on fluid performance.

Supplier Watch: Solutions sought for long-term survival

Sales growth from scrappage schemes shouldn’t hide the need for other solutions to supplier survival

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.

Japanese see few gains from current weakness at GM and Chrysler

Japanese OEMs appear doubtful that the GM and Chrysler bankruptcies will confer longer-term gains.

Country profile: Russian Federation

Socio-political data

Will electric vehicle batteries ever come of age?

Are EV battery technologies beginning to combine necessary performance, range and longevity at last?

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.

Supplier Watch: GM Bankruptcy adds to uncertainties

GM’s Chapter 11 filing inevitably adds to supplier concerns, but the trend is now well-established.

Supplier Watch: Chrysler acts to ease supplier anxieties

Chrysler’s favourable treatment of outstanding payments is a tiny ray of hope for stressed suppliers.

Chrysler suppliers set to feel the heat

The shutdown of Chrysler’s manufacturing operations could fracture an already fragile supply chain.

In-car fuel economy and carbon emissions monitoring technology emerges

In-car monitoring technology designed to support drivers in changing driving habits to improve fuel economy and reduce carbon emissions is gradually emerging.

Return of the value for money vehicle segment: global implications

Is the 'value car' about to make a significant market comeback and if so, what are the implications for OEMs and suppliers?

Smith Electric Vehicles stays focused on commercial vehicles

Smith Electric Vehicles sees considerable potential for growth in electric commercial vehicle applications in Europe and the US.

Restructuring for long-term viability: GM and Chrysler plans suggest more tough times for automotive suppliers

The combined 294 pages dedicated to restructuring plans at GM and Chrysler make gloomy reading for suppliers being teed up to make further sacrifices.

Ford is optimistic about Asia, with a strategy focusing around the new Fiesta

John Parker, Executive Vice President of Ford Asia Pacific and Asia, explains to AutomotiveWorld.com how Ford is taking a long-term view of opportunities and outlines the company's positioning.

Ford Scorpion engine workers to get assembly aid

Workers at Ford's Chihuahua Engine Plant, now familiarising themselves with the new 6.7-litre Scorpion diesel, will receive assembly technology expertise from the University of Northwestern Ohio.

Saab, General Motors and a new business model for the automotive industry

GM appears committed to disposing of its Swedish Saab operations

Division in Scandinavia: Sweden and Norway disagree on approach to green cars

Sweden and Norway disagree on approach to green cars

3-litre V6 diesel engine points way forward for Jaguar

No longer part of the Ford family, the growing influence of Jaguar's powertrain engineers is readily apparent in the new 3-litre V6 diesel.

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.

The long and winding bailout debate in the US

President Bush has essentially handed the future details of the bailout issue over to Barack Obama, whose already-crowded agenda will now include swift decisions on the future of the US auto industry.

Interview: Nick Gill, Global Automotive Sector Leader, Capgemini

AutomotiveWorld.com talks to Nick Gill, Global Automotive Sector Leader, Capgemini

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.

How bad can it get? The future of world car markets

The global automotive industry will appear very different by the end of 2009; the problem is that nobody knows quite what it will look like.

Interview: Dr Wolfgang Schneider - VP Legal, Governmental Environmental Affairs, Ford of Europe

AutomotiveWorld.com talks to Dr Wolfgang Schneider

Interview: Steven Armstrong, Chief Operating Officer, Volvo Cars

AutomotiveWorld.com talks to Steven Armstrong, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Volvo Cars

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.

EU CO2 legislation one step closer

Country profile: South Africa

AutomotiveWorld.com profiles South Africa

Ford Edge HySeries – the world's first fuel cell plug-in hybrid

The world's first fuel cell plug-in hybrid, which is powered by a lithium-ion battery 'topped-up' by a fuel cell

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

Country profile: Venezuela

AutomotiveWorld.com profiles Venezuela

Downsizing challenges in the US light vehicle market: Part one – the Detroit Three

This raises questions regarding the readiness of the major OEMs to meet the current downsizing

Downsize me! Is the US responding to high oil prices at last?

Powertrain strategy: Cummins

AutomotiveWorld.com profiles Cummins' commercial vehicle powertrain strategy from 1919 to the present day and beyond

Green motorsport - set to move into the fast lane?

Although motorsport and sustainability do not appear to be easy bedfellows, motorsport is increasingly aware of the need to take environmental considerations into account in its activities. Indeed, motorsport technologies may actually yield some useful so

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

Ford confirms seven CGI diesel programmes

Ford Motor Company currently has seven engine programmes either in volume production or under development that use compacted graphite iron, all of which will come on stream by 2010

Chrysler, Ford and General Motors to build 750,000 diesels a year by 2010

Chrysler, Ford and GM are set to launch a total of six new vee diesel engine families in the next two years and as a result their combined production capacity for such engines could increase to 750,000upa by 2010

The long goodbye: Ford, Jaguar and Land Rover

The sale by Ford of Jaguar and Land Rover has been a protracted affair, but as the end draws near it is pertinent to consider what lessons this saga has for the global automotive industry

Ford to increase MQL machining capabilities

According to Ford, it now has more Minimum Quantity Lubrication applications than the rest of its global competitors put together

Ford to embark on CGI benchmarking study

As part of an on-going programme to establish a database of expertise in the machining of compacted graphite iron, Ford engineers will in 2008 conduct competitive benchmarking exercises at several European truck engine builders

Jaguar sets 3,000 units as target for XF launch

Jaguar Cars plans to start manufacturing its all-new XF sedan next month ahead of its market launch in March 2008

Comment: The battle for pickup diesel power

Ford is facing a huge task in developing two as-of-yet unconfirmed diesel engines for its F-Series pickup range, says John Mortimer

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

New engine lines for Ford's Chihuahua plant

Ford looks set to award its new 4.4-litre diesel engine programme to the Chihuahua Engine Plant in Mexico. John Mortimer reports exclusively for Automotive World

Interview: Hisakazu Imaki, President and Chairman, Mazda Motor Co.

The goal of driving dynamics resulted in a smaller second generation Mazda2 that weighs only 954kg, 9.1% less than its predecessor. Hisakazu Imaki, Mazda's president and chairman, discussed his company's technologies with Automotive World at the recent Ge

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

Australia's OEMs conquer the world

Australia's OEMs are attempting to achieve success through a unique interplay between their manufacturing systems and the markets they serve. Dr Paul Nieuwenhuis reports

New I6 truck diesel from Ford

Ford's Turkish subsidiary looks set to announce a brand new 9-litre truck diesel engine later this year. John Mortimer reports

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

Japanese OEM sales (November) and production results (October)

Andrew Mollet takes his regular look at the sales and production results of Japan's OEMs

Ford engineers prepare ground for 4.4-litre diesel

Development work is underway on a new Ford 4.4-litre diesel engine, which will be a larger version of the company's existing 3.6-litre TDV8 power unit. John Mortimer reports

Navistar set for 'high tech' diesel

Nissan looks set to use a version of Navistar's 4.5-litre V6 diesel engine in its US-built SUVs and pickups. John Mortimer reports exclusively for Automotive World

Land Rover heads for GDI

Land Rover looks set to follow the likes of Audi, Mitsubishi and BMW by adopting direct injection technology for its gasoline engines

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 diesel strategies

With the diesel boom steadily making its way from Europe across the Atlantic to North America, Japan's OEMs are under pressure to step up their diesel engine programmes. Andrew Mollet 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

Can Land Rover save the 4x4?

Land Rover recently announced a series of technical measures which it claims could help improve the fuel economy of some of its models by as much as 30%. Dr Peter Wells reports

London's green motor show

A number of vehicle manufacturers used the recent British International Motorshow to highlight their green credentials. Dr Paul Nieuwenhuis reports

Freelander 2 gears up for production

Land Rover is preparing to launch production of its second generation Freelander SUV at Ford's Halewood plant in the UK. John Mortimer reports

Ford and Jaguar: blue skies over Browns Lane

Michael Wynn-Williams of Trend Tracker Ltd argues that only a fundamental international restructuring of Jaguar will be enough to turn the company around

Simultaneous engineering contract for new Ford diesel

Cross Hüller has been awarded a simultaneous engineering contract for a new Ford 4.4-litre V8 diesel engine, production of which could reach 250,000upa by 2009. John Mortimer reports

Ford: The way forward?

For the second time in less than five years Ford has announced a revitalisation plan that will involve the loss of around 30,000 jobs. Dr Peter Wells reports

Does HCCI have a future?

Homogenous charge compression ignition technology offers many benefits for the automotive industry but these might not be enough to ensure its successful commercialisation. Dr Peter Wells reports

Ford casts its first CGI parts

In a world exclusive, John Mortimer reveals that Ford’s US management has committed to using CGI material for future diesel engine programmes

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

New Ford diesels could top 750,000 annually

Ford Motor Company is reviewing its North American diesel engine strategy for year-end 2012 when its contract with International Truck and Engine Corporation (Navistar) expires. John Mortimer reports

Ford prepares ground for new diesel family

In a world exclusive for AWKnowledge, John Mortimer provides details of an all-new family of diesel vee engines currently being considered by Ford

Ford: Upgraded engine will be key to Turkish truck market

Turkey is hardly, and has seldom been at the cutting edge of new engine technology. However, in a world exclusive for AWKnowledge, John Mortimer explains how this is about to change

Ford: Upgraded engine will be key to Turkish truck market

Turkey is hardly, and has seldom been at the cutting edge of new engine technology. However, in a world exclusive for AWKnowledge, John Mortimer explains how this is about to change

Ford adopts CGI for new 7.3-litre diesel

In a world exclusive for AWKnowledge, John Mortimer reveals that Ford is developing a new 7.3-litre diesel engine for use in its Cargo range of trucks

Japan's finest prepare for a US slump

Disappointing sales in Japan and the US have had an adverse effect on the H1 financial results of many of Japan's vehicle manufacturers. Andrew Mollet reports

What has gone wrong with the American business model?

The current problems faced by GM, Ford, Visteon and Delphi have thrown a shadow over the once dominant US automotive business model. Dr Peter Wells reports

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

Stadco wins X150 aluminium pressings work

Aluminium pressings for the upcoming Jaguar X150 sports car will be manufactured by Stadco Automotive, which claims to be the one of the fastest growing players in the global market for body-in-white technology. John Mortimer reports

Positive outlook for Japan’s vehicle manufacturers

It looks like Japan's car and truck manufacturers are set for another excellent year. Andrew Mollet reports

Halewood prepares for Freelander

As work continues this summer to install and commission the manufacturing lines for the redesigned Land Rover Freelander (LC59) at Ford’s Halewood plant in the UK, eyes are beginning to turn to the events of next year. John Mortimer reports

Ford considers new 4.4-litre diesel for F-Series pickups

AWKnowledge reports exclusively on the potential addition of a new homegrown V8 diesel to the Ford F-Series lineup

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

Pivotal moment: is the time right for an innovative hydrogen engine?

With mass usage of fuel cell vehicles still a long way off, the hydrogen internal combustion engine is gaining renewed attention. Dr Peter Wells reports

Is bigger always better?

Is the era of economies of scale over in the automotive industry?

Gloom or doom in Detroit?

With near-junk credit ratings and a rash of pending litigation, how close to the edge is Detroit? Toby Procter reports

Mazda spurns suppliers for its halo car

Takao Kijima, the project director of Mazda’s latest MX-5 roadster, discusses the thinking behind the third-generation model

Big names cautious over growth in 2005

Executives of the top US vehicle and component manufacturers exuded somewhat cautious optimism over their future growth at the 2005 NAIAS. AWKnowledge traveled to Detroit to obtain the details

Stadco: Making the most of the thriving market for sub-assemblies in Europe

William Diem argues that the recent success of Stadco in expanding its business with Ford is one sign among many that the stamping and sub-assembly business in Europe is healthier than that in North America.

Interview with Mark White, manager, body structures, Jaguar Cars and Land Rover

Mark White, manager of body structures at Jaguar Cars and Land Rover, talks to John Mortimer about the technology road map that Jaguar has conceived with the aim of reducing the cost of aluminium-bodied cars

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

Interview with Bob Bolam, managing director, BMW Swindon Pressings

John Mortimer talks exclusively to Bob Bolam, the man in charge of BMW's Swindon, UK, pressings plant, which is about to receive yet more investment

UK engine production: Prospering against the odds: Part 2

In the UK, recent automotive industry headlines have been dominated by closures and problems, yet the untold success story is that of engine production.

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.

Quicksands for the unwary

Dr Peter Wells looks at how unpredictable environmental side-effects can catch out even the greenest of vehicle manufacturers.

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?

Simulation delivers results for Ford

Simulation of component logistics for Ford’s powertrain and other assembly lines has significant benefits, and may be expanded further within the group.

Automotive interior design – a touchy subject

To help propose the right materials for car interiors, Faurecia has adopted a measurement system used by L'Oréal and Nestlé for their packaging. William Diem reports.

Volvo Scania – the endgame in trucks

Michael Hinks-Edwards traces events in a saga which, directly and indirectly, involved and affected almost every major commercial truck OEM and their leading suppliers, and kept commentators guessing all the way.

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.

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.

Sluggish outlook for the Japanese domestic vehicle market

Andrew Mollet takes a look at the current situation in the Japanese automotive industry, and summarises analysts' predictions for the coming year.

Ford trucks – making up lost ground in Brazil

Ford Trucks Brazil is looking to narrow the gap on its rivals, according to Flavio Padovan, divisional operations manager.

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.

Aston Martin to end vehicle production at Newport Pagnell by 2008

Aston Martin has closed its Bloxham assembly plant and will cease vehicle production at Newport Pagnell by 2008, which means that its new facility at Gaydon will soon become the sole source of Aston Martin models. John Mortimer reports exclusively for AWK

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.

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

SAE meeting highlights DPF regeneration

Emission control challenges figured prominently in the conference proceedings of the recent Truck and Bus Meeting held by the US Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) in Fort Worth, Texas, reports Alan Bunting.

Where now for the Japanese truck industry?

Andrew Mollett reviews devlopments within the Japanese truck industry

Mazda looks to hydrogen economy

Mazda engineers are convinced that their rotary engine is a better choice than a reciprocating engine for burning hydrogen

Mazda looks to hydrogen economy

Ford and the commitment to quality

Why does Ford Motor Company’s COO Sir Nick Scheele believe improving customer service quality will make the difference in the battle for global market share? Suzanne Christiansen finds out.

Stadco invests in Saarlouis

Body-in-white stampings manufacturer Stadco has aquired a new facility adjacent to Ford's Saarlouis plant to manufacture 28 major sub-assemblies for the Ford Focus

Eco-manufacturing: Ford at River Rouge

Peter Wells, Senior Research Fellow at the Centre for Automotive Industry Research in Cardiff, looks at the science of industrial ecology and its application in Ford’s River Rouge plant

Addressing the safety issue

In a fiercely competitive global marketplace, manufacturers continually seek strategies to improve product quality and slash development cycles. Ford has an incredible heritage in the automotive industry, earning its position with products that deliver hi

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

Ford steps into new territory in Australia with new crossover

Revealed for the first time at the Melbourne Motor Show, Ford has developed Australia’s first large AWD crossover vehicle, which combines a passenger car, SUV and MPV. AWKnowledge reports

Ford realigns product development in latest step to improve efficiency

Ford has announced the latest step in its restructuring efforts; a realignment of its North American product development process, from five brand-orientated groups to four platform-based groups

Ford invests US$644m to build Mustang at AAI

Ford has announced that its next-generation Mustang will be built at its AutoAlliance International (AAI) plant, which it operates with Mazda in Flat Rock, Michigan, thereby making AAI Ford's fifth flexible manufacturing facility in North America

Light Fantastic

With its new ‘aluminium intensive’ XJ range, Jaguar hopes to take a leap forward in the battle against emissions by shedding substantial amounts of weight. Jesse Crosse looks in detail at the revolutionary new manufacturing process.

Ford’s new approach to flexible assembly at Cologne

Over the last three years Ford has conducted a massive investment programme at its Cologne plant that culminated in the launch of three new models in 2002. Anna Kochan reports on the innovative processes and organisation introduced at Cologne that Ford no

NedCar: undergoing a near complete makeover under Mitsubishi

In April 2001 Mitsubishi took full control of the NedCar plant in the Netherlands after acquiring Volvo’s 50 percent stake. As a result, production of the Volvo S/V40 will be transferred to the Swedish manufacturers’ Ghent factory in Belgium in order to m

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

Manufacturers halt Brazilian exports to Venezuela, as crisis deepens

Brazilian vehicle exports to its crisis-hit neighbour Venezuela have been halted until the true state of the Venezuelan economy, which has been in deep recession since before last summer, becomes clear. Rebecca Wright reports

Jaguar X-Type – successful, but not successful enough

The Jaguar X-Type has accomplished its task of taking Jaguar's worldwide sales well over the 100,000 units mark but has failed to hit the targets set for it by Ford. Rebecca Wright reports

December - the icing on the cake for a year to remember in the UK

2002 was a record-breaking year for the UK passenger car market. Here, Rebecca Wright looks at the trends and the reasons behind the numbers

Slow off the starting blocks, but Ford finally joins race in China

In what most regard as an extremely slow start, Ford finally began job one in China last weekend with the launch of production of the Fiesta in the South Western city of Chongging. Rebecca Wright reports

Tower puts its foot down over Ford chassis frame pricing

Tower, long-term supplier of chassis frames to Ford's Explorer, has rejected the company's pricing offer for the frame of the 2006 model

Mazda to launch rotary-engined RX8 in 2003

Mazda's long-awaited RX8, complete with brand-new Renesis rotary engine, will appear on world markets in early 2003

Ford's Bridgend plant to get the first flexible engine line - and new I6 engine

Ford not only arranges for an all-new flexible engine line to be installed at Bridgend in Wales, but then it announces that it will build an all-new in-line six-cylinder gasoline engine for PAG models

Transmissions: the vehicle manufacturers strike back

GM and Ford recently announced their intention to share the development of a new six-speed automatic transmission. Patrick Thompson, GM Powertrain's chief engineer for front-wheel drive transmissions speaks to AWKnowledge about the vehicle manufacturer's

Satisfaction and stress at Volvo Cars

Writing exclusively for AWKnowledge, Ian Morton examines the results of an employee satisfaction survey recently undertaken by Volvo Car Corporation

Land Rover to outsource stamping

Land Rover has decided to outsource the stamping of aluminium components for its new generation of vehicles, including the next Discovery and a shortened Range Rover. John Mortimer reports

Transmissions: the vehicle manufacturers strike back

Independent transmission manufacturers have been in the news recently with their state-of-the-art six-speed automatic transmissions. Now, following an unprecedented memorandum of understanding on a joint venture to develop their own six-speed design, GM a

Ford reveals high-tech new Triton V8 engine range

New Jaguar V6 gasoline production starts in 2004

Ford is looking to cut its dependence on US-built engines for UK-built Jaguars

New Land Rover SUV will have stiffest chassis of its class

Land Rover’s new mid-sized SUV, due in 2004, will have the stiffest chassis of its class, thanks to a new design using hydroformed high strength steel (HSS) tubes. John Mortimer reports

The rise of the electro-mechanical handbrake

Advances in technology have seen the introduction of the electro-mechanical handbrake. Does it have a future and to what degree will it be used?

Turbocharging solutions for Ford's Lion V6 diesel - and the latest on the diesel V8

Ford will use either single or twin turbochargers for its upcoming 2.7 litre Lion diesel V6 engine, depending on installation

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

Turbocharging solutions for Ford's Lion V6 diesel - and the latest on the diesel V8

Ford will use either single or twin turbochargers for its upcoming 2.7 litre Lion diesel V6 engine, depending on installation

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

Ford launches its first AMT in the Fiesta three-door

Automated manuals, or AMTs, have been in production since 1996 in various up-market vehicles. They have now begun to trickle down into smaller vehicles and could well be replacing conventional automatics in the lower segments.

Mazda's new supermini powertrain options

Mazda's new Demio/Mazda 2 supermini gains a diesel engine and a new automated manual transmission in Europe - but not so in Japan

Ford examines opportunities for a ‘pop-up’ safety bonnet

Ford is conducting research with a form of pop-up bonnet to provide greater safety for pedestrians in the unfortunate event of a car-pedestrian impact

NGV marriages

Strange behaviour in the natural gas vehicles market – customers are eager, but OEM suppliers are playing hard to get. Dr Jeffrey Seisler wonders who deserves the bouquet.

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

Volvo’s business case for supplier parks, modules and outsourcing

Assembly plants are bringing suppliers closer to their own manufacturing operations than ever before. However, vehicle manufacturers should not forget to check out the business case first, says Steve Armstrong, senior vice president of purchasing at Volvo