Automakers: Page 88

Toyota revamps its EV strategy as competition and government mandates mount

The automaker’s plans include developing solid-state, lithium-ion batteries for future electric vehicles with driving ranges over 600 miles.

By Eric Walz • June 14, 2023

Stellantis Adding Battery Production in France

Stellantis is securing about 400 GWh of battery capacity by 2030, supported by five gigafactories in Europe and North America and additional supply contracts.

By Paul Myles • June 14, 2023

Explore the Trendline➔

Artificial Intelligence

Automakers and dealers alike are increasingly seeing the use case for AI within their operations. Explore some use cases in this trendline.

By WardsAuto staff

Global EV sales to reach 700M units by 2040: BloombergNEF

The report predicts that total electric vehicle sales across all segments could reach a cumulative $8.8 trillion by 2030.

By Eric Walz • June 14, 2023

GM signs steel deal with ArcelorMittal North America

The steelmaker will supply General Motors with material containing at least 70% scrap.

By Kate Magill • June 14, 2023

Ford opens its $2B electric vehicle factory in Cologne, Germany

Ford converted the 90-year-old factory to produce its next-generation EVs for the European market, including an electric version of the popular Explorer SUV.

By Eric Walz • June 13, 2023

GM, Samsung SDI to build $3B battery cell plant in Indiana

With the latest investment, the automaker will spend over $4 billion to expand its operations in the state.

By Sara Samora • June 13, 2023

Audi Q8 Offers Increased Range, Faster Charging

Audi pays particular attention to the Q8 e-tron’s aerodynamics, enlarging and adding spoilers while updating the front fascia to streamline airflow through, around and under the automaker’s flagship e-tron CUV.

By Tanya Gazdik • June 13, 2023

GM Investing Billions in ICE Truck, SUV Production

Nearly half of the $2.1 billion in new investment is earmarked for the heavy-duty truck assembly plant and adjacent stamping plant in Flint, MI; the rest will be spent at the Arlington, TX, and Fort Wayne, IN, assembly plants.

By Joseph Szczesny • June 13, 2023

California approves Mercedes-Benz Level 3 autonomous driving system for public roads

Drive Pilot, which will be available on the 2024 S-Class and EQS sedans, allows drivers to read a book or check email at speeds under 40 mph.

By Eric Walz • June 12, 2023

Lexus Makes Solid Additions to Utility-Vehicle Portfolio

Lexus fields two new utility vehicles for '24, one a plussed-up midsize CUV with room for the whole family and their stuff, and the other a rugged, truck-based off-roader with a luxed-out cabin and a great resume.

By Ron Sessions • June 12, 2023

Alfa Romeo Confirms Plans for ‘Sporty Urban Vehicle’

The price-leading CUV is twinned with the Jeep Avenger and will offer buyers the choice of internal-combustion and battery-electric drivetrains.

By Greg Kable • June 12, 2023

Toyota to invest $50M in new Michigan battery lab

The facility, expected to open in 2025, will evaluate batteries for the automaker’s electric and hybrid vehicles sold in North America.

By Eric Walz • June 12, 2023

Alfa Romeo Leads Charge for Most-Seen Auto TV Ad

A new spot for the hybrid Tonale racks up the most national TV ad impressions for May 29 through June 4, per iSpot.tv.

By Wards Staff • June 9, 2023

Tesla, Other EV Startups Experience Growing Pains

BEV startups are struggling with financial performance and supply chain issues while consumer demand remains below supply.

By Joseph Szczesny • June 8, 2023

Ford appoints former GM and Whirlpool exec as its chief supply chain officer

Liz Door joins the automaker as it focuses on improving quality and reducing costs through its supply chain as part of its Ford+ plan.

By Eric Walz • June 8, 2023

Volvo Cars’ EX30: Quick and Frugal

The automaker claims the BEV enjoys the lowest CO2 footprint of any car on the market today – with the highest mix of recycled metals and plastics including textiles made from old denim jeans.

By Paul Myles • June 8, 2023

Stellantis forms joint venture for end-of-life vehicle recycling

The company will partner with Belgium-based recycling company Galloo to recover used vehicles and components from automakers for reuse, recycling and remanufacturing.

By Eric Walz • June 7, 2023

2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE Secrets Revealed

The 2-door model will replace the C- and E-Class coupe and cabriolet with a muscular design, contemporary interior appointments and an extended range of electrified drivetrains.

By Greg Kable • June 6, 2023

GM invests over $1B to boost EV battery production

The automaker and its joint venture partner POSCO Future M want to increase the production of cathode active material.   

By Eric Walz • June 6, 2023

Leased BEVs More Affordable Than ICE Vehicles, says J.D. Power

Dealers who remind customers of a federal tax credit of up to $7,500 can boost profits, satisfaction.

By Alysha Webb • June 5, 2023

Volkswagen Introduces 3-Row ID. Buzz Electric Van

The 3-row ID. Buzz is tailored specifically for North America. It offers a longer wheelbase than the 2-row European-spec vehicle that debuted in 2022, plus a bigger battery and more horsepower.

By Tanya Gazdik • June 2, 2023

Toyota to launch its first US-assembled battery-electric SUV

To help with production, the automaker will invest another $2.1 billion in its North Carolina EV battery factory.

By Eric Walz • June 1, 2023

Ford Dealers Deliver Service to Customers’ Homes

There are 1,387 Ford dealers enrolled in the voluntary program, and the manufacturer reports the number is “growing every day.”

By Nancy Dunham • June 1, 2023

Ford’s Farley: Brace for New Winners, Losers in BEV Era

Ford CEO Jim Farley says there is a shifting picture of winners and losers as the industry shifts from ICE vehicles to BEVs.

By David Kiley • June 1, 2023

Ford to grow mobile service fleet by nearly 1,000 vehicles

The expansion could help the maker of the Escape better compete against Tesla as mobile service bookings rise across the industry.

By Eric Walz • May 31, 2023