Technology: Page

Automotive industry conferences to watch in 2026

Expected focus areas of the industry events next year include electric vehicles, hybrid powertrains, battery technology and the expansion of vehicle software and connectivity.

By Eric Walz • Updated Feb. 2, 2026

Horse Powertrain CEO: Automakers need plug-and-play powertrain solutions

As EV demand slows, the Renault-Geely joint venture showcases its drop-in hybrid and range-extender options for OEMs to help meet consumer demand.

By Paul Myles • Oct. 27, 2025

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

GM plans to launch ‘eyes-off driving’ in 2028

In addition to upgrading its Super Cruise driving system next year, the automaker said it will adopt a new centralized vehicle computing platform by 2028.

By Eric Walz • Oct. 24, 2025

Security experts offer advice on how to avoid a cyber shutdown that crippled JLR factories

Cybersecurity specialists from Upstream and Aeris share strategies to help prevent automakers from halting vehicle production.

By Paul Myles • Oct. 24, 2025

Hyundai dual-motor propulsion system makes Ioniq 9 quick, long-distance family hauler

Hyundai’s three-row all-electric CUV is a speed demon in disguise, thanks to a propulsion system with more than 400 hp and 500 lb.-ft. of torque, plus boasting impressive range.

By Christie Schweinsberg • Oct. 22, 2025

Partnerships most likely way to monetize SDVs, says 5G expert

Consumers are not the low-hanging fruit for automakers according to Barbara Pareglio, GSMA smart mobility lead.

By Paul Myles • Oct. 22, 2025

ZR1 V-8 earns Corvette a rare three-peat win

As impressive as 1,064 hp is, the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1’s ability to quietly cruise also caught our judges’ attention.

By Bob Gritzinger • Oct. 21, 2025

Leaf propulsion system more electrifying than ever

Power, affordability and efficiency put the Nissan battery-electric vehicle’s propulsion system on our 2025 Wards 10 Best winners list.

By Christie Schweinsberg • Oct. 20, 2025

Premium EVs have a bright future in Europe: Zeekr boss

The automaker’s focus on the European market gives it an advantage as consumers transition from gas-powered vehicles, said Europe CEO Lothar Schupet.

By Paul Myles • Oct. 20, 2025

Honda two-motor hybrid powertrain a well-balanced execution

Honda’s hybrid systems score well with our judges, with the propulsion system in the Civic Hybrid earning our 2025 kudos.

By Gary S. Vasilash • Oct. 17, 2025

Honda to invest $2.6M in advanced materials science lab at Ohio State University

The investment expands the automaker’s longstanding presence in the state.

By Kalena Thomhave • Oct. 17, 2025

Charger Daytona propulsion system redefines the muscle car

The Daytona’s propulsion system is about a culture change, and the audacious engineers and designers who put in time and fought battles to make this wild car a reality.

By Drew Winter • Oct. 16, 2025

Toyota-led electric quadcycle project wins $20M UK funding

The solar-powered British-built micro-car is now entering the R&D phase and could one day compete with Citroën’s Ami. 

By Paul Myles • Oct. 16, 2025

Big V-8, powerful motor make BMW M5 electrifying

Adding a plug-in hybrid system to BMW’s venerable M5 only enhances the performance sedan’s motorsports-bred character.

By Bob Gritzinger • Oct. 15, 2025

Hybrid powertrain impressively propels diverse Lexus LX

The big Lexus SUV is a comfy driver, but the hybrid propulsion system means business.

By Gary S. Vasilash • Oct. 14, 2025

Aston Martin unveils flagship DB12 S ‘Super Tourer’

The British sports car brand pulled the wraps off its latest 200 mph+ long distance mile muncher.

By Paul Myles • Oct. 14, 2025

Amazon Autos expands used vehicle financing options

The e-commerce giant has partnered with Chase, Santander and Wells Fargo to give buyers additional lending choices.

By Larry Avila • Updated Oct. 17, 2025

Lucid Gravity propulsion system proves resistance is futile

The electric powertrain gives the new Gravity a range of 430 miles, quick-charging capabilities, and allows it to hit 60 mph from a standstill in 3.4 seconds. So what’s not to like?

By Dave Zoia • Oct. 13, 2025

Germany’s chancellor backs scrapping the planned ICE ban in Europe

Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Europe’s automakers need more time to transition to electric vehicles.

By Paul Myles • Oct. 10, 2025

Staying power: Ford’s F-150 hybrid system remains a winner

Driving proves the F-150 hybrid lives up to the hype. Our Lariat tester returned more than 22 mpg in our longer mixed-driving runabouts.

By Dave Zoia • Oct. 10, 2025

Mercedes-AMG E 53 powertrain makes for a thrilling ride

The plug-in hybrid powertrain in the high-performance subsidiary’s mid-large luxury sedan generates a combined 604 horsepower, but is still fuel-efficient.

By Drew Winter • Oct. 9, 2025

Renault issues consumer warning over UK supplier hack

The automaker said customers’ private data may have been compromised through a third-party data provider.

By Paul Myles • Oct. 9, 2025

Renault budget brand’s new EV to compete with Chinese rivals

Dacia unveils Hipster Concept aiming to maintain cheapest electric vehicle title.

By Paul Myles • Oct. 8, 2025

Keep ICE in Europe’s CO2 emissions drive: AECC

The association believes that a multi-energy approach can reduce greenhouse gasses and save jobs.

By Paul Myles • Oct. 6, 2025

LG brings Xbox, Zoom to vehicle software platform

The company aims to bring its Automotive Content Platform to 20 million vehicles by 2030.

By Kalena Thomhave • Oct. 6, 2025