Tag: technology

Continental Bags Award For “Tire Manufacturer of the Year” And Recognized For Environmentally Friendly Tire Production

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Continental has been awarded “Tire Manufacturer of the Year” at this year’s Tire Technology International Awards for Innovation and Excellence. The premium tire manufacturer received a further honour for its tire plant in Lousado, Portugal, which has produced tires CO2-neutrally since last year. This makes Continental the only tire manufacturer to win two of the prestigious awards, outperforming the competition as “Tire Manufacturer of the Year” as well as in the category “Environmental Achievement of the Year – Manufacturing”. The awards were bestowed as part of the Tire Technology Expo on March 4 at the exhibition center in Hanover. They are regarded as some of the top honours in the industry.

“We are especially proud to be the only manufacturer to be honored twice at the Tire Technology Awards in an extremely competitive field,” says Edwin Goudswaard, Head of Research and Development at Continental Tires. “Both awards highlight our strong commitment to sustainable tire development and manufacturing. In such a highly competitive market, this success demonstrates our innovative prowess and our ability to actively shape the future of the industry.”

Competition in both categories was fierce. As “Tire Manufacturer of the Year,” Continental outperformed competitors from the USA, Italy, and France. This marks the fourth time Continental has received this title – most recently in 2022.
Sustainability efforts are becoming an increasingly important focus for the industry, and therefore for the awards. By naming Continental “Tire Manufacturer of the Year” for 2024, the jury of 27 independent industry experts acknowledged Continental’s ongoing achievements on the road to greater sustainability. The projects considered in their deliberations included increasing the share of sustainable materials through recycled PET bottles at further Continental plants, expanding the plant in Rayong, Thailand, according to the highest energy-efficiency standards, obtaining the international sustainability certification ISCC-PLUS for its plants in Lousado, Portugal, Puchóv, Slovakia, and Hefei, China, as well as upgrading the tire plant in Hefei with automation technology in line with state-of-the-art sustainability standards.

Continental has also repeatedly impressed the jury in award categories that specifically recognize environmentally friendly development and production measures. In 2024, for example, the company took top spot in the category “Environmental Achievement of the Year – Tire Design” with its sustainable production of the tire UltraContact NXT. This year, Continental won the prize in the “Manufacturing” category for the sustainability measures at its tire plant in Lousado, Portugal. Since 2024, the plant has been testing a CO2-neutral production process that advances the company’s ambition to achieve carbon neutrality. Thanks to a fully electric steam boiler, Continental generates the steam using both in-house produced solar power and renewable energy from the grid. Steam is needed to heat the rubber compound for the tires during the so-called vulcanization. During this process, raw rubber is turned into a flexible, elastic form. In the tire industry, a large proportion of the consumed energy is used for generating steam. Previously, the Lousado tire plant relied exclusively on natural gas for steam generation. With an annual production capacity of 18 million tires, the plant in Lousado is considered a mega plant. Continental is aiming to switch all of its tire plants to fully carbon-neutral production processes by 2040 at the latest.

The Tire Technology International Awards for Innovation and Excellence have been bestowed since 2008 as part of the Tire Technology Expo in Hanover each spring. The prizes span 13 categories honoring the latest innovations in tire technology and major advances on the road to a more sustainable tire industry. The award ceremony is coordinated by the industry magazine “Tire Technology International.”

SSI MantraM Unveiled At The Second Global SMRSC 2025

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SS Innovations, the maker of India’s first and only home-grown Surgical Robotic System – SSI Mantra, hosted the Second Global SSI Multi-Speciality Robotic Surgery Conference (SMRSC) 2025 at the Leela, Gurgaon. The two-day event saw enthusiastic participation from over 1200+ world-renowned medical professionals, who gathered on a single platform to explore the transformative potential of robotic surgery.

In a groundbreaking announcement at the SMRSC 2025, SS Innovations unveiled the SSI Mantra Tele-Sync Mobile Unit – “SSI MantraM”, a first-of-its-kind innovation set to transform the landscape of robotic surgery and telemedicine in India. This revolutionary mobile tele-surgical unit reflects SS Innovations’ unwavering commitment to advancing medical technology, redefining healthcare infrastructure, and expanding access to cutting-edge surgical care.

With this breakthrough, SS Innovations continues to push the boundaries of med-tech, revolutionizing surgical infrastructure and cementing India’s position as a global leader in robotic surgery and health-tech innovation.

Equipped with state-of-the-art telesurgery capabilities, SSI MantraM breaks barriers in surgical care by delivering world-class robotic-assisted procedures to remote and underserved regions. The Tele-Sync Mobile Unit seamlessly integrates the SSI Mantra Surgical Robotic System, high-speed connectivity, and advanced surgical robotics to enable real-time collaboration between remote and on-site surgical teams. This innovation empowers expert surgeons to perform and guide procedures with minimal latency, making advanced surgical care more accessible than ever.

Speaking on the launch of SSI MantraM, Dr. Sudhir Srivastava, Founder & Chairman of SS Innovations said,”SSI MantraM is more than a mobile telesurgical unit, it’s a movement to democratize and decentralise world-class healthcare. With high-speed telecommunication and satellite connectivity, it breaks geographical barriers, delivering life-saving robotic-assisted surgery to underserved communities. Beyond tele-surgical procedures, SSI MantraM serves as a powerful platform for surgical education, tele-mentoring, and real-time patient data analytics. With continuous research and innovation, SSI is taking a major step toward ensuring that advanced robotic surgery reaches those who need it most.”

Building on the success of SMRSC 2024, this year’s conference elevated discussions on innovations in robotic surgery and telesurgery, with a focus on Urology, General Surgery, Gynecology, Oncology, Head & Neck, and Cardiothoracic surgery. The event served as a platform to showcase the advanced capabilities of SS Innovations’ flagship surgical robotic system- SSI Mantra 3, which continues to redefine modern surgical care. Installed in over 70 hospitals nationwide, SSI Mantra has facilitated more than 3400 multi-speciality surgeries, including complex cardiac procedures, setting new benchmarks in surgical precision and patient outcomes. SMRSC 2025 brought together an extraordinary lineup of global visionaries shaping the future of healthcare and technology.

Dr. Michio Kaku, a renowned theoretical physicist and futurist, captivated the audience with his thought-provoking insights on the future of medical technology. He highlighted how advancements in AI, quantum computing, and robotics are set to redefine surgery, making precision medicine and real-time remote procedures a reality. His presence underscored the intersection of scientific innovation and healthcare advancements. Mr. Sonam Wangchuk, acclaimed engineer, innovator, and education reformist, highlighted the critical role of infrastructure and technological breakthroughs in transforming healthcare. His insights resonated deeply with SSI MantraM’s mission to decentralize surgical care through pioneering engineering and connectivity solutions. Dr Fredric Moll, widely recognized as the Father of Surgical Robotics and Vice-Chairman of SS Innovations International Inc., shared his expertise on the evolution of robotic-assisted surgery, offering a glimpse into the next era of precision-driven medical advancements.

Dr. Michio Kaku, renowned theoretical physicist and futurist, speaking on the future of medical technology said, “Congratulations to SSI for making history by igniting the next revolution in robotic surgery. Today marks the beginning of an exciting new era, with SSI at the forefront of a transformation that will redefine the medical field. When historians look back, they will recognize that this moment set into motion a movement that will reverberate across the world, redefining the way surgery is performed. But this is only the beginning. We are witnessing the dawn of the next phase that goes beyond where we stand today. While this phase will shape the future for years to come, I can already see the emergence of something even greater: the integration of quantum mechanics into surgery. This will not just be robotic surgery; it will be quantum mechanical robotic surgery, an evolution that will once again revolutionize medicine. Years from now, history will mark SSI as the epicentre of this transformation, the place where visionaries, driven by energy and foresight, propelled this revolution forward. I eagerly await the next great leap, where quantum mechanics and robotic surgery merge, opening yet another frontier in medical innovation.”

Mr. Sonam Wangchuk, innovator and education reformist said, “Just as a doctor heals the sick, an environmental engineer heals the planet, diagnosing its ills and restoring its balance. By harnessing innovation, sustainable technology, and community-driven solutions, we can democratize environmental care, making sustainability accessible to all. A healthier planet isn’t just a vision; it’s a necessity for a just and thriving future.”

Dr. Fredric Moll, Father of Surgical Robotics, and Founder of Intuitive Surgical, said, “I am truly amazed by the progress made in developing the SSI Mantra, which is impressive both in its clinical capabilities and the remarkably short time in which it has been achieved. This accomplishment is a testament to the exceptional talent of Dr. Sudhir Srivastava and the SSI engineering team. Having lived and worked in the robotics space, I understand the immense challenges involved in such a feat. SSI’s creativity, persistence, and determination have been key to bringing this system to its current state. As robotics continue to evolve and become more intelligent, we are entering a new era of capabilities that will serve both patients and humanity in profound ways. I am incredibly excited to be a part of this journey.”

SMRSC 2025 featured insightful discussions on the transformative role of AI in robotic surgery, from pre-operative planning to intra-operative decision-making and post-operative care. The event also showcased groundbreaking live telesurgeries and tele-proctoring sessions, broadcasting real-time robotic surgeries across cardiac and multispeciality disciplines.

Furthermore, for the first time in India, telesurgery was performed across a distance of 1,700+ km, with Prof. Dr. Somashekhar S P, Surgical Oncologist, operating remotely from SS Innovations Headquarters, Gurgaon, while Dr. Kushal Agrawal, Associate Consultant – Surgical Oncology, assisted on-site at Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore. This breakthrough, led by SSI, is a significant step toward making advanced surgical care accessible across long distances.

Acknowledging the gathering of the renowned medical fraternity at SMRSC 2025, SS Innovations Founder, Chairman, and CEO, Dr. Sudhir Srivastava, said, “SMRSC 2025 is a testament to the power of collaboration, where the brightest minds in medicine come together to shape the future of robotic surgery. With a strong ‘Made in India’ vision, we are proud to lead the charge in robotic surgery innovation, bringing world-class technologies to the forefront. Robotics is the future, and as we move forward, these technologies will play a pivotal role in redefining precision, efficiency, and accessibility in healthcare. By bridging geographical gaps, enhancing surgical outcomes, and empowering medical professionals with unparalleled capabilities, we are transforming lives and setting new benchmarks in surgical excellence, ensuring that world-class healtcare reaches every corner of the globe.”

The conference culminated on a mesmerizing note with a soulful musical evening led by Padma Vibhushan awardee and Sarod maestro, Ustad Amjad Ali Khan. His captivating performance brought a cultural touch to the event, seamlessly connecting science, technology, and the arts.

With a strong emphasis on collaboration and knowledge-sharing, SMRSC 2025 is actively redefining the future of robotic-assisted surgery. The conference serves as a premier platform for surgeons, medical professionals, healthcare leaders, and technology innovators to come together and drive advancements in surgical excellence and innovation. By bridging the gap between medical expertise and technological breakthroughs, SMRSC 2025 highlights the transformative power of robotics in modern healthcare. As the landscape of surgery continues to evolve, the event stands as a testament to the impact of cutting-edge innovation, global collaboration, and a shared vision for accessible and precision-driven healthcare.

Volvo Car India Launches The New XC90

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Volvo Car India has unveiled the new XC90, at SPL Volvo dealership in Kolkata, with an ex-showroom price of Rs. 1,02,89,900. The new XC90 showcases a suite of advanced technology and refined design elements, further elevating the award-winning and best-selling flagship SUV.

“This iconic SUV has long been a cornerstone of our success, and we are thrilled to unleash the new XC90 onto the Indian market,” stated Mr. Jyoti Malhotra, Managing Director, Volvo Car India. “The SUV embodies the pinnacle of Swedish luxury and design, seamlessly integrating innovation and safety, the hallmarks of the Volvo brand. This vehicle delivers unparalleled comfort, spaciousness, versatility, and efficiency. Its refreshed, contemporary exterior design reinforces its commanding presence on the road.”

As with every Volvo, the new XC90 is designed to be one of the safest vehicles on the road. It features a robust safety cage and a comprehensive array of active safety technologies, ensuring the protection of occupants and other road users.

Utilizing the radar and front camera, the new XC90 can detect unintentional lane drifts and automatically steer the vehicle back into its lane, preventing potential collisions. It also includes run-off road mitigation and collision avoidance systems that can detect and react to other vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and large animals.

The new XC90 delivers unparalleled driving experience, characterized by exceptional seating comfort and an upgraded standard suspension. The individual dampers now adapt mechanically to real-time road conditions, optimizing both comfort and stability for a confident and relaxed journey.

The optional air suspension system, working in conjunction with an active chassis, monitors the vehicle, road, and driver 500 times per second to ensure the most comfortable ride. This system allows ride height adjustments, lowering the vehicle by 20mm for improved aerodynamics or raising it by 40mm for challenging terrains. Enhanced insulation further reduces wind and road noise, creating a serene cabin environment.

The redesigned interior of the new XC90 reflects contemporary Scandinavian design, featuring a more horizontal dashboard with premium recycled material decorative panels and new vertical air vents. Enhanced ambient lighting adds to the luxurious ambiance.

A new 11.2-inch central touchscreen with higher resolution and an updated user interface provides seamless access to a range of features, apps, and over-the-air software updates.

“We are thrilled to unveil the new Volvo XC90 at our dealership today,” said Mr. Nikunj Sanwaria, Dealer Principal of SPL Volvo. “This iconic SUV sets a new standard for the luxury auto segment in the Indian market. We are confident that our customers will be impressed with the XC90’s advanced technology, refined interior, and unparalleled comfort. We invite everyone to visit our showroom and experience the magnificence for themselves.”

Volkswagen Provides Preview Of Entry-Level Electric Model

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Since the Beetle, Volkswagen has been enabling affordable mobility for millions of people with compact and likeable cars. Now, with the world premiere of the ID. EVERY11 show car, the German car manufacturer is presenting an entry-level all-electric model. Volkswagen will launch the production version in 2027 – with a starting price of around 20,000 euros. The ID. 2all1 will be launched in the 25,000 euro class as early as in 2026. Both models are part of the new Electric Urban Car Family with front-wheel drive, which is being developed under the umbrella of the Core brand group in the Volkswagen Group. They are based on Volkswagen’s new modular electric drive platform: the MEB with front-wheel drive.

Maximum variety

Attractive mobility in the electric era from Europe for Europe is one of the central pillars of the brand’s plan for the future. With the European launch of the all-electric Urban Car Family from 2026, Volkswagen will offer the most diverse portfolio in the high-volume segment – from efficient combustion-engine models and advanced hybrids to future-oriented all-electric vehicles. Thomas Schäfer: “The ID. EVERY1 represents the last piece of the puzzle on our way to the widest model selection in the volume segment. We will then offer every customer the right car with the right drive system – including affordable all-electric entry-level mobility,” says Schäfer. “Our goal is to be the world’s technologically leading high-volume manufacturer by 2030. And as a brand for everyone – just as you would expect from Volkswagen.”

Focus on people

“In the future model, we talk about Customer Defined Vehicles. The ID. EVERY1 shows that we are putting our customers, their wishes, interests and preferences at the centre of vehicle development more consistently than ever,” says Kai Grünitz, member of the Volkswagen Brand Board of Management responsible for Development. The production version of the ID. EVERY1 will be the first model in the entire Group to use a fundamentally new, particularly powerful software architecture. This means that the future entry-level Volkswagen can be equipped with new functions throughout its entire life cycle if its users so wish. Even after purchase of a new car, the vehicle can still be individually adapted to their needs.

Characteristic design with charisma and identity

The up! – the immediate predecessor of the ID. EVERY1 – built until 2023 still impresses today with its clear, unmistakable design. The new Volkswagen design language also picks up on characteristic elements in the EVERY1. Volkswagen Head of Design Andreas Mindt: “Our ambition was to create something bold yet accessible. The ID. EVERY1 has a self-assured appearance but remains likeable – thanks to details such as the dynamic front lights and the ‘smiling’ rear. These design elements make it more than just a car: they give it character and an identity that people can relate to.”

New MEB with electric front-wheel drive

Following the ID. 2all and the sport version ID. Concept GTI, the ID. EVERY1 belongs to the Electric Urban Car Family and is based on the new modular electric drive platform. Thanks to the electric front-wheel drive, the MEB platform offers revolutionary space utilisation and maximum efficiency. The concept vehicle reaches a top speed of 130 km/h and is powered by a newly developed electric drive motor with 70 kW (95 PS). The range is at least 250 kilometres. With a length of 3,880 mm, the ID. EVERY1 is positioned between the former up! (3,600 mm), the ID. 2all (4,050 mm) and the current Polo (4,074 mm). Inside, it offers space for four people and a luggage compartment volume of 305 litres.

The future plan of the Volkswagen brand

With the “Future Volkswagen” agreement, Volkswagen AG agreed with the employee side at the end of December 2024 on a vision that combines economic stability, employment and technological leadership in the field of sustainable mobility. Binding targets and the measures agreed for them form the foundation for key future projects. The Volkswagen brand is pursuing a clearly defined three-phase plan for this:

Catch up

Strengthen competitiveness and expand the existing model range in a targeted manner. Coming next, the Volkswagen brand will give a further preview of the new Electric Urban Car Family in autumn 2025. There will be nine new models by 2027 including the production version of the ID.2all for less than €25,000 and the ID. EVERY1 for about €20,000. Volkswagen aims to become the technologically leading high-volume manufacturer with the safest, most innovative and best-selling cars by 2030.

The New Volvo ES90 Adds 300km In 10 Minutes And Goes 700km On One Charge

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Volvo ES90 teaser image

How about a new, fully electric Volvo car that can go just that little bit farther with less charging time? The upcoming Volvo ES90 does exactly that, thanks to the new 800V technology, which makes its debut in their latest fully electric model.

The benefits of an 800-volt electric system are numerous: your battery gets charged faster, your electric car gets an improved overall performance, and the electric system is more efficient compared with a 400-volt system.

Combine this with completely new battery management software and hardware, as well as a progressive design, and you get a car that goes farther and charges faster than any electric Volvo before. The ES90 can add 300 kilometres of range in just 10 minutes at 350kW fast-charging stations and offers a driving range of up to 700 kilometres under the WLTP testing cycle.

The ES90 is designed to be a premium Volvo car that gives you quality time with the people you love, providing you with peace of mind and balance, as well as a sense of convenience and control. A state-of-the-art electric system that enables faster charging and longer range is key to achieving that ambition. No matter where or how far your trip goes, the ES90 is designed to get you there reliably and comfortably.

“Our 800V technology marks another significant technological upgrade for our customers as we move towards full electrification,” says Anders Bell, Chief Engineering and Technology Officer. “It makes our electric cars even more efficient, helps you charge your electric Volvo faster and go farther on a single charge.”

To create the new 800-volt system, every component in the electric system has been upgraded to be compatible with 800 volts, including the battery cells, e-motors, inverter, charging as well as the climate and thermal systems. That creates benefits in terms of charging, efficiency and performance.

A higher-voltage system means that it can deliver more power (in kilowatts, or kW) and range with the same current as a 400-volt system. This approach generates less heat, meaning your battery can be charged faster up to 350kW without overloading the electric system.

The 800-volt system also contains lighter e-motors and other components, which reduces the car’s overall weight. This also improves the system’s efficiency, while boosting the car’s acceleration and driving range.

The brand-new in-house-developed battery management software creates a more robust charging experience. Compared to other electric Volvo cars, our new software cuts the time it takes to charge your ES90 from 10 to 80 per cent by as much as 30 per cent, down to 20 minutes. This is partly thanks to the integration of adaptive charging software from Breathe Battery Technologies, a company Volvo has invested in last year via the Volvo Cars Tech Fund, our corporate venture capital arm.

However, battery technology is not the only area in which the ES90 is a star performer. It also helps Volvo make progress in other sustainability-related areas. For example, the ES90 is packed with recycled and natural materials that contribute to lower CO2 emissions in production. 29 per cent of all aluminum and 18 per cent of all steel used in the ES90 is recycled, while the ES90 also contains 16 per cent recycled polymers and bio-based materials. The wood panels inside the ES90 are made from FSC-certified wood.

The ES90 also comes with Volvo’s battery passport. Based on blockchain technology, this allows the company to track raw materials. The passport tells you where the lithium, cobalt, nickel and graphite used in the battery originate from. It also highlights the CO2 footprint of the full battery pack and other relevant information. For customers, this provides transparency about how Volvo sources raw battery material in a responsible way.

Hyundai Motor Company President and CEO José Muñoz Holds Town Hall With Employees At Namyang R&D Center

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Hyundai Motor Company President and CEO José Muñoz held a town hall meeting with employees at the company’s Namyang R&D Center, his first such meeting since assuming the role of Hyundai Motor CEO. At the event, Muñoz underscored his commitment to direct communication with employees and that engineers share the common language of data and statistics.

Beginning the town hall, President Muñoz spoke directly about future business plans, emphasizing the importance of Hyundai Motor’s customer-centric philosophy and achieving the highest quality standards to ensure sustainable success amid the rapidly changing business environment.

“As an engineer myself, I have been looking forward to spending time with the outstanding team here at Namyang. I tend to challenge engineers, because I have high expectations for people I care about, like my family,” said President Muñoz.

President Muñoz shared his reflections on his first two months as CEO and outlined Hyundai Motor’s management strategy, future vision, and approach to overcoming key challenges. In relation to electric vehicles (EVs) and autonomous driving technology, Muñoz emphasized that Hyundai and its employees can achieve greater success together through advanced technology development and strategic partnerships.

“We will succeed by continuing to deliver beautifully designed, high-quality vehicles with technology that customers want. We must treat our customers as honored guests and provide exceptional service,” he said.

Muñoz also shared his leadership approach, offering insights from his extensive global automotive and mobility industry experience. Since joining Hyundai Motor Company in 2019, he has driven significant growth and profitability, solidifying his leadership in the global mobility industry.

Speaking at the town hall, President and CEO Muñoz said, “It’s an honor to serve our customers, employees, dealers, suppliers and other stakeholders in this new capacity. I’m excited and motivated by the tremendous opportunities for Hyundai around the world.”

Attended by more than 800 employees – including President and Head of Research and Development Division, Heui Won Yang, and Executive Vice President and Hyundai Motor Company Chief HR Officer, Hae In Kim – the hour-long session reinforced the pivotal role the Namyang R&D Center has played in Hyundai Motor’s position as a top three global mobility brand, as well as its importance in the company’s future. The Center plays a key function in leading Hyundai Motor’s differentiated product strategies tailored to the needs of local markets, as well as delivering industry-leading quality, safety and technology innovations.

Celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, the 3.47 million-square-meter facility is a comprehensive research and development hub, with world-class capabilities in software development, design and engineering, and vehicle testing and evaluation.

“Namyang, our global center for R&D, has a phenomenal track record of delivering beautifully designed, high-quality, safety-focused vehicles with technology and features that our customers value,” Muñoz commented.

“This is evidenced through Hyundai’s increasing sales, market share, profitability, and industry accolades around the world. I don’t think any brand has won more World Car of the Year Awards than Hyundai in the last few years, and we can trace this back to all the excellent work happening here in Namyang. This is where the magic happens!” he added.

Joining those at Namyang digitally, the town hall was also livestreamed globally to Hyundai Motor colleagues across the world, including at headquarters in Seoul and operations in China, Japan, the United Arab Emirates, India, and the Asia-Pacific regional offices in Indonesia and Australia.

The session included an open Q&A, encouraging direct dialogue between leadership and employees. Asked about overcoming the challenge of global EV adoption, Muñoz highlighted the company’s strategic approach:

“We continue to lead the transition to electrification. We understand that this business is based on consumer demand, which is why we continue to invest in hybrid electric vehicles, extended range electric vehicles (EREV), hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, and vehicles powered by internal combustion. More powertrain choices across our lineup are emblematic of our flexible approach.”

Muñoz took questions on other areas of Hyundai Motor’s global business, including autonomous driving technology, outlining that, “Autonomous driving has incredible potential to make driving safer by drastically reducing accidents, as well as being more convenient and efficient. We are making long-term investments with autonomous driving. Our Advanced Vehicle Platform division is doing a great job leading this internally here in Namyang.”

Closing the event, Muñoz called on all Hyundai Motor employees worldwide to continue striving for excellence, encouraging them to “Stay humble, stay hungry, work hard and always have a customer service mindset – I am here to serve you so we can serve our customers together.”

Honda Presents World Premiere Of Honda 0 Saloon And Honda 0 SUV Prototypes At CES 2025

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Honda today presented the world premiere of two prototype models at CES 2025 – Honda 0 Saloon and Honda 0 SUV – representing two Honda 0 Series models to be introduced to global markets from 2026. The company also introduced its original vehicle operating system (OS), the ASIMO OS, to be applied to its global EV series.

  • Honda 0 Saloon

By further advancing the concept model introduced last year at CES 2024, the Honda 0 Saloon prototype was developed in preparation for a market launch in 2026. While maintaining the exact styling design of the concept model, the prototype features both the low height and sporty styling that sets the Saloon apart from other EVs, and an interior space that is more spacious than people would expect based on the exterior dimensions.

The Honda 0 Saloon, the flagship model of the Honda 0 Series, will be based on the newly developed dedicated EV architecture and will feature a number of next-generation technologies that embody the “Thin, Light and Wise” development approach.

At CES 2025, Honda is focusing on introducing certain technologies and features that contribute to the “Wise” value of the Honda 0 Saloon. This includes the highly reliable Level 3 automated driving technology, which Honda put into practical use for the first time in the world, as well as “ultra-personal optimization” that will offer a mobility experience customized for each individual user, which will become possible with the ASIMO OS. 

The production model of the Honda 0 Saloon is scheduled to be introduced first in the North American market in 2026, then in global markets, including Japan and Europe. 

  • Honda 0 SUV

Based on the Space-Hub concept model unveiled at CES 2024, proposing the new value of EVs as a “space” for people that Honda will offer with its future EV models, the company has now presented the prototype of a mid-size EV SUV – which will be the first Honda 0 Series model. By applying the “Thin, Light, and Wise” approach to an SUV, the interior space was further increased, and a spacious cabin was achieved with an outstandingly clear and unrestricted field of view with great flexibility.

Alongside the wide variety of next-generation technologies, the Honda 0 SUV will apply high-precision attitude estimation and stabilization control. This is based on 3D gyro sensors, technology Honda has amassed through the development of its original robotics technologies, to enable dynamics at the will of the driver on various road surfaces.

The production model of the Honda 0 SUV is scheduled to be introduced first in North American market in the first half of 2026, then in global markets, including Japan and Europe. 

  • ASIMO OS

Honda 0 Series models will be equipped with the ASIMO OS, an original vehicle OS developed by Honda, which will be the core technology to achieve the ‘Wise’ value of the global EV series.

ASIMO was a humanoid robot capable of autonomous walking, developed as part of Honda fundamental technology research with the aim of helping people while coexisting with those in society. Honda began robotics research and development in 1986, and introduced ASIMO in 2000, becoming an icon in the field of robotics from the 2000s through 2010s and loved by people all over the world.

Even after concluding development of ASIMO, Honda has been further advancing its robotics technologies, including those that recognize external environments and autonomous behavior control enabling ASIMO to understand the intentions of people around it. By combining such robotics technologies with advanced intelligence technologies for the Honda 0 Series, the company strives to offer a unique value for software defined vehicles (SDVs).

As a software platform, ASIMO OS will apply integrated control of electronic control units (ECUs) for vehicle systems such as automated driving / advanced driver assistance systems (AD/ADAS) and the in-vehicle infotainment (IVI) system.

By constantly updating the in-vehicle software through over the air (OTA) updates even after the purchase of the vehicle, functions and services will be continuously advanced in accordance with the preferences and needs of each user. The functions and services subject to constant updates include those which enhance the value of “space” and the digital UX, that ensures a fun and comfortable mobility experience. Also, integrated control of dynamics unique to Honda, that determines the joy of driving, enabling the driver to feel at one with the vehicle.

  • Automated driving (AD) technology

In 2021, Honda became the world’s first automaker to put Level 3 automated driving equipment into practical use with the launch of the all-new Legend equipped with Honda SENSING Elite, which qualified for Level 3 automated driving (eyes-off), and conditional driving automation in limited areas.

Honda developed Honda SENSING Elite to put this AD technology into practical use by anticipating all driving conditions and scenarios based on the premise that, in addition to reducing the number of traffic collisions in society, Honda AD must completely eliminate traffic accidents that people think a “human driver could avoid.”

Honda believes that the widespread use of eyes-off technology will lead toward the realization of zero traffic collision fatalities in the future. Based on this belief, Honda will strive to offer affordable automated driving vehicles to more customers around the world through the Honda 0 Series.

To this end, Honda has applied an original Honda AI technology that combines the unsupervised learning*1 technology of Helm.ai and the behavior models of experienced drivers, which enable AI to learn with smaller amounts of data, and efficiently expand the range of situations where automated driving and driver assistance can be available.

In addition, Honda will apply its original cooperative AI developed through research into people and mobility to further improve the precision of cooperative behavior, such as yielding the right of way to others on the road, which is difficult even for a human driver. By applying these advanced technologies, Honda will realize a highly reliable driver assistance system that can respond quickly and appropriately to unexpected situations, such as an animal darting into the lane or an object falling onto the road.

Honda 0 Series models will be equipped with a system that enables the expansion of the range of driving conditions where driver assistance and Level 3 automated driving will be available. This expansion will start with eyes-off technology available in traffic congestion on highways, and will continue through OTA updates.

With Level 3 automated driving, the vehicle will be in charge of driving, which will enable a human driver to perform a “second task” while en route to their destination, whether watching a movie or remotely joining a meeting. Honda will further advance its technologies and become the first automaker to expand the application of eyes-off functions to all driving situations, opening up new possibilities for mobility.

  • Development of SoC dedicated to Honda 0 Series

Honda and Renesas Electronics Corporation (Renesas) have announced an agreement to develop a high-performance system-on-chip (SoC) to realize the future SDVs the company aims to achieve with Honda 0 Series models.

For next generation models, which will be launched in the late 2020s, Honda will adopt a centralized E&E architecture that combines multiple ECUs, responsible for controlling vehicle systems, into a single, core ECU. This will serve as the heart of the SDV and manage various vehicle systems, such as AD/ADAS, powertrain control, and comfort features. To achieve this, the ECU requires a SoC that provides higher processing performance than traditional systems, while minimizing any increase in power consumption.

To fulfill such requirements, Honda and Renesas will realize a system that utilizes multi-die chiplet technology*2 to combine the Renesas generic fifth generation (Gen 5) R-Car X5 SoC series with an AI accelerator optimized for AI software developed independently by Honda. With this combination, the two companies aim to develop a system that achieves one of the industry’s top class AI performances of 2,000 TOPS*3 (Sparse) with 20 TOPS/W power efficiency.

*1 Unsupervised learning is one of the methods of machine learning, which supports AI. Unlike supervised learning through which AI learns the correct answers to derive from labeled input data, unsupervised learning lets AI learn without being provided with the correct answers and derives the patterns and unique characteristics of the unlabeled data on its own.
*2 Technology to build a system by combining multiple chips (dies) with different functions
*3 Tera Operations Per Second (TOPS) is a metric of AI processing performance and measures the number of operations that can be performed per second. Based on a sparse AI model. 

Your Next Uber Could Be One Of The World’s Most Luxurious Electric Cars

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This October, Uber riders in London will have the chance to experience high-end luxury and sustainability in one ride, as a fleet of ultra-luxurious Lotus Eletre Hyper-SUVs joins the Uber Green fleet for a limited time. Riders can book these cutting-edge electric vehicles via the Uber app’s Uber Green option and experience the future of zero-emission transport.

With nearly 30% of Uber’s miles in London now fully electric, the initiative supports the city’s journey toward a cleaner, greener future. To encourage more riders to go electric, Uber has launched a special competition: the rider who saves the most emissions by the end of November by taking Uber Green trips will win free Uber Green rides for a decade.

Riders will have until November 30 to rack up their electric miles. All Uber riders can track the emissions they’ve saved by taking Uber Green using the in-app Emissions Savings tool, which launched earlier this year.

Andrew Brem, General Manager for Uber UK, said: “We’re thrilled to team up with Lotus to combine cutting-edge luxury with sustainable travel. Uber drivers are already leading the way, going electric far quicker than regular motorists – making London Uber’s global capital for electrification. Now we’re excited to allow our riders to experience one of the world’s most exciting electric cars.”

Conor Horne, Commercial Director of UK and Ireland at Lotus said: ”We are incredibly excited to partner with Uber to have a fleet of our all-electric Lotus Eletre available in London via the app for passengers to experience and enjoy. We hope this initiative will not only enhance the riding experience for Uber customers but also contribute to a greener city, something we at Lotus are very passionate about.”

Uber Green, which first launched in central London in 2021, allows riders to book a zero-emissions ride for the same price as an UberX, since its launch Uber has saved 55,000 tonnes of carbon emissions in London. Drivers taking Uber Green trips also earn 10% more on those trips compared to an UberX. Uber drivers are making the switch five times quicker than regular motorists.

The Eletre, Lotus’ first all-electric Hyper-SUV, redefines the passenger experience by combining luxurious comfort with cutting-edge technology. Passengers can enjoy a spacious interior designed for relaxation, featuring premium materials and a world-class infotainment system.

Through the combination of exceptional aerodynamics, outstanding comfort, and true Lotus performance, the Eletre is the perfect option for those seeking an exceptional drive with a new luxury experience.

The cars will be licensed and managed via Otto Cars, London’s largest private hire provider. Gurinder Dhillon, Otto Cars CEO, said: “We are delighted to power-up this concept for Uber and Lotus. Let’s prove that a sustainable ride can be a thrilling experience, without the smoke.”

Nissan To Launch Affordable Vehicle To Grid Technology From 2026

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Nissan today announced it will launch affordable on-board bi-directional charging on selected electric vehicles from 2026. The initiative forms a key step towards its vision of creating a sustainable energy ecosystem.

The project progresses the commitment made in Nissan’s business plan, The Arc, delivering differentiated innovation that enables the EV transition, while unlocking new revenue streams. It also supports the company’s long-term vision, Ambition 2030, to create a cleaner, safer, and more inclusive world.

The Vehicle to Grid (V2G) technology, which allows EV owners to use electricity stored in their car’s battery to power their homes, or sell it back into the grid, will launch in the UK initially, followed by other markets in Europe.

The project is underpinned by Nissan’s extensive experience in V2G, with around 40 pilot projects conducted worldwide throughout the past decade.

Following a successful year-long project at The University of Nottingham, UK, Nissan has become the first car company to gain G99 Grid code certification with an AC-based solution, needed to supply electricity into the UK national energy supply.

Under the banner of Nissan Energy, the company’s aim is to roll-out V2G technology across markets in Europe and beyond, empowering consumers with either AC or DC-based V2G solutions, in alignment with local infrastructure and regulatory requirements.

Benefits of Vehicle-to-grid technology
By using Nissan’s on-board bi-directional V2G technology, customers can cut the annual cost of powering an EV by 50%. The same technology can also reduce net CO2 emissions from charging by 30% per year, per EV for the average UK household.

EVs equipped with V2G technology can play a crucial role in integrating and increasing the mix of renewables into the energy supply, by storing electricity generated by wind or solar, and directing it back into the grid when needed, reducing dependency on fossil fuels.

As one of the bi-directional systems Nissan plans to offer, this AC-bidirectional system certified in the UK will leverage an integrated on-board charger to deliver a lower cost of entry, allowing the technology to be accessible to more people. Nissan aims to offer its AC bi-directional charger at a price comparable to a mono-directional charger available today.

As well as lowering the cost of entry, Nissan’s V2G system will give customers complete control and flexibility over their energy via a dedicated App.

The launch forms part of Nissan’s strategy to create a fully integrated energy ecosystem – sustainably manufactured EVs providing zero emission motoring, charged using clean energy and capable of providing power back to the home as well as to the grid.

Hugues Desmarchelier, Nissan Vice President, Global Electrification Ecosystem & EV Programs, said: “The technology we are bringing to customers is a potential game-changer for how we view the car. Not just as a means of getting from A to B, but as a mobile energy storage unit, capable of saving people money, supporting the transition of our energy systems away from fossil fuels and bringing us closer to a carbon-free future.

“Nissan is proud to democratise technology for the benefit of society. The breakthrough in an on-board solution for two-way charging will be a substantial reduction in the cost of integrating a future EV into your energy supply, and the ability to leverage the car as a source of income over its lifecycle.”

Nissan aims to become a truly sustainable company, and in the Africa, Middle East, India, Europe and Oceania region (AMIEO) is using its unique diversity to drive locally-focussed action and scalable solutions that contribute to a cleaner, safer and more inclusive world for everyone.

Strong partnerships support successful UK trial
The V2G UK trial has been partly funded by the UK Government’s Advanced Propulsion Centre, a body established to support and accelerate the automotive industry’s transition towards net zero.
The V2G UK trial has been partly funded by the UK Government’s Advanced Propulsion Centre UK (APC), a body established to support and accelerate the automotive industry’s transition towards net zero.

APC Chief Executive, Ian Constance, said: “This is a significant milestone for the collaborative research and development project, led by Nissan Technical Centre Europe and supported by the Department for Business and Trade through the APC. Investing in pioneering vehicle-to-grid technology and R&D in the UK is part of a system-level approach to decarbonisation.”

Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood, said: “Vehicle to grid technology is a fantastic innovation which has the potential to save people money and accelerate the UK’s transition to electric vehicles.

“A greener transport network is a key priority for this Government, and by working together with industry we will boost consumer confidence and achieve our shared goal of getting more EVs on the road.”

During the trial, Nissan worked with several partners including Dreev and Enovates.
Dreev, a joint venture between EDF and NUVVE, was responsible for data collection, customer profiling and setting the charging and discharging plan by analysing information from the wall box.

Eric Mévellec, CEO for Dreev commented: “We have been working alongside Nissan for years on this revolutionary technological adventure, and we are thrilled to be a part of this new chapter. We are convinced that, by reducing the electricity bill for the customers while providing huge storage capabilities for the electrical system, V2x technology has a major role to play in the energy transition”

Enovates, a Belgian-based mobility technology company, developed the wall box, or Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE), including set-up and test certification.

The wall box acts as the system hub, sending and receiving information on energy demand and supply from the Dreev cloud, and directing the car to charge or discharge electricity at a set amount to the home or grid.

Bart Vereecke, CEO of Enovates, said: “Enovates is proud to partner with Nissan in demonstrating through the Field Operating Test the real-world benefits of AC V2G technology. This test marks an important step in creating a sustainable, interconnected energy future where electric vehicles play a central role in sustainable mobility solutions and resolving energy grid congestions.”

“Enovates has always been committed to pushing the boundaries of V2G technology, and we are excited to bring our expertise in AC charging to this project,” added Stijn Vispoel, R&D Manager. “Our certified AC V2G chargers represent the next generation of energy technology, offering accessible, efficient, and smart solutions for the future of transportation and energy.”

The University of Nottingham was also pivotal in the trial, providing a base of operations at its on-campus Creative Energy Homes and supporting academic research.

Nissan is continuing to work with these, and other partners, to achieve the necessary grid certification in other markets, develop a seamless user experience and expand the technology availability to more customers.

Chairperson of Nissan’s Africa, Middle East, India, Europe and Oceania region, Guillaume Cartier, commented: “One of the big challenges faced by society today is energy supply – how do we make it affordable, reliable and clean.

“At Nissan, we see a future for our customers where their energy comes from the car on the driveway – not only the power station – fully integrated, flexible and cleaner.”

Oben Electric Launches Nationwide Dussehra Festive Campaign

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Oben Electric, one of India’s homegrown electric vehicle manufacturers, is kicking off the Dussehra season with a nationwide campaign packed with irresistible deals that promises to electrify the festivities. From September 29 to October 12, customers can purchase Oben Electric’s flagship performance electric motorcycle, Oben Rorr at an ex-showroom price of INR 1,19,99, a flat INR 30,000 savings on the original ex-showroom price of INR 1,49,999. In addition, each purchase includes an extended 5-year warranty and an opportunity to win iPhone 15, iPad Mini, and Sony headphones.

Adding to the festive excitement, Oben Electric will also host a special Dussehra Dhamaal Day across its showrooms in Bengaluru, Delhi, and Pune. These exclusive one-day events will give customers the chance to win up to a massive ₹60,000 in total savings on the Oben Rorr, dropping the price to an astonishing ₹89,999. The Bengaluru event will take place on September 29 (HSR Layout showroom), followed by Delhi (Dwarka showroom) on October 2, and Pune (Wakad showroom) on October 6.

Madhumita Agrawal, Founder and CEO of Oben Electric said, “At Oben Electric, we are always looking for ways to bring more value to our customers, and the Dussehra Festive Offer is our way of celebrating this joyous season with the people who are driving India’s transition to electric mobility. We aim to make our electric motorcycle a superior choice in performance, safety, and sustainability. This festive season, we’re excited to provide enticing discounts and offers, to ensure that more customers can experience the reliability and quality of Oben Electric’s innovative EV motorcycle.”

This festive announcement follows Oben Electric’s aggressive expansion plans, which include opening 60 new showrooms across key Indian cities in the coming months. With a strong presence in Bengaluru, Pune, Delhi, and Kerala, Oben Electric continues to grow its footprint, making electric mobility solutions accessible to every corner of India. The brand’s LFP battery technology sets it apart from competitors by offering superior performance, 50% greater heat resistance and extended lifespan, reinforcing Oben’s position as a trusted partner in India’s electric mobility revolution.