News Automotive

The Graz University of Technology (TU Graz) has developed an automated CCS rapid charging system for electric cars. The robot-assisted prototype enables the sequential charging of different vehicles entering the charging space one after the other.

The software firm Kaspersky Lab has investigated car sharing apps from well-known developers. The result: several security vulnerabilities make it easy for hackers to target users. 

Car manufacturer Audi claims its e-tron model will be the first electric car fitted with brake-by-wire technology. Depending on the driving situation, the brake system decides whether the Audi will decelerate using the electric motors, the wheel brake, or a combination of the two. 

Mazda has developed a research project focussing on creating a new, low-carbon fuel alongside research into internal combustion engines that use the fuel.

Together car manufacturer Audi and communications technology company Ericsson aim to investigate the potential for network technology and mobile connectivity 5G in automobile production. For this purpose, a 5G radio cell test field has been set up.

Renault Trucks has optimised a temperature controlled truck in terms of aerodynamics, drive train, tires and connectivity. The Urban Lab 2 now consumes 12.8 percent less fuel in city and regional traffic.

Minuscule micro- and nano-particles can improve surface hardening when added to zinc flake coatings. The particles can also extend the corrosion protection under mechanical stress.

Toyota has further developed its heavy-duty fuel cell truck. Alongside a higher range, the Beta truck offers increased suitability for everyday use and better manoeuvrability. 

Series production of electric motors has started at Audi’s site in Győr, Hungary. The electric motors are manufactured on a floor space of 8,500 square metres using an innovative modular assembly production concept. 

Daimler is building two new battery plants in Germany. In addition, the Stuttgart-based car manufacturer is furthering its relationship with Baidu in China in order to accelerate the development of automated driving. 

Students at Eindhoven University of Technology have developed the Noah concept car. The electrically powered Noah consists largely of recyclable, bio-based raw materials. 

The third Hyperloop competition took place in Los Angeles, where the Technical University of Munich (TUM) won for the third time in a row. 

Aston Martin has unveiled its vision of an air-taxi – the Vision Volante Concept. The British-based company’s concept is an autonomous hybrid-electric luxury compact aircraft with room for three passengers. 

Based on the BMW M2, the new BMW M Performance Parts Concept Coupé, which was unveiled at the Festival of Speed in Goodwood, is lighter due to the use of many carbon fibre components. 

Based on the 570 S Coupé, the new McLaren 600LT super sports car is the lightest, most powerful and fastest road-legal model in the McLaren Sports Series range. 

Bosch and Daimler will test a shuttle service with automated vehicles on selected routes in California from mid-2019. Nvidia is supplying the platform for the artificial intelligence algorithms generated by Bosch and Daimler. 

Scientists are developing a self-healing clear coat that is expected to make scratches in the car body disappear with the help of bio-based polymers and a new operating principle.

In recent days, new partnerships between German and Chinese companies in the automotive sector have been announced as part of the Chinese state visit to Germany. 

CATL will establish its first battery cell plant outside China, in Thuringia, Germany. The production facility in the Erfurt Kreuz industrial park will have a capacity of 14 GWh per year.  

The British automotive industry does not fear Brexit as much as the transition to sustainable mobility. That is why the country has drawn up a roadmap for low-emission mobility.