CX Insights - Trend Watch - Automotive Industry (ICYMI August 2024)
In the ever-evolving landscape of automotive innovation, during August we learned about some new initiatives in advanced autonomous driving and sustainable energy solutions. Let us dive into these developments...
| THE AUTONOMOUS ADVENTURE IN GERMAN LUXURY
While most of the press on autonomous driving focuses on the autonomous driving application of robotaxis – there is continuous development in autonomous driving technology beyond ride sharing. The race to perfect autonomous driving continues to heat up, as players like Mercedes and BMW continue to invest in technology.
Mercedes has recently received approval to test its Level 4 self-driving capabilities on Beijing’s highways and urban roads, marking a significant milestone in the journey toward fully autonomous vehicles.
Meanwhile, BMW is pushing the envelope by integrating Level 2 and Level 3 driving assistance systems into its new 7 Series, offering unparalleled comfort and innovation. These advancements are not just about convenience; they represent a fundamental shift in how we interact with our vehicles and navigate our cities.
| SUSTAINABILITY BEYOND ALTERNATIVE ENGINES
While we usually focus on electric vehicles as the path to carbon reduction, there are many other innovative and operational strategies that will also help reduce our carbon footprint. Last month, we learned about a couple of new developments worth noting.
One, if we reduce the temperature outside the car, less energy is required to cool or heat for comfort. As temperatures rise, so does the need for innovative solutions to keep our vehicles cool.
Nissan’s new Cool Paint, developed in partnership with Radi-Cool, claims to reduce cabin temperatures by up to 41 F, significantly cutting down on A/C energy consumption. Hyundai and Kia are also stepping up their game with technologies like Nano Cooling Film and Radiant Heating Systems. These advancements are not just about comfort; they are about enhancing the overall driving experience and making our journeys more enjoyable, no matter the weather.
The push toward sustainability is evident in the automotive industry’s latest initiatives. In August, GM signed its largest renewable energy deal to date, a 15-year renewable energy purchase agreement with NorthStar Clean Energy to fuel three GM assembly plants – a testament to its commitment to carbon neutrality by 2040.
And when it comes to engine types – why choose? Toyota is also making strides with its new range of combustion engines that can run on petrol, synthetic fuel or hydrogen, highlighting a multi-pathway approach to achieving lower emissions. These efforts highlight the industry’s dedication to finding diverse and innovative ways to reduce its environmental impact.
| WHEN ALL ELSE FAILS, WHY NOT LET YOUR CAR DO THE TALKING?
Thanks to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s latest push for vehicle-to-everything (V2X) technology, your car can now chat with the road, traffic lights, and even pedestrians.
It’s like having your car’s people call the road’s people to ensure a smoother, safer journey. With grants and support rolling out, this tech promises to reduce crashes and improve traffic flow, making our commutes a whole lot smarter. So next time you’re stuck in traffic, just remember: your car might be negotiating a green light on your behalf!
The future of mobility continues to be shaped by groundbreaking innovation. As these trends continue to evolve, they promise to make our journeys safer, more comfortable and more environmentally friendly. Buckle up as we continue to bring you the monthly happenings in our ICYMI …
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