Volkswagen has set a new standard in automotive technology by announcing the integration of ChatGPT AI chatbot into its IDA voice assistant, unveiled at CES 2024. This groundbreaking move makes Volkswagen the first volume manufacturer to introduce ChatGPT as a standard feature in its production vehicles, starting in the second quarter of 2024.
The AI integration, powered by Cerence Chat Pro from technology partner Cerence Inc., is set to enhance the driving experience in various Volkswagen models equipped with the latest generation of infotainment. The following models will boast this innovative feature: ID.7, ID.4, ID.5, ID.3, Tiguan, Passat, and Golf.
Intelligent Functionality for Enhanced Connectivity
Volkswagen’s IDA voice assistant, complemented by ChatGPT, will serve as an intelligent AI database in the specified models. The system can read out content to users while driving, adding a new layer of interaction and convenience. The AI chatbot functionality is seamlessly integrated into controlling infotainment, navigation, air conditioning, and answering general knowledge questions.
In a groundbreaking showcase at CES 2024, Mercedes-Benz is driving innovation to new heights with a range of digital advancements aimed at revolutionising the customer experience both inside and outside the car. The centrepiece of this technological leap is the introduction of the MBUX Virtual Assistant, incorporating generative AI and advanced 3D graphics for a more natural, intuitive, and personalised interaction.
MBUX Virtual Assistant Leads the Digital Revolution
Powered by the all-new Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), the MBUX Virtual Assistant stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to an extraordinary digital experience.
The MBUX Virtual Assistant unveiled at CES 2024, introduces a human-like interface with natural and empathetic interactions. With four distinct emotions, it leverages generative AI and proactive intelligence to enhance life’s convenience and comfort. The integration of MB.OS and advanced 3D game-engine graphics extend to MBUX Surround Navigation, seamlessly merging route guidance and assistance for an unparalleled driving experience.
Honda is set to introduce a fresh logo for its electric vehicles (EVs), updating the current “H” that has been a constant presence on all Honda cars since 1981.
The new logo, described as representing “two outstretched hands,” features a thinner and more minimalist design compared to the current H, omitting the trapezoid border. This logo transformation bears a resemblance to Honda’s original logo from 1963, with a similar thin and top-heavy structure.
The updated logo is scheduled to debut on the upcoming 0 Series electric cars, a new lineup of next-generation EVs set to be introduced in the United States starting in 2026.
Saloon
The first two 0 Series vehicles, the Saloon and Space-Hub concepts, will showcase the redesigned emblem, with the Saloon serving as inspiration for a future production model in the American market.
Volkswagen unintentionally leaked images of the refreshed Golf during the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. Although the official unveiling was not planned, the leak provided a glimpse into the design changes and improvements coming to the popular hatchback.
The leaked images, visible on the Golf’s infotainment system, showcase the GTI variant with several noticeable design modifications:
Thinner Headlights: The refreshed Golf features sleeker headlights, providing a more modern and refined look.
Chunkier Lower Grille: The lower grille has been redesigned, contributing to a more aggressive and sportier appearance.
Reshaped Air Intakes: Changes to the front air intakes further enhance the hatchback’s aesthetic appeal.
Interestingly, the grille depicted on the infotainment system differs from the real car displayed at CES, sparking speculation about potential variations in the Clubsport model or intentional misdirection by Volkswagen.
Honda has unveiled its “Honda 0 Series,” a forthcoming global electric vehicle (EV) series scheduled to debut in 2026. The series will kick off with two concept models, the Saloon and Space-Hub, showcased at CES 2024. These concept models provide a glimpse into Honda’s new design and engineering approach, emphasising thin, light, and wise principles, aimed at overcoming traditional constraints in battery electric vehicles.
Saloon
The Saloon, positioned as the flagship model, is built on a dedicated EV platform, featuring a low and wide exterior design complemented by a surprisingly spacious interior. Sustainability is at the forefront, with the use of eco-friendly materials both inside and outside the vehicle. The Saloon introduces advancements in steer-by-wire and motion control management systems, leveraging Honda’s expertise in robotics. Notably, it incorporates posture control to assist drivers in various situations, aligning with the “joy of driving” in the EV era. Honda plans to bring a production vehicle based on the Saloon concept to the North American market in 2026.
The Space-Hub, designed around the theme of “augmenting people’s daily lives,” prioritises a spacious cabin and excellent visibility. Following the “Thin, Light, and Wise” development approach, the Space-Hub offers a versatile interior that can accommodate various passengers, functioning as a “hub” connecting people and the external environment.
Space-Hub
Honda has introduced a new H mark logo exclusively for its next-generation EV models. This logo, representing two outstretched hands, signifies Honda’s commitment to transformation and ongoing pursuit of challenges and advancements. The logo will be featured on future Honda EVs, including models from the Honda 0 Series.
The Honda 0 Series embodies a fresh approach to EV development, guided by three core principles: Thin, Light, and Wise. These principles aim to challenge conventional limitations in battery electric vehicles and build upon Honda’s long-standing engineering philosophies, such as “M/M” (man maximum/machine minimum). Key aspects of the Honda 0 Series will include a dedicated thin EV platform for aerodynamic performance, software-defined mobility products for an intelligent user experience, advancements in design, automated driving, connected technologies, performance, and battery efficiency.
Space-Hub
The series will introduce a new design philosophy called “The Art of Resonance,” emphasising harmony among the environment, society, and users through sustainable materials and emotionally resonant design. Honda 0 Series models will feature an advanced driver-assistive system (ADAS) based on Honda SENSING Elite technologies, with plans to introduce the next generation of automated driving features in the late 2020s. The new AD system, developed around a “human-centric” safety concept, incorporates advanced AI, sensing, recognition, and driver monitoring technologies for human-like, natural, and high-precision risk predictions.
Saloon
Honda is also developing an original operating system for Honda 0 Series models, leveraging AI and driver data to learn user preferences and behaviours. The system will enhance the ownership experience by making suggestions and providing information about the surroundings, route guidance for the “last mile,” and continuous value addition based on user behaviour.
Space-Hub
The Honda 0 Series aims to deliver a sporty driving experience with electrification and performance technologies derived from Honda’s motorsports experience, including Formula 1 racing. The series will feature e-Axles for power and efficiency, advanced aerodynamic technologies, and a high-density battery offering ample range while minimising size. To address concerns about charging time and battery degradation, Honda 0 Series models launching in the late 2020s will offer fast-charging reduced to about 10-15 minutes from 15% to 80% battery capacity. Additionally, Honda aims to minimise battery degradation to less than 10% after 10 years of use through advanced battery system control technology.
The ongoing shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) is encountering an unexpected obstacle – a reluctance among buyers to invest in used electric cars. This trend is not only impacting the thriving secondhand market, with prices dropping faster than their combustion-engine counterparts, but it is also sending shockwaves through the new EV market, affecting industry giants like Tesla, Volkswagen, and Stellantis.
Market Dynamics and Pricing Wars
According to a report in Japan Times by Monica Raymunt, in the $1.2 trillion secondhand market, the value of battery-powered cars is plummeting due to factors such as a lack of subsidies, consumer anticipation for improved technology, and ongoing challenges in charging infrastructure. A fierce pricing battle initiated by Tesla and competition from Chinese models is further contributing to the depreciation of both new and used EVs.
This underscores the delicate balance automakers face in pricing their EVs competitively while ensuring sustainable profits. The current scenario may necessitate a reevaluation of pricing strategies to ensure long-term market viability.
In 2024, BYD is set to achieve a significant milestone with the launch of its first utility vehicle (ute), which has been spotted in near-production form during testing in Australia. The BYD ute has been designed to meet the demands of the rugged Australian terrain, with collaborative efforts between Australian and BYD engineers.
Images from testing by Autospy reveal an exterior that combines sleekness with robustness. The interior is expected to feature technological advancements, including a digital instrument cluster and a large, portrait-oriented infotainment touchscreen that can rotate.
While specific details about the plug-in hybrid powertrain are yet to be disclosed, industry speculations suggest a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine paired with two electric motors, providing a total output of 489hp. There is also consideration for a fully electric version, although high battery costs pose a challenge.
The pricing for the BYD ute is unknown, but the company is committed to maintaining competitiveness in the segment. EVDirect CEO Luke Todd highlighted BYD’s dedication to affordability, drawing parallels with the pricing strategy for other electric models. As BYD enters the ute market, industry observers are keen to see how it will compete with established contenders, given its focus on technological innovation and tailored design for specific markets.
The underwhelming performance of the Supra in the market is particularly surprising given that Toyota’s overall U.S. sales for 2023 saw a notable increase of 6.6%, reaching a total of 2,248,477 units. The U.S. market for the Supra witnessed a mere 2,652 units sold, down from 4,952 units in 2022.
Despite Toyota’s introduction of a manual transmission to the Supra, there was also a corresponding hike in prices as the model transitioned to the 2024 model year.
In a significant triumph for MG, a brand that is making a strong comeback into our market soon, the MG4 Electric secured the Fully Charged award for the best electric vehicle (EV) under €40,000 (RM200k) last Friday night at the RAI in Amsterdam. The award ceremony, part of the Fully Charged LIVE Europe event, witnessed thousands of electric vehicle enthusiasts casting their votes in various categories.
The MG4 Electric emerged victorious in its category, surpassing eight other nominees, including the Dacia Spring Electric 65 Extreme, Fiat 500e Hatchback 42kW, Jeep Avenger Electric, and Volvo EX30 Single Motor. This accolade further solidifies the MG4 Electric’s success among EV drivers.
Since its launch in 2022, the MG4 Electric has achieved remarkable success, with over 62,000 sales in Europe, making it one of MG’s best-selling models in the region, particularly in the Netherlands. The recent award adds to the EV’s achievements, which include receiving five stars in the Euro NCAP safety test and contributing to a sales record for MG.
The Fully Charged AWARDS, designed as ‘Consumer Choice’ awards for clean energy and electric vehicles, made their debut this year during the Fully Charged LIVE Europe event. The event, powered by green technology pioneer myenergi, gathered leaders and pioneers from the electrification sector to celebrate the ongoing transition to electric vehicles, renewables, and smart homes.
Nominees for the awards were selected through a comprehensive survey of the Fully Charged SHOW audience. A panel of 15 energy and transport experts then finalised the candidates before the winners were chosen in each of the 15 categories. MG claimed the title of the best EV under €40,000 (RM200k) for the MG4 Electric model.
The Standard Range base SE comes with a 50.8kWh battery, offering 350km of range, 168bhp, and 249Nm ft of torque, all for a starting price of £26,995 (RM160k). The two big battery versions include the SE Long Range and Trophy Long Range.
For an additional £2,500 (RM14k), the SE Long Range provides a 61.7kWh battery, extending the WLTP range to 452km. It boasts 201bhp and the same torque figure, but due to the battery’s weight, it’s slightly slower to 100km/h (7.9 seconds compared to 7.7 seconds).
The Trophy model is distinguished by additional equipment and body styling, featuring a doubled-up rear spoiler. It offers slightly less range than the SE Long Range at 434km, attributed to the drag from the distinctive spoiler and the weight of extra kit.
Akio Toyoda, the head of Toyota, the world’s largest automaker, has once again expressed scepticism about a complete transition to exclusively electric vehicles (EVs). While promoting a potential role for hydrogen and biofuels, Toyoda emphasized the need for more diversity in future automotive fuels.
“Frankly, (electric vehicles) are not the only way to achieve the world’s carbon neutrality goals,” remarked Mr. Toyoda, who believes there is a silent majority of consumers and carmakers who share these doubts but are hesitant to voice them due to the prevailing trend in favour of EVs.
Speaking at the unveiling of a battery-electric Hilux ute in Thailand, Toyoda stressed his preference for exploring multiple options, including emission-free synthetic fuels and hydrogen. He sees hydrogen as a promising technology for the future, alongside battery electric vehicles.
“Let me correctly explain Toyota’s position. I would like you to think of Toyota as a department store offering every available powertrain,” Toyoda stated. He argued that customer preferences are diverse, ranging from EV owners to those without access to charging facilities and limiting options to a single product would diminish the overall value of the automotive market.
While Toyota has been a pioneer in hybrid technology with models like the Prius and the Mirai, which run on hydrogen fuel cells, the company recently introduced its first battery-electric model, the bZ4X, in 2022.
Toyoda also defended Toyota’s commitment to electrification, outlining the company’s goal to achieve sales of 3.5 million electric vehicles by 2030. He underscored Toyota’s global reach and vision of providing mobility for all, stating, “Our philosophy is that we want to leave no one behind.”
Expressing skepticism about the timelines set for the full electrification of the automotive industry, Toyoda urged a realistic approach considering societal readiness and infrastructure development. He emphasised that the transition to electric vehicles might take longer than portrayed by the media and drew parallels with the delayed realisation of fully autonomous cars.
In a landscape dominated by the push towards EVs, Toyota, under Toyoda’s leadership, continues to champion a diversified approach to fuel technologies, maintaining a commitment to various options beyond electric vehicles.
