Auto Report, June 2020

AUTO REPORT Wynter Murdoch’s

Vol 1 No 4 June, 2020

C

oming in the midst of softening consumer markets globally and a shift away from traditional vehicles and systems, the effects of the COVID-19 crisis have presented the world’s automotive industry with severe revenue and cost challenges, along with some problematic capital allocation choices.

That’s the view of global consulting company AlixPartners which, in a study published this month, predicts that lockdowns, slow restarts and lingering blows to consumer confidence and employment will see automakers face a cumulative volume drop of up to 36-million vehicles over the next three years.

Further, the study finds that the industry will carry an additional debt burden of around $72 -billion (about R1,2-trillion) which was added between March and May this year when automotive companies scrambled to maintain the cash they needed to meet their payrolls and other financial commitments.

The analysis, entitled The Global Automotive Outlook: Mastering Uncertainty, forecasts that global vehicle sales in 2020 will total just 70,5-million units, down from a record-setting 94-million units only three years ago.

Coming to terms with COVID-19’s dire stats be courageous yet forward-looking in their decisions, all the while taking full advantage of any favourable governmental policies available to them.”

“The impact of the COVID-19 crisis globally is as if a market the size of all of Europe has vanished for the year,” says Stefano Aversa, chairman of Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA) at AlixPartners.

Regarding the supplier industry’s readiness to deal with crisis ahead of the coronavirus pandemic, the study concludes that financially strong companies represented only 6% of the sector’s revenue last year, with 50% generated by entities deemed “stressed” or “distressed.”

“To weather the storm, companies need to

“Clearly, automakers, suppliers, mobility

GLOBAL AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY DEBT MARCH, APRIL, MAY

$72-

BILLION

players and all others connected to this industry need to be microscopically selective with their capital allocation decisions – closely and unsentimentally examining each and every programme and spend for its cash and profitability implications,” says Aversa.

Mark Wakefield, managing director of AlixPartners’ automotive practice, says to deal with the gaping holes in their profit-and-loss statements and ballooning balance sheets, the industry’s decision makers will need to rapidly reduce their true breakeven points.

“To be prudent given the uncertainty of the pandemic, companies should get their breakeven points to Great Recession levels – to be in line with global industry sales of only about 65-million units, or at most about 14million units on the US side,” he advises.

Meanwhile, other parts of the research find additional evidence that suppliers and vehicle makers alike entered the crisis in bad financial shape. For instance, against 2015’s figures, return on capital employed (ROCE) Continued on Page 2

Auto Report, June, 2020 1

From Page 1

Mary Barra… “GM

– an important measure of profit and economic efficiency – declined by 47% on average for automakers globally last year and by 36% for suppliers, the study says.

the pandemic with

will emerge from a cost structure that is lower than

Further, from 2015 to the first quarter of this year, debt loads for suppliers increased by 33% while, for automakers, total debt was up 36% for the same period. And all that was before, notes the study, COVID19 added the incremental $72,1-billion in new debt – $52,4-billion of which involves drawn-down revolving credit.

Other points noted by the study include:  A number of vehicles or products that were set to be rolled out this year will be pushed back to 2021, something several manufacturers have already confirmed;  Where automakers were expected to invest a collective $234-billion (about R3,96trillion) in electric vehicle development during the next five years, the figure is likely to be trimmed to around $200-billion (about R3,38-trillion);  Spending on autonomous vehicle development is also likely to be cut, with manufacturers focusing on semi-autonomous rather than fully driverless vehicles for the time being;  Structural cost cutting will be a critical goal for the industry, but it will probably translate into fewer jobs and lead to the closing of numerous plants around the world.

According to the study, the auto industry’s global recovery will occur at mixed speeds, with China emerging first, followed by the US, Europe and other manufacturing bases.

However, global car sales aren’t expected to return to their 2017 peak until sometime after the middle of the decade.

before...”

GM reduces cost and complexity

G

eneral Motors will emerge from the coronavirus pandemic with a permanently reduced cost base.

That’s the view of CEO Mary Barra, who was speaking this month during a virtual investor conference organised by Credit Suisse.

She said the company had acted quickly to shrink its cash burn to withstand a twomonth shutdown in US production as part of efforts to halt the spread of COVID-19.

“We were able to take out significant costs and we are being very conservative about what costs we turn back on,” she said.

“I believe we will come out of this with a

lower cost structure that is permanent.”

Barra said cost reductions were likely to include vehicle platforms that were less complex, with the company focused on producing models that consumers wanted most.

She said the pandemic had given General Motors the opportunity to go through all of its line item expenses and eliminate redundant processes.

“We’ve found things that we don’t need to do and things we can do more efficiently,” she said.

* Swedish truck makers plan job cuts in view of coronavirus impact: See P8

South Africa’s vehicle sales remain weak: Naamsa

T

hough South Africa’s new vehicle sales for May reflected a decline of 27 496 units – a drop of 68,0% against the 40 428 vehicles sold in May last year – the figure represented an improvement compared with April’s achievement.

Similarly, though May’s export sales, at 10 819 units, registered a fall of 19 333 units – a decline of 64,1% compared to the 30 152 vehicles exported in May last year – the figure signified an improvement compared with April’s number.

Overall, of May’s total reported industry sales of 12 932 vehicles, an estimated 11 289 units (87,3%) represented dealer

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Auto Report, June, 2020

sales, while 7,9% represented sales to government; 2,9% sales to industry fleets; and 1,9% sales to the rental industry.

(55,5%) in the case of medium commercials and 906 vehicles (62,8%) in the case of heavy trucks and buses.

The number of new passenger cars sold dropped by 17 083 units to 9 019 units – a fall of 65,4% compared with the 26 102 new cars sold during May last year. Sales of light commercial vehicles totalled 3 073 units – a decline of 9 128 units (74,8%) – compared with the number sold during the corresponding month last year.

According to Mike Mabasa, CEO of the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (Naamsa), the performance of vehicle exports over the course of 2020 remains linked to the duration of the Covid-19 pandemic and its impact on the global economy.

Sales in the medium and heavy truck segments remained weak and at 304 units and 536 units respectively, against May 2019’s figures reflecting declines of 379 vehicles

He said that with all of the country’s OEMs gearing up for full production from this month and with major export destinations starting to ease lockdown restrictions, export sales were expected to gain momentum.

EVs prevail in Europe’s volatile market A

s expected, the coronavirus pandemic has seen new car registrations in Europe face significant declines, according to data released this month by UK-based automotive consultancy JATO Dynamics.

Audi’s e-tron… one of Europe’s best-selling EVs, which helped the brand to double-digit registration

According to the company’s figures, volume fell from 1,34-million units in April 2019 to 292 600 vehicles in April this year, representing the lowest monthly total since the 1970s.

growth during April

Additionally, the result was the worst within the world’s big three vehicle markets – China, USA-Canada and Europe – with the degree of decrease outperformed only by registrations in India, which dropped by 100%.

Felipe Munoz, global analyst at JATO Dynamics, said lockdowns across the globe contributed significantly to the fall off. “Not a single OEM was prepared for this scenario or expecting a crisis on such a large scale,” he said.

“The only silver-lining from this turbulence is that it has created an opportunity for automotive players to reassess their operations and become more agile.”

Not every aspect of the automotive industry saw a downturn, however.

Sales of electrified vehicles continued to gain traction, with registrations totalling 50 400 units, representing 17% of Europe’s total market share – up from 7% during the same month last year.

According to Munoz: “EVs were already driving part of the small growth that remained in 2019. This year, as governments acted quickly to protect people and economies, EVs gained even more traction and visibility due to incentives.”

Munoz said electrified vehicles were likely to become the top choice for consumers seeking private transportation.

“OEMs which have invested heavily in EVs are best placed to navigate the tough months ahead,” he said.

Registrations of EVs produced by Volkswagen (Passat PHEV, 981 units / Up BEV, 678 units); Volvo, (V60 PHEV, 897 units / XC40 PHEV, 339 units); Audi (e-tron, 1 289 units / A3 PHEV, 465 units); and Ford (Puma HEV, 1 170 units / Kuga PHEV, 753 units) helped the brands to achieve double -digit growth for the month.

Registrations of SUVs in April totalled 109 500 units – 78% less than in April, 2019 – though their

market share remained stable at approximately 37%.

Only 13 models from a total of 419 out of 433 that were available in both April 2019 and April 2020 posted growth, among them Mercedes-Benz’s EQC (42 units to 409); Porsche’s Cayenne Coupe (68 units to 210); BMW’s X7 (202 units to 341); Audi’s etron (963 units to 1 307); Mercedes-Benz’s

GLE (1 047 units to 1 272); BMW’s X6 (405 units to 471) and Mercedes-Benz’s GLS (174 units to 195).

According to Munoz, among the vehicles that recorded the largest declines in market share during the month were Fiat’s Panda; Nissan’s Qashqai; Volkswagen’s Polo; Opel’s Mokka and Peugeot’s 3008.

Auto Report, June, 2020 3

Ford and Volkswagen join forces

Alliance to deliver up to a combined eight-million vehicles, Ford to build 600 000 electrically-powered passenger units based on VW’s MEB platform.

Additionally, each company will share development costs for an autonomous-drive system to be developed through jointly-owned company, Argo AI

F

ord Motor Company and Volkswagen AG have signed agreements that expand their global alliance with a view to meeting rapidly evolving commercial vehicle and autonomous drive needs in Europe and other regions.

In a statement, spokespersons for both companies say that, by leveraging complementary strengths in a number of development areas, costs for nextgeneration technologies can be shared to provide “unmatched capability, scale and geographic reach.”

Plans for some aspects of collaborative projects were initially announced last July, but signed into effect only this month. In terms of the agreements, ownership experi-

ences for current and future Ford and Volkswagen commercial vehicle customers are expected to be enhanced, while costs of developing automotive systems will be cut.

According to a statement issued by the companies, the alliance will:

 Produce a medium-sized bakkie, engineered and built by Ford for sale by Volkswagen as the Amarok, starting in 2022;

 Strengthen the commercial vehicle businesses of each of the companies from as early as next year by producing a city delivery van based on the latest Caddy model.

The vehicle will be developed and built by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles for sale by each of the brands;

 Later, Ford will create a one-ton cargo van to join the line-up with a view to producing a highly-differentiated, Fordbadged electric vehicle for Europe by 2023. The electrically powered model will be built on Volkswagen’s Modular Electric Drive (MEB) platform and will be designed to expand Ford’s zero-emission capabilities in Europe.

 Develop an autonomous drive system for vehicles through a joint venture company, Argo AI. The statement says that during the lifecycles of the commercial vehicle products, the brands expect to produce on a combined basis as many as eight-million bakkies and vans.

“Over several years, starting in 2023, Ford could deliver 600 000 electric vehicles atop the MEB architecture, which is designed to combine space and performance with electric drive.

“The vehicle, which will be designed and engineered by Ford in Cologne-Merkenich, will add another compelling nameplate to the brand’s all-electric Mustang Mach-E, which will be introduced in 2021,” the statement says.

Autonomous-drive to the fore… from left Ford’s Jim Hackett, Argo AI’s Brian Salesky and Volkswagen’s Herbert Diess.

The photograph was taken in July last year, when the alliance was first mooted

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Commenting on the agreement, Herbert Diess, Volkswagen AG’s CEO, said in light of the Covid-19 pandemic and its impact on the global economy, he believed it was vital to set up resilient alliances between strong companies.

“This collaboration will efficiently drive down development costs, allowing broader Continued on Page 5

From Page 4 global distribution of electric and commercial vehicles, and enhance the positions of both companies,” he said.

Ford’s CEO, Jim Hackett, said the alliance had been formed at a time of tremendous enthusiasm about the intersection of increasingly intelligent, connected vehicles in an ever-smarter world.

“This creates a huge opportunity to innovate and solve many of the world’s transportation challenges and deliver extraordinary benefits to customers – even as companies need to be selective about how they use their cash,” he said.

Ford and Volkswagen each have strong commercial van and pick-up businesses around the world, including popular models such as Ford’s Transit and the Made in South Africa Ranger; as well as Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle’s Transporter, Crafter, Caddy and Amarok.

According to Jim Farley, Ford’s Chief Operating Officer: “Commercial vehicles are fundamental to Ford today and an area where we will accelerate and grow. Working with Volkswagen on these platforms will provide both of us with significant financial advantages in things like engineering, and plants and tooling.”

Farley said that, separately, Ford would add to its range battery electric versions of Transit and F-150 variants in the next 24 months for commercial customers.

Thomas Sedran, Chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, described the collaboration as a key building block in his division’s GRIP 2025+ strategy.

“It forms part of the transformation of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles,” he said. “Long-term cooperation with Ford will strengthen our very good position in areas of light commercials, especially in our core European markets, and is proof that we are successfully implementing our plan step by step.”

According to the statement, Ford’s use of Volkswagen’s MEB architecture in Europe will represent another cornerstone for the

Volkswagen’s Herbert Diess (left) and Ford’s Jim Hackett… driving a new global alliance German brand’s electric vehicle strategy, and will further efforts by each of the companies to fulfill their commitments to the Paris 2015 Climate Agreement.

Interestingly, a week after the announcement of the commercial vehicle alliance, Volkswagen also invested heavily in Argo AI – a US-based, autonomous-drive, Ford affiliate, allocating $1-billion in direct funding to the company, with another $1,6 -billion pledged in terms of the transfer of sister brand Audi’s Autonomous Intelligent Driving (AID) unit to the Pittsburghbased start-up.

Volkswagen and Ford now own equal shares in Argo – giving them a combined majority stake in the company –which is said to have the largest geographic deployment potential of any autonomous driving technology to date. Incidentally, Argo was co-founded by former Waymo architect Brian Salesky and Peter Rander, who has worked on Google’s and Uber’s automated driving programmes.

“Investing in and creating the right customer experience is even more important now as the COVID-19 virus has impacted everything – from the way we work to how we shop,” said John Lawler, who heads Ford’s Autonomous Vehicles unit, writing in a blog post.

“Now is the time for us to be thoughtful about the service we are building so it can remain relevant in a changing world and offer customers peace of mind knowing they, or their packages, are in a safe and protected environment inside our vehicles.”

According to Lawler, Ford and Volkswagen announced last July a collaboration with Argo AI to introduce autonomous vehicle technology in the US and Europe.

“While the uncertainty of today’s business environment has created challenges for partnerships and investments in the selfdriving space, this collaboration remains on track and will be a positive development,” he said.

Lawler added that Ford was committed to spending more than $4-billion in the next three years on the development of a selfdriving service, with a large part of the investment dedicated to engineering the autonomous system.

“With Volkswagen’s investment in Argo AI, we will now share the cost of developing the technology,” he said.

According to the statement, Volkswagen and Ford independently choosing to invest in Argo AI illustrates the technical leadership and progress of that company’s selfdriving system, and how alliances can help to enable development of breakthrough technologies that require substantial time and resources.

“Argo AI’s SDS is the first with commercial deployment plans for both Europe and the US,” the statement says. “The global reach of Ford and Volkswagen will give Argo AI’s platform the largest geographic deployment potential of any autonomous driving technology to date.”

The statement adds that the alliance does not include cross-ownership between the companies, which will remain competitors in the vehicle marketplace.

Auto Report, June, 2020 5

FCA prepares to spin-off Comau

F

iat Chrysler Automobiles is gearing up to spin-off its Comau industrial automation business. For a number of years, the automaker has been planning to part ways with the Turin-based company as part of its strategy to concentrate on mass-market vehicle production.

Reinventing the light truck A merican truck maker Bollinger Motors has been granted a patent for a design that claims to reinvent the light truck.

Patent number US20190351950A1 illustrates how the company has reconfigured its range of electrically-driven commercial vehicles which, thanks to the absence of traditional powertrains, can accommodate long items such as ladders within the confines of cab and load-bay.

The patent covers what the company has dubbed the Passthrough and Frunkgate – the former being a channel that runs from nose to tail through the cab of each vehicle, and the latter describing the frontcargo space, dubbed the frunk.

additional, lockable, door in the passenger cabin provides access from the front seats,” the statement says.

Capacity of the frunk across the range is listed at 243,52 litres and, with the compartment wired for four electrical outlets, it makes a handy place to store and connect power tools. According to the statement, “Opening the Frunkgate, the Passthrough and the tailgate allows a direct view through the entire vehicle. This Bollinger Motors design breakthrough allows seamless transport of tall ladders, long boards, lumber, oars, and more.”

“The features have been an integral part of our vehicles’ DNA since day one,” says CEO, Robert Bollinger. “Our new patent is proof that Bollinger Motors is reinventing trucks from the ground up.”

Production of B1 and B2 variants – including the chassis-cab model – is slated to begin in 2021. “The B2 Chassis-Cab’s unique features – including a 2,2-ton payload and large energy source for power tools – make it perfect for businesses, small and large,” Bollinger, maintains.

According to a company statement, the Passthrough patent applies to single- and double-cab variants as well as chassiscab alternatives. Depending on the style of vehicle, an uninterrupted path up to 4,87 metres long can be facilitated from nose to tail.

He says the vehicle will be built on a patent-pending, Bollinger Motors EChassis – an all-wheel drive platform that underpins the B1 Sport Utility Truck and B2 Pick-up. It will be available in both two-door and four-door cabs and on multiple wheelbase lengths.

“The Frunkgate refers to the fold-down portion on the nose of the truck, similar to a tailgate, which allows cargo to be loaded through the front of both Bollinger B1 sport utility and B2 pick-ups and chassis-cab models. Lifting the bonnet allows greater access to the frunk. An

Features include a 120kWh battery pack; dual motors; portal gear hubs; a low centre of gravity and hydro-pneumatic selflevelling suspension. Anti-lock power brakes and electronic traction and stability control are listed among the vehicle’s safety features.

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With the Italian-American conglomerate now close to concluding a 50/50 merger with France’s PSA Groupe – which will create the world’s third-largest vehicle manufacturer with annual sales of about 8,7-million units – the decision to begin shedding non-core businesses appears to have been implemented.

In a media statement, FCA named two senior executives who would help to guide Comau through an initial public offering which is scheduled for 2021. Alessandro Nasi was appointed chairman and Paolo Carmassi was named CEO. Nasi, a 15-year veteran at Fiat, most recently served as chairman of sister brand Iveco’s Defence Vehicles Division. He is also a member of the boards of Exor – the holding company that owns 30% of FCA – and Fiat’s Powertrain Technologies Unit.

Carmassi joins Comau from Malvern Panalytical, an instrument supplier, where he served as president. Before that, he led Honeywell’s aerospace business in Europe.

FCA predicts a bright future for Comau, which was established to help businesses to adopt Industry 4.0 concepts – not only in vehicle manufacturing, but in other sectors, too. The company employs more than 9 000 people at seven centres and eight factories in 14 countries.

Commenting on the appointments, Mike Manley, CEO of FCA said: “The appointments of Alessandro and Paolo represent a significant step forward for Comau as it prepares for life as a public company.

“We’re particularly delighted to welcome Paolo, who brings with him a wealth of relevant experience to take the company into a new phase of development as a trusted partner helping businesses capture the opportunities of Industry 4.0.”

achievements, including integration of the local business into Isuzu’s global operations; the awarding of a next generation light commercial vehicle programme for assembly at Port Elizabeth; retaining the brand’s leadership position in the medium and heavy commercial segments of the market; and growing light commercial vehicle volumes for two years in a row.

Naamsa welcomes Tom’s appointment at Isuzu SA T he National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (Naamsa) has welcomed the appointment of Billy Tom as CEO of Isuzu Motors South Africa. In a statement, the association’s CEO, Mike Mabasa, described the choice as an indication that the country’s motor industry was pressing ahead with transformation.

black South Africans, particularly at senior management levels. “The Isuzu Board has reaffirmed our collective commitment to a substantive and meaningful transformative agenda that will change the industry forever,” he said.

“In line with one of our strategic objectives, transformation of the automotive sector is imperative to the success and the sustainability of the industry,” he said.

Tom, 50, succeeds Michael Sacke, who guided the local company following its establishment as a subsidiary of Isuzu Motors Japan after the withdrawal from South Africa of General Motors which, until the end of 2017, had produced the vehicles under licence at its plant in Port Elizabeth.

Mabasa added that Naamsa’s transformation ambition aimed at growing the sector through acceleration of employment of

Paying tribute to Sacke, Isuzu South Africa’s Chairman, Shigeji Sugimoto, highlighted some of the executive’s key

Tom, a former General Motors SA executive who was instrumental in setting up the company’s premium vehicle channel – which lead to the launch here of the Cadillac and Hummer nameplates – has spent the past 12 years running Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa’s Alternative Revenue Streams Division, with responsibility for soft drinks exports into Africa, Asia and Australasia. He started his career at Distell, later working for SABMiller and Standard Bank before joining General Motors.

Tom holds a BCom degree from Rhodes University and a Masters in Business Leadership from the University of South Africa.

He said in a statement that his immediate priority would be to strengthen the resilience of Isuzu’s business, particularly given the major global and local economic disruptions arising from the coronavirus pandemic.

“In challenging times like these, it is important to keep calm, focused and to be flexible and innovative in delivering products and services to customers. The landscape is shifting quickly and we need to respond to this with purpose and speed,” he said.

New leader for Volkswagen’s core brand

H

erbert Diess, CEO of the Volkswagen Group as well as of its Volkswagen brand, has decided to quit his latter job from July 1 to focus on driving a major shift to electrification and digitalisation in line with the company’s Transform 2025+ strategy.

His place will be taken by Volkswagen’s Chief Operations Officer, Ralf Brandstätter, 51, one of the nameplate’s most experienced managers. Industry observers say one of the reasons behind the decision relates to an attempt by Diess to ease tension between himself and the company’s powerful works council.

They described Brandstätter – who began his career at Volkswagen’s Brunswick plant as a

shop-fitter before he obtained an engineering degree – as a man of the people, wellrespected by the company’s workforce.

In a statement announcing the appointment, Diess said that Brandstätter’s two-year stint as COO had shown he could lead Volkswagen successfully. “He has played a key role in shaping the transformation of the brand and I am pleased that he will be forging ahead with development as CEO,” he said.

Observers believe Brandstätter’s primary role will be to implement the path Diess has outlined for Volkswagen under his Transform 2025+ strategy. “The course towards the future has been set,” Brandstätter acknowledged in an acceptance speech.

“On the basis of the Transform 2025+ strategy, the brand is developing into one of the Ralf Brandstätter leading providers of carbon-neutral mobility and is on the way to becoming a digital technology company.”

The former COO’s main task will be to implement Phase 2 of Transform 2025+ – putting at least 1,5-million electricallypowered Volkswagens on the road by 2025.

Auto Report, June, 2020 7

Marshall takes the helm at Subaru SA

A

ndrew Marshall has been appointed managing director of Subaru Southern Africa, succeeding Rui Silva who has opted to pursue other interests.

According to a statement issued by the company, Marshall has many years of experience in Southern Africa’s automotive industry.

He spent four years as regional manager at CFAO Motors in Malawi; three years as general manager for Toyota Malawi; four years as managing director for Toyota Zambia; and eight years as general manager of Toyota Tsusho Africa. He also successfully established the Subaru brand in Zambia.

Swedish truck makers plan job cuts in face of COVID-19 crisis

T

he coronavirus crisis has led to a sharp decline in revenues for a number of Swedish truck makers. Both the Volvo Group and Scania have indicated that demand for products is expected to remain low, prompting a need for a reduction in each of their global workforces.

In a statement, Scania’s CEO, Henrik Henriksson, says the crisis has forced the company to reduce its activity levels. “We estimate that we have 5 000 more staff globally than we need,” he says, indicating that the number includes 1 000 white collar workers at the brand’s HQ in Södertälje.

“Our assessment is that it will take a long time before market demand reaches pre-crisis levels and therefore we need to adapt the organisation to the new situation,” he says.

“These will be company-wide measures – formal notices of redundancies are not excluded. The measures include parts of Scania that normally are not impacted by short term changes in production volume.”

Andrew Marshall, new MD at Subaru SA

Having officially taken the helm at Subaru SA from this month, Marshall says: “I look forward to steering the brand through these unprecedented and uncertain times.

“We have an enthusiastic and thriving dealer network that is wanting of a broader customer base. With this renewed energy, our shareholders and manufacturer are steadfast in further investments in our market.

“This all bodes well for our mandate of delivering superior confidence in all that we do for our customers,” he says.

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Auto Report, June, 2020

Similarly, the Volvo Group has announced plans to reduce its white-collar workforce globally by about 4 100 jobs, with 15% comprising consultants.

Martin Lundstedt, the company’s CEO, says the COVID-19 pandemic and the global measures taken to fight it have led to a market situation that has had severe impact on the truck industry.

“The effects are expected to be lower demand going forward and we need to continue to adjust our organisation accordingly. In parallel, we will accelerate the competence shift needed for new technologies and business models,” he says.

According to Lundstedt, employment cuts will be implemented almost immediately.

“Since mid-2019, the Volvo Group has adjusted its activity levels by using installed flexibility, terminating temporary and consultant contracts.

“Staff reductions will be carried out in different ways across the Group, depend-

Henrik Henriksson, Scania’s CEO

ing on the local business situation, country legislation and labour market practices. In some countries, including Sweden, the planned measures include notices of redundancy.”

Meanwhile, in a move that appears to buck the truck market trend, Chinese commercial vehicle manufacturer FAW has announced that it is to recruit distributors in 35 new markets worldwide, including many in Central and South East Asia, as well as in Africa.

Target countries on the latter continent include Angola, Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria, Uganda, Ghana, Senegal and Cote d’Ivoire.

According to a statement issued by the company, the move is aimed at expanding overseas business. “Guided by the FAW Group's international development strategy, the company will provide potential partners with products as well as marketing solutions and management support to ensure sustainable profit and long-term cooperation,” the statement promises.

Toyota, Hino and BYD in BEV alliance

A line-up of some of the vehicles manufactured by Chinese automaker BYD, which has entered into agreements with Toyota and Hino to produce BEVs

J

apanese truck manufacturer Hino Motors has entered into a strategic business alliance with BYD Commercial Vehicles of China with a view to developing battery electric vehicles (BEVs) that offer best-fit solutions for customers of both companies while promoting low-carbon societies.

The decision follows an earlier announcement by Hino’s parent company, Toyota Motor Corporation, and BYD that they had established a joint venture to conduct research and development into passengercarrying BEVs. Called BYD Toyota EV Technology Company Limited, the new entity – which began operations last month – has been tasked with producing BEVs regarded as

superior to those of rival manufacturers, according to Toyota’s Hirohisa Kishi, who has been appointed chairman.

On the commercial vehicle side, BYD is regarded as a global leader in electrically powered trucks and buses thanks to sales in excess of 50 000 units in more than 50 countries since the launch of the BYD K9 electric bus in China in 2011. BYD buses now operate in more than 300 cities across the world.

Hino, which was founded in 1942, released the world’s first commercially available diesel/electric hybrid vehicle as a heavyduty urban transit bus in 1991. It has continued to develop electrified vehicles over the past 30 years, putting light-duty electric BYD’s headquarters in Shenzhen, China

buses and medium-duty plug-in hybrid buses into production.

BYD was established in 1995 as a battery research and development company which later became a manufacturing company. It has produced numerous energy solutions for passenger and commercial vehicles, forklifts and other battery-powered products.

Commenting on the commercial vehicle agreement, Hino’s Taketo Nakane said bringing together BYD’s achievements and his company’s electrification technology augured well for swift introduction to market of best-fit BEV products.

Wang Jie, the Chinese company’s vicepresident and CEO of the commercial vehicle division, said both of the companies were committed to technology innovation and the global promotion of commercial vehicle electrification. “Our alliance will accelerate the worldwide adoption of pure electric commercial vehicles,” he said.

In terms of the joint venture between Toyota and BYD, Zhao Binggen, who has been appointed CEO, said the company was committed to promoting and populating highquality technologies that would make battery electric vehicles even more environmentally friendly, safe, comfortable and intelligent.

“Our vision is to create a future customerfirst mobility style, and a harmonious society for humans and nature,” he said.

Auto Report, June, 2020 9

ised public reporting, the company is creating transparency on the positive climate effects of the financed projects,” the statement says.

It adds that Daimler will follow best practices in relation to green bonds and loans as market standards develop and as the EU classification of environmentally sustainable economic activities (taxonomy) and the EU Green Bond Standard come into force. Swedish Bank SEB is acting as green structuring advisor.

“Daimler will allocate nett proceeds from green financing instruments to develop and produce zero-emission vehicles such as battery-electric (BEV) and fuel-cell electric vehicles (FCEV),” the statement says, with more than 50% of the proceeds allocated to clean transportation.

“Furthermore, proceeds may be used, for example, to upgrade manufacturing facilities or construct new facilities for the production of zero-emission vehicles and their drivetrains, and to establish the recycling of batteries and fuel cells.”

Daimler seeks investors for Green Finance plan D aimler AG is establishing a Green Finance Framework to encourage investors to participate in the company’s ambitious sustainability goals, creating opportunities related to CO2-neutral technologies and services.

The company’s approach is aimed at generating economic, environmental and social value for stakeholders – customers, investors, employees, business partners and society as a whole. Climate protection, air quality, human rights and resource preservation are part of the core action fields in the group’s sustainable business strategy.

In accord with the Paris Climate Agreement, Mercedes-Benz Cars plans to offer a CO2-neutral new-vehicle fleet by 2039 as part of its Ambition2039 project. The project covers all aspects of vehicle development – raw materials; the supply chain;

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vehicle production, use and recycling. An interim milestone involves bringing to market by the end of this year five all-electric passenger cars and 20 plug-in hybrid variants.

According to the statement, next year will see the launch of Mercedes-Benz’s allelectric EQS, a vehicle built at the company’s new Factory 56 in Sindelfingen, about 20 kilometres from Daimler’s headquarters in Stuttgart.

“This ultramodern production facility is consistently applying innovative technologies and processes in vehicle production that are digital, flexible and sustainable.

The EQS will be partially equipped with CO2-neutral battery cells. The entire battery package will be manufactured in Mercedes-Benz’s global battery production network.”

By 2039, Daimler’s Truck & Bus Division aims to offer in major markets such as Europe, Japan and North America only new vehicles that are CO2-neutral. Similarly, Mercedes-Benz Vans will follow the Cars Division’s strategy for its vans for private use and the Truck & Bus Division strategy for vans for commercial use.

The statement adds that large-scale development, production and commercialisation of fuel-cell systems for heavy-duty commercial vehicles and other applications is planned in a joint venture with Volvo Trucks. “The common goal is for both companies to offer heavy-duty vehicles with fuel-cells for demanding long-haul applications in series production in the second half of the decade.”

According to a statement, the Green Finance Framework is a summary of principles under which Daimler will utilise green financing instruments – green bonds; green promissory notes, dubbed Schuldscheine; green commercial paper and green loans.

“Due to Daimler’s frequent and standard-

According to the statement, Daimler will provide a Green Finance Report on an annual basis to create transparency for investors and the public on financed projects.

“The next milestone will be the issuance of a green bond under the new Green Finance Framework, which is planned near term.”

T

he BMW Group and MercedesBenz are putting on hold their cooperation agreement regarding the development of next-generation technology for automated driving.

According to a statement issued jointly by the companies, the decision was mutual and amicable, and followed an extensive review process.

BMW and Mercedes agree to part ways

Each of the vehicle makers has agreed to concentrate on their existing autonomous -drive development paths – which may also include working with current or new partners.

“Both entities explicitly wished to emphasise that cooperation may be resumed at a later date and that the two organisations’ underlying approach to matters such as safety and customer benefits in the field of automated driving remains highly compatible,” the statement said.

The BMW Group and Mercedes-Benz are each working separately on current generation systems for highly-automated driving and have achieved major progress in this field in the past.

“However, the companies were unable to hold detailed expert discussions and talk to suppliers about technology roadmaps until the contract was signed last year.

“In these talks – and after extensive review – both sides concluded that, in view of the expense involved in creating a shared technology platform, as well as current business and economic conditions, the timing is not right for successful implementation of the cooperation.”

Klaus Fröhlich, a member of BMW’s board, said the brand had systematically developed its technology and scalable platforms with partners like Intel, MobilEye,

Klaus Fröhlich… “BMW has systemati-

Markus Schäfer… “To prepare for chal-

cally developed its technology and

lenges we are currently sounding out

scalable platforms with partners like

other possibilities with partners out-

Intel, MobilEye, FCA and Ansys…”

side of the automotive sector...”

FCA and Ansys.

central strategic pillar for Mercedes-Benz.

To prepare for the challenges of a rapidly changing environment, we are currently sounding out other possibilities with partners outside of the automotive sector.”

“Our current technology generation offers very strong sustainable potential. With extremely powerful sensors and computing power, our robust modular system puts us in an excellent position to offer our customers what they need for many years.”

Markus Schäfer, Chief Operating Officer at Mercedes-Benz, said though the brand’s autonomous-drive expertise complimented that of the BMW Group’s, other possibilities were being investigated.

“Next to decarbonisation, digitalisation is a

Groupe PSA acquires more Punch!

G

roupe PSA and Punch Powertrain have signed an agreement to establish a second joint venture to expand their strategic partnership in the field of transmissions for electrified vehicles.

Netherlands-based DT2 gearbox business units – which comprise engineering, manufacturing and technical support facilities – in return for a cash investment by Groupe PSA.

Punch will hold a 61% stake in the new company, which aims to supply the PSA Groupe – and later other vehicle manufacturers – with dual-clutch transmission systems for the next generation of mild hybrid electric (MHEV) and plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) vehicles. The agreement is subject to regulatory approval.

“Our clear manufacturing strategy is to have a vertical integration of components, particularly key technologies such as electrified powertrains. We have understood that the future is much more than reducing emissions. The challenge ahead of us is electrification at affordable cost,” says PSA board member Olivier Bourges.

Punch will contribute its Belgium- and

Both spokesmen underlined that they would continue working in close cooperation in other projects. In 2015, the companies joined forces with Audi to acquire the location and technology platform HERE, which now has a broad, international shareholder structure while, in early 2019, they pooled their mobility services in a joint venture called NOW. Jorge Solis, CEO of Punch Powertrain, says the joint venture will spearhead the industrialisation of next generation transmission systems for hybrid electric vehicles. Known as Punch Powertrain PSA e-Transmissions, the company will supply ultra-efficient, compact, dual-clutch based automatic gearboxes, among them the first in the industry to integrate electric motors for MHEVs and high-voltage variants for PHEVs. Groupe PSA and Punch originally signed an agreement in April last year to assemble electrified transmission units (e-DCTs) for some of the automaker’s hybrid vehicles, starting in 2022.

Auto Report, June, 2020 11

End of the road for Bentley’s Great Eight

Old and the new… Bentley’s Great Eight has powered anything from 1959’s S2 to today’s Mulsanne flagship Below: Last L-Series engine off the line, and in place under the Mulliner Mulsanne’s bonnet

B

entley’s mighty 6¾-litre V8 engine – the longest serving V8 design in continuous production – has reached the end of the road.

The final powerplant was assembled this month at the company’s works in Crewe, England, and was fitted to the last, specially commissioned, Mulliner edition of the brand’s Mulsanne flagship.

The customised series of 30 vehicles closes the Mulsanne’s production run, with the iconic engine remembered through a number of the model’s V8inspired design features – badges, blueprint graphics and even air vents that feature as stoppers miniature versions of the powerplant’s oil cap.

In production for more than 60 years, the hand-assembled, L-Series engine has maintained the same configuration and bore spacing as the original.

Paying tribute to the unit, Peter Bosch, a member of Bentley’s board, said he was proud of the generations of skilled craftspeople who, for more than six decades, had meticulously assembled by hand every one of the engines.

“Our venerable 6¾-litre V8 has earned its retirement,” he said. “That the engine stood the test of time is testament to the ingenious engineers who kept making it ever more powerful, refined and reliable.”

Originally designed to deliver a step change in performance over the straight six unit it replaced, the engine initially saw service in the 1959 Bentley S2, its output rated at 134kW.

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Auto Report, June, 2020

Since then, modernisation – which has included fuel injection; electronic control systems; variable valve timing; and the addition of single then twin turbochargers – has meant that descendants of the original unit have evolved to develop as much as 395kW. The engine’s low-revving nature and significant wave of torque – with up to 1 100Nm available in some applications – helped to make the L-series legendary.

More than 36 000 units were built, each with key internal components individually chosen to form matching, balanced sets.

In modern form, the engine takes about15 hours to hand assemble. After thorough testing, it is signed off with the lead specialist’s signature affixed to a plate

mounted at the front of the engine.

With the Mulsanne completing its production run, an all-new Flying Spur becomes the brand’s flagship. By 2023 the vehicle will be equipped with a hybrid powertrain, the move symbolising Bentley’s commitment to change and its journey to define the future of sustainable luxury mobility.

M

azda’s third-generation BT-50 bakkie – which is based on Japanese rival Isuzu’s D-Max platform – has been unveiled. Though the model is scheduled to go on sale locally, its debut date cannot yet be confirmed by Mazda Southern Africa.

Mazda unveils new BT-50

“I can tell you only that the vehicle will be sold here,” said brand manager Melané Bezuidenhout. “Its release date will be confirmed closer to the time.”

Built by Isuzu in Thailand and equipped with that brand’s 3,0-litre diesel engine, the new Mazda is the result of a cooperative agreement signed between the companies in 2016. Until then, Mazda had depended on Ford for development of its bakkie offering.

From a styling perspective, the new model represents a significant departure from its Ranger-based forerunner in that, for the first time, Mazda has applied its Kodo design language to a utilitarian product, inspiration appearing to come from the brand’s crossover derivatives such as the CX-3 and CX-5.

Equally, with the change in platform comes a change in powertrain, the former fivecylinder, Ford-supplied, 3,2-litre turbocharged diesel engine replaced by a compact, 3,0-litre, four-cylinder equivalent from Isuzu. The unit produces 140kW and

450Nm – 7kW and 20Nm less than the ratings attributed to the predecessor.

The engine is coupled with a choice of six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission, with drive options comprising 4x2 or 4x4 variants. According to Mazda’s specifications for 4x4 Australian derivatives, the BT-50 boasts a towing capability of 3 500kg and a maximum payload of 1 065kg, giving it an edge over many rivals.

According to some reports, the vehicle’s interior is said to be quintessential Mazda, though a 9.0-inch touch screen – along

Audi upgrades premium class sedans

with the styling of climate controls – appears to be similar in look to those found in Isuzu’s current D-Max. Apart from that anomaly, seats, steering wheel, door panels and other materials are said emulate in feel and quality the cabin features presented in other recent model Mazdas.

Asked whether the brand had plans to manufacture the BT-50 in South Africa at Isuzu’s plant in Port Elizabeth – where the latest D-Max equivalent will be built from next year – Bezuidenhout said there was no intention at this stage to substitute Thai imports with local production.

100km/h time of 6,1 seconds for the model, with top speed electronically limited to 250km/h.

The performance-focused S6 eschews diesel fuel for a petrol-driven, 2,9-litre, turbocharged six-cylinder engine that produces 331kW and 600Nm. The derivative is said to be capable of a zero to 100km/h time of 4,5 seconds. Fuel-efficiency is helped by the incorporation of a 48-volt mild hybrid system which is said to improve economy by up to seven tenths of a litre per 100km.

A

udi South Africa has unveiled new versions of its premium class A6 and S6 sedans, upgrading the models with endto-end digitalisation, enhanced comfort and revised styling.

Power output is rated at 140kW with maximum torque pegged at 400Nm. Drive is to the front wheels. Audi claims a zero to 100km/h time of 8,4 seconds for the model, with top speed measured at 237km/h.

Engine-wise, the A6 is propelled by a choice of turbocharged, diesel-fuelled units. In 40 TDI S-tronic guise, the car features a four-cylinder, 2,0-litre mill coupled with seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

The 45 TDI version is equipped with a 3,0-litre engine which produces 183kW and 600Nm. To handle the additional torque, the unit is mated to an eightspeed Tiptronic gearbox with drive going to all wheels. Audi claims a zero to

Spacious, comfortable, sporty – and with upgraded connectivity features and driver assistance systems high on the list of improvements – the models in the line-up make a strong case for premium quality values.

Each model is sold with a five-year/ 100 000km Audi Freeway plan.

PRICES: A6 40 TDI S-tronic

R919 500

A6 45 TDI Quattro Tiptronic R1 100 000 S6 TFSI Quattro Tiptronic R1 401 500

Auto Report, June, 2020 13

Volkswagen’s T-Roc set for November sale V olkswagen has added a fifth model to its SUV range in South Africa – the T -Roc. Though unveiled already locally, the vehicle will go on sale here only in November, with an additional derivative due for launch in January next year.

The model, a Golf-sized crossover that is built on Volkswagen’s modular MQB platform, slots above the T-Cross and below the Tiguan in the brand’s SUV line-up.

Powered by a choice of turbocharged, 1,4or 2,0-litre petrol-fuelled engines, the range comprises two-and four-wheel-drive derivatives in Design or R-Line specification.

According to a company statement, the Design category signifies customer partiality for fashionable styling elements, while R-Line preference indicates a bias towards sport-orientated features.

The baseline model is the 1,4 TSI Design, which is equipped with an engine that produces 110kW and 250Nm. The unit is mated with eight-speed Tiptronic transmission. The derivative is said to be capable of a zero to 100km/h time of 8,4 seconds, with top speed measured at 205km/h. Fuel economy is rated at 6,9 litres/100km.

The intermediate model, also in Design specification, is powered by a 2,0-litre TSI engine that produces 140kW and 320Nm. The derivative is equipped with Volkswagen’s all-wheel-drive 4Motion system along with a seven speed, dual-clutch gearbox. The vehicle is said to take 7,2 seconds to reach 100km/h from standstill. Top speed is a claimed 216km/h, with fuel consumption listed at 8,3 litres/100km. The vehicle is due to go on sale here only in January next year.

The top of the range T-Roc is equipped with a similar engine, gearbox and drivetrain combination – but it is sold in RLine trim. The model is scheduled to go into showrooms in November, along with the baseline derivative.

Some points to note: The T-Roc is the first SUV from Volkswagen to be offered with two-tone paint colours. According to the company statement, 26 colour combinations will be available for models that wear Design badges, while R-Line variants get 21 colour options.

While the latter derivative is shod with 19inch Suzuka alloys as standard equipment, Design models feature 17-inch Mayfield wheels. In terms of cabin appointments, all TRocs are fitted with Volkswagen’s eight-inch, Composition Media touch screen infotainment unit. The system incorporates a wireless connection for smartphone integration.

Ford adds Freestyle to Figo range

Design models are equipped with park distance control at the front and rear, along with electronic stability control, a blind spot monitor, fatigue detection and LED headlights.

The R-Line derivative offers a digital instrument cluster along with an active info display; adaptive cruise control; front assist with auto braking and pedestrian monitoring; lane assist; keyless entry; inductive phone charging; LED daytime running lights and dynamic cornering lights. All derivatives can be optioned with items such as a panoramic sunroof, a Beats sound system, a navigation system and a parking package.

The T-Roc will be sold with a five-year/90 000km service plan and three-year/120 000km warranty. Pricing will be announced in August, but expect the baseline model to carry a tag of about R500 000. wheel arch mouldings are complemented by a black-painted grille and sculpted bumper.

Two derivatives are available – the Trend and the Titanium – each powered by a 1,5-litre, three-cylinder engine which produces 91kW and 150Nm. Transmission is to the front wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox.

F

ord has expanded its range of recreational utility vehicles with the launch of the Figo Freestyle – a sub-B segment compact based on the city-orientated Figo hatchback.

“The Freestyle builds on Ford’s reputation as one of the pioneers of the utility vehicle segment,” says Doreen Mashinini, the company’s marketing manager. “With its SUVderived design cues, robust stance, increased

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Auto Report, June, 2020

ground clearance and commanding seating position, it has the credentials of an SUV in a compact package that is ideally suited to city driving during the week and escaping to the countryside on weekends.”

The vehicle sports larger wheels than the model on which it is based and features integrated skid plates at the front and rear and robust rails on the roof. Muscular, black

Creativity applied to the Freestyle’s exterior styling is echoed inside the cabin. On the safety front, the Trend incorporates driver and passenger airbags, anti-lock brakes, remote central locking and electrically powered windows.

Additionally, the Titanium gets side and curtain airbags and adds a host of other convenience and connectivity features.

Recommended retail price of the Trend is R226 700, while the Titanium model sells for R247 500.

R

enault describes its just-released Mégane RS 300 Trophy as the ultimate fusion of exceptional design and heart -racing performance.

“Trophy versions are renowned for their thoroughbred efficiency, combining performance and accuracy – and the newest model lives up to this legacy,” says a statement. “Those with a need for speed can look forward to an all-round performance car that combines everyday driveability with even sharper on-track performance.”

Having driven recent editions of the Mégane RS 280 Lux and Mégane RS 280 Cup around Port Elizabeth’s Aldo Scribante race track, I can attest to the ability of those models to deliver adrenalinepumping performance.

And, since the Trophy represents an enhanced version of those derivatives, I’ve no doubt that the car will prove even more scintillating to power around race circuits!

From that perspective then, it’s a pity that only seven units will be imported to South Africa – three of them manual shift editions and the remainder fitted with dualclutch EDC transmission systems – executives at Renault Sport (RS) having taken a decision to keep the nameplate as exclusive as possible.

According to a company representative, the Trophy offers a multitude of enhanced – and exclusive – features that are specific to the RS badge, among them a distinctively sculpted front bumper that incorporates a F1-derived blade, a unique rear diffuser, an intelligent central exhaust pipe and specially designed Jerez Triple Tone 19-inch wheels.

The interior presents another step into the RS world with its signature Recaro seats – finished in Alcantara – with racy red topstitching on the upholstery; an Alcantara wrapped steering wheel; and a gear knob crafted from Zamac aluminium.

Performance comes from an upgraded ver-

Renault’s very exclusive Trophy! sion of the RS 280’s turbocharged 1,8-litre engine, output upped to 300hp (221kW) thanks to changes that include a redesigned cylinder head. Also, the chassis boasts stiffer suspension than the Cup’s and, coupled with a Torsen mechanical limited slip differential, has been engineered to provide improved traction.

“Also, the RS Trophy boasts upper segment features like 4Control technology – a four-wheel steering system that delivers outstanding agility through tight turns and impressive cornering stability at higher speeds,” the spokesman says.

Above: Bi-material disc, Brembo calliper Below: Intelligent, purposeful exhaust

In terms of technology, the car is equipped with an interactive Renault multimedia system that includes an 8,7-inch touch screen, a satellite navigation system, Bluetooth, USB and AUX inputs and smartphone mirroring through Apple Car Play or Android Auto.

Convenience features include dual zone climate control, cruise control with a speed limiter, Renault’s hands-free keycard and auto-sensing lights and wipers. Brakes are

state of the art with bi-material discs at the front for better endurance, while redpainted Brembo brake calipers have been designed for optimum stopping performance.

For real-time information akin to race telemetry, the RS Monitor V2 on-board tracking system keeps the driver informed of engine parameters, as well as supplying a host of other performance related statistics.

“The new Mégane RS Trophy represents the crème de la crème of Renault Sport, with limited units available worldwide, making it an exclusive vehicle to own,” the spokesman reiterates.

The car is sold with a five-year/90 000km service plan and a five-year/150 000km mechanical warranty. Services take place at 10 000km intervals. Recommended retail price of the models is R774 900 for the manual, and R799 900 for the EDC version.

Auto Report, June, 2020 15

B

MW has teamed up with Apple to become the first vehicle manufacturer to enable the use of an iPhone as a fully digital car key. The brand is planning to roll out the system in 45 countries, applicable to models across its line-up built from July 1.

BMW keys into Apple

The technology that facilitates the unlocking, starting and locking of the vehicle has been written into Apple’s latest iOS 14 software. Compatible iPhones include XRand XS-series models, as well as Apple’s Watch 5 or newer.

Other vehicle brands which belong to the United States-based Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC) – of which BMW and Apple are part – are expected to introduce similar systems from next year.

According to a statement issued by BMW, the digital key can be programmed using the brand’s smartphone app. “To use the key, customers simply tap the phone against the car’s door to unlock it, and easily get going by placing the iPhone in the smartphone tray and pushing the start button.”

The statement says the vehicle owner is able to share the digital key with multiple users. Where young or inexperienced drivers may be involved, the key can also be used to limit the car’s top speed, power and maximum audio system volume.

The system also can be used for carsharing services. Among additional features is a reserve power facility that enables the car key to function for up to five hours even if the iPhone turns off.

“BMW is a leading contributor to the digital key standard and was quick to recognise the potential of smartphones in

the application,” the statement says.

“We have been working closely with Apple and the CCC to press ahead with the establishment of global standards.

“The digital key specification for near field communication was released in May and the next generation of applications, using ultra-wideband technology, is already well underway.”

Development of the key was announced this month during Apple’s virtual Worldwide Developer’s Conference. Though the brand admits to being a relative latecomer to digital key technology, observers believe its system could quickly spread across the auto industry, similar to its CarPlay infotainment integration

system. Apple claims that technology is now available on 97% of new vehicles.

On that point, the company took the opportunity at the conference to announce that BMW’s electric vehicles, though Apple Maps, would be equipped with smart routes which would automatically advise when and where to recharge batteries.

“Drivers can plan a trip in advance on their iPhone or simply enter the destination through Apple CarPlay when they get into the car. Either way, Apple Maps will pick the optimal route based on electric range and the locations of charging stations along the way,” says an Apple spokesman, who adds that the feature will debut next year in the fully electric BMW i4.

AUTO REPORT: LOCAL COVERAGE, GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE

W

elcome to Auto Report, a monthly automotive newsletter that aims to keep you informed about the latest issues, events and products that have impact on the motor industry.

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Produced by motoring journalist Wynter Murdoch, Auto Report is aimed at anyone who has an interest in things auto-

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Auto Report, June, 2020