News

Mar 05, 2018

By 2030 ride-hailing is expected to be a $285 billion industry, with 97 million ride-hailing trips occurring daily around the world, according to Goldman Sachs.

Jan 24, 2018

Exterior appearance plays a significant role in vehicle selection and purchase. However, over time, environmental and mechanical influences can cause scratches on the surface. Customer surveys such as J.D. Power reveal that the number and degree of those scratches is a cause for vehicle owner dissatisfaction.

Nov 17, 2017

The automotive catalytic converter is arguably the most important pollution control device ever invented, removing more than 95 percent of harmful emissions from gasoline engines since its inception nearly 50 years ago.

Sep 11, 2017

It is estimated that 5 to 8 percent of all vehicle production will be made up of pure electric, full hybrid or plug-in hybrid vehicles by 2020, but automakers today are focusing on technologies that will help these vehicles go farther at a price point that attracts the average driver.

Jul 25, 2017

It's exhilarating to drive off the lot in a brand new vehicle, inhaling the distinctive new car smell. In fact, the new car scent has such mass appeal that companies even sell air fresheners featuring the aroma. Yet, this well-known smell can negatively impact air quality. The odor inside vehicles is created when volatile organic compounds (VOC) are released from plastic, leather, rubber or textile interior components, which passengers may inhale while in the vehicle.

Jun 19, 2017

In a digital world where data is consumed through screens and technology replaces human interaction, a stronger call is being made for more simplicity, transparency and clarity. The BASF Color Design Excellence Group gleaned this insight during its extensive research of the current cultural landscape, which inspired its 2017-18 Automotive Color Trends collection theme - Translucid.

May 09, 2017

The appetite for turbocharging technology is growing among automakers across the globe. OEMs view smaller displaced engines as a way to reach the fuel economy and tail pipe emissions standards set by regulators. By 2020, the number of powertrains using forced induction to boost power and acceleration is expected to be as high as 60 percent, with passenger vehicles and pickup trucks using turbo technology.

Apr 18, 2017

When it comes to mega trends driving today's global auto industry, the advancements and materials that are helping manufacturers cut vehicle weight to meet stringent emissions standards are at the forefront. Considering 75 percent of fuel consumption is related to vehicle weight, the appetite for replacing metal with composite plastic, foam and natural fiber components is projected to grow in the next decade. A study performed by the Center for Automotive Research found the use of lightweight, composite materials will increase significantly if automakers want to achieve an overall weight reduction of 10 and 15 percent.

Jan 09, 2017

Ford Motor Co. wanted to introduce an innovative seating architecture for the highly anticipated, all-new Lincoln Continental. When overhauling the system, the automaker was looking to lightweight the front row seats in this iconic luxury vehicle, making the transition from metal to plastic material without sacrificing the inclusion of best-in-class comfort features.