As the drive towards lower emissions accelerates, the automotive industry is embracing innovative solutions like flexible fuel vehicles (FFVs). A flex-engine car is an alternative fuel vehicle which has an internal combustion engine designed to run on more than one fuel. Globally companies are investing in flexible fuel vehicles (FFVs) capable of running on ethanol blends and any blend of gasoline, promoting cleaner air and reduced fossil fuel dependence. Governments are also supporting this transition through favorable policies and infrastructure development. As the time advances, the increasing adoption of ethanol-run vehicles becomes a crucial step in achieving sustainable mobility. In today's AutoTech Newsletter we bring a combination of stories on flexible fuel vehicles, where a lot has been talked about the latest technologies auto companies are looking forward to.
Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, recently revealed India's strides in ethanol-run vehicles, with companies like Toyota, Tatas, and Suzuki leading the charge. Highlighting Toyota's new plant in Aurangabad, Gadkari showcased the world's first flex-engine car, emphasising reduced pollution and benefits for farmers. Ethanol pumps will soon parallel petrol stations, revolutionising India's fuel landscape. Read the following article to know more on what the Union Minister said.
Indian auto companies will soon produce 100% ethanol-run cars and 2-wheelers: Nitin Gadkari
Toyota's green expansion
Toyota Kirloskar Motor, led by Deputy Managing Director Swapnesh Maru, is committed to reducing carbon footprints and fossil fuel use in India. Emphasising a multi-technology approach, TKM is expanding with new plants in Karnataka and Maharashtra, focusing on hybrid vehicles, hydrogen fuel, and localizing 90% of their components. Here is Maru's take on Toyota's latest technologies.
Toyota would pursue technologies that reduce use of fossil fuel: Dy MD Swapnesh Maru
Harman transforms vehicles
Harman, led by Krishna Kumar, is revolutionising in-car experiences by integrating advanced tech like AI, 5G, and machine learning. Through their Ready product portfolio and innovations like SeatSonic and Ready Vision QVUE, Harman aims to enhance connectivity, safety, and personalisation, transforming modern vehicle interactions for drivers and passengers. Read the full interview here.
Infotainment, connectivity, security, and connected services set to become the second-largest software market by 2030, says Harman India MD
ZF boosts efficiency
ZF is revolutionising commercial vehicle technology with intelligent software solutions, enhancing performance and safety. By integrating braking and e-Drive systems, ZF maximizes energy recuperation, extends EV range, and eliminates bulky brake resistors. This innovation reduces costs and weight while boosting efficiency, driving ZF's mission for smarter, connected vehicles. Here is the detailed article.
ZF uses software to develop smarter, more connected CV technologies
US bans Chinese software
The US Commerce Department plans to propose a ban on Chinese software in autonomous and connected vehicles, citing national security risks. The rule would impact vehicles with Level 3 automation and above, requiring verification that no software is from Chinese entities, potentially halting Chinese autonomous vehicle testing in the US. Read the full report.
US expected to propose barring Chinese software in autonomous vehicles
Maruti's green shift
Maruti Suzuki is set to launch its first electric vehicle in FY2024-25, while promoting eco-friendly technologies like hybrids, biogas, flex fuel and CNG. Chairman RC Bhargava emphasises a diversified strategy to reduce emissions and fuel consumption, advocating for supportive policies to encourage adoption of alternative technologies.
Maruti Suzuki to launch first electric vehicle and promote diverse eco-friendly technologies in FY24
TruAlt's IPO launch
TruAlt Bioenergy, a Bengaluru-based ethanol producer, plans a INR 1,000 crore IPO, filing with SEBI soon. With DAM Capital and SBI Cap as bankers, the IPO will include fresh issuance and an offer for sale. TruAlt reported FY24 revenue of INR 1,225 crore, up from INR 768 crore in FY23. Read more here.
Ethanol maker TruAlt Bio plans to float INR 1,000 cr IPO
Gentari Go launch
Gentari Green Mobility India launched the Gentari Go app to revolutionize e-mobility and sustainable energy. Partnering with Numocity, Statiq, and ChargeZone, the app offers access to 1,500+ chargers nationwide. Aiming to reduce transportation-related carbon emissions, it supports businesses with fleet management and consumers with a user-friendly EV charging network. Here is the story on the app launch.
App that promises to propel India's e-mobility and sustainability landscape
That’s all we have in this week’s edition of the ETAutoTech newsletter. We hope you found the content-mix useful. Please do share your feedback, suggestions on sumantra.barooah@timesinternet.in
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