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2024 Major Announcements and Trends in Automotive and Technology Industries

GOOVER DAILY REPORT July 7, 2024
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

  1. Summary
  2. Key Product Announcements from Tech Giants in 2024
  3. Subcompact Car Comparison: Vauxhall Corsa vs Skoda Fabia
  4. Launches and Trends in the High-Performance Automotive Sector
  5. Advancements in EV and Battery Technology
  6. Market Performance in the Indian Car Industry
  7. Notable Motorcycle Announcements
  8. QuantumScape and EV Battery Innovations
  9. Product Specifications and Statistics
  10. Conclusion

1. Summary

  • The report titled '2024 Major Announcements and Trends in Automotive and Technology Industries' explores the significant product announcements, market trends, and technological advancements anticipated for the coming year in the automotive and technology sectors. Key updates from Apple, Google, and Microsoft highlight new AI integrations, hardware upgrades, and software improvements. Comparative analyses of subcompact cars like the Vauxhall Corsa and Skoda Fabia reveal advancements in hybrid and traditional engine technologies. The high-performance automotive market sees new launches from Mercedes-AMG and others, while innovations in electric vehicle (EV) and battery technology are led by companies like Porsche, Nissan, and QuantumScape. Additionally, the Indian car market reflects both growth and decline across various brands. This comprehensive overview encapsulates crucial insights and data-driven findings based on industry-specific innovations and market performance.

2. Key Product Announcements from Tech Giants in 2024

  • 2-1. Apple WWDC 2024 Announcements

  • At the Apple WWDC 2024, several major announcements were made. One of the key highlights was Apple Intelligence, an AI feature integrated into various Apple apps to assist with tasks such as writing help and image editing. This AI is both on-device and cloud-based, ensuring a personalized and secure experience. Developers will also be able to integrate Apple Intelligence into their software. Apple announced plans to collaborate with OpenAI and potentially other large language models (LLMs) in the future. Further announcements included a new Passwords app, making it easier to navigate and manage passwords, and the introduction of macOS Sequoia and iOS 18. macOS Sequoia features iPhone mirroring, while iOS 18 offers the option to lock apps when sharing the phone. Additionally, Apple unveiled new hardware, including the iPad Air with an M2 chip, the iPad Pro with an M4 chip, and the Apple Pencil Pro. The iPad Pro, noted for its thin design and Tandem OLED display, boasts a 50% faster CPU and 4x GPU rendering performance compared to the M2 chip. The new Magic Keyboard is thinner, lighter, and includes a function row and larger trackpad.

  • 2-2. Google I/O 2024 Innovations

  • Google I/O 2024 featured numerous innovations, particularly in AI. New AI products and features were unveiled, including enhancements for accessibility. Notable releases included Wear OS 5, which improves battery life and performance for smartwatches, and the sixth generation of Tensor Processing Units (TPUs) named Trillium. Google also introduced the Pixel 8a, a budget smartphone starting at $499, and the Pixel Slate, a tablet available without its base. The Gemini 1.5 Pro, Google’s latest generative AI model, supports more tokens and has audio-processing capabilities. Additionally, Google Cloud announced its first custom-built Arm processor, Axion, offering significant performance and energy efficiency improvements.

  • 2-3. Microsoft Build 2024 Highlights

  • At Microsoft Build 2024, the focus was on AI and hardware updates. The new Copilot+ PCs, equipped with dedicated NPUs for AI experiences, start at $999 and include features like Recall. Microsoft also showcased the latest Surface devices, with the Surface Laptop and Surface Pro emphasizing performance and battery improvements. The Surface Laptop has been redesigned with thinner screen bezels and modern lines, and is available in 13.8- and 15-inch display options.

3. Subcompact Car Comparison: Vauxhall Corsa vs Skoda Fabia

  • 3-1. Vauxhall Corsa Hybrid Features

  • The Vauxhall Corsa hybrid introduces a new level of electrification to the Corsa lineup, joining the pure-petrol and fully electric options. This version comes in mid-spec GS trim and is priced at £25,280. Significant mechanical revisions include a new six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and a 48-volt electrical system, which utilizes energy from a 432Wh battery to drive an electric motor with 28bhp and 55Nm of torque. This results in a 20% fuel consumption improvement over the previous model. Additionally, the hybrid system allows the Corsa to drive on electric power alone at speeds of up to 18mph. The car’s safety features include a four-star Euro NCAP rating and a lane-departure warning system. Inside, updates consist of new seat upholstery, a revamped center boss for the steering wheel, and a new 10-inch touchscreen. However, practicality issues remain with limited rear space and a tight boot capacity of 309 liters, expandable to 1,118 liters.

  • 3-2. Skoda Fabia Enhancements

  • The 2024 Skoda Fabia boasts minor but impactful updates, positioning it as a leading supermini. Priced at £23,415 for the SE L trim, the Fabia now includes a revised 1.0-litre TSI petrol engine known as TSI EVO2, producing 114bhp. Key new features include a digital driver’s display, privacy glass, and a hill-hold system. The Fabia scored a five-star Euro NCAP rating and comes with additional safety options such as side airbags for rear-seat passengers. The Fabia excels in storage and practicality, offering deep door bins, a spacious glovebox, and central cup holders with different diameters. The car provides superior rear space with extra kneeroom, headroom, and a larger 380-liter boot capacity, which can be expanded further with a variable boot floor.

  • 3-3. Driving Experience and Value Comparisons

  • The Vauxhall Corsa hybrid offers a smoother drive at low speeds, thanks to its new hybrid system, which eliminates the jerkiness of the old auto’s start/stop mechanism. However, it remains less spacious with tight rear seats and a higher boot load lip. In contrast, the Skoda Fabia excels in comfort, stability, and refinement, offering a more spacious interior and a larger boot. The Fabia’s engine, despite lacking electrical assistance, performs efficiently with linear power delivery and less vibration. The Corsa's hybrid system is efficient but adds to the cost, making it pricier compared to the Fabia. The Skoda Fabia emerges as the winner with its superior space, comfort, and overall refinement, although the Corsa’s hybrid tech offers significant improvements in fuel economy and driving smoothness. Both cars offer a commendable mix of tech features and safety improvements, but the Fabia's consistent performance and space advantages give it the edge.

4. Launches and Trends in the High-Performance Automotive Sector

  • 4-1. Mercedes-AMG Model Launches

  • In the first week of July 2024, Mercedes-Benz introduced three new high-performance Mercedes-AMG models at the Mercedes-Benz World 2024 event in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. These models include the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE F1 Edition, the Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 S 4MATIC+, and the Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 4MATIC. The Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance F1 Edition is powered by a 2.0-litre turbo inline-four plug-in hybrid engine that produces 680 hp and 1,020 Nm of torque, capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds, priced at RM 958,888. The Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 S 4MATIC+ comes equipped with a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-4 engine delivering 421 hp and 500 Nm of torque, achieving the 0-100 km/h sprint in 4.3 seconds and is priced at RM 539,888. Lastly, the Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 4MATIC is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine combined with an Integrated Starter Generator, producing 306 hp and 400 Nm of torque, allowing the SUV to reach 0-100 km/h in 5.2 seconds, with a price tag of RM 418,888.

  • 4-2. Smart #3 EV Launch Date

  • The smart #3 EV, an eagerly awaited electric vehicle, is scheduled to launch on July 10, 2024. It will be available in three variants: Pro, Premium, and Brabus. The top-spec Brabus variant is equipped with a dual-motor intelligent all-wheel drive powertrain, generating 428 PS and 543 Nm of torque, powered by a 66 kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery that offers a range of 415 km. Key features of this model include CyberSparksLED+ headlights, Panoramic Halo Roof, 19-inch ‘Flux’ wheels, 9.2-inch digital instrument panel, 12.8-inch infotainment unit, 13-speaker Beats sound system, Automatic Parking Assistant, and advanced driver assistance systems.

  • 4-3. Land Rover Defender Octa Registration of Interest

  • Land Rover has opened the registration of interest for the new Defender Octa in Malaysia. This powerful model is equipped with a 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine from BMW, delivering a maximum power of 635 PS and peak torque of 750 Nm. The Defender Octa can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4 seconds and features hydraulically-interlinked 6D Dynamics suspension technology for enhanced off-road comfort. The starting price for the Defender Octa is £145,300 (RM 870,266).

  • 4-4. Other Notable Launches and Announcements

  • In addition to the high-performance AMG models and the smart #3 EV, several other notable automotive events took place. Proton revealed that its electric sub-brand, e.MAS, would be managed by its Pro-Net subsidiary, which also handles the distribution of smart EVs in Malaysia. Cycle & Carriage opened a new Mercedes-Benz Autohaus centre in Penang, which offers body and paint services with 21 service and repair bays. Proton also reported its June 2024 sales numbers, delivering a total of 10,999 units, which is a 12.1% decline compared to May 2024 due to a planned one-week plant shutdown for improvements. Lastly, an exclusive event for MINI enthusiasts was scheduled for July 13, 2024, in Petaling Jaya, showcasing the new generation of MINI cars.

5. Advancements in EV and Battery Technology

  • 5-1. Synthetic Fuels by Porsche

  • Porsche has ventured into the development of synthetic fuels, created by synthesizing renewable hydrogen made from electrolysis using wind-generated electricity. This fuel can be used without mechanical modifications to the vehicles. Porsche is promoting the use of synthetic fuel through its racing activities, showcasing carbon-neutral fuel's capabilities. Although 'drop-in' fuels made from organic materials could replace fossil fuels overnight, there is a crucial hurdle yet to be addressed for global adoption.

  • 5-2. Solid-State Batteries by Japanese Brands

  • Japanese brands have developed solid-state battery technology over a span of 17 years. These batteries are half the size of traditional units but can provide twice the energy. Nissan's solid-state battery could potentially double the range of electric vehicles (EVs). The adoption of these smaller solid-state batteries will benefit packaging and storage within vehicles.

  • 5-3. Innovations in Tire Waste Management by Michelin

  • Michelin has introduced a new rolling rig that collects and filters tire particle waste, addressing the growing environmental concern over spent tire particulates. This technology could revolutionize how tire waste is managed, with capabilities of measuring particulates the size of a human hair.

  • 5-4. Audi Q6 PPE Platform Overview

  • The Audi Q6 is the first car based on the PPE (Premium Platform Electric) platform. The motors for this new architecture are 20% lighter, use 30% less space, and reduce drag. These improvements could significantly impact the performance and efficiency of electric vehicles.

  • 5-5. GM-Honda Hydrogen Cars Collaboration

  • General Motors (GM) and Honda have jointly developed a hydrogen system featured in the Honda CR-V e:FCEV. This American-developed system offers a range of 372 miles per tank and has notably reduced the development costs associated with hydrogen-powered vehicles. The collaboration demonstrates important advancements in making hydrogen cars viable.

  • 5-6. Volvo's EV Charging Software

  • Volvo has partnered with a battery firm to create adaptive technology that manages battery conditions in real-time, improving the range and enabling quicker, safer charging of EVs. This software can significantly slash EV charge times without harming the batteries.

  • 5-7. Mercedes-Benz Linear Accelerator for Crash Tests

  • Mercedes-Benz has introduced a linear accelerator system capable of generating 1000 images per second, which scans the crashing vehicle from above. This detailed imaging is crucial for understanding how materials deform during crashes, enhancing in-car safety measures and vehicle design.

6. Market Performance in the Indian Car Industry

  • 6-1. June 2024 Market Growth Statistics

  • In June 2024, the Indian car market witnessed a modest overall growth of 3.63% compared to the same month last year. Total sales rose to 3,39,415 units from 3,27,539 units in June 2023.

  • 6-2. Key Performers and Decliners

  • Maruti continues to dominate the market with a robust performance, selling 1,37,160 units in June 2024, a 3.11% increase from last year’s 1,33,027 units, solidifying their market share at 40.41%. Hyundai secured the second position with sales of 50,103 units, marking a slight growth of 0.20% from 50,001 units in June 2023, and a market share of 14.76%. Tata experienced a decline in sales, with 43,524 units sold, down 7.86% from last year’s 47,235 units, reducing their market share to 12.82%. Mahindra showcased significant growth, selling 40,022 units, a 22.82% increase from 32,585 units in June 2023, boosting their market share to 11.79%. Toyota achieved the highest growth rate among the major players, with sales surging by 41.21% to 25,752 units from 18,237 units last year, resulting in a market share of 7.59%. Kia also saw positive growth, selling 21,300 units, up 9.84% from 19,391 units in June 2023 and bringing their market share to 6.28%. On the decline, Honda experienced a downturn, with sales dropping 5.43% to 4,804 units from 5,080 units last year, resulting in a market share of 1.42%. MG (Retail) saw a decline of 9.39%, with sales falling to 4,644 units from 5,125 units in June 2023, and a market share of 1.37%. Renault faced a significant drop of 34.81%, selling 3,553 units compared to 5,450 units last year, with a market share of 1.05%. Volkswagen recorded a slight decline in sales, with 3,260 units sold, down 3.95% from 3,394 units in June 2023, and a market share of 0.96%. Skoda saw a substantial drop of 35.30%, with sales falling to 2,566 units from 3,966 units last year, bringing their market share to 0.76%. Nissan experienced a decline of 17.44%, selling 2,107 units compared to 2,552 units in June 2023, resulting in a market share of 0.62%. Citroen witnessed a significant decrease in sales, with 339 units sold, down 66.20% from 1,003 units last year, and a market share of 0.10%. Jeep also faced a notable decline of 43.00%, selling 281 units compared to 493 units in June 2023, reducing their market share to 0.08%. Month-on-month, car sales dropped by 2.76% compared to May 2024.

  • 6-3. Discounts and Offers on Maruti Models

  • In July 2024, Maruti Arena showrooms in India offered various cash discounts, exchange offers, and corporate benefits on select models. The highest discounts were seen on the Alto K10 variants. For instance, the Alto K10 AGS had savings up to Rs 75,100, including a Rs 40,000 cash discount, Rs 15,000 exchange offer, additional exchange benefits on cars under 7 years old, and Rs 8,100 in corporate benefits. Similarly, the S-Presso MT and CNG variants offered cash discounts of Rs 35,000, with total savings ranging from Rs 58,100 to Rs 63,100. The WagonR had discounts and benefits ranging from Rs 43,100 to Rs 63,100 throughout July 2024, depending on the trim. The Celerio hatchback had total savings of Rs 58,100 on the MT and AGS trims and Rs 63,100 on the CNG trim. The older Maruti Swift saw benefits up to Rs 42,000 on the AGS petrol variant, while the new Swift had significantly lower discounts, with total benefits of Rs 17,100 on the MT and AGS trims and Rs 2,100 exclusively for corporate buyers on the CNG trim. The DZire offered total benefits of Rs 25,000 on the MT trim and Rs 30,000 on the AGS trim, but no discounts on the CNG variant.

7. Notable Motorcycle Announcements

  • 7-1. Ducati’s New Models

  • Ducati has made several notable announcements, including the launch of the DesertX Discovery, designed for adventure and equipped with features like reinforced hand guards, engine protection, heated grips, a central stand, and a 937cc liquid-cooled Testastretta engine. Ducati also unveiled the RR24I Scrambler at the 2024 London Bike Shed MotoShow, embracing a post-apocalyptic aesthetic with exposed aluminum parts. Additionally, Ducati introduced the Monster Senna, a limited-edition model honoring F1 legend Ayrton Senna, limited to 341 units featuring a unique color scheme and Öhlins suspension.

  • 7-2. Ares Electric Motorcycle

  • The Ares Electric Motorcycle by Real Motors has been announced as a retro-styled, performance-driven electric bike. It combines a compact build with lightweight construction, providing agility and ease of handling. It aims to attract a new generation of riders looking for both performance and classic cafe racer aesthetics.

  • 7-3. Honda XR650L Comeback

  • Honda has announced the return of the legendary XR650L for 2024. Known for its rugged reliability and versatile performance, the dual-sport motorcycle is powered by a torquey air-cooled single-cylinder engine. It is designed for hassle-free operation with features like an electric starter and low-maintenance components.

  • 7-4. Savic C-Series Performance Standards

  • Savic Motorcycles, an Australian electric motorcycle company, introduced the C-Series, which sets new standards in high-performance electric bikes. The C-Series features a powerful 60kW motor that allows acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.5 seconds and delivers over 200Nm of torque. It also includes a 16.2 kWh lithium-ion battery for extended range.

  • 7-5. BMW Motorrad R12 Cruisers

  • BMW Motorrad India has launched the R12 and R 12 nineT models in the Indian market, priced at Rs 19.90 lakh and Rs 20.90 lakh respectively. Both models feature a 1,170cc boxer twin-cylinder engine and multiple riding modes. The R12 draws inspiration from the R18 Transcontinental, while the R 12 nineT offers a retro design with elements like a boxy aluminum tank, peashooter-style dual exhaust, and spoked wheels. The R 12 nineT is renowned for its classic looks combined with modern technology such as corner ABS, traction control, and keyless ride system.

8. QuantumScape and EV Battery Innovations

  • 8-1. Validation of Amprius’ Polymer Electrolyte Cell

  • An independent third-party testing lab validated Amprius' 390 Wh/kg polymer electrolyte cell by successfully passing the nail penetration test as per the requirements of section 4.7.4.4. of the MIL-PRF-32383 (Military Performance Specification). The test involves driving a 0.113-inch diameter stainless steel nail through a fully charged cell and confirms that the cell does not burn or explode, with an external temperature not exceeding 338 degrees Fahrenheit (170 degrees Celsius). Amprius' innovative polymer electrolyte prevents the creation of a low resistance short circuit, as indicated by the minimal increase in cell temperature and slight decrease in cell voltage after penetration. The cell continues to function and provide power even after this rigorous testing.

  • 8-2. QuantumScape’s Solid-State Technology

  • QuantumScape has made significant strides in developing next-generation solid-state lithium-metal batteries, aiming to address key concerns about EV battery performance such as charging speed and energy density. Analysts have noted an increase in both insider trading activity and investor interest, with a consensus target price for QuantumScape stock being $6.09. QuantumScape's new solid-state batteries are closer to commercialization, with trial versions of prototype cells being shipped to customers for evaluation. These batteries potentially offer greater energy density compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries, which could alleviate range anxiety and enhance EV performance.

  • 8-3. Commercialization of High-Energy Density EV Battery

  • QuantumScape has begun efforts to commercialize a high-energy density EV battery, which is expected to significantly improve the range and efficiency of electric vehicles. Their latest prototype, the QSE-5 battery cell, has been shipped to customers for testing, marking an important milestone in their 2024 commercialization goals. The company has also announced low volume production of the QSE-5 prototype battery cell. The new battery cells are based on QuantumScape's solid-state technology, which has been integrated and improved over the past year.

  • 8-4. Q4 2023/FY’23 Business Results

  • QuantumScape announced its Q4 2023 and full-year 2023 business results, including strategic developments such as the appointment of Dr. Siva Sivaram as the new CEO. Key highlights include the shipment of the Alpha-2 sample, the ramping up of the Raptor heat treatment process for efficient production, and preparations for Cobra production slated for 2025. Financially, the company maintains a cautious but optimistic outlook, balancing speculative interest in its groundbreaking technology with the inherent risks of innovation and market adoption.

9. Product Specifications and Statistics

  • 9-1. Hyundai Inster Standard Range Specifications

  • The Hyundai Inster Standard Range is a subcompact SUV with essential electric vehicle specifications. It features a gross battery capacity of 42 kWh and a usable capacity of 40 kWh, offering a range of approximately 300 km (186.4 miles) on a full charge under WLTP standards. The vehicle has a minimal consumption rate of 15.3 kWh per 100 km (24.6 kWh per 100 miles) and can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 11.7 seconds (0 to 60 mph in 11.3 seconds). Its top speed is 140 km/h (87 mph). The Inster Standard Range utilizes a front-wheel-drive system, and its AC onboard charger supports up to 11 kW, while the DC fast charging capability can reach 120 kW. The Hyundai Inster does not feature a dedicated electric vehicle platform. The car's dimensions include a length of 3825 mm, a width of 1610 mm, and a height of 1575 mm, with trunk (boot) space of approximately 280 liters (9.9 cubic feet).

  • 9-2. Ford Motor Company Statistics for 2024

  • Ford Motor Company remains a significant player in the automotive industry. In 2023, the Ford F series was the best-selling passenger car globally, with 0.9 million units sold. The United States was Ford's leading market in 2023, with 2,097,000 units sold, followed by China and Canada. Ford's revenue reached $174.22 billion in 2023, making it one of the top 50 largest companies worldwide. The company captured 4.4% of the global market share, ranking fifth after Toyota, Volkswagen, and Honda. Ford's major revenue contributors included Ford Blue, generating $101.93 billion, followed by Ford Pro with $58.06 billion. In the US, Ford assembled 1.8 million vehicles in 2023, leading local production with 80% of its vehicles sold domestically assembled in the USA. Ford also exported approximately 260,000 American-assembled vehicles to other countries in 2023. Additionally, Ford Global Technologies LLC was awarded 1,270 US patents in 2023, demonstrating the company’s strong emphasis on innovation.

10. Conclusion

  • The report underscores pivotal developments and trends in the automotive and technology landscapes for 2024. Tech giants like Apple have brought forward Apple Intelligence, enhancing AI functionalities across their ecosystem, while Google and Microsoft have also announced significant upgrades. In the automotive realm, the integration of hybrid systems in models like the Vauxhall Corsa and the introduction of high-performance vehicles from Mercedes-AMG demonstrate a shift toward power efficiency and innovation. Companies like QuantumScape are pushing the envelope with next-generation solid-state batteries, addressing key issues like range anxiety and charging speeds, which marks a transformative push towards sustainable technologies. The Indian automotive market shows mixed performance, with brands like Maruti and Mahindra exhibiting growth, while others face declines. Collectively, these advancements highlight the dynamic interplay between automotive and technology sectors, with future prospects indicating continued convergence and market evolution. Continued focus on sustainable technology and increased AI integration are expected to shape these industries significantly in the coming years.

11. Glossary

  • 11-1. Apple Intelligence [Technology]

  • Apple Intelligence is a new feature announced in 2024 aimed at providing enhanced AI-driven functionalities across Apple's ecosystem, including new devices and software updates.

  • 11-2. Vauxhall Corsa [Automobile]

  • A hybrid subcompact car that offers improved fuel efficiency and a refined driving experience with new technology features, as compared with the Skoda Fabia.

  • 11-3. Mercedes-AMG [Automobile]

  • High-performance luxury vehicle models launched by Mercedes-Benz, focusing on enhanced performance features and technology.

  • 11-4. QuantumScape [Company]

  • A company focused on developing solid-state battery technology to revolutionize the electric vehicle market by addressing concerns like range anxiety and charging times.

  • 11-5. Hyundai Inster Standard Range [Electric Vehicle]

  • An electric vehicle model by Hyundai, known for its specific battery capacity, range, and performance metrics, contributing to the EV market.

12. Source Documents