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Print Custom Graphics, Patterns, Lettering Directly on Car Body

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Dürr has introduced EcoNextJet, a new application system that enables custom graphics, lettering, and patterns to be printed directly onto vehicle bodies during the painting process. Replacing traditional manual film application, EcoNextJet uses an automated process capable of delivering high-resolution outputs of up to 720 dpi, with the ability to print in two colours simultaneously. The system is designed to improve precision while reducing production complexity. At its core is drop-on-demand technology, featuring a printhead with 2,000 individually controlled nozzles mounted on a painting robot. Each nozzle dispenses paint only when required, with up to six droplets merging mid-air before reaching the surface. The result is a highly controlled paint layer with a thickness of around five micrometres. The system has been developed in collaboration with Axalta and Xaar, combining expertise in coatings and precision printing. EcoNextJet is currently available for testing at Dürr’s ...
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Uber & WeRide Launch Robotaxi Service in Downtown Abu Dhabi

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WeRide and Uber have rolled out the first commercial robotaxi service in downtown Abu Dhabi, marking a major step for autonomous mobility in the Emirate’s city centre. The expanded deployment now covers nearly 70% of Abu Dhabi’s core areas, with the robotaxi fleet growing fourfold since its initial launch in December 2024. The service operates across key locations including Khalifa City, Masdar City, Rabdan, and major routes between Corniche Road and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Users booking rides via the Uber app in these zones may be matched with a WeRide Robotaxi GXR through UberX or Uber Comfort, or select a dedicated “Autonomous” option. For now, operations continue with a safety specialist onboard as part of a phased transition to fully driverless mobility. ALSO READ: Baidu and Uber Bring Apollo Go Robotaxis to Dubai Backed by the Integrated Transport Centre, the service builds on its earlier footprint covering areas like Al Reem, Yas Island, and routes to Zayed Inter...
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Skoda Brings Smartphone Gaming to EVs with AirConsole Integration

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Škoda Auto has teamed up with AirConsole to introduce smartphone-controlled gaming inside its electric vehicles in Europe. The feature is available on the Škoda Enyaq (with Software Version 4.0 and above) and the Škoda Elroq , allowing passengers to play games directly on the infotainment screen while the car is parked. The highlight of the rollout is Tetris, offered as a six-month exclusive for Škoda users. It supports both solo and multiplayer gameplay, adding a nostalgic twist to in-car entertainment. Beyond Tetris, users can access a curated library of 14 casual games, including UNO Car Party and Who Wants to Be a Millionaire. The platform supports up to five players, depending on the vehicle setup and game type. ALSO READ: Skoda Exceeds 1 Million Production Mark in 2025, EVs Drive Strong Growth With this move, Škoda is enhancing the digital experience inside its EV lineup, turning downtime into interactive entertainment while reinforcing the appeal of its next-gen infota...
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Daimler Buses to Install 600 kW Public Chargers at Munich Central Bus Station

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Daimler Buses is expanding its electric bus infrastructure with the installation of four high-power public charging stations at Munich Central Bus Station. The chargers are scheduled to be operational by the end of 2026 and will form part of the company’s growing proprietary charging network. The agreement has been signed with Wealthcap, the real-asset and investment manager representing the station’s owner. Implementation of the project will be handled by Daimler Buses Solutions, a wholly owned subsidiary of Daimler Buses. Each charging station will offer output of up to 600 kW and will be accessible to electric buses from all manufacturers, supporting broader electrification across public transport fleets. Two of the four charging points are expected to be completed during 2026. Construction work, including civil engineering, installation of high-voltage cables and transformer setup, is set to begin in the second quarter. The Munich project builds on a pilot initiative announced ...
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Volkswagen Group Hits 5 Million Electric Drive Units Milestone

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Volkswagen Group has reached a major electrification milestone, producing five million electric drive units worldwide. The landmark figure was achieved through manufacturing operations at its plants in Győr, Kassel, Tianjin and Zuffenhausen, underscoring the scale of the group’s global EV push. The Kassel facility has played a central role, ramping up output by around 24 per cent year-on-year in 2025 to exceed 850,000 units. Among the various systems produced, the APP550 electric drive stands out as the most widely used. Kassel alone has built one million units of the APP550 to date. The APP550 powers several key models across the Volkswagen Group portfolio, including the Volkswagen ID. family, Škoda Enyaq and Cupra Tavascan. In series production form, the unit delivers up to 240 kW and 560 Nm of torque. Compared to its predecessor, it consumes roughly 20 per cent less energy while offering around 75 per cent more torque and approximately 40 per cent higher power output. ALSO REA...
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Honda To Integrate EV and ICE Ops in Major 2026 Overhaul

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Honda has announced a sweeping restructuring of its automobile and motorcycle operations, effective 1 April 2026, aimed at sharpening its response to a rapidly evolving global automotive landscape. The move will see the company consolidate research and development functions while integrating its electrification and internal combustion engine (ICE) businesses under a more unified structure. As part of the overhaul, R&D responsibilities currently handled by Honda’s Automobile Development Operations and Software-Defined Vehicle (SDV) Business Development Unit will be transferred to Honda R&D Co., Ltd. This effectively reverses a 2020 strategy that separated production model development from future technology research. The new framework will instead align technology planning, development and product launch within a single integrated structure. Honda’s Automobile Operations division will also be reorganised. The existing Automobile Business Strategy Unit and Sales Unit will be r...
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2027 Toyota Highlander Goes Electric, Built in the USA

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Toyota has officially revealed the 2027 Highlander EV, its first battery electric vehicle to be assembled in the United States. Production will take place at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky, with battery modules supplied by the brand’s new $13.9 billion facility in North Carolina. The all-electric Highlander will be offered in XLE and Limited trims, with both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options. Customers can choose between a 77.0 kWh and a larger 95.8 kWh battery pack. With the bigger battery, Toyota estimates a driving range of up to 320 miles. The all-wheel drive variants generate a healthy 338 horsepower and 323 lb-ft of torque, promising strong performance for a family-focused SUV. ALSO READ: Toyota Hilux Goes Electric with Ninth-Gen Debut at Brussels Motor Show Inside, the three-row Highlander EV seats up to seven passengers and provides 45.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the third row folded. A notable highlight is the introduction of Vehicle-to-Load (V2L...
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