ForWare

BMW Group has announced that from March 2025 the all-electric models of its 5 Series Sedan and BMW 5 Series Touring will benefit from a number of technical advances that reduce their energy consumption while increasing their range by up to 47km. This owes much to the first ever use of silicon carbide semiconductor components in the power electronics (SiC converter) of the BMW i5 and to particularly low-rolling-resistance tyres fitted to aerodynamic alloy wheels. The optimised wheel bearings will also help save power.

Hyundai has stated that it intends to sign binding deals with General Motors towards various areas of cooperation, such as the joint purchase of vehicle parts. They will also seek cooperation in the passenger and commercial vehicle businesses. "We are considering re-badging our commercial EVs and supplying GM... The deal will pave the way for our entry into the North American commercial vehicle market" remarked Hyundai Chief Financial Officer Lee Seung Jo.

Volkswagen Group has announced that it is to roll back to using a franchised sales model for EVs for the interim, following a review of its agency plans last year. In February, Skoda will be the first of its brands to switch back, followed by Volkswagen, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles and AUDI AG in April.   A Volkswagen Group spokesperson remarked: "Following discussions with Brand Investor Councils from Volkswagen, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, Audi and Skoda in the UK, we have reached a decision and issued a notification to our retailer partners today. This states our intention to pause ‘Direct to Customer’ retail BEV sales for the short- to medium-term, and return to the wholesale model".   However, they also added that "Cupra, along with group fleet sales, would continue with the agency model and “full agency for all vehicles and drivetrains will be established in the Swedish and Irish markets".

Roughly half of all NCT tests in 2024 had a failure result. resulted in a failure. Automotive fleet managers need to be mindful of this, for even if the vehicle passes on the second go, failing the first time adds unnecessary costs and downtime. Our latest article discusses how ForWare can make your life easier when it comes to managing NCTs for fleets. https://lnkd.in/ehBNG7Ra

The SIMI shortlist for their 2025 Sales Operations of the Year Awards has been announced as follows: Franchise Sales Operation of the Year: - Mercedez Benz Ballsbridge - Lexus Galway - Toyota Naas Independent Sales Operation of the Year: - ASHFORD MOTORS - AutoXpress.ie - Peter Hanley Motors Wishing all contestants the best of luck on 20th February!

SIMI - Society of the Irish Motor Industry has revealed the shortlist for their 2025 Motor Industry Awards, with a number of workshops nominated in the Aftersales categories: Franchise Aftersales Operation of the Year: - Newmarket Motors Volkswagen - Joe Mallon Motors - Cummins Motor Group Independent Aftersales Operation of the Year: - Service Stop Ltd - Rathcoole Commercial - BALLINLOUGH LIMITED The awards take place on February 20th. Wishing all nominees the very best of luck.

Volkswagen has set a new record for range covered by an EV on a single charge, with an ID.7 Pro S with a standard technology package and 210 kW (286 PS) covering a distance of 941 kilometres. This significantly exceeded the model’s maximum WLTP range (combined) of up to 709 kilometres by 232 kilometres or 32.7 percent. During the 941-kilometre tour, the ID.7 Pro S had an average consumption of just 9.2 kWh/100 km – an exceptionally low figure. Converted to a diesel equivalent, the average consumption achieved in Nardò corresponds to about just 1 litre per 100 km. The aim of the test in Nardò was to determine the maximum efficiency of the ID.7 Pro S introduced in 2024.

Keeping on top of service-related events is key to efficient fleet maintenance. ForWare Events enables Fleet Managers to schedule service-related events, including Vehicle Health Checks (VHCs), based on either mileage or time intervals. For example, if a fleet vehicle requires service either after 25,000 km or 2 years, ForWare can notify the manager when the vehicle reaches either of these criteria, whichever comes first. This feature is crucial for maintaining smooth operations, adhering to manufacturer-recommended service schedules, and ensuring warranty compliance. Find out more at: https://lnkd.in/eYbWypWp

Advanced mobility company, Canoo Inc has announced that it has ceased operations and filed a voluntary petition for relief under Chapter 7 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. Canoo is known for the development of the LDV130 electric cargo van. Tony Aquila one of the company’s largest investors and Chairman and CEO said, "We would like to thank the company’s employees for their dedication and hard work. We know that you believed in our company as we did. We are truly disappointed that things turned out as they did. We would also like to thank NASA, the Department of Defense, The United States Postal Service (“USPS”), the State of Oklahoma and Walmart for their belief in our products and our company. This means a lot to everyone in the company".

JCB has confirmed that 11 licensing authorities across Europe have now given permission for JCB’s hydrogen engine to be sold across Europe – with authorities in other countries set to follow suit with certification in 2025. JCB is the first construction equipment company to develop a fully working combustion engine fuelled by hydrogen and a team of 150 engineers has been working on the exciting £100 million development for over three years. Lord Bamford, JCB Chairman, commented "This is a very significant moment for JCB. To start the New Year with certification in place in so many European countries bodes very well for the future of hydrogen combustion technology".