No fees, no trophies, just cars and fellowship. Fryburg’s “Cars and Coffee” returns on Saturday, May 9, at the FUN Bank parking lot, marking the start of a monthly tradition for local “car guys and car girls” to showcase their favorite rides. Joanne Bauer FRYBURG, Pa. (EYT) — Local car enthusiasts are invited to kick off the season at a “Cars and Coffee” event on Saturday, May 9, at the FUN Bank parking lot in Fryburg. The event will run from 9:00 a.m. to noon and serves as a casual gathering for people and their vehicles. This is a “meet and greet” style event rather than a formal car show or a traditional cruise-in; there is no registration and no fees to participate. Community leader Jody Weaver told exploreClarion.com, “We had a great turnout last year, so we decided to do it again! It’s really just a low-key gathering for car guys and car girls to come together for a morning of fellowship.” Weaver added that, while a scheduling conflict prevented the event from falling on the first Saturday of May, he plans to hold it on the first Saturday of every month moving forward. “There are 70 spaces available, so I hope the community takes advantage of this fellowship,” Weaver said. “Come out and enjoy some fellowship with fellow car lovers this Saturday!” While First United National (FUN) Bank is closed on Saturdays, ATM and night deposit access will remain available via Demseytown Road. In the event of inclement weather, the rain date is scheduled for Saturday, May 16. The tentative 2026 schedule is as follows: - Saturday, May 9 - Saturday, June 6 - Saturday, July 4 - Saturday, August 1 - Saturday, September 5 Note: Please check back monthly for any schedule updates or changes. For more
Apr 19, 2026 · via explorejeffersonpa.com
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Apr 19, 2026 · via mprnews.org
Kathmandu, Apr. 19: The usually crowded and chaotic lanes of Ason wore a different look on Saturday as the Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) rolled out its ‘vehicle-free Saturday’ campaign, transforming one of the Valley’s busiest marketplaces into a vibrant pedestrian zone. Under clear blue skies, 57-year-old Saraswoti Shahi stood cheerfully behind her food stall, serving traditional Newari delicacies to passersby. A long-time resident of Ason, Shahi had been out of work since footpath shops were removed from the area. On Saturday, however, she found renewed hope. “I had been staying at home with no source of income,” she said. “Now, every Saturday gives me a chance to earn again. This initiative has brought new energy into my life.” Shahi invested around Rs. 35,000 to prepare food and expects to earn approximately Rs. 50,000 in sales. For her and many others, the weekly market is more than just a commercial opportunity; it is a chance to reconnect with the community. “People are dressed in traditional attire and are promoting their culture,” she said. Launched with the theme ‘Living and Prosperous Ason,’ the campaign will be held every Saturday in key sections stretching from Kamalachhi Chowk, Bhotahiti Chowk and Mahabouddha to Ason. On Saturdays, vehicles are barred from entering these areas, allowing pedestrians to reclaim the streets. Similarly, entry toward Ason will also be restricted from Indra Chowk. Vehicle owners travelling through this area will need to use alternative routes. They are requested to park their vehicles at designated locations such as the Dharahara underground parking, Jamal Bahal, Durbar High School, or other assigned areas, and proceed on foot to enter Ason. Meanwhile, the impact became immediately visible on Saturday. Freed from the usual traffic congestion and constant honking, visitors strolled through the marketplace, soaking in the lively atmosphere. Traditional music echoed
Apr 19, 2026 · via risingnepaldaily.com
5 Android Auto settings I always change on any new Android phone Do these basic quality of life improvements in Android Auto right away for a more pleasant drive. Get the latest news from Android Central, your trusted companion in the world of Android You are now subscribed Your newsletter sign-up was successful Android Auto has been around for more than a decade, and it’s an amazing solution for staying connected with your phone safely while driving. Most cars support a wired Android Auto connection, so make sure you have the best cables for the job. Wireless Android Auto is increasingly common in many new car models, not just premium ones. Plus, Google keeps updating Auto with new features like support for Google Meet in Android Auto. While it works great out of the box, there are a few settings I always tweak every time I use a new phone with my car. These are simple toggle switches that can make a world of difference when using Android Auto daily, and all of them can be done via your phone itself. Here are my top five settings and tweaks that I recommend making if you’ve just set it up. Stop music from auto-playing when connected One of the most annoying default settings of Android Auto is that your music will start playing automatically as soon as your phone connects to your car. It can be very jarring at night if you had the volume turned all the way up the last time you used the car. It can also be downright embarrassing, depending on who’s in the car with you, and your secret guilty pleasure music starts blaring. Keep your dignity by simply disabling this toggle switch. Article continues belowOn your phone, head to Settings, and search for Android Auto.
Apr 18, 2026 · via androidcentral.com
- Audi’s AUDI brand is preparing to launch several new models. - E7X debuts at Auto China and will be followed by new car in 2027. - Three to four more are planned thanks to expanded SAIC partnership. Audi’s AUDI brand has been struggling as of late, but the company still has faith in the Chinese offshoot. That’s clear today as the automaker is deepening their collaboration with SAIC and preparing to launch an assortment of new models. The brand, as you may recall, was launched with the E5 Sportback in 2025. The E7X crossover will debut at Auto China later this month, while a third model is scheduled to arrive in 2027. Little is known about the latter, but officials have previously suggested it could be a sporty limousine. More: Audi’s China Brand Is Cutting Prices And Losing Sales, So It’s Building A Sporty Limo More vehicles will follow as the latest agreement between Audi and SAIC “focuses on the full value chain for AUDI’s future models, encompassing R&D, with a dedicated AUDI Innovation & Technology Center to be established in Shanghai.” The latter will be led by Audi and tasked with the “development of China-specific, intelligent electrification technologies and whole-vehicle development across the entire value chain of intelligent connected vehicles.” The companies did not share many specifics, but said customers can look forward to “AI-powered, immersive smart cabins” as well as advanced driver assistance systems designed specifically for Chinese consumers. That still leaves plenty of open questions, but the partnership will spawn four new AUDI models in the coming years. However, it’s not clear if that number includes the car coming in 2027. Regardless, upcoming models will be based on the next-generation Advanced Digitized Platform. The luxury brand added the vehicles will “extend and complement Audi’s existing portfolio.”
Apr 18, 2026 · via carscoops.com
14 Cool Gadgets On Amazon That Can Solve Everyday Problems We may receive a commission on purchases made from links. Amazon is a global online marketplace that sells a wide range of gadgets across almost every niche you can think of. Be it home appliances, kitchen, tools and hardware, or tech, you will find plenty of unique options at great prices. We searched the platform to find cool gadgets that can actually solve everyday problems by reducing the time and effort required to perform regular tasks. For instance, there's an electric can opener that removes lids on tin cans with ease, so you don't have to risk hurting your hands with manual openers. You can go with a food warming mat that keeps cooked food at a uniform temperature, so you can serve hot, fresh food to your guests at dinner parties without worrying about reheating. And that's just two of many options that can solve problems in your everyday life. Each gadget on this list addresses an everyday problem and has earned a user rating of 4.0 or higher based on at least 1,000 purchases, ensuring we include only well-performing products from Amazon. Eufy Robot Vacuum The Eufy Robot Vacuum, which has a 4.3-star rating on Amazon from over 53,000 buyers, will be your helping hand in keeping the house clean. It can generate up to 7,000 Pascals of suction to pull out the tiniest dust, food particles, and other debris from hard floors, wood, tiles, and even carpet. The mops can rotate at 180 revolutions per minute (RPM) and exert a downward force of 6 newtons to efficiently remove rigid stains and spills. It has a low height profile, allowing the device to move conveniently under cupboards, sofas, and other items with at least 3.54 inches of clearance
Apr 18, 2026 · via bgr.com
Stellantis and Microsoft (NasdaqGS:MSFT) agreed a five year collaboration focused on AI, cybersecurity, and cloud migration in automotive operations. The partnership targets over 100 joint AI projects spanning vehicles, manufacturing, and digital business functions across Stellantis’ global footprint. Stellantis will use Microsoft Azure, Copilot, and cloud security tools, along with Microsoft 365 Copilot, across core IT, product development, and cyber defense. For you as an investor, this move reinforces Microsoft’s role as a core technology supplier to large industrial groups, not just a software and consumer cloud company. Stellantis is one of the world’s largest automakers, so committing its core digital systems to Azure and Microsoft’s AI stack indicates how deeply NasdaqGS:MSFT is integrating into connected vehicle and manufacturing workflows. It also broadens Microsoft’s exposure to long term trends in software defined cars and factory automation. Looking ahead, this kind of multi year, sector wide digital program can influence how other manufacturers approach large scale AI and cloud commitments. Investors watching NasdaqGS:MSFT may want to track how quickly these 100 plus projects move from pilots into live production, how widely Copilot tools are adopted inside Stellantis, and whether similar agreements are signed with other global industrial groups. Stay updated on the most important news stories for Microsoft by adding it to your watchlist or portfolio. Alternatively, explore our Community to discover new perspectives on Microsoft. For Microsoft, the Stellantis deal sits squarely in its push to be the default AI and cloud supplier for large, complex enterprises. Stellantis is not just buying hosting capacity, it is tying more than 100 AI projects, a global cyber defense center, and a sizeable infrastructure migration to Azure, Copilot and Microsoft’s security stack. That plays directly to Microsoft’s strength in large scale platforms where productivity tools, data, and security run together, and it gives
Apr 18, 2026 · via simplywall.st
- United States - / - Software - / - NasdaqGS:MSFT Microsoft Stellantis AI Alliance Tests Long Term Automotive Cloud Returns - Stellantis and Microsoft (NasdaqGS:MSFT) agreed a five year collaboration focused on AI, cybersecurity, and cloud migration in automotive operations. - The partnership targets over 100 joint AI projects spanning vehicles, manufacturing, and digital business functions across Stellantis’ global footprint. - Stellantis will use Microsoft Azure, Copilot, and cloud security tools, along with Microsoft 365 Copilot, across core IT, product development, and cyber defense. For you as an investor, this move reinforces Microsoft’s role as a core technology supplier to large industrial groups, not just a software and consumer cloud company. Stellantis is one of the world’s largest automakers, so committing its core digital systems to Azure and Microsoft’s AI stack indicates how deeply NasdaqGS:MSFT is integrating into connected vehicle and manufacturing workflows. It also broadens Microsoft’s exposure to long term trends in software defined cars and factory automation. Looking ahead, this kind of multi year, sector wide digital program can influence how other manufacturers approach large scale AI and cloud commitments. Investors watching NasdaqGS:MSFT may want to track how quickly these 100 plus projects move from pilots into live production, how widely Copilot tools are adopted inside Stellantis, and whether similar agreements are signed with other global industrial groups. Stay updated on the most important news stories for Microsoft by adding it to your watchlist or portfolio. Alternatively, explore our Community to discover new perspectives on Microsoft. 5 things going right for Microsoft that this headline doesn't cover. For Microsoft, the Stellantis deal sits squarely in its push to be the default AI and cloud supplier for large, complex enterprises. Stellantis is not just buying hosting capacity, it is tying more than 100 AI projects, a global cyber
Apr 18, 2026 · via simplywall.st
If that sounds like an obituary for televised retail, it’s not. It is more like a corporate reminder that QVC’s core idea did not die. It won. The format escaped cable and took up residence on smartphones, where livestreams, influencers and friction-light checkout now do what QVC figured out decades ago: turn shopping into entertainment, trust into conversion and impulse into infrastructure. Investopedia notes that even as QVC struggled, live shopping itself kept moving toward digital and social platforms. To understand why QVC mattered, it helps to remember how early it was. According to Britannica, QVC launched in 1986 as an alternative to the Home Shopping Network, founded by Joe Segel with backing that included Comcast’s Ralph Roberts. The first item sold on air was an $11.49 shower radio, which feels almost comically on-brand for a network that made ordinary household goods feel like breaking news. Britannica also notes that QVC differentiated itself with a softer, more product-focused style. Hosts were expected to know what they were selling and explain it like human beings, not carnival barkers. That was the real innovation. Before one-click checkout, before “shop now” buttons and before social commerce became a buzzword, QVC had already built a friction-light buying machine. Watch, trust, call, buy. The company pushed beyond TV earlier than many people remember. Britannica notes that QVC launched iQVC on MSN in 1995 and later opened a flagship store with a working studio at the Mall of America. In other words, it was trying to be omnichannel before omnichannel became conference-panel vocabulary. QVC also understood something Silicon Valley later rediscovered and rebranded as creator commerce: people buy from people. Britannica points to celebrity hosts and collaborators such as Joan Rivers and Diane von Furstenberg, and notes that Lori Greiner used QVC success as a springboard
Apr 18, 2026 · via pymnts.com
2027 Genesis GV60 Pricing and Specifications Detailed for Australia 2027 Genesis GV60 detailed for Australia, with $88,300 entry price, 84kWh battery, up to 561km WLTP range, fast charging, and updated tech and design. Genesis Motors Australia has announced the refreshed 2027 GV60 all-electric SUV, which is scheduled to arrive in the local market in June 2026. The updated range introduces the GV60 Advanced RWD as a new entry point, priced from $88,300 excluding on-road costs. This pricing positions the base model below current federal luxury car tax and fringe benefits tax exemption thresholds. A high-performance GV60 Magma AWD variant is also confirmed to join the lineup, with local pricing to be confirmed at a later date.The 2027 model features a fourth-generation 84kWh high-voltage battery. This battery provides a driving range of up to 561km according to WLTP testing standards. The vehicle remains compatible with 400V/800V charging infrastructure, allowing a 10 to 80 percent charge in 18 minutes using a 350kW ultra-fast charger. Charging performance in cold weather is supported by an upgraded second-generation battery conditioning system. Exterior changes include a redesigned front bumper with a three-dimensional shape and Two-Line Micro-Lens Array (MLA) headlights. The update adds new 19-inch alloy wheels and replaces previous black trim with body-coloured wheel arch cladding and fender garnishes. Aerodynamic refinements, including a new 3D underbody cover, have resulted in a drag coefficient of 0.28. The interior has been redesigned around a 27-inch connected car Integrated Cockpit (ccIC) that combines the instrument cluster and infotainment into a single panoramic display. Mechanical updates include the addition of hydro bushings to the rear suspension and an optimized steering gear ratio for improved response. Refinement has been addressed through upgraded soundproofing in the rear cabin and cargo areas, alongside improved windshield sealing. The braking system has been upgraded to
Apr 18, 2026 · via carsauce.com
This article is authored by Vishal Kaul, CEO, Uno Minda Aftermarket.Indiaâs automotive ecosystem is undergoing a significant transformation. As one of the largest automotive markets in the world, India is experiencing rapid change fuelled by rising vehicle ownership rates, growing use of digital technologies, and greater emphasis on road safety measures. According to ICRA, automotive aftermarket revenue stood at approximately Rs 99,500 crore in FY2025 and is expected to reach nearly Rs 1.55 lakh crore by FY2030, highlighting the market's opportunities and potential. This evolution is significantly redefining consumer expectations. Vehicles are no longer seen only as a means of transportation; they are now becoming technologically advanced, intelligent systems. As a result, the automotive aftermarket is shifting from the conventional space to one that is defined by technology, safety, and overall user experience. In this new era, vehicle accessories are no longer seen as optional add-ons; instead, they are seen as essential enablers of modern mobility. Indeed, consumers are on the lookout for something that can help make their lives not only more efficient but also more convenient, safe, and personalised. A crucial role in making the above-mentioned possible is played by the implementation of connectivity services. Modern vehicle owners are now looking for options that would allow them to gain better control over their vehicles at any point in time and from any location. In order to achieve these goals, consumers use vehicle accessories like infotainment systems, GPS trackers, and remote vehicle management services. These technologies empower users with actionable insights, improving both convenience and the ownership experience. Watch New Skoda Kushaq Drive Review: Before buying know these things | TOI Auto Safety is another factor that has started to gain prominence as a purchasing decision. The need for preventive safety is felt more strongly due to increased density
Apr 18, 2026 · via timesofindia.indiatimes.com
The company will also invest in top artificial intelligence (AI) talent and deepen its product and engineering capabilities, it said in a Friday (April 17) press release. “We see every day how much pressure companies are under to manage supply chains through constant disruption, and how often critical decisions are still being made on top of fragmented data and brittle systems,” Loop CEO and Co-founder Matt McKinney said in the release. “This investment lets us expand our platform and connect the financial and operational data that our customers need to make better decisions, faster.” Loop helps companies reduce costs, improve financial and network visibility, and gain tighter control over working capital by structuring data and automating the processes around it, according to the release. The platform is powered by its DUX family of artificial intelligence (AI) models and agents that are built for logistics and supply chains. The company started with a focus on back-office operations, where the data is siloed and the financial impact is high, the release said. Now, Loop is expanding its platform across supplier, trade and compliance, warehouse, procurement and inbound logistics data, as well as strengthening connections across enterprise resource planning (ERP), transportation management system (TMS), warehouse management system (WMS) and order management systems, per the release. Advertisement: Scroll to Continue Antonio Gracias, founder, CEO and chief investment officer of Valor Equity Partners, which led the funding round, said in the release that Loop’s AI systems create actionable intelligence out of data that had been fragmented and inaccessible. “That foundation extends into other operational and financial functions, which is why Loop is positioned to become the intelligence layer of the entire supply chain,” Gracias said. Loop was founded in 2021 by former Uber and Flexport engineers and secured $35 million in a Series B funding
Apr 18, 2026 · via pymnts.com
Ninety One North America Inc. purchased a new stake in General Motors Company (NYSE:GM - Free Report) TSE: GMM.U in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor purchased 68,043 shares of the auto manufacturer's stock, valued at approximately $5,533,000. Several other hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the company. PDS Planning Inc lifted its position in shares of General Motors by 3.4% in the 4th quarter. PDS Planning Inc now owns 3,996 shares of the auto manufacturer's stock valued at $325,000 after acquiring an additional 131 shares in the last quarter. Kentucky Trust Co lifted its position in shares of General Motors by 5.1% in the 4th quarter. Kentucky Trust Co now owns 2,944 shares of the auto manufacturer's stock valued at $239,000 after acquiring an additional 144 shares in the last quarter. Tiemann Investment Advisors LLC lifted its position in shares of General Motors by 3.1% in the 3rd quarter. Tiemann Investment Advisors LLC now owns 5,045 shares of the auto manufacturer's stock valued at $308,000 after acquiring an additional 150 shares in the last quarter. Hemington Wealth Management lifted its position in shares of General Motors by 14.5% in the 3rd quarter. Hemington Wealth Management now owns 1,219 shares of the auto manufacturer's stock valued at $74,000 after acquiring an additional 154 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Fielder Capital Group LLC lifted its position in shares of General Motors by 3.3% in the 3rd quarter. Fielder Capital Group LLC now owns 5,131 shares of the auto manufacturer's stock valued at $313,000 after acquiring an additional 163 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 92.67% of the company's stock. Analyst Ratings Changes Several equities
Apr 18, 2026 · via marketbeat.com
ICYMI: Spring optimism grows for dealers as challenges remain. Massive union breakthrough in the South signals ripple effects for dealers. Ford pushes to block Chinese EVs as it rolls out gas incentives in high-cost states. Tariff refund applications open as dealers and importers seek relief under the CAPE program. Stellantis and Microsoft deepen alliance to supercharge AI and cybersecurity capabilities. Here’s a closer look at these top stories and more headlines to stay on top of this week’s automotive industry news. Spring optimism grows for dealers as challenges remain Dealer sentiment is improving as the industry enters the spring selling season, according to new data from Cox Automotive, though current market conditions remain below historical norms. The company’s March 2026 insights show a seasonal rebound in dealer confidence, driven by expectations of stronger consumer demand, potential easing in interest rates, and improving inventory levels. However, dealers continue to report ongoing challenges tied to affordability constraints and broader economic uncertainty. Read More Massive union breakthrough in the South signals ripple effects for dealers The United Auto Workers’ successful unionization of Volkswagen’s Chattanooga plant and its organizing efforts at Mercedes-Benz’s Alabama facility signal a shift that extends beyond factory workers and directly impacts franchised dealerships nationwide. These developments could reshape dealership cost structures and operational stability. This wave of union activity creates ripple effects across dealership operations, most notably affecting vehicle supply stability, production costs, and pricing power. These pressures directly influence dealership competitiveness in a tightening market. Read More Ford pushes to block Chinese EVs as it rolls out gas incentives in high-cost states Ford is escalating its stance on global competition while adjusting its domestic pricing strategy, as CEO Jim Farley calls for limits on Chinese automakers entering the U.S. market and the company rolls out gas card incentives in
Apr 18, 2026 · via cbtnews.com
Volkswagen launched the ID.UNYX 08, starting at under $35,000 in China. The fully connected electric SUV is Volkswagen’s first EV co-developed with XPeng. Volkswagen’s first custom-tailored EV rolls out in China After BYD ended Volkswagen’s 15-year run as China’s top-selling car brand in 2023, Volkswagen is looking to make a comeback. However, the German automaker’s all-electric vehicles dropped 63% in the first quarter ahead of its biggest EV offensive yet. As part of its “In China, for China” strategy, Volkswagen is going on the offensive, with plans to launch a new EV every two weeks on average this year, starting with the ID.UNYX 08. The ID.UNYX 08 is Volkswagen’s first fully connected, purely electric full-size SUV developed through its partnership with XPeng. After opening pre-orders in China last month with prices ranging from 239,900 yuan to 299,900 yuan ($34,500 to $43,500), Volkswagen officially launched the ID.UNYX 08 SUV in China on Thursday night. The new electric SUV is priced slightly below its pre-sale price, starting at 229,900 yuan ($33,700). It’s available in three trims: Pure Ultra and Max. With German engineering infused with advanced local technology, the electric SUV is Volkswagen’s most advanced EV for the Chinese market and a cornerstone of its ambitions to reclaim market share in the region. After announcing the first series models rolled off the production line at Volkswagen Anhui in Hefei on March 13, Volkswagen Group CEO Oliver Blume said, “Three years ago, we launched our strong China strategy – It is now unleashing its full power. The ID.UNYX 08 is the next impressive proof of this.” Based on an 800V electric architecture co-developed with XPeng, the ID.UNYX 08 features ultra-fast charging, allowing it to recharge from 10% to 80% in about 20 minutes. The electric SUV is equipped with XPeng’s latest Vision-Language-Action (VLA
Apr 18, 2026 · via electrek.co
Deepening cooperation with SAIC The AUDI brand from Audi has been going through tough times lately, but the company still believes in its Chinese project. This becomes evident today as the automaker deepens its cooperation with SAIC and prepares to launch a whole series of new models. Brand development plan Recall that the brand was introduced in 2025 with the E5 Sportback model. The E7X crossover will debut at the Auto China show this month, and a third model is planned for 2027. Little is known about the latter yet, but company representatives previously hinted it could be a sports sedan. Also read: Chinese Audi brand cuts prices and loses sales, so it’s building a sports sedan Other cars will follow, as the latest agreement between Audi and SAIC “focuses on the full value creation chain for future AUDI models, including research and development, for which a dedicated AUDI Innovation and Technology Center will be established in Shanghai.” It will be led by Audi and will be responsible for “developing China-specific intelligent electric vehicle technologies and developing holistic vehicles across the smart connected car value chain.” Technological prospects The companies did not reveal many details but stated that customers can expect “AI-equipped, exciting smart cabins,” as well as advanced driver assistance systems developed specifically for Chinese consumers. Many questions remain, but the partnership will spawn four new AUDI models in the coming years. However, it is unclear whether this number includes the car arriving in 2027. Regardless, future models will be based on the new-generation Advanced Digitized Platform. Brand representatives added that the cars “will expand and complement the existing Audi portfolio.” Strategic goals in China Audi CEO Gernot Döllner stated: “Audi’s ambition is to remain a strong player in China in the era of intelligent connected cars. Our partnership
Apr 18, 2026 · via topgir.com.ua
Audi has expanded its collaboration with SAIC Motor to develop future vehicle generations under their jointly owned Audi brand in China, with four new models planned. The companies have signed an agreement centred on the joint development of vehicles built on the next generation advanced digitised platform. Discover B2B Marketing That Performs Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms. The programme also includes cooperation across the full value chain, including research and development. A dedicated Audi Innovation & Technology Centre will be set up in Shanghai, led by Audi in partnership with SAIC. The facility will focus on China-specific intelligent electrification and complete vehicle development for intelligent connected vehicles. It includes AI-enabled “smart cabins” and advanced driver assistance systems tailored to local consumers. The initiative builds on the Audi brand introduced in 2024. Audi CEO Gernot Döllner said: “Following the successful launch of Audi and its first model, we are ready to take the next step: establishing a dedicated Innovation and Technology Centre in cooperation with our long-trusted partner SAIC to drive Vorsprung in China.” The first model, the Audi E5 Sportback, was launched in 2025, followed by the planned debut of the Audi E7X SUV at Auto China 2026. A third model is scheduled for 2027. Audi said the agreement is intended to accelerate the expansion of its AUDI-branded portfolio in China and strengthen its position in the premium intelligent connected vehicle segment. SAIC Motor president Jia Jianxu added: “The achievements of the past two years with Audi powerfully demonstrate the strength of our partnership. Now, we are excited to move forward together, building on this foundation to jointly pursue innovation and leadership in the premium electric vehicle market.” Audi Sport introduced the RS 5 in February as its “first” high-performance
Apr 18, 2026 · via just-auto.com
Damion Smy 2027 Mercedes-Benz C-Class EV's screen-heavy interior revealed 6 Hours Ago Cupra's sporty and niche branding is amplified in this plug-in hybrid Leon station wagon, but its very particular set of skills has broader appeal. CarExpert brings together reviews, research tools and trusted buying support, guiding you from research to delivery with confidence. #SaveTheWagons! And say it again for the people in the back... The 2026 Cupra Leon Sportstourer VZe presents an interesting option, sized somewhere between the small and medium segments and offering a performance-leaning 200kW plug-in hybrid drivetrain with over 100km of EV range. It’s a formula that nothing this side of an Audi A5 Avant is offering (for substantially more money, mind you), and that’s before the Spanish brand fills the void left by the Volkswagen Golf R Wagon with its own 245kW AWD monster version of this car later this year. So what’s the appeal? Well, you get the niche factor that comes with a sleek, compact wagon body, as well as the Cupra badge and the fact the Leon isn’t a huge seller. Then, that PHEV drivetrain can prove to be mighty efficient if you use it as designed, allowing you to enjoy the Leon’s excellent dynamic package without using all that much fuel. It’s far from cheap, though. At $69,990 before on-road costs and options, the Leon Sportstourer is firmly positioned in premium territory, and on the road it costs about $10,000 more than the related Skoda Octavia RS, which offers similar power and performance but with a petrol-only drivetrain shared with the VW Golf GTI hot hatch. After driving the facelifted Leon range in New South Wales last year at the Australian media launch, I scored a longer loan of the Sportstourer over the Christmas break to get a better feel for
Apr 18, 2026 · via carexpert.com.au
China's Seres patents groundbreaking in-car toilet design Caught short with no service stations in sight? Seres has the perfect solution for you…. There’s plenty of new technology in cars these days designed to make our lives easier, such as hands-free boot opening or autonomous self-parking. But Chinese firm Seres is taking things to a whole new level, with plans for – wait for it – an in-car toilet. Yes, you read that correctly… a toilet, inside the actual car. Patent filings from China show an on-board toilet ‘hidden under the seat when not in use’ that can slide out from underneath the passenger’s seat either physically or through the car’s voice-recognition system. The patent is solely for the passenger’s side, so there’s no chance of using the facilities whilst driving. And it’s not clear whether only top-spec versions of Seres models would benefit, or if the feature would be introduced to bog-standard variants, too. The toilet also gets a fan and a pipe to help send odours out of the car and while the patent claims waste goes into a storage box inside the vehicle – rather than just dispensed on to the road – there’s also a ‘rotatable heating rod’ to help destroy it. In-vehicle toilets are pretty common in vehicles like motorhomes or coaches, but they’ve rarely appeared in cars. In the 1950s, American business tycoon Joseph J Mascuch commissioned renowned coachbuilder Alfredo Vignale to modify a Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith with a gold-plated toilet under the rear seat which doubled as a champagne cooler. Chinese cars typically get more equipment as standard, as seen by the likes of a panoramic sunroof fitted to the tiny Leapmotor T03 and a refrigerator in the new Denza Z9GT. But Seres is clearly willing to go to extremes in an effort to
Apr 17, 2026 · via autoexpress.co.uk
Stellantis secured a five-year deal with Microsoft to have the software giant help the automaker develop more than 100 AI-base initiatives aimed at improving driver safety, cybersecurity, and engineering efforts. The two companies already work together in several areas, and all employees currently have access to Copilot Chat. Workers get specialized training on how to use the AI-based tech in their daily work. However, the deal calls for the two companies to work extensively across most areas of the company to improve efficiency and security while reducing the resources expended to handle a variety of functions. Perhaps the most prominent use of AI will be to improve cybersecurity for vehicles as well as the company itself. There are plenty of stories and additional worries about the abilities of hackers to take over a vehicle remotely. With the advent of self-driving technology, more and more vehicles will rely on computers to navigate U.S. roads. Ensuring those systems cannot be hacked and used by cyberterrorists is a priority. "Stellantis will deploy and operate an AI‑driven global cyber defense center spanning its IT systems, connected vehicles, manufacturing sites and digital products," officials said. The goal is to anticipate threats before they happen using AI-driven analytics, then protect connected services and customer data across the company's global operations. The company plans to embed cybersecurity applications "into every digital vehicle experience," to ensure users can be safe using mobile apps and in-vehicle services. The company noted Jeep owners will benefit from more reliable connectivity even in remote areas. To deliver faster and more reliable digital experiences worldwide, Stellantis said it will modernize its infrastructure using Microsoft Azure. It's aiming for a 60% reduction in data center footprint by 2029, the company said. "This cloud modernization will power a more interconnected and scalable digital ecosystem, supporting
Apr 17, 2026 · via autos.yahoo.com