Ford F-150 Lightning base models unlock advanced features through coding and OEM upgrades

Hunter Engineering has launched a major software update for its ADASLink diagnostic tools, introducing features like ADAS Align and expanded vehicle support to enhance calibration speed, accuracy, and shop efficiency in the growing field of ADAS servicing.Hunter Engineering has recently rolled out a pretty significant software update for its ADASLink diagnostic scan tool — and honestly, it’s a move that really helps strengthen their position in the rapidly growing field of ADAS calibration tech, especially for aftermarket auto service shops. The standout of this update is the introduction of ADAS Align, which is basically a rebranded and streamlined version of what used to be called Bosch ADAS Positioning (BAP). Now, this new app gives technicians easier, more direct access through a shortcut on their devices, making it faster to activate vehicle cameras, connect smoothly to diagnostic tools, and get more precise when squaring, centering, and setting the distance of calibration fixtures. These upgrades really aim to optimize the calibration process — so, in the end, shops can perform more calibrations, faster and with better accuracy. Another nice addition is the ability to schedule software updates at times that suit the shop's operating hours. Before, monthly updates required the tool to be constantly available, which could sometimes interrupt workflow or delay services. Now, shops can set updates to run outside of working hours, which is definitely a plus in keeping downtime to a minimum. Plus, the update brings in the Net Promoter Score (NPS) feature, which lets users give feedback on their ADASLink experience. That way, the developers can gather data on user satisfaction and make smarter improvements down the line. Beyond that, the software now covers vehicles from the 2026 model year — and it also supports a bunch of 2024 and 2025 models with many new calibrations for ADAS systems. That’s pretty handy for workshops that need to stay on top of the latest OEM calibration requirements, especially as vehicles become more advanced and driver assistance tech becomes more widespread. It’s all about making sure calibration stays accurate and compliant as the automotive industry shifts. Alongside this software update, Hunter recently introduced the HawkEye Elite Xpandable system — and this really is a ‘future-proof’ setup that isn’t just about wheel alignments anymore. It includes features for ADAS calibration, too. The system uses Quick Grip adapters and runs on WinAlign software, plus it’s equipped with the ADASLink tool that has secure gateway functionality. This combo supports everything from dynamic calibrations and pre- and post-scan diagnostics to steering system resets. It’s designed to help technicians perform advanced diagnostics, analyze trouble codes, conduct special tests, and even do part coding or pairing. Ultimately, it broadens the scope of services workshops can offer, making them more comprehensive and potentially more profitable when it comes to alignments and ADAS calibration jobs. In addition to hardware, Hunter has made accessible a package of 13 OEM-approved ADAS calibration targets—these can be ordered via the HunterNet 2 customer portal. They cover a wide range of sensor setups, including surround-view, lane-watch, forward-facing cameras, and radar systems. This suite aligns with the Ultimate ADAS system, providing full calibration capabilities. Plus, subscriptions for the ADASLink and DAS 3000 tools are now available online, and there's a detailed ADAS Coverage Guide that maps out calibration and alignment procedures for vehicles from 2006 all the way up to today. These resources really come together to form an integrated platform, supporting both precision calibration and efficient workflows across many vehicle makes and systems. Overall, Hunter’s latest software updates plus their new hardware and service options mark a pretty strategic move for shops looking to meet the rising demand for ADAS calibration expertise. By making tools easier to access, expanding vehicle support, and enabling more flexible system operations, Hunter continues to equip auto service providers with the tech they need to navigate the increasingly complex world of vehicle safety and driver assistance technology. It’s pretty interesting, right? Seems like they’re really investing in the future of automotive repair. Source: Noah Wire Services

Ford prepares to launch a affordable electric midsize pickup around 2027, featuring a small lithium-iron-phosphate battery and flexible universal platform to challenge both American and Chinese EV brands in the growing market segment.Ford is gearing up to enter the budget-friendly electric pickup market with a new midsize truck designed for cost-conscious consumers, and it’s expected to hit the scene around 2027. The vehicle will come equipped with a notably small lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery pack, roughly 51 kWh of usable energy—this is quite a bit smaller than the batteries in Ford’s Mustang Mach-E or F-150 Lightning models, for example. This intentionally smaller battery aims to cut down on weight and overall costs, while still delivering decent performance. Plus, the LFP chemistry is known for its durability and longer-lasting lifecycle, which is a nice perk. The new pickup will be built on Ford’s Universal EV Platform—a flexible architecture that can support up to eight different body styles. Interestingly enough, Ford has already trademarked names like Ranchero and Dark Horse Boss, which might hint at different versions or trims that could appeal to a wider range of buyers. The vehicle’s electrical system is expected to run on a 400-volt architecture—this might also allow the truck to serve as a backup power source for a home during outages, so it’s not just about hauling stuff around. Production is scheduled to happen at Ford’s Louisville Assembly Plant in Kentucky, which is currently undergoing a massive $2 billion upgrade to gear up for EV manufacturing. This huge investment is not just about new equipment, but also creating around 4,000 jobs—making Louisville a key hub for affordable electric vehicles in the U.S. The factory retooling will focus on boosting efficiency and cutting costs, with plans to domestically produce the LFP batteries, which should help strengthen supply chains and reduce reliance on imports from overseas. As for pricing, Ford is eyeing an starting point of about $30,000—that’s pretty aggressive, making it one of the most affordable electric pickups out there. The goal seems to be tapping into a growing segment of consumers eager to get into electric vehicles without paying a premium—as with larger, more premium models. Experts suggest Ford’s making a strategic move here, especially to compete against Chinese EV brands like BYD, who are already doing well by offering cost-effective, efficient EVs. Oftentimes, the pickup will come with four doors as a standard feature, fitting comfortably into Ford’s existing electric lineup that includes the larger F-150 Lightning and the Maverick hybrid truck. While we’re still waiting on exact details about range and towing capacity, the emphasis on a smaller battery and a universal platform suggests Ford is trying to strike a good balance—combining utility and affordability through smart design and scalable manufacturing. Ford has been encouraging interested customers and industry insiders to stay tuned for more details as they become available. It seems like this rollout is part of a broader strategy to boost their presence in the light truck segment, while making electric vehicles accessible to a broader audience. Honestly, it’s pretty exciting to see such a big automaker focusing on affordable EV options—definitely a development to keep an eye on. Note: References are from a variety of sources, primarily focusing on Ford’s plan for a budget electric pickup, their battery tech, manufacturing plans, and competitive positioning. Source: Noah Wire Services

At the IAA Mobility show in Munich, global car manufacturers reveal new electric models, from BMW’s premium iX3 to Volkswagen’s budget-friendly ID.CROSS, highlighting rapid innovation and strategic shifts in the electrification race amid geopolitical and market pressures.At the IAA Mobility show held in Munich, the car industry’s top manufacturers rolled out a pretty wide array of new electric vehicles—EVs—each one seemingly eager to attract consumers in this period of rapid electrification. You could say the event was packed with major launches from global giants like BMW, Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz, Hyundai, Skoda, Polestar, and also some emerging players such as BYD and Leapmotor. This really highlighted how fierce competition and ongoing innovation are thriving both in the luxury segment and among more affordable EVs. BMW, for instance, introduced its Neue Klasse iX3 electric SUV, a key model aimed at clawing back some of its market share—especially in China, where the competition has gotten pretty intense. The iX3 is positioned as a flagship for BMW’s new electric architecture, promising over 800 km of driving range and super-fast charging that can add more than 370 km in just ten minutes. Production is expected to commence by the end of 2025, with a European launch set for March 2026. The starting price will hover around €68,900 (£59,000), which is a premium but still competitive move, trying to keep profitability at about the same level as traditional combustion cars by 2026—at least, that’s what BMW’s CFO Walter Mertl has said. BMW’s sales boss, Jochen Goller, stressed that they’re keeping a close eye on how pricing plays out in China, especially since the iX3’s pricing strategy there will be crucial after a 15.5% dip in sales during the first half of 2025. The iX3 sports a 74 kWh battery, providing roughly 285 miles on real-world roads, with a max charging rate of 150 kW—that positions it quite comfortably in the mid-range electric SUV market. Volkswagen, on their end, debuted the ID.CROSS, a compact electric SUV concept that’s now finalized for production in summer 2026. They’re aiming the model at budget-conscious buyers with a price forecast of about €28,000 to €30,000 (£24,000–£26,000). This model clearly mirrors Volkswagen’s broader plan to regain ground in the affordable EV space—especially against Chinese manufacturers offering cheaper alternatives. It’ll be produced alongside other budget-friendly models, like the ID.Polo hatchback and Cupra variants, at their plants in Spain. This comes after quite a hefty €10 billion investment into production and battery facilities there. CEO Oliver Blume pointed out that global competition, pricing pressures from China, and US tariffs are all impacting premium brands within the group. To stay competitive, Volkswagen’s planning around 60 new models through 2025, and they’re also restructuring the business with some job cuts and capacity shifts, all aimed at better cost efficiency. Mercedes-Benz isn’t falling behind either. They announced plans to launch the GLC fitted with their EQ electric tech around mid-2026, signaling their ongoing push to electrify their popular SUV line-up to meet the rising demand for luxury EVs. Meanwhile, Hyundai threw a new concept into the mix: the Concept THREE, a compact EV under its IONIQ sub-brand, which aims to showcase the next wave of design and innovation for future electric vehicles. Skoda and Polestar also made some noteworthy appearances. Skoda rolled out the Epiq, a five-seater SUV with a 264-mile battery range, plus the Vision O concept, hinting at how their electric design language might look going forward. And Polestar has opened orders on the Polestar 5, which is a pretty unique luxury electric sedan—so much so that it deliberately skips traditional features like a rear window and glove box, highlighting Polestar’s avant-garde approach to EV design. Other interesting bits included China’s BYD previewing its SEAL 6 DM-i TOURING Super Hybrid—set to be manufactured at their new Hungarian plant—and Leapmotor’s B05, along with Changan’s AVATR 07. The latter, by the way, was described by the company’s CEO as a “statement” of their ambitions, and features a UFO-inspired frontend that certainly grabs your attention. This entire wave of launches at IAA Mobility 2025 shows how, from the well-known European brands to rising Asian newcomers, everyone is stepping up their efforts to broaden their electric vehicle lineup. The focus isn’t just on luxury EVs with long ranges and quick-charging capabilities—like BMW’s iX3—but also includes more accessible, mass-market options like Volkswagen’s ID.CROSS and Polo models. Additionally, the landscape is being shaped by geopolitical factors—trade tariffs, shifts in regional demand, and strategic moves to localize production and sourcing of batteries—all aimed at reducing costs and making supply chains more resilient. For folks working in the industry—OEMs, distributors, logistics teams, and repair shops—this relentless move toward electrification means they need to adapt at every level. New electric platforms bring their own service challenges, parts supply issues, and training needs, while supply chain players must get ready for changing production locations and evolving customer demand. The influx of new models and tech showcased at IAA Mobility really underlines the opportunities, as well as the competitive pressures, that will shape the aftermarket’s future in our increasingly electrified automotive world. Source: Noah Wire Services