BYD revolutionises electric mobility with immersive tech and e-Platform 3.0 at GIIAS 2025

Drawing a record 15,000 attendees and showcasing over 550 exhibitors, Automechanika Birmingham highlighted the accelerating innovation in collision repair and ADAS calibration tools, alongside major product launches and expanded global supply chain roles for Asian manufacturers.The recent Automechanika event in Birmingham, UK, really marked a significant milestone for the automotive aftermarket and collision repair tech scene, pulling in a record-breaking 15,000 visitors and showcasing around 550 exhibitors. Over the course of three lively days, the expo became quite the hub of innovation, learning, and networking. It really highlighted how quickly the industry’s changing—especially with all the complexities that come with the rise of Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems, or ADAS, in modern vehicles. There was plenty to soak in—over 180 hours of specialist talks, to be honest, covering everything from vehicle detailing, speedy diagnostic repair systems, to new techniques for small area repairs. These sessions offered some pretty priceless insights, especially into the current hurdles and what the future might hold for collision repair and regular vehicle upkeep. Industry groups like Solera and Thatcham Training contributed heavily to this educational lineup by sharing their expertise—think clean sanding tech, seam replication, and also rolling out the latest Cubitron II abrasive discs, which now come in superfine grits to really improve repair quality and cut down on time. Big-name companies across the automotive aftermarket space had a strong presence, with dedicated lounges and live demo zones. Brands like 3M, Indasa, AllData, Hella, Norton Abrasives, Prevost, Thatcham Research, Walcom, and Sagola all showed off their latest gear and tech designed to make body shops more productive. For example, 3M introduced some new clean sanding and seam replication systems, while Norton Abrasives demonstrated customized workstations aimed at smoothing out workflows. You could also check out Indasa’s new HT Ceramic abrasive line, which is making waves globally, showing just how much abrasive tech has advanced—pretty handy for prepping surfaces efficiently. Product launches were definitely a highlight—over 50 new items hitting the scene during the event. One standout was Snap-On’s new V2180 wheel alignment package, featuring these honed rotating hubs—aimed at making wheel alignment both faster and more precise, which is super important given how complicated vehicles are getting. Hella also showcased its next-gen ADAS calibration tool—an absolutely vital piece of kit because with more ADAS systems in cars than ever before, calibration needs to be spot-on to keep safety and performance levels high. And GS27 launched a Ceramic Rain Cleaner, adding to the variety of products meant to keep everyday vehicle maintenance in check. Another interesting aspect was how Asian manufacturers are really stepping up their game within the global supply chain for automotive parts. Their footprint’s definitely expanding—in parts, gaskets, abrasives—you name it—making them pivotal players worldwide. It’s kind of a sign of how globalized and complex the supply chain puzzle has become in the auto repair universe. Beyond just showcasing products, Automechanika Birmingham put a real focus on skills development and ongoing education. The workshops and training hubs were packed with folks eager to learn new repair techniques, diagnostic methods, and the latest tech. It was a pretty immersive experience—not just sitting and listening, but also watching live demos and panel discussions. Whether you were a technician, a workshop manager, or an OEM specialist, there was plenty to take away to stay ahead of the game and keep up with tightening regs and high-tech car tech. All in all, the event really sent a clear message: the industry is committed to moving forward—innovating, training, adapting. As vehicles become more advanced, especially with systems like ADAS, the aftermarket's got to keep pace—upgrading its tools, skills, and processes—to ensure that repairs are safe, effective, and up to OEM standards. It’s pretty fascinating, really—how quickly this whole scene’s evolving. Source: Noah Wire Services

Facing significant financial losses and fierce competition, Ford Motor Company is set to reveal detailed plans for an affordable electric vehicle line on 11 August 2025, marking a strategic pivot aimed at regaining market share with a flexible mid-size electric pickup and new cost-cutting innovations.Ford Motor Company is gearing up to share more detailed info about its plan for a low-cost electric vehicle (EV) line at an upcoming event set for August 11, 2025, in Kentucky. This move signals a pretty significant shift in strategy, especially considering the recent setbacks they’ve faced financially in their EV division—which, in the second quarter of 2025, reported a staggering $1.3 billion loss. So, leadership is now really emphasizing affordability combined with innovation, trying to claw back some market share in an EV landscape that's changing fast and feels pretty pressure-filled right now. CEO Jim Farley went as far as calling this new initiative a “Model T moment” for Ford. It’s a pretty bold statement, highlighting the historic importance of mass-market innovation—something Ford hopes to replicate in the electric realm. The low-cost EV project was first hinted at earlier in 2024, led by Alan Clarke, a former Tesla executive. The development team behind this effort is quite eclectic, pulling talent from top tech and auto companies like Apple, Lucid Motors, Rivian, and Tesla itself. The first vehicle on this platform? Well, it’s expected to be a mid-size electric pickup, with plans to launch around 2027. This platform aims to be pretty flexible, supporting different body styles for both regular consumers and commercial customers, and it’ll come with customizable digital services to make the user experience more engaging. This shift toward affordability isn’t just random; it’s partly a response to declining sales of flagship models like the F-150 Lightning and Mustang Mach-E. Plus, the overall EV market outlook for Ford is getting tougher because of increasing competition. Tesla is planning a cheaper version of its Model Y later this year, GM's reintroducing the Chevrolet Bolt in 2026, and newer players—like Slate Auto, backed by Jeff Bezos—are preparing to launch affordable electric pickups as early as late 2026. Additionally, the US market itself is kind of in flux, with EV sales growth slowing down, thanks to shifting policies and consumer mood under the current administration. Beyond just the price, Ford is also trying to get on the same level as Chinese EV manufacturers, who’ve set a pretty handy pricing benchmark with their competitive costs. The California-based “skunk works” team assigned to this project is aiming for major cost cuts across the entire system—not just batteries. That includes parts like chassis, thermal management, inverters, and electronic modules. Although industry insiders say success might depend heavily on securing roughly $700 million in US federal tax credits designed to offset Ford’s big $3 billion investment in a new battery plant in Michigan, the future of those incentives isn’t guaranteed. They’re still tied up in legislative negotiations, so whether Ford gets them or not is a bit of an open question right now. Interestingly enough, Ford’s pivot to more budget-friendly EVs has also meant some scaled-back ambitions. For instance, the company recently dropped the FNV4 project—an advanced electrical architecture initiative meant to create, you know, a Tesla-like centralized software system. That project was halted because costs and delays spiraled out of control, highlighting just how tough it is for traditional automakers to create complex software systems at Tesla’s level of vertical integration. That said, Ford isn’t throwing in the towel entirely; they plan to take lessons from this experience and apply them to boost their current software capabilities across their vehicle lineup. Financially, these changes mean a few pragmatic adjustments. Production of the next-generation full-size electric pickup has now been pushed back by about 18 months, aiming for a 2027 launch. Meanwhile, plans for an all-electric three-row SUV have been put on hold in favor of hybrid models, mostly because batteries remain so costly. Plus, Ford is planning to cut its EV development spending from 40% of its annual budget down to 30%, a move that shows they’re being a bit more cautious in light of all the market uncertainties and tech challenges they’re facing. The push to make EVs more accessible to consumers also includes new incentives. Recently, Ford rolled out its “Ford Power Promise” program, aimed at lowering barriers to EV adoption—like the hefty costs of home chargers—by offering free Level 2 charger installations along with other perks for customers who buy models like the F-150 Lightning and Mustang Mach-E. It’s all part of a broader effort to educate and motivate consumers who might still be hesitant about switching over to electric. With the first products from this new, lower-cost EV platform not expected until 2027, Ford is facing a pretty tight timeline to stay relevant amid rapid competition and market shifts. The first half of 2025 showed only a modest 7% growth in US EV sales, a sign that the market is maturing—early adopters are giving way to more cautious buyers, which makes Ford’s strategy even more crucial. All in all, their repositioning seems like a calculated move to battle mounting financial pressures, rising competition, and changing consumer expectations—aiming to carve out a sustainable, profitable spot in the EV world through smarter costs, strategic innovation, and targeted product offerings. Source: Noah Wire Services

Murray Bridge’s primary producers can deepen their understanding of heavy vehicle compliance and safety with a no-cost workshop on 20 August, featuring expert advice and follow-up vehicle inspections aimed at reducing road risks and regulatory breaches.Heavy vehicle operators in the Murray Bridge area are getting a great chance to boost their compliance and safety understanding with a free, all-inclusive workshop happening this August. The session, dubbed 'Roadworthy Heavy Vehicles... Made Easy!', is designed to demystify regulatory details and improve vehicle safety practices. It’s scheduled for 20 August at the Murray Bridge Imperial Football Club, running from 9am right through to 3pm. The workshop primarily targets grain producers and other primary industry folks who own and run heavy machinery, with industry expert Bernie O’Hara from National Transport Consulting doing both classroom-style teaching and practical demonstrations. This event is part of a broader initiative led by Grain Producers SA (GPSA) in partnership with the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) and Primary Producers SA (PPSA), and it’s supported by the NHVR’s Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative. The program zeroes in on key topics like road safety awareness, maintenance duties, and how to effectively use the NHVR Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual—think of it as a crucial compliance guide for producers. Attendees will also get help on how to navigate NHVR’s online platform, NHVRGo, which makes managing heavy vehicle permits and compliance a bit easier. Brad Perry, the CEO of GPSA, highlighted how practical this program really is. He said it’s not just about ticking regulatory boxes but making sure vehicles are safe, businesses stay protected, and operators can relax knowing they’re doing the right thing. Perry made special mention of the local mechanics who donate their time afterward to carry out follow-up roadworthy inspections. These inspections are a wonderful chance for producers to roll up their sleeves, put their new knowledge into practice, and verify that their vehicles meet all the legal standards—all under the watchful eye of experts. Though, it’s worth noting, those inspections aren’t unlimited; you’ve gotta book them through GPSA after the workshop if you’re interested. The Murray Bridge session is just the beginning—there are similar workshops planned in other parts of South Australia like Loxton, Narracoorte, Kadina, and Jamestown. All these sessions are tailored especially for primary producers, blending hands-on mechanical tips with regulatory info to lift overall heavy vehicle safety standards in farming and rural industries. The NHVR points out that these sorts of educational efforts are more vital than ever, given the special hurdles agricultural heavy vehicle operators face—they’ve got to keep up productivity but also follow strict road safety and maintenance rules. Around the country, the NHVR keeps organizing forums, webinars, and other events throughout the year, trying to keep operators up-to-date with compliance and best practices. This movement shows a clear shift toward proactive learning in the heavy vehicle world, aiming to cut down on non-compliance fines and, more importantly, improve safety on the roads for everyone. For producers, the workshops aren’t just about gaining knowledge—they also come with practical tools and personalized support to help ensure their vehicles meet all legal requirements and keep everyone safe as they travel on public roads. If you’re interested in attending the Murray Bridge workshop, make sure you register early because spots are limited. Producers should contact Grain Producers SA to save a spot and also to express interest in the free vehicle inspection afterward. 📌 Reference Map: Paragraph 1 – [1], [2], [3] Paragraph 2 – [1], [4], [7] Paragraph 3 – [1], [4] Paragraph 4 – [1], [2], [3], [5] Paragraph 5 – [4], [7] Paragraph 6 – [5], [7] Paragraph 7 – [1], [3], [4] Source: Noah Wire Services