Nikolas Thorke

Fresh Friday Figures: Daimler Truck has just released its Group financial results for Q1 2024. Here are the key takeaways: ▶️ Solid start into the year with robust profitability in normalizing truck markets ▶️ Stable Group revenue with €13.3 bn, despite expected decrease in unit sales ▶️ Group adj. EBIT rose by 4% to €1.2 bn, Net profit +7% at €847 mn ▶️ Adj. Return on Sales  in the Industrial Business increased by 0.5% pts. to 9.3% ▶️ Strong Free Cash Flow in the Industrial Business with €1.2 bn ▶️ Earnings per share grew to €1.00 (Q1 2023: €0.90) ▶️ Full-year guidance unchanged, headwinds in Europe increasing Key figures at a glance in the slider below, and in the Press Release available in the Daimler Truck Newsroom 👉🏻https://lnkd.in/eQybV228 Daimler Truck AG Daimler Truck North America Mercedes-Benz Trucks Daimler Truck Asia Daimler Buses GmbH Daimler Truck Financial Services GmbH #DTR0CK #Q1

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🚛Keynote address: 30 years of brake-by-wire systems: from the origins to today’s trends🚗 Jochen Buck, Project Leader of Electronic Brake Management Software at Daimler Truck AG Truck shared insights in the first keynote address of EuroBrake 2024. Jochen highlighted that brake-by-wire has been a game-changer in the trucking industry for nearly 30 years. Introduced in 1996, brake-by-wire has enhanced safety, efficiency, and comfort for truck drivers, fleet owners, and all road users. A tragic event in 1987 spurred the introduction of brake-by-wire in trucking as a critical safety feature, and its success hinges on a robust safety concept. Electrification is key to the development of electronically controlled braking systems, and looking ahead, brake-by-wire will be crucial in enabling automated driving functions. This technology has significantly evolved alongside advancements in materials, pneumatic brake technology, software, and CPUs. Electronic braking systems on tractors and trailers have notably reduced braking distances. Thanks Jochen for your insightful presentation! #EuroBrake2024 #BrakeByWire #BrakingTechnology #Innovation #AutomotiveSafety

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It was a great pleasure to discuss the development of the Chinese car market with my colleague Jun JIN and Burkhard Riering, editor in chief of Automobilwoche, at our webcast session “From China - with love?”. Once again, it has become obvious how dynamic and innovative the Chinese market is. The numerous new brands popping up like mushrooms speak a clear language. At the same time, the uncompromising growth strategy to conquer market share is currently reaching its limits in China. Soon we will see consolidation. However, this is no reason for European OEMs to sit back and relax. The existing overcapacities will keep prices under pressure. Chinese OEMs will not be deterred from their path to Europe either. But they will probably focus more on co-operations and alliances in order to produce locally for local - whether brownfield or greenfield. European manufacturers should take advantage of the market momentum and continue on their chosen path of accelerated and agile product development. Many thanks to Burkhard Riering for the excellent moderation and the extremely relevant questions! And to Jun for his deep insights! If you missed the session:  👉https://lnkd.in/d8ryW6vq #pwc #automotive #transformation #china

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EV works No19 - Auto Beijing 2024 I did had the pleasure to be at the Auto Beijing to support our chinese collegues to communicate our productsand services at our Bosch booth. Fascinating mobility solutions, exiting times, interesting discussions, surprising cars and concepts at the show. China stays not only the biggest car market in the world, but also the fastest and most innovative. The ww electromobility is feeded by the dynamic and creative ideas of this market. What did I observe at the Auto show? - Almost every chinese OEM offer new MPV battery electric vehicles: 4 to 6 seater with good ranges, the latest battery generation with fast charging. Equipped with all communication- and entertainment devices which business men or families need for long distance driving. - Car seats that can be modified to most relaxing positions compared to business class travelling on airlines, while being on a long distance trip. - LCD or roll up screen and beamer for rear passenger; a relief for families on a long trip, were the kids enjoy the latest blockbuster movies. - Two big brands who manufacture mobiles -Huawei and Xiaomi- are offering cars. Something Apple worked on for more than 10 years and finally cancelled the plan early this year. Huawei cooperates with chinese OEMs like BAIC, Chery, Seres to produce and sell cars under the brand AITO (Adding Intelligence To Car), offering an attractive range of models with outstanding connected-, comfort- and communication solutions. - The most important car this year for sure was the new SU7, a sports car build by the mobile giant Xiaomi. The visitors waited patiently in lines for more than 1hr to be on the Xiaomi booth to have a closer look at the brand new SU7 which already created a huge order list of 70.000 cars. - Lei Jun founder and CEO of Xiaomi was the star of the Auto show. His appearance draw a large crowd of press and visitors following him through the exhibition. In China Lei Jun is called the chinese Steve Jobs and has 30 million followers - with his SU7 he formed a clear message pro electromobility which will push the market. - Outside the big cities the availabiliy of charging stations still has challenges. This is the push for the market segment hybrid. Due to BYD the mainstream for that Technology goes towards Plug- in hybrid, or on the othe side to BEV with a ICE powered range extender. Overall the cars at the Auto show had refreshing colors, modern and fascinating design elements on the inside and outside. The positions and sizes of the screens in the BEV vehicles meanwhile show the self confidence of the chinese OEMs. They know the needs and tastes of their customers. The western brands seem to struggle with the innovation speed of the local brands and their ability to adapt and change.

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Detroit understands only very little of the Car Market   After the surprise that the Head of Ford in Germany left for Volkswagen, this was the comment on the printed newspaper of 7th of June and on the internet at https://lnkd.in/eg3NS2sZ   The scenario around the once important German participation of Ford is actually best described as a shambles. Ford wanted a European strategy which pointed towards a fast change towards battery electric cars. But for some technical reasons which are still difficult to understand, the market start of the electrical Ford Explorer built in Cologne has been delayed for almost one year. Now, two days after the start of production in grand series, the German Ford Boss Martin Sander left the company, rejoining Volkswagen Group.   Due to the delay, the new electric cars by Ford now start during a slack market, and on top of this, Ford in Europe stands now without a leader. In general, it was right to change the structure of the models offered in Europa, from a full range towards offering a selected number of cars in important segments. But for this reason, at this moment Ford is not flexible enough to react to changing demand between cars with internal combustion engine and electric models. At this point it is also little help that Ford started to reposition its brand, with American flair and an image linked to outdoor – as this effort is still in its beginnings.   The Detroit headquarters of Ford could now be tempted to cut and delete, or at some point to withdraw completely. Such instincts come from the arrogance of the past. But Detroit is not the navel of the motorcar world anymore, and the USA are by far no more the most important market. Last year, the market for passenger cars, with 3,1 million new registrations, was barely any bigger than the German one with 2,8 million new registrations – because beyond the market for passenger cars there is the segment of Pick-ups and Offroaders, since many years protected by high tariff walls.   So it does not help, if now Detroit finance managers intended to show how the car business works. The opposite applies: Car producers from Detroit are not competitive outside their local niche, and they are still less able to see through long term market stratregies.

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How did I start my Wednesday this week, you ask? Well, we casually revved up a bike on stage – it was quite exciting and felt like something out of a racetrack – sans the asphalt; and, of course, the looks on the faces of our associates said it all – pure #passion.  This past week, we celebrated the #2WP Day together with our associates at Bosch Global Software Technologies, and there was an impressive spread of technology and people showcasing their expertise.     It was a pleasure to be part of the panel discussion on “Megatrends in 2-Wheelers” with @Geoff Liersch, Manohar Halahali, Varun Agni, Anand Dharmaraj, excellently moderated by Vineetha George – where the conversation segued from #sustainability to #digitalization and #ConsumerPreferences. With the “Invented for Life” ethos at the core of our engineering, it is absolutely crucial to balance the #RiderNeeds with the technology needs and the tectonic shifts in the market. As the #connectivity and digitalization trends evolve, #collaboration with the ecosystem is a gamechanger, and #data is absolutely vital to derive value. Answering the business model question is a key point in ensuring everyone in the value chain understands the value. It is vital to keep the #UserExperience in focus, while figuring out how different features can fit different markets. It was great to hear the OEM perspective from Varun and insights from Anand Dharmaraj who brought in his rider experience.     Kudos to the #BGSW 2WP team for pulling it off a successful event, and to all the participants for also stepping up to share their knowledge and learn from each other. Let’s understand the markets & customers, collaborate with the ecosystem, create value, and Lead, Work & Win #LikeABosch - together ✨ Bosch Global Software Technologies, Dattatri Salagame, Ashoka Kumar, Hari Sravan Kumar, @Reiner fellmeth, Vandana Gajendra, Keerthana Mohana, Sharon Jacob

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We’re taking a clear stand for diversity, openness and tolerance.   Volkswagen Group and Porsche AG have joined the ‘We stand for values’ initiative. We are doing so together with more than 30 renowned German companies, the Federation of German Industries (BDI) and the German Trade Union Confederation (DGB), in order to send a strong signal for diversity, openness and tolerance.   In the first joint campaign, the companies involved are calling on their combined 1.7 million employees to take part in the upcoming European elections as well as engaging in numerous activities to highlight the importance of European unity for prosperity, growth and jobs.   These values not only reflect our corporate philosophy but are also the fundaments of mutual respect and appreciation, a culture that characterises Volkswagen Group and Porsche AG. “Both companies stand for our democratic and liberal fundamental values. For cohesion in our diverse society. We are actively committed to this," says Oliver Blume, CEO of Volkswagen Group and Porsche AG.   The campaign we are supporting emphasises the importance of European integration and calls on all our employees to take part in the upcoming European elections. We understand that it is up to all of us to actively shape the future of Europe to ensure stability, growth and innovation.   Visit www.wirstehenfuerwerte.de or www.westandforvalues.com to find out more about the initiative and how you can become a part of it too. Volkswagen Group and Porsche AG are demonstrating societal responsibility and carrying the torch for a united, strong Europe.   #WeStandForValues 

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What comes in your mind when you hear the name ZF Group? In Germany some people might say: oh ZDF, the second German television channel. Others being familiar with automotive would say, it’s an automotive supplier selling gearboxes. And the next group of people might even say, it is one of top #automotive suppliers of the world. Only very few would connect ZF with technologies as for example #testsystems or #offhighway applications 🚜 , #marine propulsion system 🛳 , and wind power technology 🌬 . And adding one additional application to the list, none would think that ZF is providing solutions for #railway technologies 🚉 since a hundred years. So, let’s celebrate together our anniversary in railway technology 🎉 . #ToMobilityAndBeyond #Sustainability #ProudToBeZF

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+++ Vote for Provocative Disruption in Customer Engagement +++ The voting for Customer Engagement Industry Champion 2024 ends on May 30th. If you believe in bold, disruptive approaches that redefine customer experiences, your vote can make a difference. Winning this award celebrates innovative strategies that challenge the status quo and inspire change. It amplifies the mission to create transformative customer interactions and build a legacy of human connection and inclusivity. If you resonate with my vision of being a provocative disrupter, please cast your vote. Let's set new standards and shape a more engaging future together. Vote here by adding a comment 👉🏼 https://lnkd.in/enMxz45w ContactCenterWorld #IndustryChampion #DisruptOrDie #CustomerEngagement #CustomerExperience

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If you are a woman in the #automotive industry or related fields, my friend and colleague Berveleen Mashonga M.Eng has started a new LinkedIn group called Women in Automotive Empowerment. Here is the link to join: 💡 https://lnkd.in/eY2jmeY9 🚗 Berveleen started the group as way to let women know they are not alone in their personal and professional journeys. The group also exists to breakdown false ways of thinking such as "I don't deserve a mentor" or "I need to achieve 'A,B,C' before I can join any type of women's professional group." “Don’t let anyone tell you that you don’t belong," Berveleen said. "The automotive industry needs your talent, creativity, and passion. The future of #mobility is bright, and women are at the forefront of shaping it.” I encourage all of my women friends and colleagues to connect with Berveleen and join her new group, Women in Automotive Empowerment. Screenshot: My interview with Berveleen during AutoSens Brussels 2023 for AutoVision News.

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My learning from the post of Albert Pujol is, that unfortunately companies in the #automotiveindustry do not fully understand, what the potentials of #artificialintelligence could be specifically in operational areas of their businesses. Current discussions and informations are circulating almost entirely around Generative AI and LLM's. Generative AI is just one (important) part within the world of AI. Other topics like Deep Learning, Machine Learning, NLP etc. are (almost) being left out. And I agree with Albert Pujol: what are 10.000€ to 30.000€ worth compared to the potential benefits that can be created? AI-based digital assistants (Digital Colleagues) can also be a solution, which does not require a 'big investment' and can make a huge difference on improving performance. You need an example from operations? 60% cut in throughput time (cutting the the time, where no value has been added to the product) 50% cut in work-in-progress (means 'inventory' - means 'improving cash') 110% increase of value added time in production process => liquidity/cash improvement Overall result: cutting the number of extra shifts less temporarily workers needed => EBITDA-Improvement Do you need more? Purchasing, Supply Chain Mangement, Sales..... If anyone is interested in details - send me a DM #automotivesupplier #aiinbusiness #transformation #digitalcolleagues

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Happy Father’s Day! (in Germany) 👴🎉 As parents, we often find ourselves in the driver’s seat - literally and metaphorically. Whether we’re chauffeuring our kids to soccer practice or navigating life’s twists and turns, our role as #mothers and #fathers extends beyond the road. As I’m about to enter the joyful world of having my own #family, let’s explore how we can inspire our children to dream big and shape the future. 🌟 The Road Less Traveled: Remember those long road trips as a kid when you gazed out the window, eyes wide with wonder? Those moments were more than just journeys; they were opportunities for imagination to take flight. As parents, we can encourage our kids to explore uncharted territories, both on the road and in their minds. 🌐 From Dreams to Reality: Our kids are digital natives—they grow up with touchscreens and #AI companions. Let’s nurture their curiosity and empower them to dream beyond the ordinary. Encourage them to tinker with technology and explore coding. 🚀 Driving Their Ambitions: Parenthood isn’t just about teaching our kids to drive; it’s about steering them toward their passions. Whether it’s designing the next-gen Infotainment system or creating an app that revolutionizes everything, our children can be the architects of tomorrow’s connected world. 👨‍👧‍👦 Tag a fellow mum/dad who inspires her/his kids to dream big! Let’s fuel their connectivity ambitions together. 🌐🚗 #FathersDay #Connectivity #DreamBig #Inspiration #autobauer

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EU releases possible tariffs for CN EV's: BYD, Geely, and SAIC 17,4%, 20% und 38,1% depending how cooperative they were in the anti-subsidy investigation. For all other EV producers a weighted average of 21% and for all non-cooperative the max. tariff of 38.1% may apply. Before was 10% for CN-->EU and for EU-->CN 15% import tariff but independent of companies. A grace period until 4.July applies to discuss with CN gov if other solution can be found. #batteries #electricvehicles

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Driving towards decarbonized mobility is a collective effort!   Amidst the bustling energy of the Beijing #MotorShow, our CEO Luca de Meo engaged in pivotal conversations with industry leaders, including our partners GEELY et Dongfeng, key suppliers but also the new players like the founders of Li Auto and Xiaomi Technology. Together, they explored the groundbreaking advancements in electric and intelligent vehicle technologies shaping the #automotive landscape in China.   At Renault Group, we recognize that achieving decarbonized #mobility requires a united effort. That's why Luca de Meo dedicated a week in China to bolstering Ampere's action plans, propelling Renault Group's #electrification journey forward in France and across Europe.   #EV #DecarbonizedMobility

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Thinking of making the switch to electric? Discover episode 1 of our ‘Charging Ahead’ series where we’ll take you through everything from choosing the right model for you to living with an electric model. Kicking off with essential tools to guide you when picking the perfect BMW i model for you. Sandal Motor Group BMW Group BMW UK #bmwi #sustainability #electricdriving

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Volkswagen Group is taking a big leap into China's “Intelligent Connected Vehicle” (ICV) era. And the next three years will see a huge expansion of our offer to Chinese customers. China is a large, dynamic market with which clearly transforms towards electric mobility. However, the pace of this transformation varies across China. While more than 50 per cent of cars sold in Tier 1 cities will already be BEVs or hybrids this year, lower tier cities are only expected to reach this level around the end of the decade. That means our customers will have very diverse mobility needs in the years to come. We're ready to meet them together with our strong Joint Venture Partners SAIC Motor, FAW and JAC through our strong product roadmap. The ambitious target we have set: 40 new models by 2027, half of which will be electrified! We’ll achieve this by consolidating our strong combustion (ICE) market position while significantly accelerating our electrification offensive. Here’s how: 🚘 ⚡️ All our ICE bestsellers will get their new generations. Furthermore, our strong ICE portfolio will be gradually hybridized and transformed into an electrified fleet. And upgraded with advanced tech to make them just as smart as BEVs. 🚘 🔋 Our new e-car range will include at a bunch of additional China-exclusive models based on locally developed “China Main Platform”. As well as models jointly developed with the Chinese automakers XPENG. These models will complement our products on global platforms. By 2030, our Group will offer more than 30 all-electric models in China. 🇨🇳 📱 We will upgrade our global e-electric platforms with state of the art China-specific technologies from partners like Gotion (batteries), Horizon Robotics (ADAS) and ThunderSoft (infotainment). The result: Our expanded portfolio will be specifically tailored to the needs of Chinese customers and will cover all relevant segments, further strengthening our market position. 💪🏼 Building on strong foundations and with our ‘In China, for China’ approach as our guide, we’re driving our transformation at ‘China speed’.

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Just in time for The Tire Cologne 2024, BBE Automotive GmbH is unveiling an in-depth study on the German tire market! Based on comprehensive research since 2021, including thousands of interviews with car drivers, dealerships, and workshops, we've summarized the key findings in 10 essential insights: 1. Premium and quality tires dominate the market in contrast to Europe as a whole. 2. Brand loyalty is turning into loyalty to quality standards. 3. Budget tires have gained considerable market share and will continue to do so, Speed of growth uncertain. 4. Tires are not a high-interest product, many do not deal with the topic. 5. Growth of the all-season tire sector is as certain as climate change. 6. Purely online players are losing market share: The business model is reaching its limits. 7. Ongoing concentration/consolidation process also at wholesale and workshop level. 8. Demo tires: a segment to think about. 9. Germany is still the largest tire market in EU Europe and neighboring countries. 10. Owning a car is indispensable, but emotional attachment is declining. Stay tuned for more insights from our study and let's connect at The Tire Cologne 2024! Link for the complete study report: https://lnkd.in/gHpnGKxs #TireMarket #AutomotiveIndustry #TheTireCologne2024 #BBEAutomotive #MarketInsights

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This is the day I have been waiting for since the beginning of this month. TODAY From 3:30 p.m. CET, experts from Deutsche Bahn, Würth Group & Siemens Mobility will interact with our community during this second episode of #additivetalks. The topic? the pragmatic use of #additivemanufacturing across the #digitalsupplychain. If you can't make it, make sure you register to receive the recording later on https://lnkd.in/e4iqen9v #spareparts #3dprinting

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