Julie Fream

CAWA in Coalition Opposes SB 903 - A New Regulatory Program Update: The Senate Appropriations Committee today held SB 903, meaning the measure will not be advancing this session. A major win for CAWA and the coalition. This Legislation Stifles Innovation, Negatively Impacts Virtually Every Sector of the Economy Aerospace, Semiconductors, Clean Energy, Electronics, Medical, Industrial Processes, Agriculture ...Millions in New State Costs to Implement. A coalition of California’s leading job creators, innovators, manufacturers, grocers, clean energy producers, agriculture and others is opposed to SB 903 (Skinner), legislation that would create an expensive and complex new regulatory program at the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) to regulate all commercial and consumer products that may contain, as well as any industrial manufacturing processes that may use, perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl (PFAS) substances. See the Coalition letter enclosed. Should you have any questions regarding this matter, contact CAWA's Legislative Advocate Ryan Pierini at rpierini@mwcllc.com or 916.995.5323.

8

Is there anything more inherently sexist, and embarrassing, in the automotive industry than the international motor show? I've tried, and failed, to see what others see in them; tried to create useful content and find a news story, and failed; tried to get excited by round-table CEO interviews where everyone gets the same response and the male motoring editors chat to the sales director about football to bond...and failed. What is the point? We get all the releases under embargo in our inboxes at our desks, and in terms of networking, what a load of b*llocks - it's the same old suited bosses having the same conversations with their like-minded c-suite peers and male motoring editors behind roped-off areas: they're building fortresses, not networks. Time for the concept to die so we can all move on and spend budgets on more progressive, inclusive formats that have the consumer in mind. Thanks to ElectricDrives, LinkedIn's fastest-growing e-mobility channel in Europe, for publishing a smorgasbord of B2B and B2C EV content - it's an unusual mix that works well. #electricdrives #EV #motorshow #IAA #genevamotorshow #munichmotorshow

47

9 Comments

The battery plant expansion is expected to come online in 2027 and supply BMW's assembly plant in Spartanburg, S.C. TOKYO — Japan-based electric vehicle battery maker AESC Group is nearly doubling its investment in a South Carolina Gigafactory with a $1.5 billion outlay that creates 1,080 new jobs. The expansion of the plant in Florence County follows an initial announcement in December 2022 that AESC would spend $810 million to build a 30 gigawatt-hour plant there to supply next-generation EVs that will be made by German premium maker BMW at its nearby factory. The battery maker, in its update on Friday, didn't detail the output capacity after the expansion. The initially announced volume could supply enough 100-kilowatt-hour batteries for 300,000 EVs annually. Total investment now reaches $3.12 billion, with planned employment of 2,700 people. AESC announced another expansion of the plant in December 2023. The latest factory enlargement builds a second lithium ion battery manufacturing facility next to the first. Construction of the first began last June at the 1,000-acre site. The plant is expected to come online in 2027 and supply BMW's assembly plant in Spartanburg, S.C., where the automaker plans to produce at least six EV models by 2030. The new plant will produce BMW's new energy-dense Gen 6 lithium ion cell. ESC says the new batteries will have 20 percent higher energy density, longer range and shorter charging times than its current-generation batteries. AESC joins a cluster of global suppliers now constructing battery cell factories in the U.S., including Panasonic, Samsung, LG Chem and SK Innovation. Toyota Motor Corp. also expanded its plans to produce its own EV batteries a plant in Liberty, N.C. That enters production next year. The flurry of outlays comes as automaker race to tap into the tax credits offered under the Inflation Reduction Act. The incentives hinge on compliance with mandates that require the localized final assembly of EVs and the localization of their battery components and minerals. Big footprint The South Carolina plant marks AESC's third battery site in the U.S. The supplier is also building a $2 billion factory in Bowling Green, Ky., to supply a new generation of battery components for Mercedes-Benz. That plant will employ 2,000 workers and supply 300,000 vehicles a year by 2027. The company also supplies batteries for Nissan Motor Co.'s U.S.-made Leaf hatchback from a plant in Smyrna, Tenn. That factory opened with plans to supply as many as 150,000 vehicles a year.

16

1 Comment

Insights on the future of the automotive industry and the EV market development by David Sargent, J.D. Power. ✴ Among the top five reasons that consumers reject EVs: Lack of charging station availability Purchase price Limited driving distance per charge Time required to charge Inability to charge at home or work ✳ Among the positives in favor of EVs: Availability will grow, especially among affordable EV models EVs are at parity on cost, or better Owners are mostly satisfied and likely to stay with EVs ✴ Among the negatives: Interest remains limited and regional Infrastructure is lagging Concern about durability and depreciation #EV #evcharging #battery #automotive #tesla

1

"On the supply side, we've addressed the (battery) module issues and are on track to produce 300,000 vehicles this year. Our focus remains on building a platform for EVs that aligns with customer expectations. We prioritize avoiding overproduction and potential inventory surplus by not blindly producing without market demand." #AutomotiveIndustry #ElectricVehicles #Justintime #Justincase #supplychain #GM

2

🧰 New Episode 🧰   Can Trade Schools & Technical Programs truly be the gateway to success in the automotive aftermarket?👨‍🎓 If you had any doubts, I think after this episode you will agree… the answer is YES!🙌 This week, I’ll share the journey of my guest Colby McLaughlin​, from a student in a middle-college Autobody Repair Program to a leading figure in the automotive aftermarket. Buckle up as we ride shotgun through Colby's fast-paced career, navigating the twists and turns from hands-on custom car building to the helm of Trim Illusion Inc.® and the SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) Board. ⛽This high-octane episode isn't just about cool rides and chrome—it's a celebration of craftsmanship, dedication, and the drive to succeed. Check out the transformation of raw talent into industry leadership, and how mentorship can turbocharge a career from the garage floor to the executive suite. Colby's story serves up not just inspiration, but also practical wisdom for anyone looking to accelerate their own career trajectory in the automotive world.🚀 Finally, we pop the hood on SEMA's vital role in advocating for the automotive aftermarket industry, diving into the nitty-gritty of legislation and the Right to Repair Act. 🛠It's a candid look at the challenges and victories in protecting our liberty to tinker and tailor our vehicles. Whether you're a trade school student with grease under your nails or a seasoned pro looking to reconnect with your roots, this conversation will fuel your passion and maybe even spark your support for your local tech school programs.⚡ #AutomotiveExcellence #CareerAcceleration #autoaftermarket #IndustryLeadership #righttorepair #SEMA #collisionrepair #autobodyrepair #mindwrench @RefinishMedia WILLIAM GARY SOBBRY​ Tim VanSchoick​ Randy Hovey Washtenaw Community College Brandon Eckenrode Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA)

13

5 Comments

Kids and Car Safety (KACS) has initiated efforts to raise awareness and prevent hot car deaths and injuries among children; Hyundai Motor America shares a similar passion and has instituted standard rear-occupant alert technology in 100% of its vehicles in support of child passenger safety. Let’s help remind parents and caregivers of the dangers of hot cars and the critical need for preventive action to safeguard our loved ones. #SafetyFirst #NationalHeatstrokePreventionDay 

59

1 Comment

Big news! Nearly $1 billion dollars in grants was just announced by the EPA to back America’s clean heavy-duty vehicle transition. As Ford Pro works closely with federal, state, and local government customers, we’re focused on making the public sector’s transition to electric vehicles much more seamless and affordable — stepping in with solutions for software, service, charging, financing, and vehicles, so they can make the most of this grant money. There’s a lot of work that needs to be done and we’re not at the point yet where #electricvehicles make sense for every municipality, but you know what they say, Rome wasn’t built in a day! #FordPro #Sustainability #ElectricSchoolBus

87

7 Comments

Ford is poised to lift restrictions on dealers who can sell EVs. After 11 meetings with dealers around the U.S., Ford plans to undo a key element of the EV certification it launched in 2022, prompting backlash and lawsuits. Ford Motor Co. is poised to undo a critical element of its electric vehicle dealer certification program that prompted criticism and lawsuits since its rollout less than two years ago. In response to feedback from a series of in-person dealer meetings with executives, Ford is preparing to reopen EV sales to its full U.S. retail network, instead of limiting inventory of those vehicles to stores that agreed to make significant investments in chargers and training. The automaker also is expected to change the financial requirements needed to sell EVs, executives and dealers said, although the plans will not be finalized until Ford meets with its dealer council in early June. Read the full story: https://lnkd.in/grqc55sz

2

There has been a clear market signal on increased interest in #hybrid vehicles in the U.S. Paul Thomas writes in Automotive News today about the need for powertrain options to support trucks that "work." He highlights how the industry can work together to provide consumer options like #PHEV and serial hybrids while continuing on the path to #electrification and reducing emissions. #mobility #likeaBosch #boschemployee https://bit.ly/49PFysI (subscription required)

15

Mississippi is on a mission to close the digital gap, identifying homes and businesses without high-speed internet to provide financial aid through grants. This initiative is part of the broader Internet for All effort, aiming to ensure every American has access to reliable and affordable Internet service. As we strive for digital inclusivity, let’s discuss innovative ways to support this endeavor and share success stories. How can we further drive connectivity in our communities? https://lnkd.in/daWinyWK #InternetForAll #DigitalInclusivity

7

I recently had the opportunity to work with over 100 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA)& Performance Racing Industry (PRI) members as we spoke to legislators about the EV mandates and their effect on the aftermarket and the economy. I had the chance to sit down with Roll Call, a Washington, DC, political publication, during our DC Rally. We discussed the impact of EV mandates and ICE bans on our industry, how the government should remain technology-neutral, and how we should embrace all of the above approaches to the future of vehicle propulsion technologies. These mandates are too much too soon. We think there are multiple technologies based on your driving conditions and consumer demand. To say it’s one technology and one style only, we think that’s a dangerous position. We are an industry of innovation that is the best at doing more with less, making smaller more powerful, and making powerful more efficient. Innovation and consumer choice should be what leads us into the future… not government mandates. Thank you again to all who joined us in DC for the Rally and to the thousands of you who have sent letters to your lawmakers. Your voice is making a difference. #SEMAOnTheHill #PRIOnTheHill #Automotive #Aftermarket https://lnkd.in/gzrggc-M

116

9 Comments

At Evolve Fleet, we're always inspired by bold moves that drive the EV industry forward. Tesla's quick response to the B.C. government's updated EV rebate threshold is a testament to agility and innovation. By dropping the price of the Model 3 to $49,990, Tesla ensures more Canadians can access electric vehicles and benefit from the $4,000 rebate. This proactive adjustment highlights the importance of staying ahead of regulatory changes and the continuous push for affordable, sustainable transportation. As the landscape evolves, we remain committed to supporting and leading the transition to cleaner fleets. #EvolveFleet #EVRevolution #SustainableFleet #ElectricVehicles #BCRebates Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/gHTF-X8m

6

A VinFast-adjacent story that exemplifies how many people are depending on the EV Vietnamese manufacturer to get its $4 billion plant up-and-running in Chatham County (time is ticking on that promise to be operational by the end of 2025...) Renago Inc, which has a website that says it is "The Next Step in Lithium Battery Recycling," has applied to rezone 37 acres on Christian Chapel Church Road from residential use to heavy industrial use to "allow a local industrial business to locate in Chatham County in an area designated for future industrial development that will have minimal impact on adjacent properties." The land sits right across from the proposed VINFAST site. Not much is known about Renago, other than the fact that its co-founder and president is tied to BlueSky Solutions LLC. Of course, without VinFast completing its factory, any sort of surrounding development that is contingent on said factory may be hurting. Read more in Triangle Business Journal

15

1 Comment

🔥🚘🚙 Used Car Managers, General Managers, Dealer Principals, and Automotive Professionals 🚙🚘🔥 Glenn Lundy shares his strategy to keep your used car inventory levels from getting out of whack. David Long’s All Things Used Cars... Every Friday starting at 9AM EST/6AM PST. Jump in the conversation or be a 🪰 on the wall like me! Either way, you'll walk away with profit-boosting insights and actionable strategies to grow your bottom line. 💰🤑💲 Look in the comments for a link to the full replay of Rethink Your Used Inventory. #automotive #autodealers #automotivemarketing #automotiveindustry #carbusiness #automotivesales #newcarsales #usedcarsales #usedcardealer

13

6 Comments

Why is @vw workers winning their union this week so important for America? In 1980 the auto industry was the most important source of jobs in America. Every auto plant in the US had a union contract paying middle class wages, health care & a pension. Including Southern auto plants. Then Japanese auto makers backed by the Reagan administration & anti-union Southern governors set up plants in Southern states paying low wages, inferior health care & no real pensions. German & Korean companies followed. By 2008 only half of US auto workers had a union contract. When workers in the Southern plants tried to organize-- as they did many times--they were met with racist divide and conquer tactics, threats to move offshore, threats from their local public officials & illegal firings. And workers lost election after election. The giant foreign auto companies had plants all around the world. Everywhere else they operated their workers were organized. The German workers even sat on their companies' boards. But Southern workers were silenced, treated as if they were somehow less. The Southern plants set off a downward wage spiral. Real wages in the auto industry fell from 1980 to 2008, even as productivity skyrocketed. And then in the financial crisis, Southern politicians made GM and Chrysler lower their wages to level of the Southern plants. The rise of the non union auto sector in the South was key to the US becoming a low wage economy, and to the dominance of hard right politics in the South after 1980. Both these things are key causes for the current crisis of democracy in the US. This week for the first time since before the 1980's workers in a Southern auto plant have succeeded in organizing a union for themselves despite politicians' threats and race baiting. And if one Southern auto plant's workers can organize a union for themselves it suggests others can too. An inspiring addendum-after years of building solidarity between Southern auto workers & German auto workers-when right wing politicians tried to get into the @VW plant, German VW workers & their Works Council stopped them from getting in.@IGMetall @dgb_news @UAW @IndustriALL_GU

81

2 Comments

The Inspirational Story of NUMMI: A Joint Venture by GM and Toyota In the early 1980s, GM's Fremont plant in California grappled with low productivity, subpar quality, and frequent labor conflicts, putting it on the brink of closure. In contrast, Toyota excelled in efficient manufacturing and producing high-quality vehicles. Recognizing a unique opportunity, Toyota proposed a collaboration, resulting in the formation of New United Motor Manufacturing, Inc. (NUMMI) in 1984. This joint venture aimed to merge GM's resources & Toyota's manufacturing prowess. Toyota suggested a collaborative management of the Fremont facility. GM contributed plant and its workforce, while Toyota brought in its pioneering production methods and management principles, effectively integrating the strengths of both companies. NUMMI's transformation was rapid. Toyota implemented its Toyota Production System (TPS), focusing on worker respect, continuous improvement (Kaizen), and just-in-time production. These practices empowered employees to detect and resolve assembly line issues, significantly boosting productivity and quality. The previously struggling plant became one of the world's most productive and cooperative. Vehicles manufactured at NUMMI, including the Chevrolet Nova, Toyota Corolla, and Pontiac Vibe, were highly regarded for their reliability and quality. NUMMI's success provided valuable lessons for GM, Toyota, and the wider automotive industry. Here are the top ten key learnings from the NUMMI joint venture: Employee Empowerment: Giving workers the authority to oversee quality and solve problems enhances productivity and morale. Continuous Improvement: Kaizen, or continuous improvement, promotes an environment where small, ongoing changes lead to significant long-term benefits. Cross-Cultural Collaboration: Merging the strengths of diverse corporate cultures can create powerful synergies, resulting in innovative solutions and better outcomes. Quality Over Quantity: Prioritizing quality at every production stage reduces defects and boosts customer satisfaction. Just-in-Time Production: Reducing inventory and producing only what's needed when it's needed minimizes waste and increases efficiency. Respect for Workers: Treating employees with respect and involving them in decision-making processes improves their dedication and performance. Lean Manufacturing: Optimizing processes to eliminate waste leads to more efficient production and better resource utilization. Adaptability: Being open to new ideas and adaptable to different methods can result in significant improvements and breakthroughs. Shared Vision: A clear, shared vision between partners aligns efforts and achieves common goals. Long-Term Perspective: Focusing on long-term success rather than short-term gains results in sustainable improvements and lasting benefits. #subhansharif #canvassoftskills #values #automotiveindustry #leadership #entrepreneurship #business #productivity

4