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SoftBank to invest $2.25B in GM Cruise; GM to add $1.1B; driving large-scale AV deployment

Green Car Congress

billion in GM Cruise Holdings LLC (GM Cruise), further strengthening the company’s plans to commercialize autonomous vehicle (AV) technology at large scale. We are very impressed by the advances made by the Cruise and GM teams, and are thrilled to help them lead a historic transformation of the automobile industry.

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Toyota to launch two new plug-in hybrid models in China; Corolla and Levin

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On the eve of the 2016 Beijing International Automobile Exhibition, Toyota announced that it will launch plug-in hybrid versions of the Corolla and Levin—two mass-market models, both of which have conventional hybrid variants—in China during 2018. Advanced safety technology. Click to enlarge. New turbo engine.

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Mazda continues supporting algae biofuels research

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Mazda continues to be involved in joint research projects and studies as part of an ongoing industry-academia-government collaboration to promote the wide-spread adoption of biofuels from microalgae growth. Earlier post.). liter 180ps Skyactiv-X Spark Controlled Compression Ignition (SPCCI) gasoline engine. Earlier post.).

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First driving behavior-based telematics automobile insurance developed for Toyota connected cars in Japan

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have jointly developed Japan’s first driving behavior-based telematics automobile insurance. The plan is available to owners of certain units of Toyota connected cars, and uses driving data gathered via telematics technologies to adjust insurance premiums based on the level of safe driving every month.

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BMW joining Formula E in Season 5

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BMW will join the FIA Formula E Championship as an official manufacturer in Season 5 (2018/19). The main driving force behind the new BMW i Motorsport is the development of innovative technology in the field of electromobility, in which the company has established a leading role over the past ten years.

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Volkswagen Group Research and KUKA partner to develop robot-supported services for autonomous and electric vehicles

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Aside from the technological fundamentals, plans are being laid for the development of other concepts for innovative applications in the new strategic partnership. By the end of 2018, more than ten new electrified models will be launched on the market. The robot takes care of connecting up the charging cable for the driver.

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GAC Group begins construction of $6.5B industrial park for electric and intelligent vehicles

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The new electric vehicle plant, part of the industrial park, is expected to be completed by the end of 2018 with a total investment of 4.69 Rendering of GAC Motor’s planned industrial park for electric and intelligent vehicles. The move will help promote the development of the automobile industry and drive economic growth.