Researchers at the Southwest Research Institute and the University of Texas at San Antonio seek to develop real-time detection methods for pre-ignition in hydrogen engines by combining machine learning algorithms with onboard sensors. Initially, laboratory-grade sensors will gather cylinder pressure data to distinguish between normal and abnormal combustion. Machine learning will then identify specific signatures of pre-ignition, leading to AI models that can interpret data from affordable, production-level sensors. The real-time approach aims to enhance the diagnosis and management of pre-ignition events during engine operation.

Ford Motor and Slate Auto are developing affordable electric pickups as federal tax credits for EVs are set to expire at the end of September. Slate's "blank Slate" truck will start in the mid-$20,000s, while Ford plans a midsize electric truck for about $30,000. Ford CEO Jim Farley says the company is making a "tremendous pivot" to more affordable electric vehicles. While about 163,000 Americans purchase small pickups annually, millions more buy small SUVs or compact cars, representing a large pool of possible EV truck buyers, writes Kyle Stock.

Toyota Europe has incorporated into the Yaris hybrid's transmission housing the largest nearly solid 3D-printed die-casting tooling insert. The 350-pound insert was manufactured using Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology's laser powder-bed fusion machine and MacLean-Fogg's L-40 tool steel powder.

At IAA Mobility 2025, software defined vehicles emerged as a central theme, with industry leaders highlighting their role as the foundation for future mobility. Executives from Qualcomm, NXP Semiconductors, Arm and Valeo emphasized the complexity of integrating hardware and software, the importance of security and reliability and the need for scalable and collaborative solutions to address the evolving demands of automotive technology.

Hyundai Motor Group has introduced advanced wireless technology at its smart factories in South Korea and the US. The technology includes the world's first integrated wireless communication terminal that processes both Wi-Fi 6 and private 5G, ensuring seamless operation of robots such as Boston Dynamics' Spot.

Volkswagen's new "unified" battery cell is set to debut in VW's Electric Urban Car Family in 2026, with plans for wide-scale adoption across up to 80% of its EV models by 2030. The prismatic cell is designed for flexibility, accommodating multiple chemistries and form factors, and will be integrated directly into battery packs using cell-to-pack technology.

Toyota remains steadfast in its commitment to hydrogen technology, with Toyota Australia's Sean Hanley expressing confidence that hydrogen powertrains could ultimately replace diesel engines in the long term. While other automakers like BMW are continuing fuel-cell developments, others such as Stellantis are scaling back or abandoning development.

BMW board member Jochen Goller says internal combustion engines "will never disappear" and BMW is committed to offering a variety of powertrains. Goller's comments come as the European Union considers reviewing its zero-emission plan, which includes a potential ban on new combustion-engine cars by 2035. BMW projects that by 2030, its sales will be evenly split between internal combustion engine vehicles and electric vehicles.