The energy price index fell 7.6% in April, led by sharp declines in U.S. natural gas (-17.6%) and crude oil (-6.8%).
Food prices edged down 0.5%, raw materials dipped 0.9%, and beverages eased 0.8%.
Metal prices dropped 7%, while precious metals rose 6.3%.
Mondi and Evonik introduce new paper valve bag for specialty chemical powders. By removing the plastic coated layer used in the previous solution, the new bag reduces the overall weight of the packaging by 30%. The two companies began collaborating in 2022, aiming for a more sustainable bag solution. The collaboration resulted in a two-ply pre-made paper-based bag, removing a plastic-coated paper layer from the previous packaging.
The groundbreaking of the Romania factory was celebrated in May 2023 and the first tire was produced in July 2024. Now, Nokian Tyres is starting tire deliveries from its new factory in Oradea, Romania. The first deliveries through Nokian Tyres distribution centers to Central European customers and consumers include winter and all-season tires. The factory is the world's first full-scale zero CO2 emission tire factory with all energy generated without fossil fuels and utilizes the most modern technology to produce tires.
Volkswagen Group has announced a partnership with Valeo and Mobileye to improve driver assistance systems in its upcoming MQB-based vehicles. The collaboration aims to integrate advanced technology to support partially automated driving, streamline procurement and enhance compliance with safety regulations. The new improved system features a 360-degree ring of multiple cameras and radars, along with software-defined capabilities, enabling hands-free driving on approved roads, smart parking, and better occupant and pedestrian safety.
STMicroelectronics and Innoscience have announced a strategic partnership in GaN (Gallium Nitride) power products, aiming to transform and elevate the GaN market to new heights by leveraging the mutual strengths in technology and manufacturing. This collaboration creates a win-win scenario—enhancing both companies’ GaN product offerings, strengthening supply chain resilience, and providing greater flexibility in competitive markets. Additionally, STMicroelectronics will expand its market coverage on a global scale.
The energy price index fell 4.1% in March driven by declines in natural gas Europe (-13.7%) and crude oil (-4.2%).
Non-energy prices dropped by 2.1%. Food prices decreased 2.7%, while raw materials increased 1.3%.
The European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) is deeply concerned by the US President’s announcement of additional tariffs on our sector. It comes at a watershed moment for our industry’s transformation and as fierce international competition mounts.