Mercedes-Benz Vans CEE (Central and Eastern Europe Area) is embarking on an ambitious journey to redefine the electric vehicle strategy in the region. Collaborating with E.ON, a leading energy solutions provider, the two entities will launch a partnership targeting B2B charging infrastructure that will cover Romania, the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Hungary. The partnership aims to provide comprehensive and affordable charging solutions tailored for business fleets in the mentioned countries.
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Volkswagen Group and Rivian Automotive launched their joint venture on Nov. 13, creating a new company called “Rivian and VW Group Technology.” The new company will focus on developing a electrical/electronic architecture and software for electric vehicles that each automaker will utilize. The announcement lifts the veil on one of the largest automotive deals this year, providing more details on its goals, leadership and financial structure.
In the first nine months of 2024, new EU van sales increased by 8.5%, reaching 1,170,310 units, driven by positive results in all four key markets. Spain led with a remarkable 16.7% rise, followed by Germany at 8.2%, Italy at 7.3%, and France at 5.8%.
Volvo Cars continues its journey to electrification, creating more flexibility for drivers of its fully electric vehicles including the new EX90 flagship SUV by opening access to more than 17,800 Tesla Supercharger stations in the U.S. and Canada. Tesla Superchargers can be found using the Volvo Cars app or built in Google Maps starting November 18, 2024.
Automotive tier suppliers can leverage AMRs to streamline material handling, cut operational costs and improve workforce safety—all without the need for expensive infrastructure overhauls. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, so too must the supply chains that support it. For tier suppliers looking to stay competitive in an increasingly demanding market, AMRs offer a clear path forward to greater efficiency and operational excellence.
Energy prices gained 2.4% in October, led by natural gas Europe (+9.6%) and coal (+5.3%). Non-energy prices increased by 2.1%.
Metal prices surged by 5%, led by gains in zinc and iron ore (each up more than 9%) and aluminum (+5.9%).
Global commodity prices are set to tumble to a five-year low in 2025 amid an oil glut that is so large that it is likely to limit the price effects even of a wider conflict in the Middle East, according to the World Bank’s latest Commodity Markets Outlook. Even so, overall commodity prices will remain 30% higher than they were in the five years before the COVID-19 pandemic.
From 2024 through 2026, global commodity prices are projected to plummet by nearly 10%. Global food prices are set to fall 9% this year and an additional 4% in 2025 before leveling off.