AI-powered, heat-seeking satellites target Aussie fires
The fires, detected at Borroloola on the McArthur River, are among the first to be captured by the Earth Fire Alliance's FireSat Protoflight satellite, with images released this week.
But scientists behind the effort say it may take the launch of another three satellites, scheduled for next year, to create bushfire modelling and more accurately predict where and how fires spread.
The non-profit alliance, which has partnered with Google Research and Muon Space, aims to deliver bushfire detection and monitoring using satellites and AI software, and provide data to emergency services and scientists in near real time.
The group's first satellite launched in March and international relations lead Dr Karen O'Connor said the first four publicly released images captured by infra-red cameras demonstrated its potential.
"We're just starting to get our first glimpses of how this system is going to really provide unparalleled information on fires to support fire agencies and protect communities," she said.
"Those of us who live in Australia will know all too well the devastating impact of bushfires."
The satellite images include a collection of active fires in the Northern Territory, a minor, roadside fire detected in the US state of Oregon, and bushfires in Ontario, Canada, where the camera was able to distinguish between an active fire and burn scars on the land.
Using high-resolution cameras, the satellite could detect fires about the size of a classroom, Dr O'Connor said, and with a full constellation of 50 satellites, it would be able to monitor a fire's progress every 20 minutes.
An additional three satellites are planned for launch in the second half of 2026.
"We will be working closely with early adopters, including agencies across five Australian states and territories," Dr O'Connor said.
Agencies participating in the program include the Tasmania Fire Service, the Queensland Fire Department, and the South Australian Country Fire Service.
NSW Rural Fire Service deputy commissioner Peter McKechnie said firefighters were grateful to be consulted in the development of the system and were almost "impatient" to use the technology when it could reliably detect, monitor and predict the path of bushfires.
"The whole team is excited about this," he said.
"This is taking us to a pathway of being able to ingest that information straight into our dispatch systems and dispatch resources based on what is detected."
Being able to monitor the spread of fires would also help to create advanced fire modelling, Google Research climate and energy lead Chris Van Arsdale said, and could help researchers predict a fire's movement and direct firefighting efforts.
"This stream of data will allow scientists to build the next generation (of) predictive models," he said.
"It would be great to live in a world where we don't have a high degree of uncertainty from wildfires."
The Earth Fire Alliance plans to launch more than 50 satellites and reach full operation by 2030.
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The Advertiser
8 hours ago
- The Advertiser
Suzuki Australia 'ready' for new emissions regulations
Despite Suzuki's relatively slow rollout of electrified vehicles, the brand's local arm says it's prepared to deal with Australia's New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) as it readies additional mild-hybrids and its first electric vehicle (EV). Suzuki, like every other manufacturer operating in Australia, is now obliged to meet set average carbon emissions targets across its fleet each year, or be penalised $100 per g/km of CO2 for every vehicle that exceeds the target. The brand's entire Australian fleet falls into the Type 1 passenger car category, which means each car is subject to a CO2 limit of 141g/km for 2025. This limit will drop to 117g/km in 2026, 92g/km in 2027, and eventually 58g/km in 2029. Though Suzuki's Australian lineup currently features only two mild-hybrids and no EVs, general manager Michael Pachota maintains NVES is simply another regulatory hurdle for the brand to overcome. "We've been here for a long time. We're not going anywhere," he told CarExpert. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. "NVES is just another thing that we have to adapt and evolve our product portfolio to meet. With that said, the Australian consumer will decide." Suzuki's model range in Australia is currently undergoing a revamp after several vehicles fell victim to new safety regulations last year. With its up-to-date cars, Suzuki is, on average, in the clear for 2025 – the Swift Hybrid has maximum claimed emissions of 90g/km of CO2, while the Fronx Hybrid produces 113g/km. Only the Jimny exceeds the target with a minimum of 146g/km across its lineup. The defunct S-Cross, Vitara, and Swift Sport are all on the bubble of the current 141g/km target, while the Ignis is on par with the Fronx Hybrid. Only limited dealer stock of these models remains. The emissions of these vehicles means Suzuki will likely exceed the average fleet-wide CO2 limit in three year's time, which means more efficient models will be required to offset the 'dirtier' ones. These efforts will be bolstered by the Vitara Hybrid – albeit with mild-hybrid or 'strong' hybrid powertrains as-yet unconfirmed – and electric eVitara in early 2026, while Suzuki could look overseas for additional hybrid models. In the UK, Suzuki sells the Across plug-in hybrid (PHEV) – a rebadged version of the outgoing Toyota RAV4 – that produces a claimed 26g/km of CO2. There's also the full-hybrid Swace – a rebadged Toyota Corolla Touring Sports wagon – with claimed emissions of 102g/km. This, in theory, could provide Australian customers with more choice in Suzuki models than ever, and Mr Pachota maintains buyer attitudes will shape the brand's direction beyond its initial plans. "Our plan is quite good, I've gotta say. We're ready for it," he told CarExpert. "As the market changes or there's different conditions in the market with competitors and so forth, and if that actual measurement of NVES changes because it's constantly up in the air, or whatever it may be, we'll adapt and evolve, and we're very prepared to do so." Mr Pachota's confident sentiment is in contrast with recent comments made by Suzuki Queensland – a separate entity in charge of the Sunshine State and New South Wales' Northern Rivers region – general manager Paul Dillon. In a separate CarExpert article published this week, Mr Dillon claimed NVES will boost Chinese brands, raise prices, punish makers of small cars, and end up forcing many buyers to shop for less efficient used cars. "I would say, 'Would you consider a Suzuki to be a reasonably efficient car?'," Mr Dillon told CarExpert. "And to consider that next year there will be penalties on cars like Fronx, for a 1.5-litre hybrid vehicle with [an integrated starter generator], there are still penalties on that car next year." He continued by saying Suzuki Queensland would have to raise the prices of its vehicles if NVES fines begin to stack up – a fate he also expects to befall other non-Chinese carmakers – making cheaper Chinese cars look more appealing. "The legislation's almost leaning towards [Chinese brands], isn't it?" Mr Dillon said. Asked whether the eVitara would be able to offset Suzuki's average CO2 emissions, Mr Dillon says he believes "there will be a small market for EVs". "Unfortunately, I don't think the government fully considered that. I think there's issues with the NVES they haven't fully considered, unless they specifically are out to raise more tax from the consumers." MORE: Australia's new emissions regulations are poorly thought out, says local car brand boss MORE: Suzuki Vitara electric, hybrid SUVs locked in for Australia MORE: What the first federal emission standard means for Aussie car buyers MORE: Everything Suzuki Content originally sourced from: Despite Suzuki's relatively slow rollout of electrified vehicles, the brand's local arm says it's prepared to deal with Australia's New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) as it readies additional mild-hybrids and its first electric vehicle (EV). Suzuki, like every other manufacturer operating in Australia, is now obliged to meet set average carbon emissions targets across its fleet each year, or be penalised $100 per g/km of CO2 for every vehicle that exceeds the target. The brand's entire Australian fleet falls into the Type 1 passenger car category, which means each car is subject to a CO2 limit of 141g/km for 2025. This limit will drop to 117g/km in 2026, 92g/km in 2027, and eventually 58g/km in 2029. Though Suzuki's Australian lineup currently features only two mild-hybrids and no EVs, general manager Michael Pachota maintains NVES is simply another regulatory hurdle for the brand to overcome. "We've been here for a long time. We're not going anywhere," he told CarExpert. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. "NVES is just another thing that we have to adapt and evolve our product portfolio to meet. With that said, the Australian consumer will decide." Suzuki's model range in Australia is currently undergoing a revamp after several vehicles fell victim to new safety regulations last year. With its up-to-date cars, Suzuki is, on average, in the clear for 2025 – the Swift Hybrid has maximum claimed emissions of 90g/km of CO2, while the Fronx Hybrid produces 113g/km. Only the Jimny exceeds the target with a minimum of 146g/km across its lineup. The defunct S-Cross, Vitara, and Swift Sport are all on the bubble of the current 141g/km target, while the Ignis is on par with the Fronx Hybrid. Only limited dealer stock of these models remains. The emissions of these vehicles means Suzuki will likely exceed the average fleet-wide CO2 limit in three year's time, which means more efficient models will be required to offset the 'dirtier' ones. These efforts will be bolstered by the Vitara Hybrid – albeit with mild-hybrid or 'strong' hybrid powertrains as-yet unconfirmed – and electric eVitara in early 2026, while Suzuki could look overseas for additional hybrid models. In the UK, Suzuki sells the Across plug-in hybrid (PHEV) – a rebadged version of the outgoing Toyota RAV4 – that produces a claimed 26g/km of CO2. There's also the full-hybrid Swace – a rebadged Toyota Corolla Touring Sports wagon – with claimed emissions of 102g/km. This, in theory, could provide Australian customers with more choice in Suzuki models than ever, and Mr Pachota maintains buyer attitudes will shape the brand's direction beyond its initial plans. "Our plan is quite good, I've gotta say. We're ready for it," he told CarExpert. "As the market changes or there's different conditions in the market with competitors and so forth, and if that actual measurement of NVES changes because it's constantly up in the air, or whatever it may be, we'll adapt and evolve, and we're very prepared to do so." Mr Pachota's confident sentiment is in contrast with recent comments made by Suzuki Queensland – a separate entity in charge of the Sunshine State and New South Wales' Northern Rivers region – general manager Paul Dillon. In a separate CarExpert article published this week, Mr Dillon claimed NVES will boost Chinese brands, raise prices, punish makers of small cars, and end up forcing many buyers to shop for less efficient used cars. "I would say, 'Would you consider a Suzuki to be a reasonably efficient car?'," Mr Dillon told CarExpert. "And to consider that next year there will be penalties on cars like Fronx, for a 1.5-litre hybrid vehicle with [an integrated starter generator], there are still penalties on that car next year." He continued by saying Suzuki Queensland would have to raise the prices of its vehicles if NVES fines begin to stack up – a fate he also expects to befall other non-Chinese carmakers – making cheaper Chinese cars look more appealing. "The legislation's almost leaning towards [Chinese brands], isn't it?" Mr Dillon said. Asked whether the eVitara would be able to offset Suzuki's average CO2 emissions, Mr Dillon says he believes "there will be a small market for EVs". "Unfortunately, I don't think the government fully considered that. I think there's issues with the NVES they haven't fully considered, unless they specifically are out to raise more tax from the consumers." MORE: Australia's new emissions regulations are poorly thought out, says local car brand boss MORE: Suzuki Vitara electric, hybrid SUVs locked in for Australia MORE: What the first federal emission standard means for Aussie car buyers MORE: Everything Suzuki Content originally sourced from: Despite Suzuki's relatively slow rollout of electrified vehicles, the brand's local arm says it's prepared to deal with Australia's New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) as it readies additional mild-hybrids and its first electric vehicle (EV). Suzuki, like every other manufacturer operating in Australia, is now obliged to meet set average carbon emissions targets across its fleet each year, or be penalised $100 per g/km of CO2 for every vehicle that exceeds the target. The brand's entire Australian fleet falls into the Type 1 passenger car category, which means each car is subject to a CO2 limit of 141g/km for 2025. This limit will drop to 117g/km in 2026, 92g/km in 2027, and eventually 58g/km in 2029. Though Suzuki's Australian lineup currently features only two mild-hybrids and no EVs, general manager Michael Pachota maintains NVES is simply another regulatory hurdle for the brand to overcome. "We've been here for a long time. We're not going anywhere," he told CarExpert. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. "NVES is just another thing that we have to adapt and evolve our product portfolio to meet. With that said, the Australian consumer will decide." Suzuki's model range in Australia is currently undergoing a revamp after several vehicles fell victim to new safety regulations last year. With its up-to-date cars, Suzuki is, on average, in the clear for 2025 – the Swift Hybrid has maximum claimed emissions of 90g/km of CO2, while the Fronx Hybrid produces 113g/km. Only the Jimny exceeds the target with a minimum of 146g/km across its lineup. The defunct S-Cross, Vitara, and Swift Sport are all on the bubble of the current 141g/km target, while the Ignis is on par with the Fronx Hybrid. Only limited dealer stock of these models remains. The emissions of these vehicles means Suzuki will likely exceed the average fleet-wide CO2 limit in three year's time, which means more efficient models will be required to offset the 'dirtier' ones. These efforts will be bolstered by the Vitara Hybrid – albeit with mild-hybrid or 'strong' hybrid powertrains as-yet unconfirmed – and electric eVitara in early 2026, while Suzuki could look overseas for additional hybrid models. In the UK, Suzuki sells the Across plug-in hybrid (PHEV) – a rebadged version of the outgoing Toyota RAV4 – that produces a claimed 26g/km of CO2. There's also the full-hybrid Swace – a rebadged Toyota Corolla Touring Sports wagon – with claimed emissions of 102g/km. This, in theory, could provide Australian customers with more choice in Suzuki models than ever, and Mr Pachota maintains buyer attitudes will shape the brand's direction beyond its initial plans. "Our plan is quite good, I've gotta say. We're ready for it," he told CarExpert. "As the market changes or there's different conditions in the market with competitors and so forth, and if that actual measurement of NVES changes because it's constantly up in the air, or whatever it may be, we'll adapt and evolve, and we're very prepared to do so." Mr Pachota's confident sentiment is in contrast with recent comments made by Suzuki Queensland – a separate entity in charge of the Sunshine State and New South Wales' Northern Rivers region – general manager Paul Dillon. In a separate CarExpert article published this week, Mr Dillon claimed NVES will boost Chinese brands, raise prices, punish makers of small cars, and end up forcing many buyers to shop for less efficient used cars. "I would say, 'Would you consider a Suzuki to be a reasonably efficient car?'," Mr Dillon told CarExpert. "And to consider that next year there will be penalties on cars like Fronx, for a 1.5-litre hybrid vehicle with [an integrated starter generator], there are still penalties on that car next year." He continued by saying Suzuki Queensland would have to raise the prices of its vehicles if NVES fines begin to stack up – a fate he also expects to befall other non-Chinese carmakers – making cheaper Chinese cars look more appealing. "The legislation's almost leaning towards [Chinese brands], isn't it?" Mr Dillon said. Asked whether the eVitara would be able to offset Suzuki's average CO2 emissions, Mr Dillon says he believes "there will be a small market for EVs". "Unfortunately, I don't think the government fully considered that. I think there's issues with the NVES they haven't fully considered, unless they specifically are out to raise more tax from the consumers." MORE: Australia's new emissions regulations are poorly thought out, says local car brand boss MORE: Suzuki Vitara electric, hybrid SUVs locked in for Australia MORE: What the first federal emission standard means for Aussie car buyers MORE: Everything Suzuki Content originally sourced from: Despite Suzuki's relatively slow rollout of electrified vehicles, the brand's local arm says it's prepared to deal with Australia's New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) as it readies additional mild-hybrids and its first electric vehicle (EV). Suzuki, like every other manufacturer operating in Australia, is now obliged to meet set average carbon emissions targets across its fleet each year, or be penalised $100 per g/km of CO2 for every vehicle that exceeds the target. The brand's entire Australian fleet falls into the Type 1 passenger car category, which means each car is subject to a CO2 limit of 141g/km for 2025. This limit will drop to 117g/km in 2026, 92g/km in 2027, and eventually 58g/km in 2029. Though Suzuki's Australian lineup currently features only two mild-hybrids and no EVs, general manager Michael Pachota maintains NVES is simply another regulatory hurdle for the brand to overcome. "We've been here for a long time. We're not going anywhere," he told CarExpert. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. "NVES is just another thing that we have to adapt and evolve our product portfolio to meet. With that said, the Australian consumer will decide." Suzuki's model range in Australia is currently undergoing a revamp after several vehicles fell victim to new safety regulations last year. With its up-to-date cars, Suzuki is, on average, in the clear for 2025 – the Swift Hybrid has maximum claimed emissions of 90g/km of CO2, while the Fronx Hybrid produces 113g/km. Only the Jimny exceeds the target with a minimum of 146g/km across its lineup. The defunct S-Cross, Vitara, and Swift Sport are all on the bubble of the current 141g/km target, while the Ignis is on par with the Fronx Hybrid. Only limited dealer stock of these models remains. The emissions of these vehicles means Suzuki will likely exceed the average fleet-wide CO2 limit in three year's time, which means more efficient models will be required to offset the 'dirtier' ones. These efforts will be bolstered by the Vitara Hybrid – albeit with mild-hybrid or 'strong' hybrid powertrains as-yet unconfirmed – and electric eVitara in early 2026, while Suzuki could look overseas for additional hybrid models. In the UK, Suzuki sells the Across plug-in hybrid (PHEV) – a rebadged version of the outgoing Toyota RAV4 – that produces a claimed 26g/km of CO2. There's also the full-hybrid Swace – a rebadged Toyota Corolla Touring Sports wagon – with claimed emissions of 102g/km. This, in theory, could provide Australian customers with more choice in Suzuki models than ever, and Mr Pachota maintains buyer attitudes will shape the brand's direction beyond its initial plans. "Our plan is quite good, I've gotta say. We're ready for it," he told CarExpert. "As the market changes or there's different conditions in the market with competitors and so forth, and if that actual measurement of NVES changes because it's constantly up in the air, or whatever it may be, we'll adapt and evolve, and we're very prepared to do so." Mr Pachota's confident sentiment is in contrast with recent comments made by Suzuki Queensland – a separate entity in charge of the Sunshine State and New South Wales' Northern Rivers region – general manager Paul Dillon. In a separate CarExpert article published this week, Mr Dillon claimed NVES will boost Chinese brands, raise prices, punish makers of small cars, and end up forcing many buyers to shop for less efficient used cars. "I would say, 'Would you consider a Suzuki to be a reasonably efficient car?'," Mr Dillon told CarExpert. "And to consider that next year there will be penalties on cars like Fronx, for a 1.5-litre hybrid vehicle with [an integrated starter generator], there are still penalties on that car next year." He continued by saying Suzuki Queensland would have to raise the prices of its vehicles if NVES fines begin to stack up – a fate he also expects to befall other non-Chinese carmakers – making cheaper Chinese cars look more appealing. "The legislation's almost leaning towards [Chinese brands], isn't it?" Mr Dillon said. Asked whether the eVitara would be able to offset Suzuki's average CO2 emissions, Mr Dillon says he believes "there will be a small market for EVs". "Unfortunately, I don't think the government fully considered that. I think there's issues with the NVES they haven't fully considered, unless they specifically are out to raise more tax from the consumers." MORE: Australia's new emissions regulations are poorly thought out, says local car brand boss MORE: Suzuki Vitara electric, hybrid SUVs locked in for Australia MORE: What the first federal emission standard means for Aussie car buyers MORE: Everything Suzuki Content originally sourced from:
The Advertiser
8 hours ago
- The Advertiser
Cupra "pushing really hard" for connected services in Australia
Cupra Australia says it's "pushing really hard" with its Spanish global parent to bring factory-backed connected services Down Under, in direct response to customer feedback. Speaking with CarExpert, head of product for Cupra Australia – Jeff Shafer – said the lack of connected services in the brand's vehicles locally is something his team is directly looking to address soon. "Yeah, we're definitely looking to go with a factory-backed solution – it's a really hot topic," Mr Shafer said. "We feed back a lot of the local market needs [to global] and what we hear from customers. It's an issue that exists at a Group level, not just a Cupra level, but we're pushing really hard. I don't have timing I can share right now, but things are moving in a positive direction." CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. The Volkswagen Group in Australia has been unable to implement a factory-backed connected services feature set, something that has also impacted the specification of its products – particularly, its range of electric vehicles (EVs) based on the dedicated MEB architecture. While online navigation and live traffic updates are potentially features that most Australian buyers could live without, the lack of proper app functionality like most EV rivals – including to check charge status and toggle remote features like cabin pre-conditioning and the like – stands out in a market where this is becoming increasingly common. Moreso, the MEB platform requires a connected services module for certain features which are currently left out of Australian models, like inbuilt satellite navigation and emergency call functions, which also tie to functionality in other available features like head-up displays, as well as over-the-air software updates. In the case of the Cupra Born, it also missed out on the Group's clever Travel Assist semi-autonomous highway mode as a result too, as it offers connected functionality. Earlier this year, Volkswagen Australia's passenger and commercial divisions rolled out a third-party solution in lieu of proprietary services, in the form of Goconnect. Via the Goconnect phone app, owners can view their parking position, visualise the vehicle's most recent trips, interact and book appointments with their dealer, view important errors and warnings, see the high-voltage battery status, and see the driving speed. At the launch of the ID. Buzz electric van range, Volkswagen Group Australia director of commercial vehicles, Ryan Davies, said: "Australia is currently one of those [markets] we don't have a true picture of when the connectivity that's available in Europe will make its way into Australia". Audi Australia, while also under the VW Group banner locally, has long offered its own connected solutions via the Audi connect plus feature which offers a range of online features and remote functions. However, the MEB-based Q4 e-tron misses out on these features, at least initially, due to the embedded connected module in the platform. While premium brands and Tesla have had forms of connected services and app functionality for some time, mainstream manufacturers have made strides in this space of late, as have many new Chinese challenger brands. Ford, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda and Toyota all offer connected services and app-based remote functions, as do the likes of BYD and MG. All offer complimentary subscriptions with purchase, though length and available functionality can vary depending on the brand and subscription type. Not all of a brand's models are always compatible, either. MORE: Explore the Cupra showroom Content originally sourced from: Cupra Australia says it's "pushing really hard" with its Spanish global parent to bring factory-backed connected services Down Under, in direct response to customer feedback. Speaking with CarExpert, head of product for Cupra Australia – Jeff Shafer – said the lack of connected services in the brand's vehicles locally is something his team is directly looking to address soon. "Yeah, we're definitely looking to go with a factory-backed solution – it's a really hot topic," Mr Shafer said. "We feed back a lot of the local market needs [to global] and what we hear from customers. It's an issue that exists at a Group level, not just a Cupra level, but we're pushing really hard. I don't have timing I can share right now, but things are moving in a positive direction." CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. The Volkswagen Group in Australia has been unable to implement a factory-backed connected services feature set, something that has also impacted the specification of its products – particularly, its range of electric vehicles (EVs) based on the dedicated MEB architecture. While online navigation and live traffic updates are potentially features that most Australian buyers could live without, the lack of proper app functionality like most EV rivals – including to check charge status and toggle remote features like cabin pre-conditioning and the like – stands out in a market where this is becoming increasingly common. Moreso, the MEB platform requires a connected services module for certain features which are currently left out of Australian models, like inbuilt satellite navigation and emergency call functions, which also tie to functionality in other available features like head-up displays, as well as over-the-air software updates. In the case of the Cupra Born, it also missed out on the Group's clever Travel Assist semi-autonomous highway mode as a result too, as it offers connected functionality. Earlier this year, Volkswagen Australia's passenger and commercial divisions rolled out a third-party solution in lieu of proprietary services, in the form of Goconnect. Via the Goconnect phone app, owners can view their parking position, visualise the vehicle's most recent trips, interact and book appointments with their dealer, view important errors and warnings, see the high-voltage battery status, and see the driving speed. At the launch of the ID. Buzz electric van range, Volkswagen Group Australia director of commercial vehicles, Ryan Davies, said: "Australia is currently one of those [markets] we don't have a true picture of when the connectivity that's available in Europe will make its way into Australia". Audi Australia, while also under the VW Group banner locally, has long offered its own connected solutions via the Audi connect plus feature which offers a range of online features and remote functions. However, the MEB-based Q4 e-tron misses out on these features, at least initially, due to the embedded connected module in the platform. While premium brands and Tesla have had forms of connected services and app functionality for some time, mainstream manufacturers have made strides in this space of late, as have many new Chinese challenger brands. Ford, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda and Toyota all offer connected services and app-based remote functions, as do the likes of BYD and MG. All offer complimentary subscriptions with purchase, though length and available functionality can vary depending on the brand and subscription type. Not all of a brand's models are always compatible, either. MORE: Explore the Cupra showroom Content originally sourced from: Cupra Australia says it's "pushing really hard" with its Spanish global parent to bring factory-backed connected services Down Under, in direct response to customer feedback. Speaking with CarExpert, head of product for Cupra Australia – Jeff Shafer – said the lack of connected services in the brand's vehicles locally is something his team is directly looking to address soon. "Yeah, we're definitely looking to go with a factory-backed solution – it's a really hot topic," Mr Shafer said. "We feed back a lot of the local market needs [to global] and what we hear from customers. It's an issue that exists at a Group level, not just a Cupra level, but we're pushing really hard. I don't have timing I can share right now, but things are moving in a positive direction." CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. The Volkswagen Group in Australia has been unable to implement a factory-backed connected services feature set, something that has also impacted the specification of its products – particularly, its range of electric vehicles (EVs) based on the dedicated MEB architecture. While online navigation and live traffic updates are potentially features that most Australian buyers could live without, the lack of proper app functionality like most EV rivals – including to check charge status and toggle remote features like cabin pre-conditioning and the like – stands out in a market where this is becoming increasingly common. Moreso, the MEB platform requires a connected services module for certain features which are currently left out of Australian models, like inbuilt satellite navigation and emergency call functions, which also tie to functionality in other available features like head-up displays, as well as over-the-air software updates. In the case of the Cupra Born, it also missed out on the Group's clever Travel Assist semi-autonomous highway mode as a result too, as it offers connected functionality. Earlier this year, Volkswagen Australia's passenger and commercial divisions rolled out a third-party solution in lieu of proprietary services, in the form of Goconnect. Via the Goconnect phone app, owners can view their parking position, visualise the vehicle's most recent trips, interact and book appointments with their dealer, view important errors and warnings, see the high-voltage battery status, and see the driving speed. At the launch of the ID. Buzz electric van range, Volkswagen Group Australia director of commercial vehicles, Ryan Davies, said: "Australia is currently one of those [markets] we don't have a true picture of when the connectivity that's available in Europe will make its way into Australia". Audi Australia, while also under the VW Group banner locally, has long offered its own connected solutions via the Audi connect plus feature which offers a range of online features and remote functions. However, the MEB-based Q4 e-tron misses out on these features, at least initially, due to the embedded connected module in the platform. While premium brands and Tesla have had forms of connected services and app functionality for some time, mainstream manufacturers have made strides in this space of late, as have many new Chinese challenger brands. Ford, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda and Toyota all offer connected services and app-based remote functions, as do the likes of BYD and MG. All offer complimentary subscriptions with purchase, though length and available functionality can vary depending on the brand and subscription type. Not all of a brand's models are always compatible, either. MORE: Explore the Cupra showroom Content originally sourced from: Cupra Australia says it's "pushing really hard" with its Spanish global parent to bring factory-backed connected services Down Under, in direct response to customer feedback. Speaking with CarExpert, head of product for Cupra Australia – Jeff Shafer – said the lack of connected services in the brand's vehicles locally is something his team is directly looking to address soon. "Yeah, we're definitely looking to go with a factory-backed solution – it's a really hot topic," Mr Shafer said. "We feed back a lot of the local market needs [to global] and what we hear from customers. It's an issue that exists at a Group level, not just a Cupra level, but we're pushing really hard. I don't have timing I can share right now, but things are moving in a positive direction." CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. The Volkswagen Group in Australia has been unable to implement a factory-backed connected services feature set, something that has also impacted the specification of its products – particularly, its range of electric vehicles (EVs) based on the dedicated MEB architecture. While online navigation and live traffic updates are potentially features that most Australian buyers could live without, the lack of proper app functionality like most EV rivals – including to check charge status and toggle remote features like cabin pre-conditioning and the like – stands out in a market where this is becoming increasingly common. Moreso, the MEB platform requires a connected services module for certain features which are currently left out of Australian models, like inbuilt satellite navigation and emergency call functions, which also tie to functionality in other available features like head-up displays, as well as over-the-air software updates. In the case of the Cupra Born, it also missed out on the Group's clever Travel Assist semi-autonomous highway mode as a result too, as it offers connected functionality. Earlier this year, Volkswagen Australia's passenger and commercial divisions rolled out a third-party solution in lieu of proprietary services, in the form of Goconnect. Via the Goconnect phone app, owners can view their parking position, visualise the vehicle's most recent trips, interact and book appointments with their dealer, view important errors and warnings, see the high-voltage battery status, and see the driving speed. At the launch of the ID. Buzz electric van range, Volkswagen Group Australia director of commercial vehicles, Ryan Davies, said: "Australia is currently one of those [markets] we don't have a true picture of when the connectivity that's available in Europe will make its way into Australia". Audi Australia, while also under the VW Group banner locally, has long offered its own connected solutions via the Audi connect plus feature which offers a range of online features and remote functions. However, the MEB-based Q4 e-tron misses out on these features, at least initially, due to the embedded connected module in the platform. While premium brands and Tesla have had forms of connected services and app functionality for some time, mainstream manufacturers have made strides in this space of late, as have many new Chinese challenger brands. Ford, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda and Toyota all offer connected services and app-based remote functions, as do the likes of BYD and MG. All offer complimentary subscriptions with purchase, though length and available functionality can vary depending on the brand and subscription type. Not all of a brand's models are always compatible, either. MORE: Explore the Cupra showroom Content originally sourced from:
7NEWS
9 hours ago
- 7NEWS
Suzuki Australia 'ready' for new emissions regulations
Despite Suzuki's relatively slow rollout of electrified vehicles, the brand's local arm says it's prepared to deal with Australia's New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) as it readies additional mild-hybrids and its first electric vehicle (EV). Suzuki, like every other manufacturer operating in Australia, is now obliged to meet set average carbon emissions targets across its fleet each year, or be penalised $100 per g/km of CO2 for every vehicle that exceeds the target. The brand's entire Australian fleet falls into the Type 1 passenger car category, which means each car is subject to a CO2 limit of 141g/km for 2025. This limit will drop to 117g/km in 2026, 92g/km in 2027, and eventually 58g/km in 2029. Though Suzuki's Australian lineup currently features only two mild-hybrids and no EVs, general manager Michael Pachota maintains NVES is simply another regulatory hurdle for the brand to overcome. 'We've been here for a long time. We're not going anywhere,' he told CarExpert. CarExpert can save you thousands on a new car. Click here to get a great deal. 'NVES is just another thing that we have to adapt and evolve our product portfolio to meet. With that said, the Australian consumer will decide.' Suzuki's model range in Australia is currently undergoing a revamp after several vehicles fell victim to new safety regulations last year. With its up-to-date cars, Suzuki is, on average, in the clear for 2025 – the Swift Hybrid has maximum claimed emissions of 90g/km of CO2, while the Fronx Hybrid produces 113g/km. Only the Jimny exceeds the target with a minimum of 146g/km across its lineup. The defunct S-Cross, Vitara, and Swift Sport are all on the bubble of the current 141g/km target, while the Ignis is on par with the Fronx Hybrid. Only limited dealer stock of these models remains. The emissions of these vehicles means Suzuki will likely exceed the average fleet-wide CO2 limit in three year's time, which means more efficient models will be required to offset the 'dirtier' ones. These efforts will be bolstered by the Vitara Hybrid – albeit with mild-hybrid or 'strong' hybrid powertrains as-yet unconfirmed – and electric eVitara in early 2026, while Suzuki could look overseas for additional hybrid models. In the UK, Suzuki sells the Across plug-in hybrid (PHEV) – a rebadged version of the outgoing Toyota RAV4 – that produces a claimed 26g/km of CO2. There's also the full-hybrid Swace – a rebadged Toyota Corolla Touring Sports wagon – with claimed emissions of 102g/km. This, in theory, could provide Australian customers with more choice in Suzuki models than ever, and Mr Pachota maintains buyer attitudes will shape the brand's direction beyond its initial plans. 'Our plan is quite good, I've gotta say. We're ready for it,' he told CarExpert. 'As the market changes or there's different conditions in the market with competitors and so forth, and if that actual measurement of NVES changes because it's constantly up in the air, or whatever it may be, we'll adapt and evolve, and we're very prepared to do so.' Mr Pachota's confident sentiment is in contrast with recent comments made by Suzuki Queensland – a separate entity in charge of the Sunshine State and New South Wales' Northern Rivers region – general manager Paul Dillon. In a separate CarExpert article published this week, Mr Dillon claimed NVES will boost Chinese brands, raise prices, punish makers of small cars, and end up forcing many buyers to shop for less efficient used cars. 'I would say, 'Would you consider a Suzuki to be a reasonably efficient car?',' Mr Dillon told CarExpert. 'And to consider that next year there will be penalties on cars like Fronx, for a 1.5-litre hybrid vehicle with [an integrated starter generator], there are still penalties on that car next year.' He continued by saying Suzuki Queensland would have to raise the prices of its vehicles if NVES fines begin to stack up – a fate he also expects to befall other non-Chinese carmakers – making cheaper Chinese cars look more appealing. 'The legislation's almost leaning towards [Chinese brands], isn't it?' Mr Dillon said. Asked whether the eVitara would be able to offset Suzuki's average CO2 emissions, Mr Dillon says he believes 'there will be a small market for EVs'. 'Unfortunately, I don't think the government fully considered that. I think there's issues with the NVES they haven't fully considered, unless they specifically are out to raise more tax from the consumers.'
