Top Car News This Week from Bold Investments to Exciting Launches
As we've done in recent weeks, we're back with a comprehensive roundup of the most important automotive news. The past week witnessed several notable developments from major global companies, ranging from massive investments and new model launches to strategic moves by some of the industry's biggest names. Whether you're a fan of powerful engines, interested in electric vehicles, or following the influence of figures like Elon Musk on the auto world, this news roundup has something exciting and essential for you.
General Motors invests $888 million in new V8 engine development
In an unexpected move, General Motors announced a massive $888 million investment in its Tonawanda plant in New York to develop the sixth generation of V8 engines, set to launch in 2027. This investment aims to enhance performance, improve efficiency, and reduce emissions, with a focus on trucks and SUVs.
Volkswagen announces major investments in the US amid tariff talks
Volkswagen has revealed plans for significant investments in the United States in an effort to mitigate the impact of tariffs on imported vehicles. CEO Oliver Blume stated that discussions with the US government were 'fair and constructive,' expressing hope for a swift agreement.
BYD launches affordable electric 'Dolphin Surf' in Europe
Chinese automaker BYD has launched its new electric car, the 'Dolphin Surf,' in Europe with a starting price of €22,990. The car offers a range of up to 507 km and features a 10.1-inch rotating screen, making it an attractive option for consumers seeking an affordable EV.
Exclusive test drive of the Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale
ArabGT's Suhaib Shashaa delivered an exclusive test drive of the rare Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale, of which only 33 units have been produced. The car features a twin-turbo V6 engine producing 630 horsepower and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3 seconds. Suhaib also visited the Carrozzeria Touring Superleggera factory where this masterpiece is handcrafted.
Elon Musk resigns from US government role
Elon Musk has resigned from his position as head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) under President Trump's administration after just 130 days. Musk faced criticism for leading budget cuts that included the layoff of 260,000 federal employees. He also voiced dissatisfaction with a new budget bill that increases the federal deficit, conflicting with DOGE's objectives.
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Trump administration may rescind $4 billion for California High-Speed Rail project
WASHINGTON: The Trump administration said Wednesday there is no viable path forward for California's High-Speed Rail project and warned it may rescind $4 billion in government funding in the coming weeks. The US Transportation Department released a 315-page report from the Federal Railroad Administration that cited missed deadlines, budget shortfalls and questionable ridership projections. One key issue cited is that California has not identified $7 billion in additional funding needed to build an initial 171-mile segment between Merced and Bakersfield, California. USDOT gave California until mid-July to respond and then the administration could terminate the grants. Trump said last month the US government would not pay for the project. The FRA report Wednesday said California had 'conned the taxpayer out of its $4 billion investment, with no viable plan to deliver even that partial segment on time.' The California High-Speed Rail System is a planned two-phase 800-mile system with speeds of up to 220 miles per hour that aims to connect San Francisco to Los Angeles/Anaheim and in the second phase extend north to Sacramento and south to San Diego. The California High-Speed Rail Authority said it strongly disagrees with the administration's conclusions 'which are misguided and do not reflect the substantial progress made to deliver high-speed rail in California.' It noted California, Governor Gavin Newsom's budget proposal before the legislature extends at least $1 billion per year in funding for the next 20 years 'providing the necessary resources to complete the project's initial operating segment.' The authority noted in May there is active civil construction along 119 miles in the state's Central Valley. Voters approved $10 billion for the project in 2008 but the costs have risen sharply. The Transportation Department under former President Joe Biden awarded the project about $4 billion. The entire San Francisco-to-Los Angeles project was initially supposed to be completed by 2020 for $33 billion but has now jumped from $89 billion to $128 billion. In 2021, Biden restored a $929 million grant for California's high-speed rail that Trump had revoked in 2019 after the Republican president called the project a 'disaster.'
Arab News
9 hours ago
- Arab News
Book Review: ‘The Culture Map' by Erin Meyer
'The Culture Map' by Erin Meyer, which was published in 2014, discusses the cultural differences between people and how they influence business interactions. American author and professor at INSEAD Business School, Meyer talks from personal experience about fundamental points to pay attention to while having interactions with international business owners, peers, or clients. She uncovers the meaning behind certain behaviors and suggests solutions to overcome the differences between people to accomplish shared goals. As a cross-cultural management expert, Meyer discusses the elements that contribute to people's communication and collaboration, including evaluation, persuasion, leadership, decision-making, and trust. Using practical examples, she explains how misunderstandings sometimes happen when people interpret attitudes using their own lens, which may not be appropriate when relying on personal background and general understanding of the world. She writes about people appreciating and focusing on what they find meaningful to them. Some cultures value direct feedback, while others tend to lean toward indirect communication when asked to give an opinion. In addition, the author provides strategies to overcome differences and find common ground, focusing on the importance of learning and understanding cultural norms, and also being adaptable when an individual becomes part of an international team. She also encourages readers to understand and respect other traditions to build effective relationships with the world around us. 'The Culture Map' is a guide for people who may be working in multicultural environments and want to elevate teamwork while improving intercultural skills.
Arab News
9 hours ago
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Trump administration plans $1,000 fee to fast-track tourist visas -memo
WASHINGTON: The Trump administration is considering a $1,000 fee for tourists and other non-immigrant visa applicants seeking an expedited interview appointment though government lawyers have raised legal red flags over the plan, according to a US official and an internal State Department memo. Individuals entering the US on tourist and other non-immigrant visas already pay a $185 processing fee. The new $1,000 option the US is considering would be a premium service that allows some people to jump to the front of the line for visa interviews. The program could arrive in pilot form as soon as December, the memo reviewed by Reuters said. The proposed fee for visa appointments, which has not been previously reported, comes alongside President Donald Trump's vision of a 'gold card' that would sell US citizenship for $5 million, granting faster access to those willing to pay. But the State Department's legal team said there was a 'high risk' it would be rejected by the White House budget office or struck down in US courts, the memo said. Setting a fee above the cost to provide the service 'is contrary to settled Supreme Court precedent,' the memo said. A State Department spokesperson said the department does not comment on internal documents and communications. 'The department's scheduling of non-immigrant visa interview appointments is dynamic and we are continually working to improve our operations worldwide,' the spokesperson said. Since taking office on Jan. 20, Trump has aggressively cracked down on immigration, including revoking some student visas and increasing scrutiny of all visa applicants. The State Department issued 10.4 million non-immigrant visas in fiscal year 2023, including 5.9 million tourist visas, according to the agency's most recent annual report. International travel spending in the United States is expected to decline about 7 percent in 2025 as opposition to Trump's policies and a strong dollar prompt foreign visitors to opt for other destinations, the World Travel and Tourism Council said in May.
