Latest news with #KjellGruner
Yahoo
13-05-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Volkswagen and Uber to test, deploy robotaxis
This story was originally published on Automotive Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Automotive Dive newsletter. Volkswagen and Uber inked a partnership to offer robotaxi service on the Uber app via thousands of the automaker's ID. Buzz vans, the companies announced April 24. Testing with human operators is set to begin later this year. The companies anticipate launching the service in Los Angeles in 2026 before expanding to other U.S. locations over the next decade. Volkswagen's all-electric ID. Buzz, a retro-styled minivan with a design based on the classic Volkswagen bus, can seat up to seven passengers. It was first available for sale in the U.S. in 2024. Volkswagen's ride pool and autonomous mobility arm, MOIA, will be responsible for the van's self-driving technology and the software to deploy the vehicles on the Uber platform. The subsidiary has been developing and testing autonomous ride pool service in Hamburg, Germany, since 2021. Automakers have increasingly tapped strategic partnerships such as the one between Volkswagen and Uber to expedite deployment of autonomous technology. For example, robotaxi company Waymo has partnered with Jaguar to expand its self-driving ride hail service in a handful of U.S. cities and it recently announced a partnership with Hyundai to install fully autonomous driving technology in the Ioniq 5. And in August 2024, General Motors announced a partnership with Uber through GM's robotaxi subsidiary Cruise—before the automaker stopped funding Cruise in December 2024, citing an 'increasingly competitive robotaxi market' and a new focus on autonomous driving for personal vehicles. 'Volkswagen is not just a car manufacturer—we are shaping the future of mobility, and our collaboration with Uber accelerates that vision,' Christian Senger, CEO of Volkswagen Autonomous Mobility, said in a statement. He added that Volkswagen combines 'high-volume manufacturing expertise with cutting-edge technology and a deep understanding of urban mobility needs.' With thousands of ID. Buzz vans on U.S. city streets, the partnership could also draw more customers to the ride hailing service as well as buyers for VW's EV microbus. 'Through our work with Uber, we'll introduce the ID. Buzz, the reimagined version of the iconic Microbus in all-electric form, to a growing number of riders in the years to come,' said Kjell Gruner, Volkswagen Group of America president and CEO. Recommended Reading NHTSA seeks to fast-track AV deployment Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Scottish Sun
27-04-2025
- Automotive
- Scottish Sun
Major car brand pulls the plug on iconic sports car's comeback as it's not ‘viable in the market'
A total of 45,949 units were sold during its original 17-year run NO RETURN Major car brand pulls the plug on iconic sports car's comeback as it's not 'viable in the market' Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) RUMOURS of the iconic Audi R8's revival appear to have been quashed, with one of the company's key decision-makers claiming its return is not on the cards. Last month, it seemed the beloved supercar – which first debuted in 2006 but was discontinued just a year ago – was set to return as a supremely fast plug-in hybrid. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 3 The legendary Audi R8 is not set for a revival - with one of the company's decision-makers saying its return is not 'viable in the market' Credit: Getty 3 The iconic supercar isn't currently on the VW Group's road map Credit: Handout 3 Rumour had it the next gen R8 would be mechanically twinned with the Lamborghini Temerario Credit: HANDOUT The supercar's reintroduction was reportedly pencilled in for 2027, according to Autocar, which claimed the next-generation R8 had progressed beyond the feasibility stage. However, speaking to the media at the New York Auto Show earlier this month, Kjell Gruner, the new CEO of Volkswagen Group America, reportedly said the R8's return would depend on 'what's viable in the market.' Outlets including Motor1 further reported that he went on to say: "A mid-engine, internal combustion engine vehicle, I don't see that on the road map." Rumours of its return originated from unnamed sources, who claimed it had the backing of Audi CEO Gernot Döllner. Intriguingly, many of the alleged details of the third-generation R8 had been meticulously planned, particularly its powertrain. Reports suggested it would combine Lamborghini's twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 – borrowed from its fellow VW Group brand – with electric motors to deliver hybrid performance. To that end, Autocar added that the return of the R8 would coincide with the launch of the Lamborghini Temerario, and that the top-of-the-range R8 Performance model would have been capable of producing close to 1,000 bhp. This seemed plausible, given that the first two generations of the R8 also shared much with their Lamborghini counterparts – first the Gallardo, and then the Huracan. The rumoured R8's focus on everyday usability also positioned it as a key rival to the likes of the Mercedes-AMG GT and Porsche 911. For now, however, the return of the R8 remains just that – rumours – with the only silver lining being that Gruner's comments don't entirely rule out a new Audi flagship. The people's supercar is the bargain of the decade & still looks as gorgeous as ever Unfortunately, though, it seems unlikely that such a vehicle would be powered by a mid-mounted combustion engine. A total of 45,949 Audi R8s sold in its original 17-year run. It comes as Audi revealed last month it is set to axe the incredibly popular A1 and Q2 models next year - with an EV lined up as their replacement. Both cars, which are big sellers for the German brand - especially the A1 hatchback - are also the two cheapest among their range.
The Irish Sun
27-04-2025
- Automotive
- The Irish Sun
Major car brand pulls the plug on iconic sports car's comeback as it's not ‘viable in the market'
RUMOURS of the iconic Audi R8's revival appear to have been quashed, with one of the company's key decision-makers claiming its return is not on the cards. Last month, it seemed the beloved supercar – which first debuted in 2006 but was discontinued just a year ago – Advertisement 3 The legendary Audi R8 is not set for a revival - with one of the company's decision-makers saying its return is not 'viable in the market' Credit: Getty 3 The iconic supercar isn't currently on the VW Group's road map Credit: Handout 3 Rumour had it the next gen R8 would be mechanically twinned with the Lamborghini Temerario Credit: HANDOUT The supercar's reintroduction was reportedly pencilled in for 2027, according to Autocar, which claimed the next-generation R8 had progressed beyond the feasibility stage. However, speaking to the media at the New York Auto Show earlier this month, Kjell Gruner, the new CEO of Volkswagen Group America, reportedly said the R8's return would depend on 'what's viable in the market.' Outlets including Motor1 further reported that he went on to say: "A mid-engine, internal combustion engine vehicle, I don't see that on the road map." Rumours of its return originated from unnamed sources, who claimed it had the backing of Audi CEO Gernot Döllner. Advertisement Read more Motors News Intriguingly, many of the alleged details of the third-generation R8 had been meticulously planned, particularly its powertrain. Reports suggested it would combine Lamborghini's twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 – borrowed from its fellow VW Group brand – with electric motors to deliver hybrid performance. To that end, Autocar added that the return of the R8 would coincide with the launch of the Lamborghini Temerario, and that the top-of-the-range R8 Performance model would have been capable of producing close to 1,000 bhp. This seemed plausible, given that the first two generations of the R8 also shared much with their Lamborghini counterparts – first the Gallardo, and then the Huracan. Advertisement Most read in Motors Exclusive The rumoured R8's focus on everyday usability also positioned it as a key rival to the likes of the Mercedes-AMG GT and Porsche 911. For now, however, the return of the R8 remains just that – rumours – with the only silver lining being that Gruner's comments don't entirely rule out a new Audi flagship. The people's supercar is the bargain of the decade & still looks as gorgeous as ever Unfortunately, though, it seems unlikely that such a vehicle would be powered by a mid-mounted combustion engine. A total of 45,949 Audi R8s sold in its original 17-year run. Advertisement It comes as Both cars, which are big sellers for the German brand - especially the A1 hatchback - are also the two cheapest among their range.
The Sun
27-04-2025
- Automotive
- The Sun
Major car brand pulls the plug on iconic sports car's comeback as it's not ‘viable in the market'
RUMOURS of the iconic Audi R8's revival appear to have been quashed, with one of the company's key decision-makers claiming its return is not on the cards. Last month, it seemed the beloved supercar – which first debuted in 2006 but was discontinued just a year ago – was set to return as a supremely fast plug-in hybrid. 3 3 3 The supercar's reintroduction was reportedly pencilled in for 2027, according to Autocar, which claimed the next-generation R8 had progressed beyond the feasibility stage. However, speaking to the media at the New York Auto Show earlier this month, Kjell Gruner, the new CEO of Volkswagen Group America, reportedly said the R8's return would depend on 'what's viable in the market.' Outlets including Motor1 further reported that he went on to say: "A mid-engine, internal combustion engine vehicle, I don't see that on the road map." Rumours of its return originated from unnamed sources, who claimed it had the backing of Audi CEO Gernot Döllner. Intriguingly, many of the alleged details of the third-generation R8 had been meticulously planned, particularly its powertrain. Reports suggested it would combine Lamborghini 's twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 – borrowed from its fellow VW Group brand – with electric motors to deliver hybrid performance. To that end, Autocar added that the return of the R8 would coincide with the launch of the Lamborghini Temerario, and that the top-of-the-range R8 Performance model would have been capable of producing close to 1,000 bhp. This seemed plausible, given that the first two generations of the R8 also shared much with their Lamborghini counterparts – first the Gallardo, and then the Huracan. The rumoured R8's focus on everyday usability also positioned it as a key rival to the likes of the Mercedes-AMG GT and Porsche 911. For now, however, the return of the R8 remains just that – rumours – with the only silver lining being that Gruner's comments don't entirely rule out a new Audi flagship. Unfortunately, though, it seems unlikely that such a vehicle would be powered by a mid-mounted combustion engine. A total of 45,949 Audi R8s sold in its original 17-year run. It comes as Audi revealed last month it is set to axe the incredibly popular A1 and Q2 models next year - with an EV lined up as their replacement. Both cars, which are big sellers for the German brand - especially the A1 hatchback - are also the two cheapest among their range.
Yahoo
24-04-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Volkswagen and Uber partner to deploy autonomous ID. Buzz
Volkswagen Group of America Inc.'s autonomous mobility subsidiary Volkswagen ADMT, LLC, and Uber Technologies, Inc. have announced a strategic partnership to deploy a fleet of thousands of all-electric, fully autonomous ID. Buzz AD vehicles within multiple US markets over the next decade, starting in Los Angeles. Testing is expected to begin later this year, with the first commercial launch expected in Los Angeles in 2026. During the initial testing and launch phases, ID. Buzz AD vehicles will have human operators onboard to help refine the technology and ensure safety. Each step will proceed only after any necessary regulatory approvals have been received. MOIA, a Volkswagen AG autonomous mobility brand, will provide its integrated solution for autonomous driving which includes the ID. Buzz AD and software-based system for the deployment on the Uber platform. 'Volkswagen is not just a car manufacturer—we are shaping the future of mobility, and our collaboration with Uber accelerates that vision,' said Christian Senger, CEO of Volkswagen Autonomous Mobility. 'What really sets us apart is our ability to combine the best of both worlds—high-volume manufacturing expertise with cutting-edge technology and a deep understanding of urban mobility needs.' 'Volkswagen believes that mobility is transformational. Our partnership with Uber is the next step for us to realize this vision and unleash the potential of autonomous mobility,' said Kjell Gruner, President and CEO, Volkswagen Group of America. 'Through our work with Uber, we'll introduce the ID. Buzz, the reimagined version of the iconic Microbus in all-electric form, to a growing number of riders in the years to come.' 'This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the advancement of autonomous mobility, and highlights both Volkswagen's and Uber's shared dedication to building the future of transportation,' said Dara Khosrowshahi, CEO of Uber. 'We can't wait to launch in Los Angeles late next year." Uber has struck deals with multiple partners to deploy self-driving technology across its ride share, delivery and freight businesses. Volkswagen has been testing its ID Buzz vans with human operators in Austin, Texas. "Volkswagen and Uber partner to deploy autonomous ID. Buzz" was originally created and published by Just Auto, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Sign in to access your portfolio
