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Korea Herald
19-05-2025
- Automotive
- Korea Herald
BorgWarner: ‘We're ready for any powertrain — and Korea is key'
US-headquartered auto parts maker highlights resilient tech portfolio spanning combustion engines, EVs, and hybrids BorgWarner, a global automotive parts supplier headquartered in the United States, is working to further expand its presence in Korea based on its resilient portfolio. 'We have the ambition to do a lot of business in Korea, and that's one of the reasons we are here,' Pierre Boitard, vice president at BorgWarner responsible for overseeing the business and operations of turbos and thermal technologies in Asia, told The Korea Herald in Seoul on Thursday. BorgWarner currently operates eight plants and one research and development center in Korea. 'We've been basically showcasing all our current products and innovations that we are bringing, like our new battery systems but also our integrated generator system,' said Helmut Forster, vice president at BorgWarner responsible for all sales activities of the auto parts maker's turbos and thermal technologies, in the same interview. BorgWarner showcased its latest electric vehicle-related developments, such as lithium iron phosphate, or LFP, batteries, next-generation inverters and high-voltage coolant heaters, at the Seoul Mobility Show in March this year. 'If we're able to find customers here for local needs, then it makes absolutely sense also to localize those products to bring those products into Korea as a local production, then we're talking about expansion,' said Forster. The BorgWarner executives noted that they recently celebrated a big business win in Korea without disclosing any details about the secured order. The client list of the auto parts supplier includes Hyundai Motor, Kia and KG Mobility. Asked how the US government's tariff policies would impact BorgWarner's business efforts, Boitard pointed out that BorgWarner's global footprint and the way its supply chains are organized allow the company to adapt to different circumstances. '(The automotive) industry is very much about addressing local markets,' said Boitard. 'If you were to centralize everything in one place, and if ties are being cut, then it's becoming a problem, but that is not how we operate. We have plants in every location where we are needed, and we organize our supply chain in the most efficient way to make sure that we are able to supply our customers where they are.' As automakers across the globe are shifting towards electric vehicles, BorgWarner has been speeding up the development of EV-related auto parts as the company set a goal for its EV sales to account for 45 percent of total revenue by 2030. BorgWarner posted $14.1 billion in sales in 2024, with EV and hybrid-related products taking up approximately 16.6 percent. 'We are really having a very resilient portfolio because we haven't given up on our combustion portfolio,' said Forster. 'If combustion stays longer, we're good. If (battery electric vehicles) accelerates, we have it. And if hybrids are in between, stay till 2035 or 2040, we're good. So we're able to adapt. We have a very resilient product portfolio within our global presence. …Whatever powertrain, we have a solution anywhere in the world. So when things move one way or another, we can shift gears because we have everything already available.' As for the Korean auto market being uniquely dominated by one auto conglomerate Hyundai Motor Group and its three brands of Hyundai Motor, Kia and Genesis, Forster said it is challenging but drives BorgWarner forward to deliver the best products. 'We have to deliver top-notch performance here, otherwise this wouldn't work,' said Forster. 'So we have special development programs running for projects in Korea. Some of my global teams are working specifically for this market or for the specific requirements. So it is challenging. There is a drive towards technology here and really pushing the limits and we need to support that.' hwkan@
Korea Herald
19-05-2025
- Automotive
- Korea Herald
BorgWarner: ‘We're ready for any powertrain — and Korea is key'
US-headquartered auto parts maker highlights resilient tech portfolio spanning combustion engines, EVs, and hybrids BorgWarner, a global automotive parts supplier headquartered in the United States, is working to further expand its presence in Korea based on its resilient portfolio. 'We have the ambition to do a lot of business in Korea, and that's one of the reasons we are here,' Pierre Boitard, vice president at BorgWarner responsible for overseeing the business and operations of turbos and thermal technologies in Asia, told The Korea Herald in Seoul on Thursday. BorgWarner currently operates eight plants and one research and development center in Korea. 'We've been basically showcasing all our current products and innovations that we are bringing, like our new battery systems but also our integrated generator system,' said Helmut Forster, vice president at BorgWarner responsible for all sales activities of the auto parts maker's turbos and thermal technologies, in the same interview. BorgWarner showcased its latest electric vehicle-related developments, such as lithium iron phosphate, or LFP, batteries, next-generation inverters and high-voltage coolant heaters, at the Seoul Mobility Show in March this year. 'If we're able to find customers here for local needs, then it makes absolutely sense also to localize those products to bring those products into Korea as a local production, then we're talking about expansion,' said Forster. The BorgWarner executives noted that they recently celebrated a big business win in Korea without disclosing any details about the secured order. The client list of the auto parts supplier includes Hyundai Motor, Kia and KG Mobility. Asked how the US government's tariff policies would impact BorgWarner's business efforts, Boitard pointed out that BorgWarner's global footprint and the way its supply chains are organized allow the company to adapt to different circumstances. '(The automotive) industry is very much about addressing local markets,' said Boitard. 'If you were to centralize everything in one place, and if ties are being cut, then it's becoming a problem, but that is not how we operate. We have plants in every location where we are needed, and we organize our supply chain in the most efficient way to make sure that we are able to supply our customers where they are.' As automakers across the globe are shifting towards electric vehicles, BorgWarner has been speeding up the development of EV-related auto parts as the company set a goal for its EV sales to account for 45 percent of total revenue by 2030. BorgWarner posted $14.1 billion in sales in 2024, with EV and hybrid-related products taking up approximately 16.6 percent. 'We are really having a very resilient portfolio because we haven't given up on our combustion portfolio,' said Forster. 'If combustion stays longer, we're good. If (battery electric vehicles) accelerates, we have it. And if hybrids are in between, stay till 2035 or 2040, we're good. So we're able to adapt. We have a very resilient product portfolio within our global presence. …Whatever powertrain, we have a solution anywhere in the world. So when things move one way or another, we can shift gears because we have everything already available.' As for the Korean auto market being uniquely dominated by one auto conglomerate Hyundai Motor Group and its three brands of Hyundai Motor, Kia and Genesis, Forster said it is challenging but drives BorgWarner forward to deliver the best products. 'We have to deliver top-notch performance here, otherwise this wouldn't work,' said Forster. 'So we have special development programs running for projects in Korea. Some of my global teams are working specifically for this market or for the specific requirements. So it is challenging. There is a drive towards technology here and really pushing the limits and we need to support that.'
Yahoo
02-05-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Automaker reveals polarizing EV concept with unexpected silhouette and astounding range: 'I'm even more sold now'
The Hyundai Ioniq 6 has turned heads with its unique, futuristic design. While its bold looks aren't for everyone, the automaker isn't backing down. Instead, the company has given the beloved Ioniq a new style while potentially boosting its already impressive driving range. Car experts were excited to have a first look at the electric vehicle at the Seoul Mobility Show. The updated Ioniq features several sleek design tweaks. As highlighted in a video tour by TFLEV, the front end appears wider and smoother, incorporating ultra-thin LED headlights. Perhaps the most significant change is on the back, where the previous double-deck wing spoiler has been replaced with a more subtle, vintage duckbill spoiler. The shape gives it, as InsideEVs noted, "classic Porsche 911 vibes. … I'm even more sold now." While powertrain specifics haven't been announced for the U.S. market, there's speculation it could receive the larger 84 kilowatt-hour battery recently introduced in other Hyundai and Kia EVs. The current Ioniq 6 already achieves up to 361 miles of Environmental Protection Agency-rated range with its 77.4 kWh battery. Combining the refined aerodynamics with a bigger battery could push the 2026 model close to, or even past, an astounding 400 miles on a single charge. A sportier N line trim, borrowing cues from the performance-focused Ioniq 5 N, was also previewed. For car buyers thinking of making the switch to electric, this updated Ioniq touts several advantages. Besides the incredible range, drivers benefit from significant fuel savings compared to gasoline cars and drastically reduced maintenance costs with no fluid or oil changes. EVs also offer a quiet, smooth ride with instant acceleration and zero tailpipe pollution, which means cleaner air in our communities. While EV battery production does have an environmental impact, studies show it's quickly offset by the lack of daily pollution from burning gasoline — a Tesla Model 3, for instance, becomes cleaner than a comparable gas car after just 13,500 miles. According to the International Energy Agency, about 30 million tons of minerals are needed annually for EV batteries and other technology key to the clean energy transition. This figure is far less than the 16.5 billion tons of dirty energy sources taken from the earth each year. The first look at the new Ioniq generated positive buzz. If you were going to purchase an EV, which of these factors would be most important to you? Cost Battery range Power and speed The way it looks Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. MotorTrend noted that "extra accessory and window switches" on the driver's side was "a welcome change. … Less hand movement … mak[es] it not only more comfortable but also safer." The host, Tommy Mica, described the Korean-market model primarily as "a design refresh" but acknowledged the possibility for significant battery upgrades. If this sleeker, potentially longer-range Ioniq 6 makes it to the United States, it will represent a compelling evolution for an already strong electric sedan. Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the latest innovations improving our lives and shaping our future, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Korea Herald
24-04-2025
- Automotive
- Korea Herald
Mercedes-Benz doubles down on high-end strategy in Korean market
At the 2025 Seoul Mobility Show, Mercedes-Benz Korea gave visitors a glimpse of where luxury driving is headed. Alongside its latest premium models, the brand introduced a range of personalized services designed to reflect the evolving tastes of Korean consumers. This initiative is part of Mercedes-Benz Korea's broader strategy to elevate its luxury positioning in 2025. By launching high-end vehicles and tailored experiences, the company continues to align with its global vision: 'The world's most desirable cars.' Leading the lineup was the Korean debut of the fully redesigned second-generation Mercedes-AMG GT — a bold, two-door coupe that delivers true sports car performance while staying rooted in the brand's signature design DNA. Also making its debut was the Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupe. With clean lines, powerful performance and cutting-edge technology, the model is set to launch in Korea in the second half of the year. Taking exclusivity to the next level, Mercedes-Benz Korea showcased the limited-edition AMG E 53 Hybrid 4MATIC+ Edition 1. With just 10 available in Korea, the model pairs hybrid innovation with striking design and is priced at 160.8 million won ($112,000). To meet growing demand for personalization, the brand also presented its flagship 'Manufaktur' customization program, giving discerning customers the opportunity to match every detail — from leather texture to interior finishes — to their individual tastes. Sales continue to underscore the brand's strong presence in Korea. The 11th-generation E-Class was once again the best-selling imported model in 2024, maintaining its top spot for the tenth consecutive year. The G-Class recorded a sales high of 2,613 units, with both the G-Class and Mercedes-Maybach surpassing 10,000 cumulative sales in the country. The S-Class also led sales in the imported full-size internal combustion sedan segment, according to the Korea Automobile Importers & Distributors Association. Since 2016, Korea has been the third-largest global market for the S-Class, following only China and the United States — further proof that Mercedes-Benz remains the preferred choice for Korea's luxury drivers.
Yahoo
09-04-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Kia Is Finally Bringing a Pickup to America — And It's Not What You Think
Kia is officially planning to launch a midsize pickup truck for the U.S. market, and no, it's not the rugged Tasman you may have seen overseas. Instead, the automaker will build a new, U.S.-specific model from the ground up, according to CEO Ho Sung Song. More details are expected to land at the company's Investor Day on April 9, but for now, one thing is clear: Kia wants a piece of the most competitive and profitable segment in the American auto industry. Despite its strong presence in crossovers and electric vehicles, Kia has long lacked a true pickup in its U.S. lineup. And while the global Tasman truck recently debuted in Korea and Australia, it was never designed with American buyers — or regulations — in mind. 'We don't develop that vehicle for the American market,' Song confirmed at the Seoul Mobility Show. Instead, the new truck will be an entirely separate model built to appeal to U.S. tastes and requirements. The move makes sense. Midsize trucks like the Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, and Chevrolet Colorado continue to see strong demand in the U.S., thanks to their blend of utility, size, and value. With electrification looming and consumer tastes shifting, there's also a growing appetite for smaller, potentially electric alternatives to full-size trucks like the Ford F-150 or the controversy-ridden Tesla Cybertruck. Kia's upcoming pickup is expected to be built in Georgia at Hyundai's Metaplant America, a move that would help it avoid both import tariffs and rising trade tensions. As for powertrains, nothing is confirmed, but rumors suggest the truck could debut as an EV or at least offer an electric variant alongside traditional internal combustion options. Kia is also reportedly exploring a partnership with General Motors to develop internal combustion trucks based on the Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon, which could give the Korean automaker a quicker path to market. That means multiple strategies could be in play simultaneously, giving Kia room to adapt to consumer demand. The pickup truck isn't Kia's only move into new territory. The automaker is also developing a series of electric light commercial vehicles, including the PV5 van, as part of a broader push into commercial and utility markets. For Kia, the pivot isn't just about new product lines; it's about reshaping its entire identity in the U.S. As Song put it, this isn't a gamble, it's a growth strategy. 'This is an opportunity, not a risk,' he said. We'll know more on April 9. But for now, it's safe to say Kia is finally getting serious about trucks. And if it plays its cards right, it could shake up the segment in a big way.
