Latest news with #Volvo
Economic Key
10 hours ago
- Automotive
- Economic Key
GB Auto Partners with Volvo Buses to Strengthen Exports and Promote Sustainable Growth
Mohamed Gamil GB Auto, a leading automotive company in the Middle East and Africa has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Volvo Buses. The purpose is to strengthen the collaboration on the export of Volvo buses and coaches from Egypt to the region. The agreement marks a step towards more sustainable industrial practices, with a shared focus on expanding capacity and export, investment in cutting edge industrial technology, and generating employment opportunities. The importance of Egypt as a key trade hub was underscored at the signing event, attended by Benjamin Dousa, Swedish Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade, and Egypt's Minister of Transportation Kamel al-Wazir, along with other high-ranking officials. Both governments reaffirmed the value of strengthening bilateral trade and industrial cooperation. As part of the agreement, GB Auto is investing in and upgrading its bus manufacturing facility in Ain Sokhna, Egypt. Volvo Buses will support the initiative by providing technical expertise, corporate know-how, and ongoing guidance to enhance production capabilities, optimize quality, and use ethically sourced and sustainable materials. Karim Gaddas, COO of GB Auto said: 'We are delighted to expand our partnership with Volvo Buses to export markets, a testament of GB Auto commitment to build quality buses, meeting and exceeding the industry standards. In 2024, we have started an investment plan, focusing on advanced technologies to upgrade our product performance in terms of design, durability and safety, while reducing our environmental impact.' Benjamin Dousa, Swedish Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade, said: 'Egypt is playing an increasingly vital role as a gateway for trade between Sweden, the EU, Middle East and Africa. This partnership between Volvo Buses and GB Auto reflects our shared commitment to innovation, sustainability, and regional growth.' 'This partnership is about expanding our reach and doing so responsibly. It involves integrating a sustainability perspective at every stage of the value chain. By working together with GB Auto, we are taking strategic action to further enhance the production processes and grow exports across the Middle East and Africa,' says Dan Pettersson, Senior Vice President, Business Unit Chassis, Volvo Buses, he added: 'This is fully aligned with Volvo Buses' long-term strategy to create flexible, market-adapted solutions for our customers and work with partners who can tailor production to meet the demands of both local and export markets' Since the start of their partnership in 1998, GB Auto has served as a regional base for exporting Volvo buses and coaches to countries including Jordan, Oman, Iraq, Cameroon, and Senegal. It's worth noting that this long-standing collaboration has laid the groundwork for the new Memorandum of Understanding, which builds on this foundation with a clear set of joint objectives: to strengthen quality and expertise, expand export capabilities, and develop premium commercial passenger transport products built on Volvo Buses chassis. تم نسخ الرابط
Forbes
11 hours ago
- Automotive
- Forbes
Volvo: Gaussian Splatting Is Our Secret Ingredient For Safer Cars
For decades, the Volvo brand has been synonymous with safety. But keeping passengers secure is no longer just about a strong cabin or cleverly designed crumple zones. Increasingly, safety is about semi-autonomous driving technology that can mitigate collisions or even avoid them entirely. Volvo intends to be ahead of the game in this era too. Its secret weapon? Something called 'Gaussian Splatting'. I asked Volvo's Head of Software Engineering Alwin Bakkenes and subsidiary Zenseact's VP Product Erik Coelingh exactly what this is and why it's so important. 'We have a long history of innovations based on data,' says Bakkenes. 'The accident research team from the 70s started with measuring tapes. Now in the digital world we're collecting millions of real-life events. That data has helped us over the years to develop a three-point safety belt and the whiplash protection system. Now, we can see from the data we collect from fleets that a very large portion of serious accidents happen in the dark on country roads where vulnerable road users are involved. That's why, with the ES90 that we just launched, we are also introducing a function called lighter AAS where we have enabled the car to steer away from pedestrians walking on the side of the road or cyclists, which in the dark you can't see even if you have your high beam on. This technology picks that up earlier than a human driver.' The Volvo EX90 SUV will also benefit from this technology. 'If you want to lead in collision avoidance and self-driving, you need to have the best possible data from the real world,' adds Bakkenes. 'But everyone is looking also at augmenting that with simulated data. The next step is fast automation, so we're using state-of-the-art end-to-end models to achieve speed in iterations. But sometimes these models hallucinate. To avoid that, we use our 98 years of safety experience and these millions of data points as guardrails to make sure that the car behaves well because we believe that when you start to automate it needs to be trusted. For us every kilometer driven with Pilot Assist or Pilot Assist Plus needs to be safer than when you've driven it yourself. In the world of AI data is king. We use Gaussian Splatting to enhance our data set.' 'Cars are driven all around the world in different weather and traffic conditions by different people,' says Coelingh. 'The variation is huge. We collect millions of data points, but it's still a limited amount compared to reality. Gaussian Splatting is a new technology that some of our PhD students have been developing the last few years into a system where you can take a single data point from the real world where you have all the sensor, camera, radar and LIDAR sequences and then blow it up into thousands or tens of thousands of different scenarios. In that way, you can get a much better representation of the real world because we can test our software against this huge variation. If you do it in software, you can test much faster, so then you can iterate your software much more quickly and improve our product.' 'Gaussian Splatting is used in different areas of AI,' continues Coelingh. 'It comes from the neural radiance fields from nerves.' The original version worked with static images. 'The first academic paper was about a drum kit where somebody took still pictures from different angles and then the neural net was trained on those pictures to create a 3D model. It looked perfect from any angle even though there was only a limited set of pictures available. Later that technology was expanded from 3D to 4D space-time, so you could also do it on the video set. We now do this not just with video data, but also with LiDAR and radar data.' A real-world event can be recreated from every angle. 'We can start to manipulate other road users in this scenario. We can manipulate real world scenarios and do different simulations around this to make sure that our system is robust to variations.' Volvo uses this system particularly to explore how small adjustments could prevent accidents. 'Most of the work that we do is not about the crash itself,' says Coelingh. 'It's much more about what's happening 4-5 seconds before the crash or potential crash. The data we probe is from crashes, but it's also from events where our systems already did an intervention and in many cases those interventions come in time to prevent an accident and in some cases they come late and we only mitigated it. But all these scenarios are relevant because they happen in the real world, and they are types of edge case. These are rare, but through this technology of Gaussian Splatting, we can go from a few edge cases to suddenly many different edge cases and thereby test our system against those in a way that we previously could not.' This is increasingly important for addressing the huge variation in global driving habits and conditions a safety system will be expected to encounter. 'Neural Nets are good at learning these types of patterns,' says Coelingh. 'Humans can see that because of the behavior of a car the driver is talking into their phone, either slowing down or wiggling in the lane. If you have an end-to-end neural network using representations from camera images, LiDAR and radar, it will anticipate those kinds of things. We are probing data from cars all around the world where Volvo Cars are being driven.' The system acts preemptively, so it can perform a safety maneuver for example when a pedestrian appears suddenly in the path of the vehicle. 'You have no time to react,' says Coelingh. Volvo's safety system will be ready, however. 'Even before that, the car already detects free space. It can do an auto steer and it's a very small correction. It doesn't steer you out of lane. It doesn't jerk you around. It slows down a little bit and it does the correction. It's undramatic, but the impact is massive. Oncoming collisions are incredibly severe. Small adjustments can have big benefits.' Volvo has developed one software platform to cover both safety and autonomy. 'The software stack that we develop is being used in different ways,' says Coelingh. 'We want the driver to drive manually undisturbed unless there's a critical situation. Then we try to assist in the best possible way to avoid collision, either by warning, steering, auto braking or a combination of those. Then we also do cruising or L2 automation.' Volvo demonstrated how it has been using Gaussian Splatting at NVIDIA's GTC in April. 'We went deeply into the safe automation concept,' says Bakkenes. 'Neural nets are good at picking up things that you can't do in a rule-based system. We're developing one stack based on good fleet data which has end-to-end algorithms to achieve massive performance, and it has guard rails to make sure we manage hallucinations. It's not like we have a collision avoidance stack and then we have self-driving stack.' 'There was a conscious decision that if we improve performance, then we want the benefits of that to be both for collision avoidance in manual driving and for self-driving,' says Coelingh. 'We build everything from the same stack, but the stack itself is scalable. It's one big neural network that we can train. But then there are parts that we can deploy separately to go from our core premium ADAS system all the way to a system that can do unsupervised automation. Volvo's purpose is to get to zero collisions, saving lives. We use AI and all our energy to get there.'
Perth Now
20 hours ago
- Automotive
- Perth Now
2025 Volvo XC90 price and specs: Updated style, more kit and higher prices
The upgraded 2025 Volvo XC90 is now on sale, bringing refreshed styling and more standard equipment, but slightly higher prices and one less model variant. The entry-level Ultra B5 Bright version of the large SUV is priced at $104,990 before on-road costs, up $3252 on its predecessor. It features a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine coupled with a 48V mild-hybrid system, producing 183kW of power and 350Nm of torque. The flagship Ultra T8 Plug-in Hybrid is priced at $130,990 before on-roads, up $801. This mates a 233kW/400Nm 2.0-litre turbo four with a 107kW/309Nm electric motor, producing up to 340kW/709Nm and offering a claimed WLTP electric-only range of 77km from an 18.8kWh battery. The Ultra B6 Bright, which had a more powerful turbocharged 2.0-litre mild-hybrid powertrain than the B5, is no longer available. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Supplied Credit: CarExpert For 2025, the upgraded seven-seat, all-wheel drive luxury SUV features revised headlights and tail-lights, plus a new grille and air intakes. Inside, it has upgraded from a 9.0-inch infotainment touchscreen to a higher-resolution 11.2-inch unit, which retains Android Automotive with Google built-in, along with wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity. The cabin is now quieter due to increased sound insulation, while the centre console has been tweaked, the crystal-like gear selector redesigned, and the dashboard refreshed. There's also an extra cupholder. Volvo claims the XC90's suspension has been improved, with each damper 'now able to adapt mechanically to current road conditions to optimise both comfort and stability – for a more confident and relaxed driving experience.' Servicing information has yet to be outlined, and the updated XC90 is yet to be crash-tested by ANCAP or its sister organisation Euro NCAP. We'll update this article if that changes. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert Volvo Australia backs its cars with a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, and its high-voltage electric and PHEV batteries with an eight-year, 160,000km warranty. It is yet to outline servicing information for the updated XC90. Supplied Credit: CarExpert For context, Volvo Australia offers three-year, 45,000km and five-year, 75,000km service plans for its vehicles. For the pre-update XC90, these cost $2380 and $3870 respectively. It's likely the updated XC90 will have the same service intervals (12 months or 15,000km, whichever comes first) as its predecessor, but it's not yet clear whether servicing requirements will differ for PHEV vehicles. The Volvo XC90's five-star ANCAP safety rating from 2015 has now expired, leaving it unrated for the time being. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Standard safety equipment includes: 7 airbags Surround-view camera Adaptive cruise control Blind-spot monitoring Lane-keep assist Rear cross-traffic alert Hill descent control Traffic sign recognition Tyre pressure monitoring There are two grades of the updated Volvo XC90 available, with the dearer option bringing several enhancements to cosmetics and ride quality. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert 2025 Volvo XC90 Ultra B5 Bright equipment highlights: 21-inch alloy wheels Space-saver spare wheel Matrix LED headlights Chrome-finish grille Aluminium trim and roof rails Proximity entry with push-button start Hands-free power tailgate 12.3-inch digital instrument display 11.2-inch infotainment display DAB+ digital radio Wireless Apple CarPlay Integrated Google services Wireless phone charger Auto-dimming rear-view mirrors Head-up display Nappa leather upholstery Power-adjustable front seats with memory, lumbar Cushion extenders Power folding rear headrests Heated, ventilated front seats Heated outboard rear seats Heated steering wheel Quad-zone climate control incl. third row 14-speaker Harman Kardon sound system Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert XC90 Ultra T8 Plug-in Hybrid adds: 22-inch alloy wheels Tyre repair kit Active air suspension (Four-C Chassis) Rear privacy glass Dark-finish grille Black trim and roof rails Panoramic sunroof Tinted rear windows Power-adjustable seat bolsters 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins High Fidelity sound system Multiple options are available for the XC90 Ultra B5 Bright, almost all of which are standard on the Ultra T8 PHEV. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert The Lifestyle Pack ($5564) adds: Panoramic sunroof Bowers & Wilkins High Fidelity sound system Tinted rear windows Alternatively, these items can be optioned for the Ultra B5 Bright individually. Panoramic sunroof ($3488) Tinted rear windows ($1134) Front seat massage ($1184) Bowers & Wilkins High Fidelity sound system ($3210) Active air suspension ($3210) The only option available for the Ultra T8 PHEV is front seat massaging for $1184. There are seven exterior paint colours available for the Volvo XC90, as well as three interior colours. All are no-cost options. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert Volvo XC90 exterior colours: Crystal White Silver Dawn Bright Dusk Vapour Grey Onyx Black (standard) Denim Blue Mulberry Red Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert Volvo XC90 interior colours: Blond nappa leather in Blond/Charcoal interior Cardamom nappa leather in Charcoal interior Charcoal nappa leather in Charcoal interior (standard) MORE: Everything Volvo XC90
Yahoo
21 hours ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Production at Volvo Ridgeville facility expected to resume after temporary pause
RIDGEVILLE, S.C. (WCBD) – Production at Volvo's Ridgeville facility is expected to start back this weekend after a temporary pause, officials said Friday. Local production was temporarily paused at the end of last week due to a supply chain issue, according to a Volvo Cars spokesperson. The car manufacturer has been working to resolve the issue and said production is expected to resume this Saturday. U.S. Rep. Jim Clyburn took to X addressing the production pause saying, 'Trump's reckless tariffs are continuing to wreak havoc on South Carolina's economy.' 'Jobs have already been lost, and more are at grave risk. Trump said slowing port traffic was a 'good thing.' South Carolinians know how wrong he is,' he added. The pause comes shortly after Volvo announced plans to lay off 5% of its employees at the Ridgeville site in response to 'changing market conditions and evolving trade policies,' including tariffs. The layoffs are part of a cost and cash action plan introduced by the company, which includes 3,000 global layoffs. Workers at the Ridgeville plant produce Volvo's fully electric EX90 which is 7 seat premium SUV. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
a day ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Volvo Cars, Google expand partnership to deploy Gemini AI in vehicles
This story was originally published on Automotive Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Automotive Dive newsletter. Volvo Cars is expanding its partnership with Google to rapidly deploy its Gemini AI-powered assistant to more of its vehicles featuring Google built-in, the automaker announced on May 21. As part of the expanded collaboration, Volvo vehicles will serve as one of Google's reference hardware platforms for the future deployment of Android Automotive OS (AAOS), which is designed to replace an OEM vehicle infotainment system. 'We're excited to deepen this partnership, accelerating the pace of innovation that will not only improve the driving experience for Volvo customers but also set new benchmarks for the automotive industry,' said Patrick Brady, VP of Android for Cars at Google, in the release. The more feature-rich Gemini AI-powered voice assistant will replace the current Google Assistant of Volvo vehicles later this year, making the automaker's customers among the first to access the latest version of Google's generative AI technology. Gemini allows drivers and passengers to request information about virtually any topic using natural conversations. For example, drivers can ask Gemini questions about the vehicle's user manual or request specific details about a destination before arriving. The AI-powered assistant can also help drivers draft messages, which can be translated into over 40 different languages before sending. Google has also selected Volvo Cars as its lead development partner for testing new features and updates, before adding them to the Android codebase for access to software developers. The Android codebase is known as the 'Android Open Source Project' and the software it contains is free for developers to use. The platform allows anyone to view, modify and distribute code for their own use. Google offers the developer community extensive resources and guidelines for creating Android-based apps. According to Volvo, its expanded partnership with Google will help 'accelerate advancements in the connected car space for the entire automotive industry' and for drivers globally. 'We strive to deliver human-centric technology, and a stunning customer experience is an essential part of this,' said Alwin Bakkenes, head of global software engineering at Volvo Cars, in the release. 'With our expanding partnership, we're collaborating on cutting-edge solutions that shape the future of connected cars.' The Google partnership with Volvo advances the rollout of AAOS currently used by Volvo Cars. Vehicles running AAOS do not require syncing with a smartphone for access to popular Google services. Volvo vehicles with Google built-in come with Google Play, Google Assistant, Google Maps and other popular apps. For Volvo models equipped with AAOS, the vehicle's infotainment system serves as a standalone Android device. Drivers can download and install Android or other-third party apps directly to their vehicle's infotainment system. The latest version of AAOS was released in December 2024. In addition to future Volvo vehicles, Gemini will be made available for other OEM brands featuring Google built-in later this year, including the new Lincoln Nautilus, Honda Passport and select Chevrolet, Cadillac, GMC and Acura vehicles. Google also announced that it is adding Gemini to Android Auto in the coming months, which can mirror apps wirelessly on compatible models from a smartphone that's synced to a vehicle. Recommended Reading Google is adding its AI-powered Gemini voice assistant to Android Auto 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
