Ford and Volkswagen announced a major new global alliance and explained it to the media at the 2019 North American International Auto Show.
Ford CEO Jim Hackett and Volkswagen AG CEO Herbert Deiss confirmed speculation from sources about a significant new collaboration between the two world auto makers. An arrangement has been made which “leverages the two global automakers’ strengths to better compete, innovate and serve customers,” according to a Ford spokesperson.
The first tangible results will be new medium pickup trucks for global customers beginning in 2022, followed by new commercial vans in Europe. Volkswagen and Ford are committed to exploring potential collaboration on vans, autonomous vehicles and mobility services.
Hyundai Kona, Genesis G70, Ram 1500 Get Honors
Hyundai Kona, Genesis G70 and Ram 1500 were revealed as the winners of the 2019 North American Car, Utility and Truck of the Year awards presented at the NAIAS.
IndyCar and NTT of Japan Make Deal
IndyCar announced that global information technology and communications giant NTT of Japan has signed a multiyear agreement to become the IndyCar Series title partner. NTT becomes the official technology partner of INDYCAR, the IndyCar Series, Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the Indianapolis 500 and NASCAR’s Brickyard 400 beginning in 2019.
IndyCar will partner with NTT to deliver digital innovations that enhance both the driver and fan experience. These innovations include the evolution of mobile applications and adoption of NTT’s proprietary Smart Platform. Smart Platform supports the sport to showcase better insights into the racing series.
“NTT is proud to be associated with INDYCAR and accelerate the future of smart racing. Technological innovations have the potential to change the sport and fan experience drastically,” said Jun Sawada, president and CEO of NTT.
Adjacent Industry Event
The Automotive World Congress sponsored by the Automotive News will be running January 15-17, featuring keynotes from industry leaders at the Marriot Hotel at the Ren-Cen.
https://naias.com/press/news/naias-names-poster-contest-winners-from-over-750-entries/
2019 NAIAS Dates:
IndyCar Announcement :- Tuesday, Jan. 15, noon
AutoMobili-D: Monday – Thursday, January 14-17
Industry Preview: Wednesday – Thursday, January 16-17
Charity Preview: Friday, January 18 (Special Ticket)
Public Show: Saturday – Sunday, January 19-27
Student Education Day: – Wednesday January 23
