In response to changing tariffs and global regulations, automakers at SAE's WCX 2025 discussed the need for propulsion flexibility, employing a mix of internal combustion engines, hybrid-electric and full-electric systems. Stellantis has introduced the STLA Frame, a multi-energy platform, with the 2025 Ram 1500 REV and Ramcharger as the first vehicles. Ford and Toyota highlight the importance of hybrid technology, while General Motors plans to reintroduce plug-in hybrid electric vehicles.

Norway is the top European market for electric vehicle adoption, with EVs making up 88.9% of new car registrations last year, surpassing Denmark's 51.5%. The nearly 90% adoption level stems from consistent government policies since the 1990s, including tax exemptions and incentives that have remained stable over time. The country also has a comprehensive charging network and has effectively promoted the environmental benefits of EVs.

Global sales of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles increased by 29% in March, driven by a 36% rise in China and a 24% increase in Europe, according to Rho Motion data. In North America, EV sales grew by 12%, hindered by President Donald Trump's stance on emissions standards and new tariffs on auto imports. These tariffs may lead to higher prices and production shifts, with Tesla potentially doubling prices for some models in China.

Archer Aviation has announced a partnership with United Airlines to create an air-taxi network in New York using Archer's electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft. The service aims to significantly reduce travel time between Manhattan and nearby airports.

Bombardier is expanding its use of Siemens Xcelerator software suite, incorporating NX for 3D modeling and Capital for electrical systems design. The expansion aims to streamline aircraft engineering from design to production, integrating mechanical and electrical design in a unified digital environment.

Stellantis' Ram brand plans to announce 25 new products over 18 months, starting June 8, says CEO Tim Kuniskis. The initiative is expected to include variants of existing truck models such as the Ram 1500 and possibly new entries into the midsize and compact truck categories. Also, Ram recently celebrated the production of its 2 millionth truck at the Sterling Heights, Mich., facility.

STMicroelectronics has introduced Stellar with xMemory, an extensible memory for the Stellar line of automotive microcontrollers. This advancement is designed to streamline the development of software-defined vehicles and electric vehicle platforms by integrating one device with extensible memory, cutting development costs, STMicro says.

Ease Logistics has begun using semi-autonomous trucks with platooning technology from Kratos Defense on I-70 between Columbus, Ohio, and Indianapolis as part of a project with the Ohio and Indiana transportation departments. The trucks have cameras and sensors for object detection, with drivers present in both vehicles for safety.

The path to autonomy is paved with valuable intelligence that optimizes safety. Hear from Nimrod Nehushtan, executive vice president of Business Development Strategy at Mobileye, on the latest advancements in ADAS and AI technologies, the importance of redundancy in ensuring reliability and the company's strategic partnerships with leading OEMs.