SAFETY BREAKTHROUGH
METRO MOBILITY
TATA ’ S GIGAFACTORY
Yanfeng , a leading global automotive supplier , has introduced revolutionary safety solutions designed for future mobility scenarios in China . The new technology , integrated into passenger seats , incorporates innovative components to reduce injuries resulting from collisions when occupants are seated in large-angle reclined forward positions .
Yanfeng ’ s three-year effort has led to significant progress in collision protection for large-angle reclined seating , resulting in over 60 patents for its comprehensive safety suite .
The new safety solution combines several advanced components , including the Pre-Crash Seat Rapid Return mechanism , Follow Up Seat , Hoodie Airbag , Buttock Airbag , and Seat Integrated Seat Belt – All Belt to Seat .
These technologies together offer comprehensive protection for occupants in forward seating positions , covering standard to large angle recline scenarios . Validated through rigorous testing , the technologies are suitable for both current and future autonomous driving scenarios , and Yanfeng plans to continue exploring and developing additional safety solutions to ensure passenger safety in the evolving landscape of future mobility .
Toyota Mobility Foundation ( TMF ) and WRI India have launched a working paper titled ‘ Improving Metro Access in India : Evidence from Three Cities ’ at Connect Karo 2023 . The paper reveals that despite significant investment in metro systems , inefficient last-mile connectivity hinders the metro ’ s full potential . The study emphasises the need for comprehensive planning to address this issue and proposes several recommendations , including faster lastmile modes and gender-inclusive fare structures , to improve ridership .
The research shows that Indian metro systems primarily attract the 18-35 age group for commuting to workplaces and educational institutes . Walking and lowcost shared modes of transport , such as shared autos , are popular for last-mile connectivity . The study underscores the importance of high-frequency services and the time-sensitive nature of commute , especially for women , who prefer not to wait for last-mile modes . The working paper serves as a call to action for policymakers , urban planners , and transportation stakeholders to integrate first and last-mile mobility seamlessly into the metro journey and unlock the full potential of India ’ s metro rail systems .
Tata Sons is set to construct a 40GW battery cell gigafactory in the UK , with an investment exceeding £ 4 billion . This ambitious project aims to provide electric mobility and renewable energy storage solutions for customers in the UK and Europe . Jaguar Land Rover ( JLR ) and Tata Motors will be the primary customers , with supplies starting in 2026 . The investment aligns with Tata ’ s commitment to sustainable practices and establishes a significant green tech ecosystem in the UK .
UK Prime Minister , Rishi Sunak , expressed enthusiasm for Tata ’ s decision , considering it a major vote of confidence in Britain . The gigafactory represents one of the largest-ever investments in the UK automotive sector , creating numerous skilled job opportunities and bolstering the country ’ s position in the global transition to electric vehicles .
The battery gigafactory will manufacture high-quality , sustainable battery cells and packs for various applications in the mobility and energy sectors . Tata plans to achieve a 100 % clean power supply for the plant , adopting innovative technologies and resource-efficient processes , including battery recycling , to foster a circular economy ecosystem .
26 ISSUE 41 JULY 2023 / WWW . AFMA . ORG . AU