FLEETDRIVE
LONDON ’ S EV FIRST
SAFETY COLLABORATION
COCKPIT EXPANSION
London ’ s Enfield Council has introduced a pioneering through-pavement Electric Vehicle ( EV ) charging system , known as ‘ Kerbo Charge ,’ aimed at making it easier for residents with street parking to transition from petrol and diesel vehicles to electric ones . This pilot project , the first of its kind in London , is designed to improve air quality and reduce CO2 emissions in line with the borough ’ s climate goals .
The Kerbo Charge system , funded by local residents , features EV charging channels integrated into pavements . Users simply insert their charging cable into the channel , which then closes with a specially designed lid , eliminating trip hazards from loose cables . This system allows residents to charge their vehicles from their home supply , which is significantly cheaper than public chargers , making EV ownership more accessible .
Enfield Council hopes this innovative approach will encourage more residents to switch to electric vehicles , helping to achieve a greener and cleaner borough .
Humanetics and MESSRING have announced a strategic collaboration to enhance active safety testing solutions . This partnership combines Humanetics ’ advanced safety testing platforms with MESSRING ’ s expertise in crash test technology and dummy targets , including those for pedestrians , children , and two-wheelers .
The integration aims to streamline the setup and execution of safety tests , reducing complexity for customers and ensuring compatibility across the combined product suite . Notably , MESSRING ’ s Child Presence Detection ( CPD ) dummies , which simulate the natural movements of newborns , will now be available directly through Humanetics , enhancing child detection technology evaluations .
This collaboration will also feature demonstrations at industry events and through marketing channels , showcasing the benefits of the integrated solutions . Both companies are committed to advancing automotive safety and simplifying the testing process for their customers .
Aptiv PLC , a global leader in advancing mobility technology , has announced the expansion of its manufacturing plant in Orgadam , Chennai . The facility ’ s inauguration was marked by remarks from Matthew Cole , Aptiv ’ s Senior Vice President of Advanced Safety and User Experience , and Vinod Sahay , President and Chief Purchasing Officer of Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd .
The expansion , involving an investment of over $ 45 million USD , will enhance Aptiv ’ s capabilities in producing software-defined , fully integrated cockpit controllers . The upgraded plant , covering nearly 220,000 square feet , will focus on advanced safety and user experience features , including radars , cameras , and nextgen electronic control units for both domestic and global markets .
Aptiv ’ s Chennai facility will double its workforce to support the increased production capacity , aligning with the company ’ s strategic growth in India — a market pivotal for automotive innovation . With this expansion , Aptiv aims to strengthen its role as a key partner in India ’ s automotive sector , providing cutting-edge solutions designed to meet the evolving needs of the industry .
ISSUE 48 AUGUST 2024 / WWW . AFMA . ORG . AU 31