Every week we compile recent industry news and interesting reads that shouldn’t be missed. Here’s the digest for September 24th to September 30th.
Land Rover Prepares for Autonomous Off-Road Adventure
Almost everyone has heard about Google’s autonomous cars tooling around the San Francisco Bay Area – but what about robo-cars that go off-road? Hold that thought, because Land Rover is working on a fleet of 100 autonomous trail ready rigs. Land Rover’s concept isn’t quite as outlandish as it sounds; the goal is not to replace the driver entirely, but to instead give advanced technological support. To make this possible, Rover is teaming up with Bosch to develop state-of-the-art sensor and processing power.
Read more about Land Rover’s autonomous vehicles at SAE.
Torque amplification through new socket technology
Sometimes even the strongest, most seasoned technicians need all the help they can get when it comes to breaking loose stubborn bolts. That's why Ingersoll Rand's new Powersocket system is so intriguing. The company claims these sockets deliver 50% more torque compared to standard impact sockets, due to the unique design that amplifies the tool’s power output. This helps break free even the most stubborn bolts.
Uber Ready to Get into the Trucking Business
Uber recently acquired, or should we say gobbled up, autonomous semi truck company Otto. It now plans to enter the trucking business as a freight hauler and technology partner for the industry. What sets Uber apart is its plan to introduce semi-autonomous features that eventually lead to fully-autonomous trucks. Uber is marketing its trucks to shippers, fleets and independent truck drivers. It also hopes to compete with the brokers who connect truck fleets and shippers.
Automotive News has more information.
VW Plans to Introduce Dozens of New Electric Vehicles
Since its diesel debacle, VW has been on poor terms with both environmentalists and the EPA. The company hopes to redeem itself by introducing dozens of new electric vehicles (30 by 2025). To kick things off, V-Dub will introduce a battery-powered concept car, the I.D., at the Paris Auto show. This little runabout is said to have a range double that of a Tesla Model 3. We’ll be watching, VW.
Head to Automotive News to read more about VW's electric vehicle plans.
