Powertrain system trends in flux as electrification goals meet market realities
A decade ago, the path toward full electrification seemed clear. Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) were seen as the inevitable future. But fast forward to today and that once-shared vision has fractured. Different regions are now taking distinctly different routes shaped by policy shifts, consumer sentiment, and economic realities. In this episode of Fuel for Thought, we unpack how these divergent strategies are influencing production planning, why transitional technologies like PHEVs and REEVs are gaining renewed relevance, and how scenario-based forecasting can help automakers stay agile in this fragmented market. Speakers: A. Saboor Imran, Principal Analyst, EMEA Light Vehicle Powertrain Forecasting, S&P Global Mobility Guido Vildozo, Associate Director, Consulting, S&P Global Mobility (host)
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18:08
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18:08
OEM Pricing Strategy Evolves with Tariff Effects
Since May 3, 2025, automakers have been navigating a complex US trade policy which includes a 25% tariff on imported vehicles and parts from nearly all countries. Although trade negotiations may ultimately reduce this tariff rate, few new deals have been signed so far. Amidst this backdrop, early expectations of an immediate cost pass-through to consumers has not materialized. Instead, automakers have taken a more measured approach to their pricing and production strategies. Moving forward, three of the most important considerations for OEMs will be: Tariff exposure and pass-through feasibility, Competitive pricing, and Production sourcing flexibility. As uncertainty continues, manufacturers that can swiftly adapt to market changes and effectively communicate their value propositions to consumers will be better positioned to thrive in this challenging environment. Speakers: Stephanie Brinley, Associate Director, AutoIntelligence, S&P Global Mobility Matt Trommer, Associate Director, Innovation Product Management and Industry Performance, S&P Global Mobility Guido Vildozo, Associate Director, Consulting, S&P Global Mobility (host)
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30:36
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30:36
Rare earth elements: Auto industry looks beyond China
In this podcast episode, experts from S&P Global Mobility delve into the critical role of rare earth elements (REEs) in the automotive industry—particularly in the production of electric vehicle components like traction motors. China currently dominates both the production and processing of these essential materials. The discussion examines how China's control over the rare earth supply chain is shaping global industries, the geopolitical implications, and how other nations are responding in an effort to diversify their REE sources. Our experts also explore the rise of emerging technologies, including Europe's shift toward magnet-free motor designs, and consider what the future may hold for REE dependency in the evolving automotive landscape. Speakers: Guido Vildozo, Associate Director, Consulting (Moderator), S&P Global Mobility Kartik Ganesh, Principal Research Analyst, S&P Global Mobility Jie Yang, Sr. Research Analyst, S&P Global Mobility
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21:01
A Benchmarking Guide for Software-Defined Vehicles
As the automotive industry shifts toward software-defined vehicles (SDVs), the term has become a buzzword, frequently mentioned at industry events like CES, often with varying interpretations and meanings. Amidst this excitement, many OEMs are making claims about their new SDV launches; They feel the pressure to incorporate SDVs into their product developments to appear competitive in a rapidly evolving landscape. But despite all the talk and promises, there has been no clear industry benchmark to measure vehicles' readiness for SDV implementation. S&P Global Mobility has developed a method which we refer to as SDV Readiness to help the industry and consumers alike assess SDV technology. The establishment of these software-defined vehicle benchmarks not only clarifies the current state of the industry but also sets the stage for future innovations that will redefine mobility as we know it. Speakers: Guido Vildozo, Associate Director, Consulting (Moderator), S&P Global Mobility Manuel Tagliavini, Principal Research Analyst, Automotive Supply Chain and Technology
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24:46
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24:46
Bridging Gaps for Carbon Reporting in the Automotive Industry
Carbon reporting in the automotive industry is becoming increasingly important, as original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) face various regulatory pressures around the world. However, tracking and measuring carbon emissions is not an easy feat. One of the biggest challenges OEMs face lies in the complexity of reporting Scope 3 emissions -- specifically, Scope 3 Category 11, which pertains to the emissions generated during a vehicle's use phase through the end of its life. This category often accounts for 75-80% of an automaker's total carbon footprint, making accurate reporting not just important, but essential. Although inconsistencies in geographic scope, vehicle types, and automaker assumptions complicate this task, standardized carbon reporting is an important opportunity for OEMs to remain in regulatory compliance. Speakers: Guido Vildozo, Associate Director, Consulting (Moderator), S&P Global Mobility Qifan Yang, Lead Research Analyst, S&P Global Mobility
IHS Markit is now part of S&P Global
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