Automotive news, commentary and analysis | April 11
Rig Count: U.S. -7 to 583 Canada -15 to 138
London, April 11, 2025 (Oilandgaspress) –-Mercedes-Benz is delivering a raft of new features to two million vehicles in markets around the world with its latest MBUX 2.6[1] over-the-air (OTA) update. Customers using MBUX navigation services can take advantage of two new functions: Google Satellite View and Live Alternative Routes. When the latter is used alongside Navigation with Electric Intelligence, drivers of electric vehicles can select their favourite route, which is calculated with the required charging stops for maximum efficiency. All-terrain enthusiasts now get access to Offroad Track, which is part of the Mercedes‑Benz Stories app, to enable them to share their favourite driving experiences. Meanwhile, the rollout of ChatGPT natural language technology for the MBUX Voice Assistant continues to more customers worldwide. For added convenience, the Entertainment Package Plus is now available via the Mercedes‑Benz Store directly from the touchscreen on vehicles equipped with the second- and third-generation MBUX.
Mercedes-Benz is opening up the capabilities of its MBUX Voice Assistant to a total of three million vehicles around the world, keeping even older vehicles with the first-generation MBUX infotainment system up to date. Mercedes-Benz started rolling out the ChatGPT update free of charge at the end of last year and customer feedback was incredibly positive, resulting in six times higher usage rates of the voice-recognition technology. Using AI, it can provide up-to-date answers to knowledge-based questions by initiating a Microsoft Bing search. It then creates natural language responses using ChatGPT through Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service. With this feature, users can ask all sorts of questions – from pop culture to geography, science, health and history – and conduct proper conversations just like they are talking to their best friend, while keeping their hands on the wheel and their eyes on the road. The intelligent system is also ‘context-aware’, which means it can respond to follow-up requests for additional information, even if the speaker uses vague wording. The ChatGPT enhancement is available on all MBUX vehicles. Related News
Google Satellite View enhances navigation with bird’s-eye perspective and high-resolution imagery
Baker Hughes Rig Count: U.S. -7 to 583 Canada -15 to 138
U.S. Rig Count is down 7 from last week to 583 with oil rigs down 9 to 480, gas rigs up 1 to 97 and miscellaneous rigs up 1 to 6.
Canada Rig Count is down 15 from last week to 138, with oil rigs down 8 to 91, gas rigs down 7 to 47 and miscellaneous rigs unchanged at 0.
International Rig Count is down 6 from last month to 899 with land rigs down 2 to 709, offshore rigs down 4 to 190.
| Region | Period | Rig Count | Change |
| U.S.A | 11 April 2025 | 583 | -7 |
| Canada | 11 April 2025 | 138 | – 15 |
| International | March 2025 | 899 | -6 |
Jeep® Brand and Jeep Performance Parts (JPP) by Mopar Gear Up to Hit the Town and Trails at the 59th Annual Easter Jeep Safari
The Jeep® brand is making its annual trek to the 59th annual Easter Jeep Safari (April 12-20) in Moab, Utah, with seven new, expressive, and highly capable concept vehicles for customers and off-roading enthusiasts to experience and interact with in new, memorable ways.
Jeep® brand and Jeep Performance Parts (JPP) by Mopar head to Moab, Utah, April 12-20 with even more vehicles and experiences for Jeep customers and off-road enthusiasts
Seven all-new custom builds pay homage to Jeep brand’s roots while defining the future of off-roading
Trail cleanup efforts at the Dome Plateau trail by Jeep brand and JPP employees, Red Rock 4-Wheelers and the Bureau of Land Management
10 new Jeep Badge of Honor trails added across the country, including three in Moab, just in time for Easter Jeep Safari
The Lancia Corse HF Village comes to life in Alba
Located in the heart of Alba, the capital of the Langhe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Lancia Corse HF Village is set embrace a wave of emotions, as it marks Lancia’s official return to the rally world in anticipation of the debut of the Trofeo Lancia on May 8th at the iconic Rally Targa Florio. Meanwhile, this weekend, the Lancia Corse HF Village will set the stage for an authentic tribute to Italian motorsport passion in a region which has always been a connoisseur of quality: from the bends which weave through the vineyards to the flavors which have made Alba and the Langhe famous around the world, and the culture of hospitality which will play a key role in this high-octane weekend.
The first photos from the event showcase the spectacular hub’s hospitality area for the public, the technical area for the teams competing with the Lancia Ypsilon Rally4, spaces to test-drive the hybrid and electric New Ypsilon, and an exclusive display of the 280-HP Ypsilon YF—the 100% electric gem which features an aggressive design and awe-inspiring performance. The highlights also include a collection of 25 historic Lancia vehicles organized by the Cinzano Rally Team, which pays fair tribute to the winningest brand in history.
Stellantis Pro One confirms its collaboration with Qinomic, which announces the launch of an electric retrofit for light commercial vehicles
Stellantis Pro One, the Stellantis business unit dedicated to commercial vehicles, confirms its collaboration with Qinomic, a French high-tech company specializing in the creation of innovative and sustainable mobility solutions, which today announced the launch of a retrofit system that allows the transformation of light commercial vehicles (LCV) with combustion engines into electric vehicles
The new technology will initially be available in France on mid-size Stellantis Pro One vans, which collaborated on the initial project development together with SUSTAINera, the Stellantis Circular Economy Business Unit
With a “win-win” strategy, Qinomic will purchase from Stellantis over 200 original components necessary for the transformation; at the same time, Stellantis will repurchase the components to be replaced, directing them to remanufacturing activities at SUSTAINera Circular Economy Hub in Mirafiori, Turin
The retrofit solution aims to extend the useful life and use of vehicles, ensuring environmental sustainability and economic accessibility. This represents another step towards electrification and a further evidence of Stellantis commitment in circular economy and sustainability
Stellantis Reports Q1 2025 Consolidated Shipment Estimates of 1.2 Million Units Globally, -9% y-o-y
Commercial Recovery Efforts Drive Initial Rebound in EU30 Market Share vs. H2 2024, Stabilization in U.S. Retail Share : Stellantis N.V. today published global quarterly consolidated shipment estimates and provided commentary on related business trends. The term “shipments” describes the volume of vehicles delivered to dealers, distributors, or directly from the Company to retail and fleet customers, which drive revenue recognition.
Consolidated shipments for the three months ending March 31, 2025, were an estimated 1.2 million units, representing a 9% decline y-o-y, primarily reflecting lower North American production as a consequence of extended holiday downtime in January, and in Enlarged Europe due to the impacts of product transitions and lower light commercial vehicle (LCV) volumes.
Commercial progress in the first quarter of 2025, included the launch of all new and refreshed models including the Citroën C3 Aircross, Opel Frontera, Fiat Grande Panda, Ram 2500 and 3500 heavy-duty trucks, helping to drive positive momentum in order intake, while maintaining normalized dealer inventory levels.
Bentley Stockholm is set to strengthen its presence in the Swedish capital with the opening of a new facility in Järfälla.. The new showroom and workshop is designed to provide an exclusive sales and aftersales experience for Bentley customers and enthusiasts, showcasing the brand’s performance, innovation and craftsmanship. The exclusive showroom, spanning 450 square meters, is designed to provide an immersive brand experience and will feature a private configuration area, allowing customers to tailor their Bentley with a vast selection of materials, finishes, and bespoke options. Complementing the showroom, a dedicated aftersales area will ensure a seamless ownership experience, including an authorised service workshop, a spare parts department, and two lifts exclusively for Bentley vehicles.
The new facility will be operated by Semler Premium, Bentley’s trusted partner in Denmark for over 20 years, marking its expansion into the Swedish market, ensuring Bentley customers continue to receive the highest levels of service and expertise.
Bentley’s latest models take centre stage at the event, led by the next-generation Continental GT—the most powerful road-going Bentley ever built. This grand tourer is equipped with an all-new Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain, delivering an impressive 782 PS and 1,000 Nm of torque while significantly reducing CO₂ emissions to just 29 g/km. This improved efficiency not only enhances sustainability but also brings advantages in markets where emissions-based regulations play a key role.
Its exceptional performance is matched by an advanced chassis system featuring new two-chamber air springs, dual-valve dampers, Bentley Dynamic Ride (48V active anti-roll control), an electronic limited-slip differential (eLSD), and torque vectoring. These innovations ensure outstanding body control and the smoothest, most refined ride in Continental GT history, further enhanced by a first-ever 49:51 rear-biased weight distribution.
Accompanying the grand tourer is the Flying Spur, Bentley’s ultimate expression of luxury sedans, seamlessly blending dynamic performance with handcrafted elegance. Completing the lineup, the Bentayga S Black Edition delivers the perfect combination of versatility, power, and comfort.
Jonas Haglund, General Manager of Bentley Stockholm,
“Sweden has a strong appreciation for craftsmanship, design, and performance, making it an ideal home for Bentley. From the latest models to our bespoke Mulliner personalisation services, Bentley Stockholm will be a destination where our customers can immerse themselves in the brand. Our team is dedicated to delivering exceptional service and offering our customers the best experience.”
The new showroom is located in:
Bentley Stockholm
Allmänningsvägen 73
176 78 Järfälla
Phone: +46 8 448 45 70 . Read Related News
Automobili Lamborghini debuted its latest High Performance Electrified Vehicle (HPEV), the Temerario, in Toronto this week, following the global unveiling during Monterey Car Week in August 2024. The Temerario replaces the iconic Huracán and completes Lamborghini’s hybridized lineup, which also includes the brand’s first HPEV, the Revuelto, and the most versatile and fun-to-drive Super SUV, the Urus SE[3]. To celebrate the super sports car’s first Canadian market appearance, the Italian marque hosted customers, media guests and VIPs during an exclusive event at Ricarda’s attended by Automobili Lamborghini Americas Chief Executive Officer, Andrea Baldi. The Temerario features an evolved design language and an all-new twin-turbo V8 engine with three electric motors, providing a total power output of 920 CV (907hp). Designed and developed in Sant’Agata Bolognese, this new V8 is the first production super sports car engine capable of reaching 10,000 rpm. With a top speed of over 340 km/h (210+ mph) and 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in just 2.7 seconds, the Temerario sets a new benchmark for super sports cars by offering an unrivaled, uncompromising driving experience.
Lamborghini has seen an unprecedented period of transformation and growth with the factory now producing over 10,000 cars per year. In 2024, Lamborghini delivered 10,687 cars – a 5.7% increase over 2023 and another company record. Following the Temerario, Lamborghini continues to move forward with its Direzione Cor Tauri strategy, with the goal of reducing company emissions by 40% per vehicle by 2030.
Customers will begin taking delivery of the Temerario in 2026 at a suggested retail price of $432,490 CAD. . Read Related News
Hyundai Motor Company announced three key leadership appointments today, reinforcing its commitment to strategic growth, global engagement, and operational excellence. These executives will report to José Muñoz, President and CEO, Hyundai Motor Company and will assume expanded responsibilities as Hyundai continues evolving and strengthening its industry position. Their proven expertise and vision will drive the company’s success in 2025 and beyond.
“These leadership appointments reflect Hyundai’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and strategic growth. Szymon’s strategic vision will drive our long-term success, Rob’s leadership in dealer network development will strengthen our global operations and Trevor’s extensive communications expertise will enhance our brand’s global presence,” said José Muñoz, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company. “Each of these leaders brings invaluable experience to their roles, and I am confident they will significantly impact Hyundai’s future.”
Executive Appointments
Szymon Walus is promoted to Senior Vice President, Head of Strategy and Governance for Hyundai Motor Company. In his role, Walus will oversee the company’s business strategy planning while also managing the Hyundai Motor Company governance office. Walus will continue to be Senior Vice President, Head of Strategy and Governance for the Hyundai Motor Americas Strategic Region. Walus has been with Hyundai since August 2022 and has spent 20 years in the automotive industry; achieving success in various commercial, strategic planning and consulting roles based in the U.S., Europe, and Asia. Prior to joining Hyundai, Walus was a Partner and Associate Director at Boston Consulting Group based in France, held various leadership positions at Nissan Motor Corporation based in Europe, Asia and the U.S., and was a consultant at Roland Berger Strategy Consultants in Germany. Walus holds an MBA from Niagara University in the U.S. and a bachelor’s degree from Reutlingen University’s School of International Business in Germany.
Rob Grafton is promoted to Senior Vice President, Head of Global Dealer Network Development, Hyundai and Genesis. Grafton will oversee all dealer network activities in global operations including Genesis. Grafton will continue to be part of Hyundai Motor North America as Senior Vice President and Head Dealer Network Development for the region. Prior to Hyundai, Grafton spent more than 20 years at Nissan North America in various sales and regional leadership positions. Grafton holds an MBA from Pepperdine University’s Graziadio School of Business & Management and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Business & Economics from California State University, Fullerton.
Trevor Hale is appointed to the newly created role of Vice President, Public Relations and Communications based in Washington, D.C. Hale will be responsible for communications for the company’s business initiatives and the Hyundai and Genesis brands. Prior to joining Hyundai, Hale was the CEO of Hale Global Communications and a senior advisor for Hyundai. A former journalist, Hale has extensive corporate experience leading communications for Mercedes-Benz, DaimlerChrysler, Ford and INFINITI in roles based in North America, Germany, China, the United Arab Emirates and Hong Kong. Hale was named a distinguished alumnus at the University of Alabama in Birmingham, where he earned a bachelor’s degree.
Effective March 2025, these appointments align with Hyundai’s business strategy, which focuses on organizational agility and leadership excellence. The company remains committed to promoting top talent from within while also attracting external expertise to shape its future growth and transformation. Read Related News
Jaguar Land Rover Automotive plc will be holding its Investor Day on 16 June 2025.
This event will give JLR bondholders and banks, and Tata Motors’ equity investors an opportunity to hear from the leadership of JLR on a range of topics. The afternoon schedule will include a product immersion and driving experience.
The Investor Day will be held at our site in Gaydon, Warwickshire, UK with registration and refreshments starting at 8:30am UK time. The formal presentations are expected to finish before lunch at 1pm UK time and the afternoon schedule is expected to finish by 5pm.
Attendees should register by 30 May 2025 by completing the online registration at: https://jlrglobal‑events.com/638755599684178379 . Note that in order to ensure maximum comfort and safety for all participants, there is limited capacity for the afternoon schedule. Places will be allocated in order of registration. We intend to have a live stream of the formal presentations, a link to which will be provided on our website nearer the time. A copy of the presentation material will be made available via our website on the day. An online recording will also be provided after the event. Read Related News
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OilandGasPress Energy Newsbites and Analysis Roundup | Compiled by: OGP Staff, Segun Cole @oilandgaspress.
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