CHAKAN, India—The plant is equipped with advanced automation technologies, including over 1,000 robots, with 500 deployed in the AI-driven body shop. The facility also features robotic press and paint shops for enhanced precision and efficiency.

OTTUMWA, IA— John Deere is laying off 75 employees at its Ottumwa, Iowa, plant, effective February 7.

TOKYO—Honda Motor Co. and Nissan Motor Co. are planning to join forces to compete in the fast-changing automotive landscape.

KARIEGA, South Africa—Plant Kariega, part of Volkswagen Group Africa (VWGA), has set a new production record of 167,084 vehicles in 2024, surpassing its previous high of 161,954 vehicles achieved in 2019.

AUSTIN, TX—Regular production is expected to resume on Friday, December 6.

ROCHESTER HILLS, MI—The new M-950iA heavyweight six-axis robot from FANUC can lift payloads of up to 500 kilograms—including automotive components, construction materials and EV battery packs.

SUDBURY, MA—DELO has developed a new transparent, active-alignment adhesive for assembling automotive headlights.

TORRINGTON, CT—Dymax, a manufacturer of light-curing adhesives and equipment, has been granted a patent for its HLC (Hybrid Light-Curable) adhesive. The new technology combines the optimal qualities of anionic polymerization and free radical chemistries into one formulation.

HUNTSVILLE, AL—Toyota takes one step closer to carbon-neutral operations with the addition of a 30-megawatt solar energy system at its assembly plant here.

COLOGNE, Germany—Igus, a manufacturer of automation components, has designed a new bicycle that consists of more than 90 percent plastic, from the frame to the bearings to the toothed belt. At least 50 percent of the plastic for the bike is derived from recycled fishing nets.