Hungarian automotive industry: week 34
While Hungary´s automotive industry saw a positive week, Russia poses a great threat to global car sales. The 1 millionth LuK double clutch unit was manufactured in Szombathely, several companies made announcements on development projects and one of the most significant automotive student competitions was held.
Manufacturers
Although Lada's new flagship model will only be unveiled on August 27, a few shots have already been released of the new 2015 Vesta, designed by a Swedish designer.
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| The new Lada Vesta |
Last week, we reported on car sales in the Czech Republic. New car registrations were up by 16 percent in the first seven months this year in the home of the Skoda Octavia than in the same period a year ago.
Last week, Volvo unveiled a new methane-powered truck designed for urban use. The Volvo FE will be used as a waste collector.
Last week it was announced that Chinese car manufacturer Lifan will build a vehicle plant in Russia with an investment of USD 150 million.
Suppliers
Good news for the former workers of Nokia's Komárom plant that dozens of companies, mostly electronics and automotive manufacturers, have indicated their plans to hire the recently closed down factory's staff. Although no names have been disclosed, one company is reported to be hiring 400 workers.
It was reported last week that Diehl Aircabin Hungary is doubling its workforce in Nyírbátor. The company is a supplier to aircraft manufacturer Boeing.
We reported last week that NNG, developer of the award-winning iGO Navigation software based in Budapest, has acquired nfuzion, an American HMI prototyping company. The acquisition will allow NNG to broaden its presence in automotive on-board systems, reported the company in a press release.
Last week, Szombathely-based LuK Savaria celebrated the 1 millionth double clutch system manufactured at the plant.
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| 1 million double clutch units from LuK Savaria |
Claas-supplier Hantech reported on a HUF 75 million development project and was selected as one of the suppliers of the month by the Hungarian government.
Economy
As a response to sanctions by foreign countries, Russia is threatening to suspend the import of cars into the country. It would be impossible to predict the consequences of the step but many believe that the decision would negatively affect many people's lives.
Statistics from last week show that new car sales continue to rise in Europe.
Education
Last week we reported on the development of an innovative steering gear system, designed at the Budapest University of Technology and Economics to be fitted into an electric race car.
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| BME develops steering system for electric race car |
The fifth Formula Student Hungary race was held last weekend at Győr-Gönyű Harbour, lining up 44 teams and over 1,000 participants from 14 countries.
In addition to the three Hungarian teams (BME FRT, KEFO Motorsport, Arrabona Racing Team) entering the competition there were two local universities (SZEngine, University of Miskolc) participating as exhibitors. We had a look at the full-electric VW Beetle, the degree work of one of the PhD students from University of Miskolc.
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| Formula Student Hungary held for the fifth time last weekend |
Forint
Hungary's currency fluctuated during the week, reaching as low as 315 against the euro before finally settling at 313.5 by Friday.
