Mexico’s expanding electric vehicle (EV) market is creating new opportunities across battery production, materials, charging infrastructure and electronics, as Chinese companies look to move beyond vehicle exports towards broader overseas supply-chain partnerships. Hong Kong could play a strategic role in connecting Mexican businesses with mainland China’s manufacturing capabilities, investment and research resources. According to the source commentary, Mexico’s EV market has evolved considerably over the past 16 years, with more brands offering vehicles across different price ranges and driving ranges, alongside the expansion of residential, corporate and industrial charging infrastructure. However, demand for EV purchases is growing faster than the capacity to maintain them,...
France-headquartered Drone Volt has unveiled its Hercules 100 heavy-lift cargo drone, combining an aluminium-and-carbon chassis with a payload capacity of up to 100 kilogrammes (kg). Introduced in flight at the UAV Show in Bordeaux on October 9, 2026, the foldable octocopter is designed for industrial logistics, civil protection, firefighting and defence. Designed and assembled in France, the aircraft marks the company’s move from the 25 kilogrammes class to a 100 kilogrammes payload platform. Aluminium and carbon highlight the design The Hercules 100 has a maximum take-off weight of 197 kg. It weighs 52 kg without batteries and 97 kg with its battery pack, leaving capacity for a full 100 kg payload. Its chassis combines aluminium and carbon fibre, with a wheelbase of 3,300 mm. When...
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Meadow, a Swedish tech start-up, has bagged the esteemed Innovation Gallery award at London Packaging Week for its innovative Daisy Top Refill System. The Daisy Top Refill System has implemented aluminium beverage can, one of the most efficient circular packaging for its product. Chosen from over 190 exhibitors, the Daisy Top Refill System was named "Best Product" for its pioneering contribution to sustainable packaging in the beauty and personal care sector, receiving unprecedented votes from attendees. This approach allows brands to move away from single-use packaging toward a sustainable alternative that taps into existing recycling infrastructures, promoting packaging circularity on a global scale. "Sustainability must be easy and fun to engage people and drive real impact. With great...
The International Organisation of Aluminium Aerosol Container Manufacturers, popularly known as AEROBAL, reveals its latest survey showing a significant increase in global deliveries from its members in the first half of 2024. According to the survey, the deliveries grew across all the major packaging industries, driven by strong demand, particularly from the cosmetic industry. Products like deodorants and hairsprays reported a growth of 7 per cent and 8 per cent, respectively, in aluminium container deliveries. The food sector also recorded a strong market, securing 12 per cent more aluminium containers in H1 2024 than in the corresponding period of the previous year. Deliveries to the pharmaceutical sector grew by around 3 per cent. AEROBAL suggests deodorants and perfumes are the...
Apple, the American multinational company and technology giant, has recently launched its much-awaited iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus. Apart from its cool gadgets and electronics, Apple has always been known for sustainable measures to protect the environment. Making progress towards its goal of achieving carbon neutrality across the entirety of its manufacturing supply chain and all stages of product life cycles by the year 2030, Apple has successfully reduced GHG emissions for both its iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus with 128GB by 30 per cent compared to the projected business-as-usual scenario, as modelled by Apple. iPhone 16 contains 85% recycled aluminium This device features over 30 per cent recycled materials, including 85 per cent recycled aluminium in the enclosure, which has lowered...
Chinese automaker BYD Co. has taken full control of its joint venture with Mercedes-Benz Group AG, marking the end of a 13-year partnership in China's electric vehicle (EV) market. BYD acquired the remaining 10 per cent of shares in the company that were previously owned by Mercedes-Benz, bringing the Denza premium EV brand entirely under BYD's ownership. The terms of the deal were not disclosed, and Mercedes-Benz representatives in China declined to comment. BYD sells around 3 million vehicles a year, making it the world's leading EV company. The dissolution of this joint venture comes at a time of escalating trade tensions between China and Europe. The European Commission is preparing to impose additional tariffs on Chinese EVs, with potential rates reaching up to 36.3 per cent. A vote...
Italy has extended its support to the European Commission's proposed tariffs on Chinese electric vehicle imports, said Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani in an interview on Monday, September 16, before meeting China's Minister of Commerce Wang Wentao. Tajani asserted, "We support the duties that the EU Commission proposes to protect the competitiveness of our companies." Minister Wang Wentao has visited Rome for discussions over the European Commission's proposed tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles. He held talks with Tajani, but no statement from the Italian foreign ministry made direct reference to EV tariffs. Tajani said they discussed protecting intellectual property, trade in the agri-food sector, and investments. Wang will have another round of discussions with the European...
Europe's second-largest carmaker, Stellantis NV, is standing firm against potential efforts by the European Union to delay the implementation of stricter emissions regulations scheduled for next year. The company's stance signals a brewing conflict with other manufacturers who may favour postponing the environmental targets. As the EU mulls adjustments in the face of ongoing industry pressures, Stellantis' position underscores the carmaker's commitment to meeting the climate goals on time, setting up a potential divide within the automotive sector over the future of emissions policy in the region. Stellantis's Chief Executive Officer Carlos Tavares said, "It would be surreal to change the rules now." Moreover, Tavares added, “Stellantis has prepared EVs and has established the ability to...
Alunet Systems, one of the leading aluminium systems suppliers in the UK, is excited to announce the entry of its premium ALUNA product range into the southwest region. This was made possible owing to the recent collaboration with Exeter Trade Aluminium. This collaboration will enable Exeter Trade Aluminium to supply ALUNA aluminium doors, windows, and roof lights across Devon, Cornwall, and Wiltshire. Alunet Systems has developed the ALUNA range to offer a luxurious, modern solution that combines sleek designs with ease of fabrication and installation. The range features stunning sightlines, precision engineering, and uncompromised quality and reliability. Commenting on the partnership, Exeter Trade Aluminium Nick Sandbrook said, “We are delighted to partner with Alunet and add the ALUNA...
Rimowa, the renowned luxury luggage brand from Cologne with over a century of history, has long been celebrated for its dedication to innovation and sustainability. Known for revolutionising the use of aluminium and polycarbonate in its iconic suitcases, Rimowa has now introduced its first unisex handbag, the Original Bag. Outlook of the handbag The Rimowa Original Bag immediately stands out with its signature design elements: the iconic grooved pattern, a seamless colour-matched finish, and rounded reinforced corners. Conceptually similar to the Personal case, the Original Bag is essentially a scaled-down version of the original suitcase but with updated features tailored for handbag use. It is crafted from aluminium with a leather handle reinforced by an aluminium frame, ensuring both...
In response to evolving coffee roaster needs, secondary-packaging machine manufacturer Cama Group unveiled its latest innovation. As more roasters transition to aluminium capsules, ensuring the integrity of these pods has become a top priority. Cama Group's new honeycomb solution addresses this challenge by providing enhanced protection for aluminium coffee capsules. Historically, coffee packaging—such as bags, jars, and tins—served a primarily functional role with minimal emphasis on aesthetics. The label was often the sole distinguishing feature, and the process of opening a fresh batch of roasted coffee was straightforward, usually involving nothing more than peeling back a foil lid with a spoon. However, the landscape of coffee packaging is undergoing a transformation. Today's coffee...
AEROBAL, an international organisation representing manufacturers of aluminium aerosol cans, has reportedly announced the election of Robert Huffman as a new President for the subsequent two-year tenure. Huffman succeeds Wan Tsang Lin of EUROASIA, who has served AEROBAL with firm commitment and dedication since June 2022. Robert Huffman, elected at AEROBAL's recently held General Assembly meeting, will lead the organisation with his wealth of knowledge and industrial experience. He is the President of Trivium Packaging's Americas and Global Aerosol & Beverage businesses. Robert Huffman said, "I am delighted to take on the role of President of AEROBAL at such a pivotal time for our industry. With the increasing focus on sustainability and innovation, I look forward to working with our...
Easy Boba, a fast-growing bubble tea brand renowned for its diverse selection of fruit, milk, and bubble teas, has made a bold move toward sustainability. The Mumbai-based company has introduced PET cans with aluminium lids and biodegradable rice straws in an effort to minimise waste within the bubble tea industry. In response to global trends, there is a heightened emphasis on sustainability within the aluminium sector, focusing on adopting cleaner technologies and utilising renewable energy sources. Notably, the push for reduced carbon emissions drives the industry towards more environmentally friendly practices. Easy Boba is dedicated to eco-friendly practices, placing sustainability at the core of its operations. By introducing innovative materials, the company is reducing its...
Gumei Metal, a manufacturer of a wide selection of aluminium products, was honoured with the prestigious China Green Building Materials Product Certification. The China-based company received the award for three aluminium products, achieving the highest distinction—the three-star certification. "This recognition not only highlights the superior quality of our offerings but also underscores our unwavering commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development," said Gumei Metal. The China Green Building Materials Product Certification is a program launched by the State Administration for Market Regulation in collaboration with the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development and the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology. This program aims to drive the green...
On Saturday, September 7, Kolkata Metro Rail Corporation reportedly started installing the aluminium third rail replacing steel on the North-South corridors, aiming to reduce energy loss by about 84 per cent. Metro Railway has set a target of two years to complete the entire replacement project with aluminium. In addition to reducing carbon footprint, this initiative will save around INR 1 crore a year per km of the 35-km corridor. On Sunday, Metro Railway updated that it already completed the replacement of a 200-metre-long third rail, which is claimed to have superior electrical conductivity, lessening voltage drops and energy losses. On completion of the initiative, Kolkata Metro Railway will be at par with Singapore, London, Moscow, Berlin, Munich, and Istanbul Metros, where the...
The name "FIN" represents "First in Newcastle," highlighting FIN Windows and Doors' pioneering role and longstanding presence in Newcastle's building industry for over fifty years. Dedicated to serving the Newcastle, Central Coast, and Hunter Valley regions, FIN Windows and Doors has built a solid reputation for delivering high-quality window and door products, becoming a trusted name in the local community. FIN & Capral aluminium FIN's enduring success is largely attributed to its longstanding partnership with Capral Aluminium. FIN's commitment to sustainability is evident in its operations and product offerings. Their collaboration with Capral has allowed FIN to incorporate LocAl® lower-carbon aluminium into their products, aligning with their broader goal of minimising environmental...
Viva ACP, Asia's leading manufacturer of metal composite panels, has introduced advanced Aluminium Composite Panels (ACPs) designed to enhance the safety and performance of bus bodies in India. This initiative resulted from the stricter regulations the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways implemented for bus construction, emphasising improvements in passenger safety and vehicle quality. These new ACPs from Viva offer several advantages, including reduced vehicle weight, improved fuel efficiency, and superior overall performance. The lightweight panels also comply with the Ministry's latest safety standards, aiding manufacturers in meeting the updated regulations. As the Indian electric bus market is set for rapid growth, fuelled by government initiatives, Viva ACP's panels are...
Zooz, a new non-alcoholic wellness drink, is set to mark its entry into the US market. The unique mushroom-based beverage will be launched in recyclable aluminium cans, targeting the growing no and low-alcohol market. Created by former personal trainer Daniel Soos, Zooz aims to transform adult soft drinks with its unique ingredients and focus on health and well-being. About the drink With £1.25 million in seed funding, the brand is set to carve a new niche in the no-and-low sector. Zooz, featuring the potent Cordyceps and Lion's Mane mushrooms, is a beacon of health in a sea of beverages. Its refined flavour profile is a testament to its appeal to health-conscious consumers seeking a healthier alternative to traditional alcoholic drinks. The drink is free from sugar, gluten, and...
As a writer, the world of aluminium has always intrigued me to ask – 'What's next?' With every passing day, the use or the reach of aluminium goes beyond the realm of imagination. Aluminium's importance is not just limited to the industrial sector but has also reached the unexplored terrains of Mars. Yes, you read it right. As per reports, scientists have devised a novel method to warm Mars by introducing engineered particles composed of iron or aluminium, into its atmosphere as aerosols. Lighter, faster, greener: Aluminium's expanding footprint in transportation Well, this is not just it. The green metal has always been a cornerstone in revolutionising the transportation sector. From the wheels to the body, integrating aluminium components significantly reduces vehicle weight, enhancing...
Australian shipbuilder Austal has announced its commitment to using LocAl® low-carbon aluminium from Capral to enhance sustainable manufacturing and responsible procurement practices. Capral & Austal Austal, renowned for its advanced defence and commercial vessel platforms, offers various products, including passenger ferries, patrol boats, high-speed support vessels, surface combatants, and innovative multi-role vessels. Capral, a long-time supplier to Austal, provides proprietary aluminium extrusions and rolled products essential for their varied manufacturing requirements. By integrating sustainability into its operations, business planning, and investment decisions, Austal is making significant progress in aligning its strategies with the expectations and needs of stakeholders,...
