Kiss Gas Goodbye: Why You Should Plug In to the Future of Electric Vehicles 

Kiss Gas Goodbye: Why You Should Plug In to the Future of Electric Vehicles 

by | Mar 13, 2024 | Auto Industry

   Electric vehicles (EVs) are revolutionizing the transportation landscape, offering a cleaner and more efficient alternative to traditional gasoline-powered cars. As defined by Cook [1], EVs are vehicles propelled by one or more electric motors. Hussain [5] further clarifies that the energy source for EVs comes from portable and electrochemical or electromechanical sources, and all traction comes from an electric motor.

   The history of EVs dates back to the 19th century when they were initially favored for their quiet operation and ease of use compared to the crude gasoline-powered cars of that era. While internal combustion engines (ICEs) came to dominate the automotive industry, electric power continues to be the primary source of propulsion for various other modes of transportation, such as trains and smaller vehicles.

   The past few decades have witnessed a resurgence in interest in electric transportation due to concerns about the environmental impact of fossil fuels and the potential depletion of oil reserves (peak oil). Unlike gasoline-powered vehicles, EVs can be powered by a diverse mix of energy sources, including:

  1. Nuclear power
  2. Fossil fuels (although using these sources negates some environmental benefits)
  3. Renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and tidal power
  4. This electricity can be delivered to the car in various ways:
  5. Directly through an electrical cable
  6. Wirelessly through inductive charging
  7. Over overhead power lines

   Once received, the electricity is stored in the vehicle’s battery, flywheel, or supercapacitors to power the electric motor. A key advantage of EVs and hybrid vehicles is regenerative braking, which recovers energy lost during braking and converts it back into electricity to recharge the battery [1].

   Compared to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles, pure electric vehicles offer several advantages, as highlighted by Cook [2]:

  1. Simpler and more reliable infrastructure
  2. Lower maintenance costs
  3. Up to 10 times lower transportation costs
  4. Full power is available across the entire RPM range
  5. Tax reductions through government subsidies

   Pure EVs boast the highest levels of efficiency and power production compared to other alternative technologies like plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) and fuel cell vehicles, as demonstrated in Figure, which utilizes the well-to-wheel (WTW) methodology to assess energy loss [2].

Comparative approach to different vehicle types on-road use. Source [2].

Comparative approach to different vehicle types on-road use. Source [2].

   Beyond these benefits, EVs can be up to four times more efficient than internal combustion engines and offer the potential for local energy generation using renewable sources, as shown in Figure. This can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, particularly in urban areas. While the manufacturing process of EVs may create some emissions, these can be offset over time through cleaner operation [2].

Finally, EVs can be categorized into three main types based on their power source and propulsion system [3, 4]:

  1. Pure Electric Vehicle (PEV) or Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV)
  2. Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV)
  3. Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV)

   This diversification allows consumers to choose the EV type that best suits their needs and driving habits. As technology continues to advance and infrastructure expands, electric vehicles are poised to play a significant role in shaping a cleaner and more sustainable future for transportation.

References:

[1] Crook, F., 2012. “Know All About Electric Vehicles”. New Delhi: World Technologies.

[2] Rimpas, D., Kaminaris, S., Aldarraji, I., Piromalis, D., Vokas, G., Papageorgas, P. and Tsaramirsis, G., 2022. “Energy management and storage systems on electric vehicles: A comprehensive review”. Materials Today: Proceedings, 61, pp.813-819.

[3] Maïsseu, Dr.B.M., 2007. “International Journal of Electric and Hybrid Vehicles (IJEHV)” Inderscience Publishers – linking academia, business, and industry through research. Available at: https://www.inderscience.com/jhome.php?jcode=ijehv [Accessed: 23 September 2022].

[4] 1982. “Electric and hybrid vehicles”. St Helier: Interscience Enterprises.

[5] Husain, I., 2021. “Electric and hybrid vehicles”. Boca Raton: CRC Press/Taylor & Francis Group.

What is the difference between Product Management and Product Marketing?

What is the difference between Product Management and Product Marketing?

by | Feb 7, 2024 | Top Courses

    In the fast-paced world of technology, where innovation is the cornerstone of success, two roles stand as the architects of product success: product management and product marketing. While these two disciplines share a common goal – bringing a product to life that resonates with the target audience – they approach this task from distinct perspectives.

Product Management: The Driving Force Behind Product Strategy.

     Product managers are the masterminds behind a product’s journey, from ideation to launch and beyond. They act as the bridge between the business, users, and technology, ensuring that the product aligns with market needs and strategic objectives. Their responsibilities encompass a wide spectrum, including:

Defining product vision and strategy: Product managers translate business goals into actionable product objectives, shaping the product’s direction and ensuring it addresses market gaps and user pain points.

Gathering and analyzing user insights: They delve into user research, surveys, and analytics to understand user behavior, preferences, and pain points, informing product decisions.

Creating product roadmaps and specifications: Product managers develop detailed roadmaps outlining the product’s development plan, defining features, functionalities, and timelines.

Managing product development: They oversee the product development process, ensuring alignment with the roadmap, budget, and timelines, while working closely with cross-functional teams.

Product Marketing: The Storytellers Who Bring Products to Life

Product marketers are the storytellers of the product world, crafting the narrative that resonates with customers and drives adoption. Their primary responsibilities include:

Positioning and messaging: They define the product’s unique value proposition, differentiating it from competitors and communicating it effectively to the target audience.

Go-to-market (GTM) strategy: They develop and execute the GTM strategy, encompassing market analysis, pricing, distribution, and launch plans.

Content creation and marketing campaigns: They create engaging content, such as blog posts, case studies, and social media campaigns, to generate awareness, build interest, and drive leads.

Marketing analytics and measurement: They track marketing performance metrics, analyzing data to identify campaign effectiveness and optimize strategies.

The Interplay of Product Management and Product Marketing: A Symbiotic Relationship

Product management and product marketing are not isolated entities but rather two sides of the same coin. Their roles are intertwined and interdependent, working together to achieve the ultimate goal – a successful product launch and ongoing market success.

Product managers provide the strategic direction, ensuring the product aligns with market needs and user expectations. Product marketers, in turn, translate this strategy into compelling messaging and engaging campaigns that capture the attention of the target audience.

Navigating the Differences: Small, Medium, and Large Companies

     The distinction between product management and product marketing can vary depending on the size and structure of the company. In smaller companies, the roles may overlap, with individuals taking on responsibilities from both disciplines. As companies grow, roles become more specialized, with dedicated product managers and product marketers driving their respective functions.

 In small companies, the product manager often assumes a broader role, encompassing both product strategy and marketing responsibilities. They may handle customer acquisition, content creation, and marketing activities in addition to product development.

 In medium-sized companies, the divide between product management and product marketing becomes more defined. Product managers focus on product strategy, roadmap development, and working with engineering teams, while product marketers concentrate on messaging, positioning, and GTM strategies.

In large companies, with multiple product lines and complex marketing campaigns, dedicated teams of product managers and product marketers handle their respective domains. Product managers focus on product strategy, roadmaps, and cross-functional alignment, while product marketers handle brand positioning, messaging, and targeted marketing activities.

Conclusion: A Collaborative Approach for Product Success

 Product management and product marketing are essential components of the product lifecycle, working together to bring a product to life and achieve market success. While their responsibilities differ, their goals are aligned, and their collaboration is crucial for product innovation and market impact. By understanding the nuances of each role and fostering a collaborative spirit, companies can elevate their product strategies, engage their target audience, and ultimately drive business growth.

In the fast-paced world of technology, where innovation is the cornerstone of success, two roles stand as the architects of product success: product management and product marketing. While these two disciplines share a common goal – bringing a product to life that resonates with the target audience – they approach this task from distinct perspectives.

Electric Cars Take Over Europe: EV Sales Continue to Soar in 2022

Electric Cars Take Over Europe: EV Sales Continue to Soar in 2022

by | Jan 23, 2024 | Auto Industry

    The automobile industry is undergoing a significant transformation, with the rise of electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) challenging the dominance of traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. In this article, we will explore the latest trends in the European automobile market, focusing on the sales and market share of EVs and PHEVs, as well as the impact of government policies on the industry.

Sales Trend of Electric Vehicles and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles

     According to the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA), electric vehicle sales in Europe have been steadily increasing in recent years. In 2021, battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) accounted for 10% of all new car registrations in the EU, while plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) accounted for an additional 9%. This represents a significant increase from 2020 when BEVs accounted for 7% of new car registrations and PHEVs accounted for 8%.

Global New car Registrations in 2019 and 2020. Source: [1]

Global New car Registrations in 2019 and 2020. Source: [1]

     The growth of EVs and PHEVs is being driven by several factors, including government incentives, concerns about air pollution and climate change, and the increasing availability of charging infrastructure. However, some challenges need to be addressed, such as the high cost of EVs and the limited range of some models.

CO2 EMISSIONS OF NEW CARS BY COUNTRY
NEW CARS BY EMISSIONS CLASSES IN THE EU

CO2 EMISSIONS OF NEW CARS BY COUNTRY. Source: [2]

NEW CARS BY EMISSIONS CLASSES IN THE EU. Source: [2]

Market Share of Electric Vehicles and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles

     In 2021, Norway was the country with the highest market share of EVs, with 86% of new car registrations being electric. Sweden and Denmark were also among the top performers, with EV market shares of 46% and 42%, respectively. Germany, the largest car market in Europe, had an EV market share of 9% in 2021.

     The market share of PHEVs is also growing but at a slower pace than EVs. In 2021, PHEVs accounted for 15% of new car registrations in Norway, 11% in Sweden, and 8% in Denmark. Germany had a PHEV market share of 13% in 2021. 

     Government policies have played a significant role in the growth of the EV market in Europe. Many governments have implemented incentives, such as tax breaks and subsidies, to encourage the purchase of EVs and PHEVs. They have also set ambitious targets for the electrification of their vehicle fleets.

     For example, the European Union has set a target of achieving a 35% market share for EVs by 2030. The EU has also introduced a carbon dioxide emissions trading system (ETS), which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector.

Challenges and Opportunities

    Despite the growth in EV sales, there are still some challenges that need to be addressed. One challenge is the high cost of EVs. EVs are typically more expensive than gasoline-powered cars, and this can be a barrier for some consumers. Another challenge is the limited availability of charging infrastructure. There are still not enough public charging stations in many parts of Europe, and this can be a deterrent for people who are considering buying an EV.

     However, there are also some opportunities for the growth of the EV market in Europe. As battery technology improves and costs come down, EVs will become more affordable. And as more charging stations are built, the range anxiety that some people have about EVs will be reduced.

My Opinion

    The automobile industry is at a crossroads, with the rise of EVs and PHEVs challenging the dominance of traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. The European market is leading the way in this transition, with EV sales growing rapidly and government policies playing a key role. There are still some challenges that need to be addressed, such as the high cost of EVs and the limited availability of charging infrastructure. However, the opportunities for the growth of the EV market are significant, and we can expect to see even more progress in the years to come.

The above article is written by the study of material and resources for the period of 2019 to 2022 and my opinion therefore is basis various facts, figures, and measures if taken right by various institutions.

Source:

[1]:Henk Bekkler, May,2022,” 2022 (Q1) Europe: Electric and Plug-In Hybrid Car Sales per EU, UK, and EFTA Country”, Available at: https://www.best-selling-cars.com/electric/2022-q1-europe-electric-and-plug-in-hybrid-car-sales-per-eu-uk-and-efta-country/

[2]:Acea, March 2022,” The Automobile Industry, Pocket guide 2021/2022”, Available at: https://www.acea.auto/files/ACEA_Pocket_Guide_2021-2022.pdf#page=20 

What does a Product Manager do?

What does a Product Manager do?

by | Jan 10, 2024 | Top Courses

What does a Product Manager do? : Unveiling the Mastermind Behind Successful Products

In today’s technology-driven world, the role of a product manager has become increasingly crucial in shaping the products that touch our lives daily. These individuals are the driving force behind innovative solutions, ensuring that products meet user needs and align with business objectives.

Definition of Product Manager

A product manager is a visionary leader overseeing the entire product lifecycle, from ideation to launch. They are responsible for defining the product strategy, roadmap, and features, ensuring that the product delivers value to both users and the company.

Role of Product Manager:

The responsibilities of a product manager encompass a wide range of activities, including:

  • Market research and analysis: Understanding user needs, market trends, and competitive landscape to inform product decisions.
  • Product strategy: Defining the product vision, goals, and target audience.
  • Product roadmap: Creating a roadmap that outlines the product’s development timeline and feature releases.
  • Feature prioritization: Prioritizing features based on user needs, business objectives, and technical feasibility.
  • Product development: Collaborating with engineering, design, and marketing teams to bring the product to life.
  • Product launch: Planning and executing the product launch, including marketing campaigns and user onboarding.
  • Product performance analysis: Tracking product usage metrics and analyzing user feedback to identify areas for improvement.

Top 20 Global Product Companies (Refer to the video posted on this topic)

  1. Apple: iPhone, iPad
  2. Google: Search Engine, Android
  3. Microsoft: Windows, Office 365
  4. Amazon: Kindle, Amazon Web Services
  5. Facebook: Facebook, Instagram
  6. Netflix: Streaming service
  7. Tesla: Electric cars, Solar panels
  8. Airbnb: Online marketplace for lodging
  9. Spotify: Music streaming service
  10. Uber: Ride-hailing service
  11. PayPal: Online payments platform
  12. Salesforce: Customer relationship management (CRM) software
  13. Adobe: Creative suite software
  14. Intuit: Tax preparation software
  15. Cisco: Networking equipment
  16. Siemens: Industrial equipment
  17. GE: Appliances, medical equipment
  18. Honeywell: Building automation systems
  19. 3M: Post-it notes, Scotch tape.

 

The Importance of Product Managers in Top 20 Global Companies

Product managers play a pivotal role in the success of the top 20 global companies. They are the driving force behind innovation, ensuring that products are user-friendly and aligned with business goals. Their ability to translate market trends into actionable product strategies is essential for companies to stay ahead of the competition and maintain their market position.

The Best Way to Become a Product Manager

There are numerous courses available that can help you gain the skills and knowledge necessary to become a product manager. These courses typically cover topics such as product strategy, product roadmap development, user experience (UX) design, and product marketing.

Some reputable online course platforms for product management include:

  • Product Marketing Alliance: The #1 product Marketing Community with certification courses on what exactly you want to learn or transform to. Go on to see the list of courses, they have to offer.
  • Coursera: Offers a variety of product management courses from top universities and industry experts.
  • Udemy: Provides a wide range of product management courses at affordable prices.
  • LinkedIn Learning: Offers product management courses taught by experienced professionals.
  • Skillshare: Fundamentals of Product Management

 Product management courses can be an effective way to break into the field or advance your career. They can provide you with the theoretical foundation and practical skills needed to excel in this demanding role. Additionally, many courses offer opportunities to connect with industry professionals and build your network.

Famous Quotes on Product Management

“A product manager is someone who understands the customer, the market, and the technology, and can use that understanding to create a product that is both useful and successful.” – Steve Blank, serial entrepreneur and author

“The best product managers are those who can see the future and build products that people want before they even know they want them.” – Marty Cagan, author of “Inspired: How to Create Tech Products Customers Love”

“A product manager is a mini-CEO, responsible for the entire product lifecycle, from ideation to launch and beyond.” – Nir Eyal, author of “Hooked: How to Build Habit-Forming Products”

Conclusion

Product management is a challenging but rewarding career path that offers the opportunity to impact the world. With the right skills and experience, you too can become a successful product manager and lead the way in creating products that people love.

Who Holds the Key to Driving Change and Advancing Electric Vehicles Today?

Who Holds the Key to Driving Change and Advancing Electric Vehicles Today?

by | Nov 4, 2023 | Auto Industry

        In the realm of electric vehicles and the automotive industry, several questions arise. Let’s delve into the intricate details, shedding light on the significant facts and developments while steering away from numbers in square brackets.

Regulatory Pressure and OEMs’ Shift to EVs:

The European Union and other country Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) in the EU found themselves under pressure from the regulation committee. It set challenging targets for new vehicles in 2020/21. These stringent regulations prompted a shift in the OEMs’ perspective, making them consider electric vehicles (EVs) as a viable solution.

CO2 Regulation Evolution

Looking back at the CO2 regulations, the 2009 target was a simpler goal and could be easily met. It aimed at achieving 130 g/km of CO2 for fleets, a milestone that was successfully reached by 2015. However, this law alone is no longer adequate to push the automotive industry toward complete EV adoption.

EU’s Environmental Challenge

The European Union stands as the third-largest emitter of greenhouse gases, primarily from its automobiles. While other sectors have witnessed a 32% reduction in emissions, transportation has seen a 33% increase. The EU Commission’s goal of achieving net-zero economy-wide emissions by 2050 highlights the urgency of this issue. A comprehensive review of target achievements in 2021 and mid-2022 suggests the need for more stringent norms and faster progress toward the 2030 and 2035 targets.

Rise of Electric Vehicles:

Despite challenges and regulatory pressure, the electric vehicle market has been on the rise. Sales have surged, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic. The digital landscape has gained prominence, with automakers heavily investing in their digital presence to cater to the growing online customer base. Furthermore, electronic industries are entering the automotive sector, bringing disruptive technologies that are reshaping the industry.

Battery Technology Investments

The transition to electric power in the European automotive sector has prompted significant investments in battery production. Battery packs, a fundamental component of EVs, are seeing substantial investments in building production capacity. Notably, many of these initiatives are led by current Asian market leaders, and European firms, including startups, are actively collaborating with OEMs to accelerate battery development.

Challenges in Sustainability

While EVs are gaining traction, the cost factor remains a challenge in the overall sustainability chain. Issues related to material sourcing, end-of-lifecycle management, and recycling are areas that demand attention and innovation.

Impacts of Global Events

Global events, such as lockdown measures in 2020 and the COVID-19 Delta variant, have had significant effects on the automotive industry. Supply chain disruptions, driven by pandemic-related challenges and the automotive semiconductor shortage, have impacted production and sales.

Electric Vehicle Market Trends

In 2021, approximately 2.25 million units were sold, with EVs capturing 19% of the market. Diesel accounted for 21.7% of the market, and it is expected that EVs will outsell diesel vehicles in 2022.

Fuel Type Preferences

In the first quarter of 2022, battery-electric vehicle (BEV) sales increased by 61%, securing a 10% market share. Meanwhile, plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) sales decreased by 6%, holding a 9% market share. Petrol cars maintained a dominant position with a 36% market share, but diesel cars saw a significant decline.

Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs)

HEVs accounted for a 25.1% market share in the first quarter of 2022, making them the second most preferred vehicle type. Subsidies for PHEVs are being reconsidered, as doubts persist about their contribution to lower emissions, particularly for company vehicles.

Global New Car Registrations

Asia contributed 48.4% to the total global new car registrations, followed by America at 24.7%, Europe at 22.7%, and the Middle East/Africa at 4.2% in 2020. However, the industry experienced negative growth in most regions, with Asia showing a -9.7% decline compared to 2019.

Trends in Car Sales

Over the past decade, there have been notable fluctuations in car sales trends. The most significant dip occurred from 2020 onwards.

Fuel Preferences

Petrol cars dominated EU sales from 2017 to 2020. Diesel cars steadily lost their market share, while alternative fuels saw a considerable rise.

CO2 Emission Trends

CO2 emissions from new cars in the EU exhibited a -11.3% decrease in 2019. Since 2013, emissions have followed a dynamic pattern, with both significant increases and decreases.

The automotive industry is navigating a complex landscape, with various challenges and opportunities shaping the future of electric vehicles and the broader automotive sector.

References:

1. Henk Bekker, Jan 2022, “2021 (Full Year) Europe: New Car Sales and Market Analysis”, Available at: https://www.best-selling-cars.com/europe/2021-full-year-europe-new-car-sales-and-market-analysis/; Accessed: 13/08/2023.
2. Henk Bekkler, May,2022,” 2022 (Q1) Europe: Electric and Plug-In Hybrid Car Sales per EU, UK, and EFTA Country”, Available at: https://www.best-selling-cars.com/electric/2022-q1-europe-electric-and-plug-in-hybrid-car-sales-per-eu-uk-and-efta-country/, Accessed: 13/08/2023.
3. Acea, March 2022,” The Automobile Industry, Pocket guide 2021/2022”, Available at: https://www.acea.auto/files/ACEA_Pocket_Guide_2021-2022.pdf#page=20 , Accessed: 15/08/2023.
6. Mathilde Carlier June 2022, “Monthly passenger car sales in Europe between March 2020 and April 2022”, Available: https://www.statista.com/statistics/1104622/monthly-car-registrations-europe/ , Accessed: 16/08/2023.

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