Ford launched a sports utility vehicle (SUV) designed for Gen X consumers. The 2018 Expedition is lighter and more spacious than the manufacturer's previous SUVs and includes 40 new features

Swedish firm Volvo plans to become the world's first carmaker to replace physical car keys with a smartphone app. The system will use Bluetooth to communicate with the vehicle to unlock doors and start the engine.

Following a partnership between Volkswagen Turkey and Silicon Valley-based beacon provider Blesh, drivers across Turkey will be able to find their smartphone, track their keys and access the Volkswagen app via a smart key fob.

Automakers are building out spaces that immerse visitors in the brand and its ethos. “What’s exploded is these brand-specific, deeper experiences that are much more controlled,” observes Ian Beavis, chief strategy officer at LA-based automotive consulting agency AMCI, pointing to Porsche expanding its Experience Centres to North America.

To honour its parent company BMW's 100year anniversary, British automaker Mini has unveiled a concept for a shared – yet personalised – future of mobility.

The smart car of the future will be able to identify users by nothing more than their face and trademark swagger, thanks to Jaguar Land Rover’s newly patented lock system.

South Korean automaker Hyundai Motor Group's premium brand Genesis is opening its first standalone showroom in Seoul.

Now 126 years old, US car brand Cadillac is bidding to redefine the urban dealership with a new NYC space – Cadillac House – that ditches the traditional hard sell in favour of conveying its relevance as a lifestyle brand.

BMW has launched an interactive ad for its X1 model that enables people watching on smart TVs to customize the viewing experience using their remote controls. An interactive banner beneath the 30second spot reveals a customisable version of the X1. Viewers can scroll left or right with their remotes to see the car from different angles, as well as colour variations.

UPGRADE THE CONSUMER JOURNEY As smart brands across categories make each element of the consumer journey easier and more efficient, automakers must do likewise for a process that’s been notoriously painful for customers. Marketers should reassess how to take buyers from test drive through purchase in ways that better align with consumer habits and expectations.

British heritage car brand Aston Martin has unveiled its first 'brand experience' boutique in London's Mayfair, showcasing product spinoffs and brand collaborations.