A partnership between two automakers on battery development, a pair of purpose-built taxis, an appeal to American soccer fans, and the transfer of ownership of a sailing race were among the items promoted by automakers recently.

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[naviga:li]General Motors and Honda have announced a partnership to accelerate the development of a next-generation battery for their electric vehicles. Under the multiyear agreement, the automakers will collaborate on the development of GM's battery system, with Honda ultimately sourcing its battery modules from GM. The companies plan to build a battery which will offer higher energy density, faster recharging, and a smaller package. GM and Honda previously announced that they would partner on the development of hydrogen fuel cell systems in their vehicles.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Ford has introduced two purpose-built taxis to cater to livery companies interested in saving fuel. The 2019 Transit Connect Taxi is a diesel-powered vehicle with an estimated highway rating of 30 miles per gallon, room for five people, and 60 cubic feet of cargo space. The 2019 Fusion Hybrid Taxi has an estimated combined fuel economy rating of 38 miles per gallon and shares some of its parts with a hybrid police vehicle designed by Ford. Both taxis will be available for purchase by the end of the year.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]With no United States team in this year's World Cup, Volkswagen is looking to cheer up American soccer fans with a new marketing campaign. "Jump on the Wagen" includes a number of TV spots where soccer enthusiasts from around the world make the pitch for American viewers to root for their nation's team. Fans are also encouraged to adopt a team through social media channels.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Volvo has announced that it will transfer ownership of its Volvo Ocean Race to Atlant Ocean Racing Span S.L. after this year's competition. The around-the-world race first began in 1973, and the automaker has run it for the past 20 years. The next edition of the competition is scheduled for 2021-2022, and Volvo says it will continue to sponsor the race with a "special focus on sustainability."[/naviga:li]

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