SRG Global announced an investment in The Lighting Consultants (TLC), creating a strategic partnership that will expand both companies’ capabilities in illuminated and decorative solutions for the future of mobility. SRG Global, a Guardian company, is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of high value coatings on plastic for the automotive and commercial truck industries, while TLC is an automotive lighting manufacturer that offers cutting-edge, full-service interior and exterior lighting solutions. The two companies have already successfully worked on several projects in Europe and North America. “The partnership is the next step in advancing our capabilities and we have aligned our vision for the future of lighting and smart surfaces being a key market driver,” says Chris Eardley, Founder and company director of The Lighting Consultants. SRG Global is headquartered in Troy, Michigan, with its nearby Research and Development Center in Taylor, Michigan. (From a press release on February 28, 2019)

Grammer Group informed about recent Grammer product innovations for passenger vehicle interiors. Grammer will be unveiling a large number of innovative products, which are produced in North America and elsewhere, at the NAIAS in Detroit. The product highlights include a multifunctional center console, which in addition to featuring new decorative surfaces is equipped with all-round lighting, electric armrest adjustment and a smartphone charging function. The separate sliding center console offers cooling and storage compartments as well as folding tables and charging stations for rear passengers. For the first time, it will be unveiling a rotating single captain’s chair with special functions for the premium segment complete with a newly developed automatically extendable armrest, a multimedia headrest with integrated voice control and separate lighting. (From a press release on January 17, 2019)

On January 14, Infiniti introduced its QX Inspiration electric concept as a preview of the brand's first fully electric vehicle that will combine an electrified all-wheel drive powertrain within a mid-size SUV body using the latest Infiniti form language for the era of electrification.
The electric powertrain of the QX Inspiration concept, with battery pack and electric motors on each axle, is located low down low inside the 2,850 mm wheelbase allowing a spacious lounge-like interior inside the body which is 1,630 mm high.
Hinting at ADAS technologies that may one day be available, the steering wheel collapses into the dashboard and the pedals retract into the floor, offering more space should the driver wish to hand control over to the vehicle.
The rear of the cabin is devoid of all technology, except for the QX Inspiration's lighting, a deliberate move by Infiniti's designers to create a relaxing, screen-free space.
Infiniti plans to launch a range of high-performance electric, e-POWER and hybrid vehicles based on the principles of modern Japanese design and architecture.
Future INFINITI products promise a power delivery which is instantaneous, with the e-AWD system enabling blistering off-the-line acceleration.

(Infiniti press release on January 14, 2019)