“Hang on to your youthful enthusiasms. You'll be able to use
– Johnny Cash
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1. Taking a Closer Look at CHIPS
The White House is reviewing subsidies in the CHIPS Act, potentially renegotiating terms with semiconductor companies like Intel, TSMC, and Samsung. Delays in payments are expected, and some companies may face changes to agreements due to concerns over union labor and overseas expansion, such as Intel's investment in China. The administration aims to strengthen U.S. chip leadership while reassessing current requirements.
2. K-Swap Everything
Honda is investing $1 billion to modernize its Ohio plants, enabling flexible production of ICE, hybrid, and electric vehicles. A key innovation is CDC welding, which will improve strength across various metal thicknesses. Honda is also adding six 6,000-ton megacasting machines for EV battery cases. With a $4.4 billion battery plant partnership with LG, these changes mark a “second founding” for Honda’s Ohio operations. OK, so this has nothing to do with engine swaps. I clickbaited you. Please forgive me.
3. The Manufacturing ABCs
As U.S.-China tensions rise, many Western tech companies are shifting production out of China, adopting an "Anything But China" strategy. This includes diversifying suppliers and relocating factories to countries like Vietnam, India, and Malaysia. The shift, especially in semiconductor production, is accelerated by tariffs, geopolitical risks, and supply chain disruptions. Some companies face higher costs but see Southeast Asia and Latin America as growth opportunities.
4. Zagar Joins The HEH Group
To enhance their innovation, efficiency, and customer support, Zagar, a leader in drilling and tapping solutions since 1938, has joined The HEH Group. This partnership preserves Zagar’s legacy while improving production, response times, and product offerings. Customers can expect seamless service, faster deliveries, and expanded solutions backed by HEH’s resources. Zagar’s future promises growth, innovation, and continued excellence
5. Biting the Dust
A U.K. study found brake dust to be worse for human health than diesel exhaust, linking non-asbestos organic pads, especially their copper content, to lung disease and the toxic dust in air and water. Ironically, EVs worsen the issue due to their massive weight and heavy braking demands. Euro 7 rules limit brake emissions but not copper, and some U.S. states are phasing it out. This sucks for enthusiasts. I wanna stock up on Ferodo DS2500s, but then I’d add to the problem. Future pads may solve this trade-off.
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