ARaymond, a global leader in fastening, assembly and fluid connection systems, announced the launch of the Selfy XS — an ultra-compact quick connector engineered specifically for the evolving demands of high‑density thermal management applications, including electric vehicle (EV) battery systems.

Designed for environments where space is at a premium, the Selfy® XS introduces a new standard in compact fluid connection technology. With an ultra-short profile, approximately 40% smaller than conventional industry connectors, the solution enables manufacturers to optimize system layout, reduce weight, and improve overall efficiency across mobility and industrial thermal management architectures.

“Battery systems and thermal management systems are becoming increasingly compact and complex, as manufacturers strive to deliver higher performance, efficiency and reliability,” said Sébastien Frasse-Sombet, Senior Global Product Manager for ARaymond. “With Selfy XS, we’ve created a connector that fits where others cannot, without compromising performance, safety or reliability.”

Enabling Smarter Battery Design

The Selfy XS is particularly well‑suited for compact liquid cooling applications where multiple connectors must operate within extremely tight packaging constraints. This includes battery thermal management systems, as well as other mobility and industrial applications using dense cooling circuits. 

By reducing connector size and weight, the solution helps OEMs and system integrators:

— Maximize available space for active components, including additional battery cells
— Reduce overall system weight, contributing to improved thermal management efficiency
— Enhance design flexibility in complex architectures

Despite its reduced footprint, the Selfy XS maintains ARaymond’s proven Selfy assembly confirmation technology, ensuring secure and reliable connections. Key safety and usability features include:
— Clear, three-point visual confirmation of proper assembly
— Low insertion force to reduce operator fatigue
— Tool-enabled disassembly without damaging components
— Optional data matrix coding for traceability and quality assurance

“These systems can include dozens of connections within a single battery pack,” added Frasse-Sombet. “Ensuring each one is properly secured is critical, not only for performance, but for safety and traceability.” 

Optimized Performance in Tight Spaces

Engineered using advanced injection design techniques, the Selfy XS delivers strong flow performance and low pressure drop, helping maintain efficient cooling loop operation. This contributes to improved thermal regulation, reduced pump load, and support for high‑performance, high‑duty applications, including fast‑charging EVs and other demanding environments.

The connector is available in multiple configurations, including a range of diameters and angles, allowing customization for specific customer requirements and applications.

In line with ARaymond’s sustainability strategy, the Selfy XS is eco-designed to reduce material usage and weight while increasing efficiency. Alternative materials, including recycled options are also available to support lower environmental impact.

Live at The Battery Show Europe

ARaymond will showcase the Selfy XS at The Battery Show Europe, taking place June 9–11 in Stuttgart, Germany. Attendees can experience live demonstrations and speak with product experts at the ARaymond booth (Booth 1-G60). 

DETROIT — After an intensive, year-long jury process designed to identify the best-in-class vehicles for the upcoming model year. The winners of the NACTOY honors for 2026 have been named.

The winners are:
— North American Car of the Year: Dodge Charger
— North American Truck of the Year: Ford Maverick Lobo
— North American Utility Vehicle of the Year: Hyundai Palisade

NACTOY jurors have spent the last year test-driving, researching and evaluating vehicles on criteria including automotive innovation, design, safety, performance, technology, driver satisfaction, user experience and value.

Ahead of the 2026 Formula 1 season, the Audi Revolut F1 Team was officially unveiled in Berlin on Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2026. Nearly 400 guests witnessed the first public appearance of the Audi factory Formula 1 team.

“Today, a lot of pieces of the puzzle are coming together,” said Gernot Döllner, CEO of AUDI AG and Chairman of the Board of Management of Audi Motorsport AG, at the team presentation. “It’s impressive to see how the intensive preparation is paying off and the performance of those involved is becoming evident. For the first time, the full power of the project is on display. We are ready and excited to inspire people around the world by taking part in Formula 1.”

Audi is set to make its debut at the pinnacle of motorsport in Australia on March 8. The Audi R26 is powered by a drivetrain (‘power unit’) developed at the Neuburg an der Donau facility and labelled AFR 26 Hybrid. It was fired up in the chassis for the first time shortly before Christmas at the Hinwil site. On January 9, the team completed its first rollout at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya in Spain as part of a filming day.

Formula 1 is undergoing the biggest upheaval in its history: The racing series will enter its 77th season in 2026 with largely new technical regulations. The new race cars feature active aerodynamics with front and rear wings that can be adjusted while driving. The previous Drag Reduction System (DRS) will be replaced by a ‘boost mode,’ which delivers maximum additional electric power at the push of a button. This can be used for overtaking or defending. With up to 350 kW, the electric motor has almost as much power as the approximately 400 kW 1.6-liter V6 turbo engine, which runs on Advanced Sustainable fuel, defined by FIA F1 technical regulations as fuel which achieves certain greenhouse gas emissions savings relative to fossil-derived gasoline. Audi is working exclusively with the British company bp in this area.

All the racing world’s eyes will be on the Motor City on Jan. 15, specifically at the newly renovated Michigan Central Station, when Ford Racing will host its Season Launch event in conjunction with the spotlight being on Detroit for the annual Auto Show.

Mark Rushbrook, global director for Ford Racing, says he wanted a special location for the unveiling.

“This iconic landmark, steeped in the city’s spirit of grit, perseverance, and undeniable love for cars, is the perfect place to kick off an epic year on the track and in the dirt. It’s a powerful statement, complementing the energy of the 2026 Detroit Auto Show happening the same week, truly making Detroit the global hub of automotive excitement,” Rushbrook said. 

Rushbrook said all elements of the Ford Racing lineup will be on display.

“From the thunderous roar of NASCAR to the grueling challenges of Mustang endurance sports car racing, and the relentless grit of our off-road teams tackling Dakar and Baja — every facet of Ford’s global racing prowess will be on full display. This isn’t just a launch; it’s a declaration of intent across every racing discipline, a true embodiment of the “Go Like Hell” spirit that drives us,” he explained.

Beyond racecars, Rushbrook said the event will also feature an exclusive sneak peek at an all-new Ford Racing production road car.

As the 2025 Formula season approaches its end, teams are already starting to look ahead to the 2026 season, including the unveiling of what next year’s cars may look like.

Four months ahead of its scheduled race debut in Australia, Audi has debuted a preview of what it will bring to the track in 2026.

“By entering the pinnacle of motorsport, Audi is making a clear, ambitious statement,” says Audi CEO Gernot Döllner. “It is the next chapter in the company’s renewal. Formula 1 will be a catalyst for the change towards a leaner, faster and more innovative Audi.” 

Döllner says Audi is entering the racing series with an ambitious yet realistic roadmap: “We are not entering Formula 1 just to be there. We want to win. At the same time, we know that you don’t become a top team in Formula 1 overnight. It takes time, perseverance and tireless questioning of the status quo. By 2030, we want to fight for the World Championship title.”