Italian van registrations down in February
Registrations of commercial vans in Italy declined again in february, marking the seventh consecutive double-digit drop. The market for vehicles weighing up to 3.5 tonnes registered 15,265 new units, a decrease of 15.6% compared to february 2024. For the first two months of the year, total registrations fell to 30,297, down by 15.9%. Demand for fully electric vehicles remains weak, accounting for only 3.2%, despite slight improvement from last year. To speed up the ecological transition, industry association Unrae has urged concrete action, including targeted incentives and tax measures. For the full year of 2025, van registrations are expected to decline by 6.9%, reaching approximately 185,000 units.
Amazon ramps up warehouse robotics
Amazon continues to accelerate warehouse robotics deployment, surpassing 750,000 robots globally since acquiring Kiva Systems in 2012. Its latest development is the new logistics centre in Shreveport, Louisiana, equipped with eight advanced robotic systems designed to enhance employee safety and productivity. According to an Mit study cited by Amazon, 60% of warehouse staff view robotics and artificial intelligence positively, believing these technologies benefit their careers and workplace wellbeing. Amazon expects future logistics centres to see a productivity increase of 25%.
Cma Cgm Iron makes debut in Singapore
The Cma Cgm Iron, the group's first dual-fuel, methanol-powered containership with a capacity of 13,000 teu, has made its maiden call in Singapore. Built by South Korea's Hyundai Samho Heavy Industries, it is the first of twelve sister vessels scheduled to enter service between 2025 and 2026. The initiative results from technological collaboration between Cma Cgm and the Korean shipyard, aimed at achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. The Cma Cgm Iron will operate on the Cimex1 route between Asia and the Middle East.
Train thefts rising in the US
Freight train thefts in the US caused losses exceeding $100 million in 2024, according to the Association of American Railroads, with about 65,000 incidents reported—a 40% increase year-on-year. Organised criminal gangs are becoming increasingly armed, escalating risks of violence during arrests. Only one in ten attempts results in arrest, frequently involving repeat offenders. The Aar is demanding tougher penalties, efficient prosecution, and dedicated resources for specialist federal prosecutors. It also calls for improved cooperation between the Fbi and Homeland Security, as outlined in proposed legislation currently stalled in Congress.
Turkon and Arkas seal agreement
Turkish shipping lines Turkon Line and Arkas Line launched a new vessel-sharing agreement on 5 march at the Indian port of Nhava Sheva, inaugurating the Turkey–Red Sea–India (Tri) and India–Med Service (Ims) routes. The partnership allows both operators to capture market share on routes between India and the Mediterranean traditionally dominated by major carriers operating via the Red Sea. The new services will also facilitate cargo connections to Europe and the US East Coast.
