Topic
automotive
Manufacturing China’s EV Market Surges Past 16 Million as Battery Waste Wave Arrives
China’s EV market has grown to more than 16 million annual vehicle sales, generating a rapidly expanding wave of retired lithium-ion batteries. WIRED reports that certified recyclers handled only about 25% of retired batteries in 2023, while informal operators continue to cause environmental damage. The country’s battery waste could reach 22.39 million metric tons by 2040.
Manufacturing Mahindra retains FY27 tractor growth guidance despite 18% jump in June-quarter volumes
Mahindra & Mahindra retained its FY27 guidance for mid-single-digit growth in the domestic tractor industry despite an 18% jump in June-quarter domestic volumes. The company sold 158,000 tractors with a 44.9% market share, while farm machinery revenue hit a record ₹362 crore. Management cited a high second-half base and monsoon uncertainty for the cautious outlook.
Manufacturing India's transport, petroleum ministries disagree on E20 mileage loss: 2-6% vs 3-5%
India's road transport ministry and petroleum ministry have given different official estimates of the fuel-efficiency loss when E20 petrol is used in vehicles designed for E10. The transport ministry cited a 2-6% reduction based on an ARAI-SIAM-Indian Oil study, while the petroleum ministry said it is generally 3-5%. Both ministries pointed to driving conditions, habits and maintenance as key variables.
Manufacturing Mahindra & Mahindra Records 34% Profit Jump Despite Commodity Cost Headwinds
Mahindra & Mahindra's June-quarter consolidated profit rose 34% YoY to ₹5,455 crore, with nearly 70% of the increase from core operating businesses despite 400-500 bps commodity-cost inflation. The electric vehicle business turned profitable, contributing ₹288 crore PBIT, while farm equipment added ₹197 crore. The results highlight the strength of Mahindra's diversified portfolio.
Manufacturing Jaguar Land Rover to cut hundreds of jobs after £1.9bn cyber attack loss
Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has announced a limited redeployment and displacement programme expected to result in fewer than 300 salaried and management job losses. The cuts follow a severe cyber attack in September 2025 that halted all manufacturing for five months, caused a 27% drop in production, and cost the company an estimated £1.9bn.
Manufacturing Mahindra Arm and SML Merge to Become India's 4th Largest Commercial Vehicle Player
According to Business Today (via Times of India), Mahindra's arm and SML (SML Isuzu) are combining to become the 4th largest commercial vehicle player in India. The report provides no further details on investment, capacity, or timeline.
Manufacturing PACCAR Q2 profit climbs as Class 8 truck demand firms and build rates increase
PACCAR reported Q2 2026 net income of $752 million, up 4% year over year, and earnings per share of $1.43, as Class 8 truck build rates increased on stronger orders and improved freight rates. The company posted record parts revenue of $1.75 billion and plans capital expenditures of $700-750 million for the full year.
Manufacturing Ferrari’s First EV, the Luce, Blends Italian Engineering With Apple-Inspired Design
Ferrari's first fully electric car, the Luce, engineered in Maranello and designed by Jony Ive's LoveFrom, has drawn mixed reactions from fans but offers a unique driving experience. CEO Benedetto Vigna, a physicist and former semiconductor executive, led the project. The car features a cab-forward layout, haptic-focused interior, and preproduction testing was completed in May.
Finance Government Clarifies: Using E20 Petrol Cannot Lead to Insurance Claim Rejection
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has clarified that using E20 (20% ethanol-blended) petrol cannot be a reason for insurance claim rejection. The government dismissed concerns about engine damage and fuel quality, stating the Ethanol Blending Programme is scientifically validated and has not caused widespread issues since its 2023 rollout.
Manufacturing VST Tillers Tractors to set up ₹100-crore global tech centre in Hosur
VST Tillers Tractors Ltd (VTTL) has broken ground on a ₹100-crore Global Tech Centre in Hosur, Tamil Nadu. The facility will serve as the company's primary hub for R&D in next-generation farm machinery, including tractors, tillers, and electric and intelligent equipment, strengthening testing and validation capabilities.
Business Tesla’s $28.24B Quarter Fueled by Record Deliveries and Semi Production Ramp
Tesla posted Q2 2026 revenue of $28.24 billion, up 26% year over year, driven by record vehicle deliveries and the start of Tesla Semi production. Capital expenditures more than doubled to $5.8 billion as the company invests heavily in manufacturing expansion, including the Semi program and battery production.
Finance Aston Martin Secures £550m Loan Package to Bolster Balance Sheet Amid US Tariffs and Weak China Demand
Aston Martin has secured £550m in loans managed by HPS Investment, including a £450m senior secured-term loan and a £100m delayed draw facility, to strengthen its balance sheet and fund future product plans. The move comes after the company cut 600 jobs and reported a net loss of £493.2m for the last fiscal year, attributing the poor performance to US tariffs and weak demand in China. CFO Doug Lafferty said the financing 'significantly strengthens our liquidity.'
Manufacturing Range Rover GT Electric Grand Tourer to Be Built at Halewood – JLR Manufacturing Strategy Detailed
Range Rover has confirmed the all-new Range Rover GT, an electric grand tourer built on the EMA platform at its Halewood plant in the UK, launching in 2027. The model shares architecture with upcoming Evoque EV and other midsized JLR vehicles, while Jaguar's Type 01 uses a different platform built in Solihull. The move raises questions about intra-brand competition and manufacturing flexibility.
Technology Hidden Car Alarm Device in Millions of US Vehicles Is a Hacking Risk – Patch Now
UC San Diego researchers discovered a severe Bluetooth vulnerability in the KARR Security System aftermarket car alarm, installed by dealers in over 2 million vehicles across the US. The flaw allows attackers to unlock, track, or disable ignition from Bluetooth range. Acrisure Protection Group has released a firmware patch; owners must manually update via the KARR app.
Manufacturing Hyundai Lays Groundwork for Mass-Market EV Launch with Localisation Push in India
Hyundai Motor India is preparing to launch its first mass-market electric SUV this fiscal year, targeting the sub-Rs 15 lakh segment. The company is expanding charging infrastructure and deepening component localisation, having sold about 3,000 EVs in India so far this calendar year. The launch is expected before the implementation of CAFE III emission norms.
Trade UK Trade Deal: India Invites Applications for Car Import Quota Under CETA
India's DGFT has invited applications for the Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ) for importing 0.378 million conventional-engine passenger cars from the UK at a concessional 10% customs duty, down from 110%, under the India-UK CETA. The application window runs from July 21 to August 4, 2026.
Manufacturing Mexico Heavy-Duty Truck Production and Exports to US Rebound in June 2026
Mexico's heavy-duty truck manufacturing sector saw a rebound in June 2026, with production up 7.6% and exports up 3.2% year over year, driven by US market recovery. However, first-half totals remain below 2025 levels. Industry leaders urge preservation of USMCA rules.
Manufacturing MG Sets Target for New Energy Vehicles to Account for 80% of Sales by 2026
JSW MG Motor India expects new energy vehicles (NEVs) — including EVs, hybrids, and plug-in hybrids — to account for nearly 80% of its total sales in 2026, according to managing director Anurag Mehrotra. The company will launch its first plug-in hybrid later this financial year, built on the new ADAPT multi-energy platform. Industry-wide EV sales are growing at around 70%, and EV penetration in India crossed 8% in June 2026.
Manufacturing XPeng Launches L03 Budget EV in 60 Countries, Aiming for Global Volume Sales
XPeng unveiled its first globally released electric vehicle, the L03, priced starting at €35,600. The budget model boasts a 320-mile WLTP range, 20-minute fast charging, and a suite of standard features. It will launch across 60 countries in Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, marking the Chinese automaker's mass-market push.
Regulations & Compliance India Issues Draft CAFE III Norms for Passenger Vehicles, Seeks Stakeholder Feedback
The Ministry of Power released draft Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) III norms for 2027-2032, targeting progressively tighter fuel consumption for M1 passenger vehicles. Stakeholder suggestions are invited by August 6, 2026.
Trade India-UK CETA Cuts British Car Prices But Scotch Waits for State Excise Clearances
The India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) took effect, prompting immediate price cuts of up to Rs 75 lakh on JLR models and nearly 38% on McLarens. However, Scotch whisky and gin tariff cuts are delayed by at least a month as companies file revised costs with state excise departments. ISWAI estimated a 12-13% price reduction for imported whisky if benefits are passed on.
Manufacturing Navistar Defeats $16.5M Lawsuit Over Delayed Truck Deliveries
A Michigan federal jury sided with Navistar, rejecting a $16.5 million lawsuit by GLS LeasCo and Central Transport over delayed deliveries of 1,100 International tractors. The jury found Navistar not liable for damages, ending a multi-year dispute over production schedules and supply-chain disruptions.
Logistics Norfolk Southern Promotes Will DeShazor to VP of Intermodal and Automotive Operations
Norfolk Southern has promoted Will DeShazor to vice president of intermodal and automotive operations, effective immediately. DeShazor, a 21-year company veteran, previously served as AVP network optimization and has extensive terminal operations experience. He will report to Chief Operating Officer Brian Barr.
Technology Tesla Says It’s Building a Wheelchair-Accessible Robotaxi
Tesla revealed plans for a wheelchair-accessible robotaxi during a DC City Council hearing. The company is developing the vehicle in Texas but provided no timeline. Currently no US robotaxi company offers fully accessible driverless rides.
Manufacturing Volkswagen Planning to Cut Up to 100,000 Jobs Globally, Twice Previous Target
Volkswagen Group CEO Oliver Blume confirmed the automaker is targeting up to 100,000 job cuts globally, double the previously stated 50,000. The move follows a steep profit decline, falling sales in China and the US, and rising competition from Chinese brands. Talks with unions and potential factory closures in Germany remain under discussion.
Commodities E20 Controversy: Why India's Ethanol Blending Roadmap Is Back in Spotlight
India's nationwide rollout of mandatory 20% ethanol-blended petrol (E20) in April 2025 has triggered a political row, with opponents citing a 2021 NITI Aayog report that recommended a phased transition. The controversy intensified after Attorney General R Venkataramani called E20 an 'experiment' during a Supreme Court hearing, raising concerns over vehicle compatibility and fuel efficiency.
Manufacturing Toyota Shifts Tacoma Production from Mexico to San Antonio in $3.6 Billion Texas Expansion
Toyota is investing $3.6 billion to expand its San Antonio, Texas, assembly plant, adding 2.5 million square feet and 2,000 jobs to accommodate Tacoma pickup production shifting from Baja California, Mexico. The transition will occur gradually over about four years, with full build-out by 2030, and Toyota maintains operations elsewhere in Mexico.
Manufacturing Kharif sowing drives Indian tractor sales past one lakh units in June 2026
India's tractor retail sales crossed the one-lakh-unit mark in June 2026, rising 25.3% year-on-year to 100,818 units, according to FADA. Mahindra & Mahindra, including its Swaraj brand, captured a combined 42.84% market share. Demand was boosted by kharif sowing preparations, improved farmer cash flow, and state subsidies in Odisha and Gujarat.
Manufacturing Battery-as-Service Models Cut EV Upfront Costs but Add Recurring Payment Obligations
Battery-as-Service (BaaS) plans in India cut the upfront price of EVs by up to Rs 8 lakh, but impose recurring per-km charges of Rs 2.3–5, minimum monthly usage commitments, and separate battery financing. Tata Motors, JSW MG Motor, Maruti Suzuki, and Citroen offer BaaS, with MG reporting 12-15% of EV sales through the model. The effective cost per km can rise sharply for low-mileage drivers, narrowing long-term savings.
Manufacturing UK High Court Rules Most Major Carmakers Did Not Use Illegal Emissions Defeat Devices
The UK High Court ruled that most major carmakers, including Mercedes-Benz, Renault, Nissan, Ford, and Peugeot-Citroen, did not use prohibited defeat devices in diesel vehicles. The court found that only one Mercedes strategy removed in 2015 and one Peugeot-Citroen strategy constituted defeat devices. A further trial in October will determine damages.
Manufacturing Auto Financiers Urge Industry to Embed Financing Seamlessly into Car Sales Process
Speaking at the FADA Finance and Insurance Summit 2026 in Mumbai, auto financiers urged the industry to move beyond generic EMI products toward embedded finance that integrates digital credit at the point of sale. Rajan Pental of Yes Bank noted that while customers arrive fully informed about cars, the multiplicity of lenders delays transactions. India's auto finance market remains dominated by traditional loans, with leasing at about 1.5% and subscription at 0.1%, contrasting with maturing platform-led models in Europe and the US.
Manufacturing NHTSA Backs Engine Manufacturers Association Request to Delay Seat Belt Rules for Heavy Trucks to 2030
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has initiated a rulemaking to delay compliance for new seat belt anchorages rules for heavy-duty vehicles over 10,000 pounds, pushing the deadline from September 2027 to September 2030. The move responds to a petition from the Engine Manufacturers Association citing significant compliance burdens due to unique vehicle designs.
Manufacturing Mercedes-Benz and BMW Report Record H1 Sales in India, Electric Vehicles Surge 78%
India's luxury car market hit new highs in H1 2026, with Mercedes-Benz retailing 9,768 units (+9%) and BMW Group selling 9,075 units (+17%). Electric vehicles were the key growth driver: BMW's EV sales jumped 78% to 2,359 units, while Mercedes saw BEVs comprise 14% of Q2 sales. Executives cited improving charging infrastructure and strong order books, though supply constraints remain a challenge.
Manufacturing Tata Group targets $100bn automotive revenue by FY2031, says chairman N Chandrasekaran
Tata Group has set a $100 billion automotive revenue goal by FY2031, doubling from $50 billion in FY26. Jaguar Land Rover is expected to remain the largest contributor, while the commercial vehicle division, bolstered by the pending Iveco acquisition, aims for $35-40 billion. The group plans Rs 40,000 crore investment in domestic PV and £20 billion in JLR over five years.
Logistics Texas port fuels automotive expansion with Mitsubishi deal and major infrastructure upgrades
Port Freeport has been selected by Mitsubishi Motors North America as a key addition to its U.S. distribution network, with operations starting in April 2026. The port handled 198,475 vehicles in fiscal 2025 and is investing $11 million to modernize its Velasco Terminal, reinforcing its role as a growing automotive gateway on the Texas Gulf Coast.
Business Snap-on Acquires Diesel Laptops for $100 Million in Cash, Expanding Heavy-Duty Truck Diagnostics
Snap-on Incorporated acquired Diesel Laptops for $100 million in cash, closing on June 8, 2026, according to FreightWaves. The acquisition expands Snap-on's diagnostic capabilities into heavy-duty trucks and equipment, integrating Diesel Laptops into its Repair Systems & Information Group. The deal underscores the growing importance of advanced diagnostics in commercial vehicle repair.
Trade India's GST at 9: Experts Urge Reforms to Boost Auto Industry Export Competitiveness
As India's GST completes nine years, tax experts urge targeted reforms to resolve inverted duty structures on EVs, legacy cess credits, and refund inefficiencies. These changes aim to boost export competitiveness for India's third-largest automobile market, which contributes 7% to GDP and supports 37 million jobs.
Technology HCLTech wins $1.1bn AI-led deal with Mercedes for digital workplace transformation
HCLTech has won a $1.1 billion AI-led deal with Mercedes-Benz to establish an AI-driven operating model for the automaker's global digital workplace and enterprise network operations. The agreement runs from July 2026 through December 2031, with an option to extend five more years. Infosys previously handled parts of the engagement.
Commodities E20 Fuel Safe for Older Vehicles, Say Industry Experts as India Hits 20% Blending Target
Industry executives from Toyota Kirloskar Motor, Maruti Suzuki, and Hero MotoCorp assured that E20 ethanol-blended petrol is safe for vehicles manufactured before the mandate, citing extensive testing. India achieved 20% ethanol blending by December 2025, five years ahead of its original target, helping reduce crude oil imports.
Commodities ISMA defends E20 fuel, cites scientific evidence; remains silent on mileage drop claims
The Indian Sugar and Bio-Energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA) has dismissed public concern over E20 ethanol blended petrol, stating that the conversation should be based on scientific evidence and official clarifications. While automakers claim mileage drop is marginal (3-3.5%), social media users report a 20-30% reduction. The government and industry bodies defend the fuel, citing emissions cuts and foreign exchange savings of over Rs 1.4 lakh crore.
Manufacturing India Proposes CAFE Credit Trading That Could Open New Revenue Stream for Car Makers
India's Ministry of Power has proposed a draft amendment introducing a formal credit-debit passbook for automakers under CAFE norms. Manufacturers exceeding fuel-efficiency targets can sell surplus credits to peers or buy them from the Bureau of Energy Efficiency at Rs 2,500 per gram of CO2 per km for FY23-FY27. The mechanism aims to ease compliance and create a potential revenue stream.
Manufacturing CNG, Hybrid, and EV Sales Hit Record 40% of India's Car Market in June
In June 2026, alternative-fuel passenger vehicles (CNG, hybrid, EV) reached a record 40.2% share of India's car retail sales, up from 33.3% a year ago. Retail sales hit an all-time June high of 410,853 units, a 28.6% increase. FADA attributed the shift to improved supplies, new model launches, and consumer preference for fuel-efficient powertrains.
Manufacturing Mahindra Tractors Launches YuvoTech+ 585 DI V1 Pan-India, Plans Seven New Models This Fiscal Year
Mahindra Tractors has launched the YuvoTech+ 585 DI V1 multi-purpose tractor across India. The company also announced plans to introduce seven new tractors and 12 new features this fiscal year, including products from the New Tractor range and Swaraj Protek.
Regulations & Compliance Presidential Pardon Ends Largest Diesel Tampering Prosecution, Exposing Emissions Compliance Gaps
President Trump pardoned 11 individuals, including diesel mechanics and tuners, who were convicted in one of the largest criminal diesel tampering cases. The pardon, signed on July 3, 2026, closed the case United States v. Diesel Freak LLC, highlighting the ongoing conflict between federal emissions standards and commercial fleet operations.
Manufacturing Bentley Torcal EV Enters a Luxury Electric Market in Crisis as Rivals Retreat
Bentley has revealed its first fully electric car, the Torcal SUV, with a range over 300 miles. The launch arrives amid a severe downturn in luxury EV demand, with competitors like Lamborghini, Ferrari, and Audi scaling back or cancelling electric models.
Manufacturing Delhi EV Policy 2026 Poses Big Risk for Automakers If Other States Follow, Warns Morgan Stanley Report
Morgan Stanley warns that Delhi's newly notified EV Policy 2026, while having modest immediate impact due to Delhi's small sales share, could become a dangerous template for other states. The policy bans new ICE vehicle registrations in select segments by 2027-2028 and offers substantial incentives. Automakers with strong EV portfolios are better positioned, but the industry may resist wider adoption.
Manufacturing Polestar US Sales to End in 2027 Due to Chinese Tech Rule, Dealers Affected
Polestar announced it will cease US vehicle sales beginning with the 2027 model year after the Commerce Department denied authorization under a rule restricting Chinese-made connected-vehicle technology. Dealers like Matthew Haiken of Polestar Short Hills have invested millions and express frustration with both Polestar and the government.
Manufacturing India Car Sales Surge in June 2026 as Tata, Maruti, Mahindra Lead Strong Recovery
India's passenger vehicle industry ended Q1 FY27 on a strong footing, with Tata Motors reporting 69% growth and record EV sales, Maruti Suzuki up 19.3%, Mahindra & Mahindra up 37%, and Hyundai impacted by a supplier fire. The data signals resilient consumer demand, particularly for SUVs and electric vehicles.
Manufacturing Hero MotoCorp to invest Rs 3,200 crore in Andhra Pradesh, expand Tirupati plant output and create 4,000 jobs
Hero MotoCorp plans to invest Rs 3,200 crore in Andhra Pradesh over three to five years, expanding its Tirupati plant capacity from 6 lakh to 12-15 lakh units annually. The investment includes Rs 750 crore for a second Global Parts Centre, creating around 4,000 jobs.
Manufacturing Delhi EV Policy 2026: Rs 15,000 Crore Plan to Boost Electric Mobility and Phase Out Petrol Two-Wheelers
The Delhi government officially notified the Delhi Electric Vehicles Policy 2026, effective July 1, 2026, with a Rs 15,000 crore investment plan, over 30,000 charging points, and full road tax exemption for electric cars priced up to Rs 30 lakh. The policy also phases out registration of petrol two-wheelers from April 1, 2028, and restricts subsidies to battery electric vehicles only.
Manufacturing Dallas Truck Shop Sends Three Teams to Volvo VISTA World Championship in Sweden
Bruckner Truck Sales in Dallas has qualified three teams for the Volvo VISTA World Championship finals in Sweden, out of roughly 200 competing globally. Technician Dayan, who previously represented Volvo Bulgaria, highlights the training and technical challenges of European-spec trucks.
Logistics myMechanic's Dealer-Connect Cuts Fleet Roadside Repair Time by Digitizing Dispatch
myMechanic launched Dealer-Connect, a digital dispatch layer that connects fleets directly to tire dealers, eliminating phone chains and reducing roadside breakdown resolution time by 15-25 minutes. The platform addresses the costly gap between telematics data and manual coordination, which currently costs fleets $450-$750 per day per downed truck.
Manufacturing Ford rehires over 300 veteran engineers after AI quality checks fail to match human expertise
Ford has rehired more than 300 veteran quality inspectors after AI-driven quality checks failed to live up to expectations. The automaker admitted that automated tools lacked the training and expertise of experienced technicians and has since brought back human engineers to train AI systems and mentor younger workers. The move comes as Ford returned to the top of the JD Power Initial Quality Study for the first time since 2010.
Manufacturing India Electric Passenger Vehicle Sales May Cross 3 Lakh Units in 2026
India's electric passenger vehicle (EPV) sales are expected to exceed 3 lakh units in 2026 for the first time, compared to under 2 lakh in 2025, according to Frost & Sullivan and Crisil. Growth is supported by doubling of model options, improved battery range, and rising fuel prices widening EV total cost of ownership advantage. Vahan data shows registrations nearing 1.5 lakh so far in 2026.
Manufacturing Volkswagen considers 4 German factory closures, 1 lakh job cuts amid China competition and US tariffs: Report
Volkswagen is considering closing four factories in Germany and increasing job cuts to up to 1,00,000, according to Reuters. The proposals, to be discussed on July 9, are part of a massive restructuring driven by competitive pressure from Chinese automakers and weak demand. More than 45,000 additional jobs could be affected, adding to 50,000 planned layoffs.
Manufacturing Amble One: $25,000 Electric Buggy From Apple, Audi Alumni Targets Lightweight Mobility
Amble, a Lisbon-based startup founded by former Apple, Audi, and Ford employees, launched the Amble One, a $25,000 lightweight electric buggy inspired by the NASA lunar rover. The vehicle weighs under 450 kg, targets L7e classification, and emphasizes a manufacturing-driven design philosophy using materials like aluminum, leather, cotton, and cork.
Manufacturing A year after Pioneer launch, Mack Trucks sees sold-out OTR orders and product updates
Mack Trucks, a year after launching the Pioneer over-the-road truck, announced that its order book for both the Pioneer and Anthem is sold out through the end of 2026. The company also detailed product updates including a larger sleeper and revised bumper-to-back-of-cab dimensions, emphasizing comfort, safety, efficiency, and uptime.
Manufacturing Ferrari Marketing Chief Quits Weeks After Electric Luce Launch Backlash
Enrico Galliera has stepped down as Ferrari's chief marketing and commercial officer after 16 years, just weeks after the unveiling of the company's first electric car, the Luce, triggered widespread backlash. He will be replaced by former BMW Italy head Massimiliano Di Silvestre in July.
Manufacturing India’s E100 ethanol push could trigger ₹50,000 crore auto industry investment
India's push for E100 ethanol could trigger ₹37,000-50,000 crore in auto industry investment, including ₹22,000-30,000 crore in R&D and ₹15,000-20,000 crore in localisation and manufacturing upgrades. However, flex-fuel vehicles are expected to account for only a low single-digit share of the market by 2030, and the investment must compete with ongoing electrification spending.
Manufacturing Slate EV Truck Hits $24,950 Price With 205-Mile Range, Targets Manufacturing Disruption
Slate, an EV startup backed by Jeff Bezos, launched the most affordable electric truck in the US at $24,950. The base model gets a 37% range boost to 205 miles, and the company claims 180,000 reservations. With half the parts of a typical pickup and a DIY repair program, Slate's approach could challenge conventional truck manufacturing.