Author: Central Desk

Deloitte’s ‘2025 Global Automotive Consumer Study’ provides key insights into hybrid vehicle interest, declining brand loyalty, and the influence of emerging technologies on U.S. automotive consumer behavior. Growing Interest in Hybrid Vehicles Consumer interest in hybrid vehicles in the U.S. has increased by 5%, now accounting for 26% of potential buyers, while interest in internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles has declined by 5% to 62%. Interest in battery electric vehicles (BEVs) remains low at just 5%, presenting challenges for automakers. Consumers are prioritizing cost savings (56%), environmental benefits (44%), and driving experience (36%) when considering EVs. However, barriers such as…

Toyota has reclaimed its position as the world’s most valuable automotive brand, according to the 2025 Brand Finance Global 500 ranking. The Japanese automaker climbed from 21st to 18th place overall, maintaining a consistent and steady growth trajectory. Tesla, however, experienced a sharp decline, dropping to the 36th spot in 2025 from 18th in 2024 and 9th in 2023. Once celebrated as a disruptor in the automotive industry, Tesla’s fall from grace is attributed to several factors outlined by the report. These include its reliance on the Chinese electric vehicle market, BYD surpassing Tesla as the world’s largest EV maker,…

Nissan Motor Acceptance Company (NMAC) and Infiniti Financial Services (IFS) have expanded their SignatureFLEX lease program to cover drivers with legacy leases maturing on or after February 1, 2025. This move enables eligible lessees to purchase additional miles up to 30 days before the lease ends, offering enhanced flexibility and convenience. The decision comes in response to evolving driving trends, with 10,000-mile leases now more popular than 12,000-mile options among Nissan and Infiniti customers. Additionally, demand for ultra-low 5,000-mile leases has doubled over the past two years. Jim DeTrude, Vice President of NMAC Sales & Marketing, stated, “SignatureFLEX is an innovative…

South Korea’s leading battery manufacturers achieved record-breaking investments in research and development (R&D) in 2024, despite a slowdown in global electric vehicle (EV) sales, according to industry sources. LG Energy Solution (LGES), Samsung SDI, and SK On collectively invested over 2.5 trillion won (approximately $1.7 billion) in R&D, surpassing the previous year’s 2.47 trillion won. This preemptive approach is seen as preparation for an anticipated recovery in battery demand, as the EV market transitions through a challenging phase referred to as the ‘EV chasm.’ LGES, South Korea’s top battery maker, reportedly invested over 1.1 trillion won in next-generation battery development,…

The automotive industry is facing critical uncertainty as US President Donald Trump announced plans to impose 25% tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico starting February 1. This move, revealed hours after his inauguration, threatens to disrupt the daily shipment of billions of dollars worth of vehicles and parts across the borders. Industry experts are closely monitoring the situation, with many viewing the announcement as a potential negotiation tactic rather than an imminent policy shift. Mark Wakefield, global automotive market lead at AlixPartners, remarked, “Most people in the industry are waiting to see what happens and to see what the…

The ‘Star of Sector’ Awards aim to recognise excellence across diverse fields, including Services, Products, Experiences, Solutions, Platforms, Applications, Systems, Brands, and Individuals, as stated in the press release. “Founded on authenticity and credibility, this prestigious award recognises innovation, impactful contributions, and excellence across industries. Winning a ‘Star of Sector’ award enhances brand reputation and drives significant sales growth, making it a highly sought-after honour,” the release stated. Scheduled to take place in Dubai during the second quarter of 2025, the inaugural event will confer 32 awards annually. Of these, 30 recipients will be selected through applications, while two special…

The President of the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA), Hildegard Mueller, has called for urgent reforms to ensure the global competitiveness of Germany’s auto industry. Speaking at the VDA’s annual press conference, Mueller stressed policy and mindset shifts to sustain economic growth, achieve climate goals, and secure jobs in 2025. “Our aim is to produce the best digital and climate-neutral mobility products in the world,” Mueller said, reinforcing the global reputation of German automotive brands. From 2025 to 2029, German automakers are projected to invest €320 billion in research and development and €220 billion in plants and equipment.…

Former US President Donald Trump rescinded a key executive order from the Biden administration on Monday, targeting federal support for electric vehicles (EVs) and reaffirming his commitment to traditional energy industries. Speaking at Capitol One Arena before an enthusiastic crowd, Trump signed a series of executive orders, including one that revokes a 2021 order aimed at ensuring half of all new vehicles sold in the US by 2030 are electric. “The United States will not sabotage our own industries while China pollutes with impunity,” Trump declared, emphasizing his stance against what he views as policies that disadvantage American manufacturers in…

The European Commission will initiate a Strategic Dialogue on the future of the automotive industry on 30 January, a critical step to address the challenges and opportunities in a sector vital to the EU’s economy and climate objectives. The initiative, announced by President Ursula von der Leyen during a European Parliament address on 27 November 2024, reflects the Commission’s commitment to safeguarding the industry’s long-term competitiveness, sustainability, and resilience. The automotive sector is a cornerstone of European prosperity, contributing 7% to the EU’s GDP and employing over 13 million people. The dialogue will bring together key stakeholders, including manufacturers and…

HORSE, a global leader in innovative and low-emission powertrain systems, has commenced production of its state-of-the-art eMotor at its Aveiro facility in Portugal. Designed to enhance performance and efficiency, this cutting-edge radial flux eMotor is aimed at next-generation plug-in and hybrid vehicles. The eMotor is engineered to integrate seamlessly with HORSE’s HR12, HR16, and HR18 internal combustion engines. Supporting both full hybrid and plug-in hybrid applications, it delivers an impressive maximum power output of 49 kW and 212 Nm of torque, underscoring HORSE’s commitment to advancing vehicle electrification technologies. HORSE CEO Patrice Haettel expressed confidence in the product’s potential: “The…