Industry & Business

The Industry & Business category covers the business side of the automotive world, including earnings reports, sales figures, factory investments, partnerships and regulations. Here you will find analysis of market trends, EV transition strategies, regional policies and how major brands position themselves in global competition.

UK Auto Industry Criticizes New EV Excise Duty Plan
EV & Electric Cars, Industry & Business, News

UK Auto Industry Criticizes New EV Excise Duty Plan

The UK auto industry has expressed strong criticism over the government's recent announcement of a new annual tax on electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids, set to take effect in 2028. The proposed levy aims to address declining revenues from petrol and diesel fuel taxes as electrified vehicles become more prevalent.Key TakeawaysThe new tax will impose a 3 pence per mile charge for electric cars and a 1.5 pence per mile charge for plug-in hybrids from 2028.The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) argues that the measure could suppress demand, making it harder to meet ambitious sales targets for EVs.Details on how the tax will be measured and enforced remain unclear, with no specifics provided regarding implementation.In a move reminiscent of past fiscal policies, the UK governm...
UK to Introduce Pay-Per-Mile Charge for EVs in April 2028
EV & Electric Cars, Industry & Business, News

UK to Introduce Pay-Per-Mile Charge for EVs in April 2028

The UK government is set to introduce a pay-per-mile charge for electric vehicles (EVs) starting from April 2028, aiming to address the funding gap left by the decline of fuel tax revenues. As more drivers switch to EVs, traditional means of financing road maintenance are becoming less effective.Key TakeawaysThe pay-per-mile charge will be implemented in April 2028 for all electric vehicles in the UK.This move is aimed at ensuring adequate funding for road maintenance and infrastructure improvements.The new system will replace fuel tax revenues as more drivers switch to EVs, reducing reliance on gasoline taxes.With the rapid growth of electric vehicle adoption across the UK, traditional methods of financing road maintenance are becoming increasingly ineffective. The government's decision t...
CATL Breaks Ground on €4.1bn Battery Plant in Spain with Stellantis
Industry & Business, News

CATL Breaks Ground on €4.1bn Battery Plant in Spain with Stellantis

Chinese battery manufacturer CATL has commenced construction of a new €4.1 billion (approximately $4.8 billion) battery plant in Figueruelas, Aragon, Spain, marking a significant investment in European electric vehicle infrastructure. The facility is set to become the largest battery manufacturing site in Spain and will be developed alongside automaker Stellantis.Key TakeawaysCATL's €4.1 billion plant will produce batteries for electric vehicles, supported by over €300 million in European Union funding.The project is expected to create around 2,000 jobs once operational and will be located in Figueruelas, a small town of approximately 1,300 residents.Local unions anticipate that the plant will employ roughly 3,000 Spanish workers after training, showcasing an investment model for re-indust...
MG3 Hybrid+ Snags Black Friday Deal at £172.87 Monthly
Industry & Business, News

MG3 Hybrid+ Snags Black Friday Deal at £172.87 Monthly

Are you in the market for a hybrid car that's both affordable and packed with features? Look no further than the MG3 Hybrid+, which is currently snagging the spotlight as our Car Deal of the Day on November 27, 2025. For just £172.87 a month, this stylish supermini offers impressive fuel efficiency, generous space, and top-of-the-line equipment.Key TakeawaysAffordable leasing deal at £172.87 per monthEfficient hybrid powertrain with over 64mpgTrophy trim level includes heated seats and a 360-degree cameraThe MG3 Hybrid+ is making waves in the supermini sector, especially after securing the Affordable Hybrid Car of the Year award for two consecutive years. This compact car packs a punch with its hybrid powertrain that combines a 1.5-litre petrol engine and an electric motor to deliver a rob...
Hyundai Mobis Spearheads South Korea’s Automotive Chip Ecosystem
Industry & Business, News

Hyundai Mobis Spearheads South Korea’s Automotive Chip Ecosystem

Imagine a future where South Korea leads the global automotive semiconductor industry, thanks to Hyundai Mobis. The company recently hosted the first Auto Semicon Korea (ASK) forum, bringing together over two dozen companies and research bodies from around the world. Key Takeaways Hyundai Mobis is spearheading a new initiative to develop South Korea's automotive semiconductor sector. The ASK forum was attended by 23 organizations, including carmakers and chip designers. The company aims to foster local industry growth and technology localization through this platform. Hyundai Mobis CEO Lee Gyu-suk envisions a future where the company's dual role as both a Tier 1 supplier and fabless semiconductor designer positions it uniquely in the market. This allows Hyundai Mobis to act as a ...
Industry & Business, News

F1’s George Russell Advocates for Professional Stewards in Multibillion-Dollar Sport

Formula One driver George Russell has called for the sport to stop relying on volunteer stewards, citing the need for professional oversight given Formula One’s multibillion-dollar status. The British driver believes that as F1 continues to grow and evolve into a global entertainment behemoth, it must also adapt its operational infrastructure.Key TakeawaysF1 is a multibillion-dollar industry requiring professional oversight.Russell advocates for paid stewards to ensure fair and consistent race management.The sport's growth necessitates modernization of its operational practices.George Russell’s comments highlight the growing pains of Formula One as it transitions into a fully-fledged entertainment industry. The sport has seen unprecedented expansion over the past decade, with races now hel...
Panasonic to Power Zoox’s Robotaxis with Advanced Batteries
EV & Electric Cars, Industry & Business, News

Panasonic to Power Zoox’s Robotaxis with Advanced Batteries

Electric vehicle batteries are getting a major boost as Panasonic Energy has inked an agreement to supply its high-performance cylindrical lithium-ion cells to Zoox for their upcoming robotaxi fleet. This partnership marks a significant step forward in the development of autonomous vehicles and urban mobility solutions.Key TakeawaysPanasonic Energy will supply 2170 battery cells to Zoox starting early 2026 for their next-gen robotaxi fleet.Zoox recently launched a driverless ride-hailing service in Las Vegas, marking the first of its kind with purpose-built vehicles.Panasonic's batteries are renowned for high energy density and safety, crucial factors for Zoox’s ambitious plans to reshape urban transportation.The deal between Panasonic Energy and Zoox is set to kick off in early 2026. This...
Red Bull Set to Announce Max Verstappen’s F1 Teammate for 2026
EV & Electric Cars, Industry & Business, News

Red Bull Set to Announce Max Verstappen’s F1 Teammate for 2026

Formula One fans are on the edge of their seats as Red Bull Racing prepares to unveil Max Verstappen’s teammate for the upcoming season. According to team boss Laurent Mekies, the announcement will take place immediately after this weekend's Qatar Grand Prix.Key TakeawaysThe identity of Max Verstappen's teammate for 2026 will be revealed next week.Yuki Tsunoda is likely to be replaced by rookie driver Isack Hadjar, who has impressed this year.Racing Bulls, Red Bull’s sister team, will also announce their line-up soon with Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad as strong contenders.Red Bull Racing's decision comes after a season of ups and downs for current driver Yuki Tsunoda. Despite having access to upgrades, Tsunoda has struggled to secure consistent points in the championship, leading many ins...
Hamilton’s Calm Amid Ferrari’s Consistent Troubles in Qatar GP
Industry & Business, News

Hamilton’s Calm Amid Ferrari’s Consistent Troubles in Qatar GP

As the Formula 1 season continues to unfold, Lewis Hamilton finds himself navigating through yet another challenging chapter with Ferrari’s persistent issues at the forefront. The seven-time world champion remains stoic and focused despite the Italian team's ongoing struggles.Key TakeawaysLewis Hamilton stays calm amid Ferrari's continued technical difficulties.Ferrari's problems persist, affecting their performance in crucial races like Qatar.The F1 community watches closely as Hamilton and Mercedes strategize for the next race.Hamilton’s demeanor during this period is a testament to his experience and maturity. Despite Ferrari’s consistent issues that have plagued the season, the British driver maintains a composed approach on and off the track. This calmness reflects not just his person...
FBI Seizes $13 Million Mercedes CLK-GTR Roadster from Fugitive Olympic Athlete
Industry & Business, News

FBI Seizes $13 Million Mercedes CLK-GTR Roadster from Fugitive Olympic Athlete

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has seized a rare and valuable Mercedes-Benz CLK-GTR Roadster worth approximately $13 million from Ryan Wedding, a former Olympic athlete turned fugitive. This unique car is one of only six built globally.Key TakeawaysThe Mercedes CLK-GTR Roadster was seized as part of an asset forfeiture operation against Ryan Wedding.Ryan Wedding, a former Canadian Olympic athlete, was allegedly involved in drug trafficking and money laundering.The car might eventually be auctioned off by the government if Wedding is convicted.The Mercedes CLK-GTR Roadster is more than just an automobile; it's a piece of automotive history. Built as a homologation special based on the CLK-GTR Le Mans race car, this road-legal marvel packs a punch with its 6.9-liter V12 engine tha...