Tag: Automotive

German Chancellor Pushes EU to Soften 2035 Ban on Combustion Engine Cars
EV & Electric Cars, News

German Chancellor Pushes EU to Soften 2035 Ban on Combustion Engine Cars

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is urging the European Commission to relax its plan to ban sales of new combustion engine cars by 2035, arguing for a technology-neutral approach that keeps hybrid options open. In a letter to Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Merz advocates for exemptions allowing certain hybrid technologies to continue after the deadline.Key TakeawaysChancellor Merz is pushing for softer regulations on combustion engine cars by 2035.The proposal includes exemptions for plug-in hybrids and range-extended electric vehicles with efficient engines.This move aims to protect the car industry while supporting climate goals in a technology-neutral way.Merz's stance highlights the ongoing debate between environmental targets and industrial realities. The European Commissi...
CIDOA Elects New Leadership Amidst Milei’s Auto Policy Successes
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CIDOA Elects New Leadership Amidst Milei’s Auto Policy Successes

The Argentine automotive market is buzzing with excitement as the Cámara de Importadores y Distribuidores Oficiales de Automotores (CIDOA) has elected new leadership. Ernesto Cavicchioli, CEO of Hyundai Motor Argentina, now leads CIDOA, taking over from Hugo Belcastro who will serve as secretary.Key TakeawaysCavicchioli highlights the impact of Milei's policies on market growth and variety.The number of car units sold has increased to around 600,000 in 2025 from a stagnant 400,000 previously.Importers now have more financial tools and lower interest rates.Cavicchioli's first remarks as president of CIDOA emphasized the positive effects of President Javier Milei's policies on Argentina’s automotive market. He noted a significant increase in car sales volume to approximately 600,000 units th...
Thermal Engines Losing Ground in New Car Sales
EV & Electric Cars, News

Thermal Engines Losing Ground in New Car Sales

In a significant shift, thermal engines have lost their dominance over new car sales in the European Union. A study by TechGaged Research reveals that gasoline and diesel vehicles now account for only 36.6% of new registrations in 2025.Key TakeawaysThe share of thermal engines has dropped to 36.6%, with gasoline at 31.28% and diesel at 9.2%.Electrified vehicles now represent over 60% of new car registrations, with hybrids leading the market.Germany saw a 39.4% increase in electric vehicle sales despite reduced subsidies.The study by TechGaged Research indicates that thermal engines no longer dominate the European Union's new car market. In 2025, gasoline and diesel vehicles represent only 36.6%, with individual shares of 31.28% for gasoline and 9.2% for diesel.Electrified vehicles have tak...
Guangzhou Auto Show Highlights NEVs, Sets Dates for 2026 Event
EV & Electric Cars, Industry & Business, News

Guangzhou Auto Show Highlights NEVs, Sets Dates for 2026 Event

The 2025 Guangzhou International Automobile Exhibition concluded recently with a record-breaking number of new energy vehicle (NEV) debuts. The event saw the unveiling of 93 new models and attracted over 855,000 visitors to the Canton Fair Complex.Key TakeawaysThe 2026 Guangzhou auto show is scheduled for November 27 to December 6, 2026.New energy vehicles (NEVs) accounted for 58% of the exhibited models at this year's event.Several automakers debuted new NEV models and technologies during the exhibition.The show marked a significant milestone in China’s automotive industry, with NEVs making up more than half of all displayed vehicles. This aligns with recent data from the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM), which reported that October's NEV sales reached 1,715,000 units,...
Are Premium Car Audio Upgrades Worth the Cost?
Guides & Maintenance, News

Are Premium Car Audio Upgrades Worth the Cost?

When it comes to car audio, upgrading from basic to premium systems can cost thousands of dollars. But is it worth it for everyday drivers? We put three popular models through their paces with a hi-fi expert.Key TakeawaysPremium audio upgrades often come from the same parent company, Harman.The test revealed differences in sound quality and system calibration between standard and premium setups.For audiophiles, the upgrade is likely worth it; for casual listeners, basic systems may suffice.Shaun O'Connor from Richer Sounds evaluated the audio systems of a Volkswagen Golf, Kia Sportage, and BMW i4. Each car had both standard and premium Harman Kardon setups. Despite similar branding, the expert noted differences in sound quality and calibration.The test involved playing three songs: Kashmir...
GAC Faces Trademark Challenge from BMW: What’s at Stake?
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GAC Faces Trademark Challenge from BMW: What’s at Stake?

Imagine this: You're a car enthusiast, and you hear that one of China’s biggest automakers, GAC Group, is facing a potential trademark challenge from none other than the mightyBMW. It sounds like an automotive soap opera, doesn't it? Let's dive into what this could mean for both companies. Key Takeaways GAC Group faces a possible trademark dispute with BMW over naming rights. The case highlights the growing importance of brand identity in the global automotive market. This challenge could impact GAC's international expansion plans and its reputation among car buyers. First off, let’s talk about why this is happening. Trademark disputes are like legal chess matches where every move counts. In this case, BMW might be concerned that a similar name to one of their models could confus...
Abarth Considering Return to Gasoline Engines Due to Electric Sales Slump
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Abarth Considering Return to Gasoline Engines Due to Electric Sales Slump

Abarth, the iconic Italian performance brand, is reconsidering its electric-only strategy after experiencing a significant decline in sales and facing customer dissatisfaction with its EV offerings. The company's European boss, Gaetano Thorel, has confirmed that Abarth is exploring the possibility of reintroducing gasoline-powered vehicles to cater to traditional fans who prefer modifiable internal combustion engines.Key TakeawaysAbarth's electric models have seen a sharp decline in sales, with only 273 cars sold in the UK this year compared to 954 last year and over 5,000 in 2018.The brand is considering developing a new petrol-powered Abarth based on the Fiat 500 Hybrid platform.Customer feedback indicates a strong preference for internal combustion engines due to their modifiability and...
Leapmotor Sets New Delivery Record with 70,327 Cars in November
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Leapmotor Sets New Delivery Record with 70,327 Cars in November

Leapmotor has once again shown its strength and resilience in the automotive industry by delivering a record-breaking 70,327 cars in November. This marks their seventh consecutive month of setting new records and highlights their unwavering commitment to growth and innovation.Key TakeawaysLeapmotor delivered 70,327 vehicles in November, a 75.08% increase from the same period last year.The company's January to November total stands at an impressive 536,132 deliveries, marking a significant 113.42% year-on-year growth.Leapmotor aims for one million annual sales in 2026 and will celebrate its 10th anniversary on December 28.The latest figures reveal that Leapmotor's November delivery numbers are not only a record but also represent a 75.08% increase from the same month last year, with October...
BYD Ditches Rotating Touchscreens for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Integration
EV & Electric Cars, News

BYD Ditches Rotating Touchscreens for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Integration

Chinese automaker <a href="https://autoglobalnews.com/jaecoo-j7-phev-undercuts-byd-sealion-targets-chery-and-geely-in-australia/" style="color:#1a73e8;text-decoration:underline;" title="Jaecoo J7 PHEV Undercuts BYD Sealion, Targets Chery and Geel">BYD has announced a significant shift in its strategy, opting to abandon the iconic rotating touchscreens that have been a hallmark of its models since entering the European market. This decision marks a clear departure from the brand's previous design philosophy and signals a new focus on seamless integration with third-party platforms such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.Key TakeawaysThe Yuan Pro will be the first model to feature a fixed touchscreen, setting the stage for a gradual rollout across BYD's entire lineup.The company ci...
Avatr 11 Electric SUV Launches in Brazil with Porsche-like Customization
EV & Electric Cars, News

Avatr 11 Electric SUV Launches in Brazil with Porsche-like Customization

Chinese automaker Avatr, through its Brazilian partner Caoa Changan, is launching the Avatr 11 electric SUV in Brazil. The vehicle offers a luxury customization experience akin to that of high-end brands like Porsche, marking a new approach for Chinese carmakers in the South American market.Key TakeawaysThe Avatr 11 is available with 42 possible customizations, similar to luxury European automakers.Priced at an estimated R$650,000, the SUV features two electric motors producing a combined 585 horsepower and can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds.Pre-orders are open with a deposit of R$9,999 through Webmotors, offering customers early access to vehicle customization services.The Avatr 11 is the first model from Caoa Changan that will be sold in Brazil as a bespoke order. Custome...