Ford unveils in-house-built processor module for future vehicles

By developing its new electrical/electronic architecture in-house, the automaker aims to trim advanced vehicle technology costs and increase customer accessibility.

GM expects a total charge of $7.1B in Q4 as it realigns its North America strategy

The automaker cited slowing demand and the termination of consumer tax incentives for its shift away from EVs.

U.K. battery-electric vehicle sales grow in 2025 — but lag government targets

“Rising EV uptake is an undoubted positive but the pace is still too slow and the cost to industry too high,” said SMMT’s chief executive Mike Hawes.

Illinois offers $24M in grants for manufacturing training programs

Applicants outside of the Chicago metropolitan area can apply for grants valued between $3 million and $6 million through the end of April.

GM and Ford should reconsider parts consolidation

In 2015, the late FCA CEO Sergio Marchionne proposed sharing common parts across models to reduce costs. Now, standardization deserves a closer look, writes John McElroy.

5 auto industry trends to watch in 2026

Heading into the new year, automakers are working to mitigate the impacts of tariffs while preparing for rapid technology advancements in the industry.

Volvo claims new EX60 SUV will relieve range anxiety

Prelaunch testing suggests the EX60 has a maximum 503-mile range, which Volvo credits to technological advances such as high-efficiency e-motors that cut weight.

Thomas Ingenlath returns to Volvo Cars as head designer

Ingenlath previously headed Volvo Cars’ Polestar subsidiary and was chief designer at Volvo parent Geely.

CarMax promises price relief for used-car customers

The used-car retailer's CEO says lower prices and margins will be accompanied by an increased marketing spend.

Dealers’ most-read stories of 2025 reflect focus on innovation, affordability

WardsAuto's dealer readers engaged with stories on family ties and the technological innovations that helped manage a retail environment complicated by shifting regulations, non-traditional competitors and pressure to make vehicles affordable.

Volkswagen answers consumers’ call for more button controls

Buttons control many physical functions in the cockpit of VW’s compact electric entry-level hatchback, the ID.Polo.

US manufacturing activity drops to lowest point of 2025: PMI

Weak demand and tariff effects are weighing on manufacturing companies nationwide, including those making transportation equipment.

Lucid, Uber and Nuro unveil jointly developed ‘global robotaxi’ at CES

The robotaxi is purpose-built for Uber’s ride-hailing network and features Nuro’s autonomous driving technology.

VW’s Gen.Urban driverless test mule begins German on-road trials

The research project in Wolfsburg aims to assess the vehicle's passenger trust levels despite a lack of steering wheel or pedals.

Honda buying LG Energy Solution’s stake in Ohio EV battery plant building for $2.85B

The transaction includes the building and infrastructure assets related to the battery joint venture, but excludes the land and equipment.

High prices will continue to affect new car sales in 2026: Cox

Years of supply chain constraints and government policy shifts have created a “new baseline” for vehicle pricing, according to the industry analysts.

Mercedes settles emissions-cheating lawsuit for nearly $150M

The total value of the multi-state settlement could reach $347 million, according to one state attorney general.

Waymo updating software following robotaxi failures during San Francisco blackout

The company explained why its vehicles responded inappropriately during a wide-scale power outage and outlined steps to prevent a recurrence.

Updated Jan. 5, 2026

US plans fresh China semiconductor tariffs for 2027

The duty rate will be set at least 30 days before the implementation date and stack on top of existing levies, per a Federal Register filing.

How AI could help improve dealer operations

Dealers and vendors are testing powerful new tools for sourcing and selling more vehicles, as well as improving customer satisfaction.

Software glitches fueled OEM recalls in 2025

As automakers continued to add new technology to their models, the number of software-related recalls was on the rise this year.

Toyota plans to sell 3 US-built vehicles in Japan in 2026

The move comes shortly after a tariff deal opened the door for vehicles assembled in the U.S. to be sold in Japan without further testing.

Automakers spent over $2 billion in linear TV ads in 2025

OEMs leveraged sports programming, particularly pro and college football, to reach prospective customers.

USMCA review: 5 supply chain issues the US plans to address

The United States won’t “rubber stamp” an extension of the pact next summer and will instead look to fix a few structural issues, per U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer.

Ford cancels $6.5B battery supply contract with LG Energy Solution

Last week, the automaker also dissolved its BlueOval SK battery joint venture with SK On as it shifts away from EVs.