This week’s global motoring landscape has been buzzing with big moves, bold strategies, and a few surprises from every corner of the industry. From ambitious EV roadmaps and fresh model reveals to shifting regulations and heavyweight business decisions, the automotive world has been anything but quiet. Here’s your concise, worldwide snapshot of the stories shaping the road ahead.
Industry Moves & New Models
- Mercedes pushes ahead with its new ‘Little G’
Testing continues as the brand gears up for a 2027 arrival, signalling a strong push in the compact premium 4×4 space. - Audi doubles down on future design direction
The firm commits to its upcoming Concept C, even as uncertainty swirls around Porsche’s 718 EV programme. - Audi RS5 PHEV revealed
A major performance milestone: 630bhp, 2370kg, and the brand’s first hot plug‑in hybrid, complete with torque‑vectoring tech aimed at solving criticisms of the RS4 lineage. - Polestar expands its UK‑relevant line‑up
A new Polestar 4 “estate” is coming this year, with a next‑gen Polestar 2 planned for 2027. The brand also rules out hybrids entirely, committing to a zero‑emissions future.
EV & Tech Developments
- Automated expensing for EV company cars
A new system is being introduced to prevent drivers being left out of pocket under HMRC’s flat advisory electric rates — a notable shift for fleet users. - Volvo EX60 revealed
The UK’s longest‑range EV is on the way, with fresh details on pricing and specs emerging this week.
Roads, Safety & Regulation
- Vaping in cars with children could soon be banned
A new proposal aims to tighten in‑car safety rules. - Smart motorways under scrutiny
A National Highways report suggests they’re not delivering the expected financial benefits. - Graduated driving licences coming to Northern Ireland
A major shift in how new drivers will be trained and regulated. - Driving test cheating up 47%
The DVSA reports a sharp rise in fraudulent attempts across the UK. - Drug‑driving cases rising
England and Wales see a continued increase in drug‑related driving offences. - Pothole claims soar
Councils report a 90% rise in pothole‑related claims over the past three years — no surprise to UK motorists. - Road markings disappearing
A new report highlights the rapid fading of vital road markings across Britain.
Worldwide Car News Roundup — This Week
New Models & Global Launches
- Toyota previews its next‑gen EV strategy
The brand continues its shift toward solid‑state battery tech, promising faster charging and longer ranges across future global models. - Hyundai Ioniq 7 edges closer to launch
New details emerge on the large electric SUV, aimed squarely at the US and Asian markets with a focus on long‑distance comfort and advanced driver‑assist systems. - BMW updates its global EV roadmap
The company confirms expanded production for its Neue Klasse EVs, signalling a major worldwide push starting in 2025. - Mazda hints at a rotary‑assisted performance EV
A concept is expected later this year, reviving the rotary engine in a hybrid‑range‑extender role for global markets.
Industry & Business
- Volkswagen restructures globally
The group announces further cost‑cutting measures and a renewed focus on software development after delays in its Cariad division. - Stellantis invests heavily in North American EV production
New factories and battery plants are confirmed as the company prepares for a wave of electric Jeep, Dodge, and Ram models. - Honda and Sony’s Afeela project progresses
The joint venture reveals more details on its tech‑heavy EV, aimed at the US and Japanese markets.
Motorsport Highlights
- Formula 1 teams continue pre‑season development
Several teams have revealed updated aero packages and power‑unit tweaks ahead of the season opener. - WRC sees strong hybrid performance
Early‑season rallies highlight the growing reliability and competitiveness of hybrid rally cars across varied terrain.
