Benteler starts work on advanced manufacturing plant in Morocco, boosting job creation and integrating Industry 4.0 technologies The Benteler Group has launched construction of a smart automotive plant in Morocco’s Kenitra Free Zone, aiming to strengthen its global footprint, boost local employment and embed digital manufacturing technologies. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Škoda Auto breaks ground on new paint shop to boost flexibility, reduce emissions and support EV-ICE production at Mladá Boleslav by 2029 Škoda Auto has started construction on a next-generation paint shop at its Mladá Boleslav plant. Due to open in 2029, the facility will support EV and ICE models, enhance surface quality, and reduce emissions by 28% Ilkhan Ozsevim
Europe’s EV industry faces china threat, recycling gaps and tariffs, warns SSAB PARTNER CONTENTThis content was produced by Automotive Manufacturing Solutions in partnership with SSAB.SSAB’s Erik Nymann warns Europe’s BEV industry must move faster to counter China’s battery dominance, US tariffs, and a widening gap in recycling and infrastructure warned that Europe’s electric vehicle industry faces mounting pressure from geopolitical shifts, battery imports, and weak recycling systems. Michael Nash reports. AMS
Hybrid vehicles return to North America’s production lines as automakers rethink strategy Automakers that once aimed to skip hybrids and go straight to electric vehicles are now reintegrating hybrids into their North American line-ups. Building “half-and-half” cars is proving technically tricky but strategically worthwhile. Ilkhan Ozsevim
GM commits $4bn to US manufacturing as it reorganises production footprint, boosts EV output, and moves key vehicle assembly from Mexico and Canada to US plants General Motors will invest $4bn to expand vehicle production in Michigan, Kansas and Tennessee, shifting models from Mexico and Canada in a move that highlights localisation, EV growth and trade policy anticipation. Ilkhan Ozsevim
JLR deepens electric vehicle manufacturing capabilities with 50 new roles focused on material sourcing, traceability and supply chain risk mitigation As it transitions to electric vehicle production, JLR has added 50 roles to map material sources, secure battery minerals, and protect manufacturing operations from disruption and compliance risk. Ilkhan Ozsevim
General Motors promotes Mike Trevorrow to lead global manufacturing and engineering, aligning production with innovation in software-defined and electrified vehicles General Motors has appointed Mike Trevorrow to oversee global manufacturing and engineering operations, unifying leadership to drive faster industrialisation of software-defined and electrified vehicles across 110 sites. Ilkhan Ozsevim
UK automotive production hits lowest April level since 1952 as exports falter and policy uncertainty clouds EV transition UK car and commercial vehicle production fell sharply in April, marking the worst start to a year since 2009. As exports decline and policy uncertainty looms, the industry calls for urgent action to restore competitiveness and support the EV transition. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Inside Dräxlmaier’s digital drive: COO Arno Güllering on AI, mindset shifts and global smart factory strategy In a revealing interview at the Automobil Produktion Kongress in Munich, Arno Güllering, chief operating officer of Dräxlmaier Group, shares how the global supplier is accelerating its smart factory transformation. From unexpected digital frontrunners like Tunisia to the growing role of generative AI in maintenance, Güllering discusses his first-year priorities and why a shift in mindset is just as critical as technology. Christopher Ludwig
Automotive expert Tunç Kip says human-machine interfaces are essential in boosting flexibility, quality, and performance in global automotive manufacturing From the factory floor to upstream design, digital human-machine interfaces are enabling smarter, leaner, and more flexible vehicle production - but humans need to be at the centre of gravity for it to work. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Mercedes-Benz blends AI, humanoid robots and craftspeople at its Digital Factory Campus to redefine the boundaries of human-machine collaboration in vehicle production At its Digital Factory Campus in Berlin, Mercedes-Benz is pioneering new forms of human-machine interaction, from generative AI agents to humanoid robots, blending physical and digital intelligence in its production system. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Volvo announces 3,000 job cuts as EV sales drop and projects react Volvo Cars is reducing its workforce by 3,000, primarily in Sweden, as part of a $1.9 billion cost-cutting plan. The move follows a significant decline in electric vehicle sales and a strategic shift in the company’s electrification goals. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Inside JLR’s circular manufacturing push: How reused tools and digital systems are driving EV production and decarbonisation across its global network Tomasz Jozwiak explains how Jaguar Land Rover is driving circularity across its operations by reusing and refurbishing manufacturing assets, cutting emissions, saving millions, and supporting electrification. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Augmented reality, AI, cobots and digital twins are transforming automotive production by enhancing worker training, planning, inspection and collaboration Human-machine interfaces are becoming central to car production. With AR, cobots, AI inspection and digital twins, OEMs like Ford, Volvo, GM and Mercedes are reshaping the way people and machines interact. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Toyota reorganises North American manufacturing into three pillars and seven regions as part of its long-term production and logistics strategy Toyota has unveiled a sweeping reorganisation of its North American manufacturing, dividing operations into three strategic pillars and seven regions, alongside executive changes aimed at EV growth and production agility. Ilkhan Ozsevim
JLR and Daimler Truck are building resilience through flexible manufacturing, agile supply chains and modular production systems JLR and Daimler Truck are adapting their global production systems to meet rising demand for vehicle personalisation, electrification and supply resilience. From simulation to system design, flexibility is now built in from the start. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Mercedes-Benz to localise GLC SUV production in Alabama amid tariff pressures and market shifts Mercedes-Benz confirms plans to assemble the GLC SUV at its Alabama plant starting in late 2027, a move influenced by US tariffs and the need for localised production to meet North American demand. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Volkswagen appoints Dr. Werner Tietz as new head of Group Research and Development Volkswagen Group has announced that Dr. Werner Tietz, currently the Executive Board Member for Research and Development at SEAT S.A., will take on the additional role of Head of Group Research and Development at Volkswagen Group, effective July 1, 2025. AMS
Nissan to slash 20,000 jobs and abandon battery plant as new CEO restructures operations after mounting losses in US and China Nissan is preparing to axe 15% of its workforce, close multiple plants and abandon a billion-dollar EV battery factory, as new CEO Ivan Espinosa steers the carmaker through worsening losses and market missteps. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Sterling Anderson joins GM as executive vice-president and chief product officer to drive innovation across electric and petrol vehicles, software, services and user experience General Motors has appointed Sterling Anderson, co-founder of Aurora and former Tesla executive, to lead product development across its portfolio, as the carmaker seeks to unite software, hardware and user experience under a single innovation strategy. Ilkhan Ozsevim
China’s rapid rise in electric vehicle adoption is reshaping global auto manufacturing, forcing Western OEMs to rethink costs, portfolios and consumer strategies As China leads the global EV transition with record-breaking sales and technology advances, Western carmakers face mounting pressure to cut costs, target regional needs and rethink loyalty strategies. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Inside Tesla’s ‘radical’ manufacturing shift: How the “Unboxed” process could slash EV production costs and impact the automotive industry As Tesla gears up to launch its $25,000 electric car, its “Unboxed” manufacturing process draws both praise and scepticism. AMS explores its potential to transform automotive production and its implications for the industry. Ilkhan Ozsevim
As automotive manufacturing digitises, new smart factory roles in AI, data and IIoT are replacing traditional shopfloor jobs and transforming skills requirements As automotive manufacturing becomes more intelligent, connected and software-defined, factory roles are shifting. New digital profiles are emerging, while traditional ones risk becoming obsolete. Chris Löwer
China’s rare earth magnet export ban threatens global EV and automotive manufacturing, as US, European and Asian carmakers scramble to secure critical materials The global automotive sector is facing renewed disruption as China tightens control over exports of heavy rare earths and magnets. With EV powertrains and chips at risk, OEMs are now racing to diversify supply. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Stellantis and Factorial Energy validate breakthrough solid-state batteries with fast-charging FEST technology and target 2026 EV demonstration fleet integration Stellantis and Factorial Energy have validated high-density, fast-charging solid-state battery cells. Their collaboration now aims at optimising battery packs for efficiency and introducing a 2026 EV demonstration fleet. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Volvo Cars begins EX30 electric SUV production at Ghent, adding jobs and capacity to meet high demand across Europe Volvo Cars has started building its best-selling EX30 EV at its Ghent plant, investing €200m ($227m) to expand flexible production, create hundreds of new jobs and align output more closely with growing European demand. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Hyundai Motor Group advances hybrid technology with dual-motor transmission and electrification systems for higher efficiency and performance Hyundai Motor Group has revealed its next-generation hybrid system, combining a dual-motor transmission, turbocharged engines and electrification technologies that enhance power, fuel economy and ride refinement across its model range. Ilkhan Ozsevim
As VW cuts back in Germany, Slovakia and Spain emerge as new pillars of cost-effective and future-focused production across Europe As VW’s traditional German plants face uncertainty, its long-established facilities in Bratislava and Pamplona are stepping into the spotlight—producing top-selling models and gearing up for a new era of electric vehicles. Timo Gilgen
Henkel’s next-generation gap filler solutions for automotive electronics PARTNER CONTENTThis content was produced by Automotive Manufacturing Solutions in partnership with Henkel.Thermal gap fillers are under greater stresses from electronic components as trends like autonomous driving take shape. AMS
How digital twins, hybrid clouds and predictive AI are enabling connected manufacturing in the automotive industry Automotive manufacturers are racing to connect systems, optimise production and secure supply chains through digital twins, hybrid clouds and AI. But legacy systems and organisational inertia remain major obstacles. By Ilkhan Ozsevim. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Lucid acquires Nikola’s former Arizona facilities and offers jobs to over 300 former employees as it scales up EV manufacturing and testing operations Lucid has struck a deal to acquire two former Nikola facilities in Arizona, adding nearly 900,000 sq. ft to its production and testing capacity and offering jobs to over 300 ex-Nikola workers as it scales EV production Ilkhan Ozsevim
Ambitious targets and big investments for India’s carmakers After a period of downsizing or complete withdrawal by some foreign OEMs, investment in Indian production is on the rise again with the domestic vehicle makers leading the way. Ian Henry
ArcelorMittal’s Multi Part Integration enhances vehicle manufacturing with reduced costs, better flexibility, and improved safety, offering a scalable solution for the automotive industry. PARTNER CONTENTThis content was produced by Automotive Manufacturing Solutions in partnership with ArcelorMittal.Philippe Aubron, Head of Global Automotive at ArcelorMittal explains how the automotive producer’s Multi Part Integration (MPI) solves multiple manufacturing challenges and assists automakers to cut costs and exceed critical targets. AMS
New whitepaper: BASF and Catena-X: Creating a more connected and efficient automotive industry This whitepaper provides an in-depth look at how BASF, as a top 30 global automotive supplier, is leveraging Catena-X to enhance supply chain transparency, ensure regulatory compliance, and drive efficiency.
Audi pioneers virtual control systems with Siemens and Broadcom to transform production efficiency and digital automation in its Böllinger Höfe bodyshop Audi is rolling out virtual programmable logic controllers at its Böllinger Höfe site with Siemens, Broadcom and Cisco, replacing hardware with cloud-based automation to enhance agility, scalability and environmental efficiency Ilkhan Ozsevim
Jaguar Land Rover accelerates EV production with hairpin winding machines for high-efficiency electric motors at its Wolverhampton site At its Wolverhampton plant, Jaguar Land Rover is deploying high-speed hairpin winding machines to increase electric motor performance while retraining its workforce for a future of electric propulsion. Ilkhan Ozsevim
BMW ramps up Debrecen plant with cutting-edge modular assembly to lead Neue Klasse electric vehicle production from late 2025 BMW’s all-electric plant in Debrecen enters its final phase before full production. With modular systems, digital twin planning and just-in-sequence delivery, the site signals the future of scalable, fossil-free manufacturing. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Webasto and Cylib forge sustainable partnership to recycle used batteries and secure critical raw materials Automotive supplier Webasto has partnered with battery recycling scale-up Cylib to recover lithium, graphite and other key materials. The collaboration will help Webasto meet EU sustainability targets while securing critical resources for Europe’s electrification push. Ilkhan Ozsevim
How digital twins are boosting efficiency and adaptability in automotive manufacturing: Stellantis, Webasto and Cintoo dig in Digital twins are becoming essential in automotive manufacturing, helping OEMs and suppliers optimise efficiency, adapt to electrification, and enhance real-time decision-making. We look at how BMW, HORSE, Stellantis, Webasto and Cintoo are pushing the technology’s boundaries. Ilkhan Ozsevim
At its Berlin Digital Factory Campus, Mercedes-Benz is boosting its connected manufacturing through AI, cloud platforms and human-machine collaboration across its global network At its historic Berlin-Marienfelde plant, Mercedes-Benz is building a new model of connected manufacturing. Through MO360, AI and cloud integration, it is turning data into action across a globally standardised production network Ilkhan Ozsevim
Henkel’s digital battery simulation team accelerates EV battery design and development, cutting costly iterations and physical testing for faster market readiness PARTNER CONTENTThis content was produced by Automotive Manufacturing Solutions in partnership with Henkel.Material supplier Henkel has created a new simulation team that is helping customers to be much faster and more efficient during battery design and development. AMS
Hyundai Motor Group to invest $21bn in US vehicle production, future tech, energy infrastructure and supply chains, targeting 1.2m unit capacity and 100,000 new jobs by 2028 Hyundai Motor Group is deepening its US manufacturing footprint with a $21bn investment through 2028. The Group is scaling production, localising components and developing future mobility and energy technologies to strengthen industrial resilience. Ilkhan Ozsevim
JAC Motors expands production in Mexico to increase capacity by 30% and assemble electric and combustion SUVs, pickups, trucks and LCVs for future domestic growth JAC Motors is scaling up production at its plant in Ciudad Sahagún, Hidalgo, with a 30% capacity boost and new flexible lines to assemble electric and combustion SUVs, pickups, LCVs and trucks for Mexico’s evolving market Ilkhan Ozsevim
HORSE accelerates digital twin integration at Valladolid to optimise powertrain production, enhance sustainability and redefine EV manufacturing strategies HORSE, the Renault-Geely joint venture, is harnessing digital twins at its Valladolid plant to transform powertrain production, boost flexibility in EV output, reduce emissions and embed data-driven decision-making across its operations. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Honda to source hybrid vehicle batteries from Toyota’s new US plant as tariff threats and shifting EV policies force Japanese carmakers to rethink their supply chains Honda will source hybrid batteries from Toyota’s $14bn US factory starting in 2025, as rising tariffs under Trump and declining EV incentives prompt Japanese carmakers to reinforce local supply chains Ilkhan Ozsevim
JLR expands EV production with 150 new UK roles supporting Range Rover Electric and next-generation electric vehicle manufacturing JLR is expanding its UK workforce with 150 new maintenance roles to support EV production. With Solihull and Wolverhampton at the heart of its transformation, the company is investing in people, technology and electrification. Ilkhan Ozsevim
How ALM and PLM integration enhances collaboration, accelerates development and ensures compliance in automotive manufacturing PARTNER CONTENTThis content was produced by Automotive Manufacturing Solutions in partnership with PTC.As the automotive industry transitions to software-defined vehicles, integrating Application Lifecycle Management (ALM) and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems becomes crucial. This integration enhances cross-domain collaboration, accelerates product development, and ensures compliance with safety standards. Experts from PTC and Veoneer share insights on leveraging ALM-PLM integration to maintain competitiveness in this dynamic landscape. AMS
Mercedes-Benz accelerates AI and robotics at Berlin-Marienfelde, transforming digital production with humanoid robots and next-generation automation technologies At its Berlin-Marienfelde site, Mercedes-Benz is integrating artificial intelligence and humanoid robotics into automotive production. With new digital tools and axial-flux motor technology, the factory is setting new global standards for intelligent manufacturing. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Mazda’s Lean Asset Strategy: Driving efficiency in development and manufacturing Mazda has unveiled its “Lean Asset Strategy,” reinforcing its multi-solution approach to electrification. This initiative is aimed at optimising product development and manufacturing while accelerating time-to-market and reducing costs. Nick Holt
India targets $500bn in EV investment as government boosts manufacturing incentives and new players like Tesla, VinFast prepare entry Significant investments are now under way at domestic and international vehicle companies in India, in component production, electric and hybrid vehicle production for the domestic market, and to facilitate rising exports across the world. This is being encouraged under the government’s strapline of “Make in India for the world.” Ian Henry
BYD considers establishing a third European assembly plant in Germany, aiming to bolster its presence in the region amid challenges of high operational costs and EU import tariffs. Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD is exploring the establishment of a third assembly plant in Europe, with Germany as a potential location. This move aims to bolster its European market presence, circumvent EU import tariffs, and address challenges such as high operational costs. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Honda scales back China ICE production as it accelerates EV plans in response to intensifying domestic competition and shifting market demand Honda is restructuring its China operations, cutting ICE production and focusing on EVs after a sharp sales decline. The automaker is betting on its new electric SUV, the S7, to reclaim market share amid intensifying domestic competition and a rapidly evolving industry. Ilkhan Ozsevim
hofer powertrain and Pollmann International accelerate EV powertrain manufacturing hofer Powertrain and Pollmann International have teamed up to accelerate the industrialisation of next-generation electric powertrain solutions. The partnership aims to bring advanced EV powertrain technologies to market faster. Nick Holt
Zeekr consolidates Lynk & Co to streamline production, enhance cost efficiencies and accelerate EV manufacturing under Geely’s restructuring Zeekr’s acquisition of a majority stake in Lynk & Co marks a pivotal moment in EV manufacturing. The integration is set to enhance production efficiency, cut costs and accelerate global expansion. Ilkhan Ozsevim
India aims to become a global player in automotive manufacturing India is potentially on the cusp of becoming a major global player in vehicle production. Whether it can achieve this status will become clear in the next couple of years. The transition to EVs adds to the national challenge as the domestic players are not really leaders in this sector. Meanwhile, the Indian EV supply base is nascent and dependent on foreign investors. Ian Henry
A Mckinsey report warns that Europe’s automotive industry must adapt rapidly to electrification, software and global competition or risk falling further behind Europe’s automotive industry is under pressure. A McKinsey report outlines five major disruptions that threaten its future. From software to supply chains, the industry must move fast to avoid losing ground to global competitors. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Global battery industry enters new phase as demand surges and prices drop below key cost threshold for Electric Vehicles The global battery industry has entered a transformative phase. EV demand is pushing annual battery needs past 1TWh, while prices fall below a key cost threshold. China remains dominant, but market shifts and consolidation are poised to reshape supply chains worldwide. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Henkel’s Bergquist Liqui Form TLF 6500 CGel-SF enhances ADAS thermal performance, ensuring reliability, efficiency, and sustainability in next-generation automotive electronics PARTNER CONTENTThis content was produced by Automotive Manufacturing Solutions in partnership with HenkelADAS technology demands high-performance computing, generating heat that risks system efficiency and longevity. Henkel’s Bergquist Liqui Form TLF 6500 CGel-SF provides advanced thermal management, reducing stress on components and enhancing sustainability in production. AMS
BMW plants prepare for a new era with Neue Klasse production As BMW gears up production towards its Neue Klasse electric vehicles, the factories are to remain flexible. Gotz Fuchslocher looks at the strategies the manufacturer is pursuing as it prepares to launch production of the new models. Götz Fuchslocher
EU allows automakers flexibility for 2025 emissions targets to be averaged over 2025-2027, easing regulatory pressure The European Commission has eased 2025 CO2 targets, averaging them over 2025-2027. While this relieves short-term pressure, it raises concerns over Europe’s ability to stay competitive with China in the EV race. Ilkhan Ozsevim
IONETIC strengthens leadership with Steve Boulter as CTO to drive innovation and growth in EV battery pack technology IONETIC has appointed Steve Boulter as Chief Technology Officer to lead the expansion of its Arc technology stack, driving cost-effective and scalable battery pack solutions for niche vehicle manufacturers. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Evolution of EV platforms: Innovations in design, manufacturing, and scalability Electric vehicle architectures must be adaptable, scalable, and cost-effective, but evolving battery technologies, crash protection, and manufacturing processes add complexity. While the skateboard design has become standard, innovations like gigacasting and hybrid adaptability are reshaping the industry. Automakers are racing to refine EV platforms, balancing speed to market with efficiency and safety in an increasingly competitive landscape. Nick Holt Anushka Dixit
Lucid CEO Peter Rawlinson exits as EV maker battles mounting losses, shifting strategy and the launch of its Gravity crossover Lucid Motors faces a leadership change as CEO Peter Rawlinson exits following a challenging financial quarter. As the company eyes growth with the Gravity crossover, interim CEO Marc Winterhoff must steer it through an increasingly tough EV market. Ilkhan Ozsevim
BMW’s Neue Klasse redefines electric mobility with advanced Software-Defined Architecture and high-performance energy management BMW’s Neue Klasse redefines electric mobility with a software-centric vehicle platform, high-voltage 800V battery technology and four advanced computing modules. A new era of efficiency, flexibility, dynamic performance and seamless energy management is emerging? By Andrea Hoffmann-Topp
How China’s BYD surpassed Tesla with production and battery tech - reshaping the global EV market BYD has surged onto the global stage, challenging industry giants like Tesla with its aggressive expansion and pioneering battery technology. BYD’s production soared from half a million to over 4 million vehicles. As the company celebrates its 30th anniversary, its blend of vertical integration, cutting-edge automation, and global supply chain mastery has redefined the EV landscape. Anushka Dixit
Accelerating EV innovation transforms design and manufacturing processes as Toyota and Volkswagen lead cross-functional integration and digital twin adoption for future production Industry experts at the AMS Evolution panel examine the accelerating EV shift and its impact on design and manufacturing. Toyota and Volkswagen share insights on engineering flexibility and digital twin simulation to streamline production Ilkhan Ozsevim
Why global automotive innovators must embrace Design For Manufacture to power production in an environment of increasing complexity and fierce foreign competition Automotive manufacturers are streamlining production with Design for Manufacture (DFM), cutting complexity, reducing costs and driving EV innovation. In In this article, experts reveal the key strategies and digital tools that are reshaping vehicle production. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Mercedes-Benz develops flexible van architecture for EV and ICE powertrains To meet customer demand Mercedes-Benz Vans will offer vans with ICE powertrains alongside electric vehicles (EV) built on a single architecture going forward. Nick Holt
Verne breaks ground on Croatia’s first autonomous EV factory, a milestone for digital and green manufacturing at VGP Park Zagreb Construction has begun on Croatia’s first autonomous EV production facility at VGP Park Zagreb. Led by Verne and backed by VGP, the factory will use cutting-edge technology to manufacture and test driverless electric vehicles, targeting global markets from 2026. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Two-thirds of consumers consider EVs but cost and sustainability concerns persist in the shift to electrification - TCS’s Anupam Singhal shows the way A recent study by Tata Consultancy Services revealed growing consumer interest in EVs, yet cost concerns and sustainability debates continue to shape the industry’s trajectory. As manufacturers invest in electrification, how will they address these challenges? Ilkhan Ozsevim
Flexis accelerates European electric van manufacturing with a shared platform and localised production strategy Flexis, the electric van joint venture between Renault and Volvo, is leveraging a shared platform, European battery production and modular manufacturing to cut costs and enhance efficiency. With production set to begin in 2025, the company is positioning itself as a leader in scalable electric commercial vehicle production. Ilkhan Ozsevim Megan Kelly
Will Volkswagen’s surplus German plants become Chinese production operations? As European vehicle makers continue to face challenging global markets and increased costs, many are having to make difficult decisions around underutilised production operations. Ian Henry looks at how Chinese OEMs could potentially buy or utilise some of Volkswagen’s production sites. Ian Henry
Solving EV battery pack development, cost and production challenges James Eaton, CEO of IONETIC, discusses the evolving landscape of EV battery pack development and production, focusing on the challenges facing low-volume manufacturers. Eaton shares insights into the importance of cost optimisation, flexible manufacturing, and overcoming the unique challenges of electrifying commercial vehicles such as buses. Nick Holt
BMW drives CO2 reduction with workforce engagement: Transformation only succeeds with head and heart The BMW Group is driving forward decarbonisation, digitalisation and modern leadership with ambitious CO2 targets and a clear strategy. Human Resources Board Member Ilka Horstmeier outlines the economic policy opportunities and challenges in this Q&A. By Andrea Hoffmann-Topp
Jaguar Land Rover Industrial Operations Chief departs as Nigel Blenkinsop takes over manufacturing leadership Jaguar Land Rover is undergoing a leadership transition as Barbara Bergmeier steps down from her role as executive director of industrial operations. Nigel Blenkinsop, a seasoned JLR executive, will take over as the company navigates an evolving automotive landscape. Ilkhan Ozsevim
AAM’s $1.4bn acquisition of GKN Automotive could mark a major shift in automotive manufacturing, strengthening its position in driveline systems and electrified vehicle production American Axle & Manufacturing’s $1.4 billion acquisition of GKN Automotive is set to reshape global automotive manufacturing, strengthening its position in driveline systems and EV production as the industry moves towards electrification Ilkhan Ozsevim
Stellantis to reopen Belvidere plant, build new pickup truck and dodge durango, investing $5bn in US production amid strategic reshuffle Stellantis commits $5bn to US auto manufacturing, reopening the Belvidere plant, building a midsize pickup, and producing the next-generation Dodge Durango. With 1,500 jobs to be restored, the move signals a strategic reset amid challenges and a reshuffling of priorities. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Automotive suppliers and producers confront existential crisis: mass layoffs and plummeting electric vehicle investments threaten European manufacturing Major automotive suppliers including Bosch and Continental announce massive workforce reductions as electric vehicle market challenges intensify European manufacturing sector’s most significant restructuring in decades. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Nissan plans to cease AD van production in November as merger discussions with Honda progress towards 2026 integration In a strategic move preceding its anticipated merger with Honda, Nissan announces the cessation of its AD compact van production by November. This decision reflects efforts to streamline operations and address surplus capacity as the OEMs plan to integrate by 2026. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Canoo Inc., the advanced mobility innovator, files for chapter 7 bankruptcy, citing financial challenges and unsuccessful capital efforts Canoo Inc., an advanced mobility and energy company, has ceased operations after filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Despite partnerships with NASA and Walmart, efforts to secure funding fell short. Ilkhan Ozsevim
