Volkswagen accelerates AI-powered production with 5-year AWS extension The platform now hosts more than 1,200 AI-driven applications, ranging from real-time image-based quality inspections to energy optimisation, with machine learning executed via AWS services such as Amazon SageMaker. Anushka Dixit
A new generation of automation at Mercedes-Benz’s Düsseldorf plant Blending AI and automation, Mercedes-Benz's Düsseldorf van plant is taking a major step in automation with the deployment of a four-legged robotic assistant – Aris Nick Holt
Automotive industry faces workforce upheaval in 2025, reshapes jobs amid shifting tech Electric vehicle adoption, automation and shifting trade rules are forcing automakers to rethink workforce strategies as they confront skills shortages and a slowing global economy. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Ford’s $5 billion EV platform and factory investment Ford has committed $5 billion to its Universal EV Platform and Production System, overhauling production at Louisville and BlueOval Battery Park Michigan. The new approach introduces parallel assembly, structural batteries, supplier integration and workforce transition. Charlie Blackie-Kelly Emily Uwemedimo Ilkhan Ozsevim
Academics develop digital roadmap to net-zero UK steel A University of Warwick team has mapped the digital barriers to decarbonising UK steel. Their framework offers policymakers, manufacturers and the automotive sector a guide to smarter, resource-efficient transformation. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Toyota to build "plant of the future" in Japan amidst tariff turbulence Toyota has announced plans to acquire land to build a new vehicle manufacturing plant in the Teihoucho area of Toyota City in Aichi Prefecture, Japan. Megan Kelly
VinFast launches "world class" flagship EV plant in Tamil Nadu, India Vietnamese EV maker VinFast opens its first overseas plant in Tamil Nadu, India, signalling a confident bet on one of the world’s fastest-growing vehicle markets and a strategic push toward regional exports and sustainable mobility leadership. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Renault names François Provost as new group CEO Veteran executive to lead Renault Group through its next phase of industrial evolution, with a strong focus on global partnerships, innovation and manufacturing agility. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Resilience redrawn? Tata-Iveco charts a new $4.3bn global industrial map Tata Motors will acquire Iveco Group’s commercial vehicle business for €3.8 billion, excluding its defence arm. The move aims to build a diversified global champion with combined revenues of €22 billion and a shared focus on sustainable mobility. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Nissan to close Mexico plant in global production realignment Nissan is shutting its Cuernavaca plant to streamline operations under its global Re:Nissan plan with production shifting to Aguascalientes and interest from Chinese OEMs in the facility’s future. Charlie Blackie-Kelly Emily Uwemedimo
Ultium boosts Spring Hill for next-gen EV battery innovation Ultium Cells, the GM-LG joint venture, is investing in Spring Hill, Tennessee, to produce low-cost LFP battery cells by 2027, strengthening EV affordability and diversification in the US market. Ilkhan Ozsevim
UK auto sector set to receive £2.5 billion boost from Government Part of the wider Industrial Strategy, the programme hopes to increase advanced manufacturing capabilities and R&D efforts, especially for electric vehicles and batteries. Charlie Blackie-Kelly
Nissan to halt Oppama output and shift to Kyushu The OEM will end vehicle production at its Oppama plant by FY 27 and transfer output to Kyushu as part of the Re:Nissan plan, cutting capacity from 3.5 m to 2.5 m units to restore efficiency and long‑term competitiveness Ilkhan Ozsevim
Polestar expands European production with new Polestar 7 in Slovakia Polestar is advancing its production strategy with a new European manufacturing footprint, shared platforms with Volvo Cars, and the forthcoming Polestar 7 SUV set to launch from new Slovakia plant in 2028. AMS Editorial Nick Holt
Fiat 500 hybrid revives Mirafiori plant with scaled-up production and new investment Production of the Fiat 500 Hybrid at Turin’s Mirafiori plant represents a significant reinvestment in the facility and marks a major step in Stellantis' manufacturing strategy. Nick Holt
BMW’s Factory Genius: How AI is transforming global automotive production BMW’s AI-driven Factory Genius is cutting troubleshooting times and streamlining production across global plants. As part of its broader iFactory and AIonic strategy, BMW is reimagining shop floor intelligence through real-time data, machine learning, and generative AI. Nick Holt
Welcome to the new AMS experience We’ve redesigned the AMS website to deliver sharper insight, faster access and a smoother, more intuitive experience at a time when you need it most. Nick Holt
Benteler launches advanced manufacturing project in Morocco, integrating 4.0 tech 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 begins construction on New Mladá Boleslav paint shop to support EV and ICE production and cut emissions 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
Stellantis appoints Fernando Andreu to lead EV manufacturing expansion at Ellesmere Port As Stellantis boosts its electric van output, the Ellesmere Port plant welcomes new Plant Director Fernando Andreu, who will oversee production of medium-sized battery electric vans alongside the site’s existing small van assembly line. AMS
Highlights from the Umeå degree show 2025 Air-powered scooters, mobile vending machines and reimagined luxury: read on for featured mobility concepts at the 2025 Umeå degree show
GM invests $4bn to boost US EV output and shift assembly from Mexico, Canada 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
Volvo Cars to use recycled, near zero-emission steel in 2025 models under SSAB deal Volvo Cars has signed an agreement with Swedish steelmaker SSAB to begin using recycled, near zero-emission steel in its manufacturing operations from 2025, reinforcing its goal to reach net-zero emissions by 2040 and increase circularity across its supply chain. AMS
JLR expands EV manufacturing with 50 new roles in material sourcing, traceability and supply‑chain risk 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
GM promotes Mike Trevorrow to head global manufacturing, align with EV and software shift 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
GM invests $888M in Tonawanda plant to build next-gen V-8 engines for trucks and SUVs General Motors is reinforcing its commitment to American manufacturing and high-performance engines with a $888m investment in its historic Tonawanda Propulsion plant. The funding supports production of GM’s sixth-generation V-8 engines, powering full-size trucks and SUVs while bridging the gap to an electric future. AMS
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
Toyota to build GR Corolla in the UK starting 2026 Toyota Motor Europe has confirmed that its Burnaston plant in Derbyshire will begin production of the Toyota GR Corolla in 2026, marking a significant expansion of the company’s high-performance GR (Gazoo Racing) lineup. AMS
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
Honda ramps up motorcycle production in India with new line at Gujarat plant Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) is significantly expanding its production footprint in the world’s largest motorcycle market with the announcement of a new production line at its fourth manufacturing plant in Vithalapur, Gujarat. AMS
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
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
Jaguar Land Rover restarts US shipments after pause, as UK fears being sidelined in American trade priorities under Trump’s protectionist stance Jaguar Land Rover has restarted shipments to the United States after a month-long halt triggered by the threat of 25% tariffs, raising concerns over UK trade priorities and the impact on automotive exports. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Automation gains new levels of traction as the automotive sector turns to robotics for safer, more efficient production and a redefinition of the human role on the line A new global survey by QNX reveals how automotive manufacturers are increasingly embracing robotics to boost efficiency, address labour shortages and improve safety, while also navigating concerns over cost, trust, regulation and the future of the workforce. 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
Toyota and Gorilla join forces to deploy AI warehouse tools and drive a global rollout of smart factory automation starting from Thailand Toyota Material Handling Solutions Thailand is partnering with AI firm Gorilla Technology Group to co-develop intelligent warehouse tools. The collaboration launches in Thailand with a global rollout planned. Ilkhan Ozsevim
General Motors ramps up pickup truck production at Fort Wayne as US tariffs unsettle North American automotive trade and raise questions over Canada’s manufacturing footprint General Motors is hiring temporary workers to boost production at its Fort Wayne plant in response to new US tariffs. While Oshawa output remains stable for now, the move reflects shifting trade and labour pressures across North America. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Nissan transfers Rogue SUV output from Japan to Tennessee to hedge against new US tariffs and preserve its share of the American market Faced with rising tariffs on imports, Nissan will reduce Rogue SUV production in Japan and ramp up output in Tennessee. The move is a clear response to tightening US trade policy and reflects a wider recalibration of global manufacturing among carmakers. Ilkhan Ozsevim
UK competition regulator fines 10 carmakers and trade bodies over collusion in green advertising and recycling disclosures The UK’s competition watchdog has fined major carmakers and two trade bodies over £77m for colluding on green advertising. A whistle-blower tip from Mercedes-Benz exposed years of consortium activity that limited consumer choice. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Skoda expands manufacturing operations with new Vietnam assembly plant Skoda has officially begun local assembly of its Kushaq SUV and Slavia sedan at a newly established facility in Vietnam’s Quang Ninh province. Developed in partnership with Thanh Cong Group, the plant marks a significant step in Skoda’s global expansion, strengthening its foothold in Southeast Asia’s rapidly growing automotive market. Nick Holt
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
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
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
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
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
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
Trump’s 25% tariffs on Mexico & Canada take effect, China import tax rises to 20% Donald Trump’s 25% tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada have officially taken effect, along with an additional 10% increase on Chinese goods, raising the total import tax to 20%. AMS Editorial
Honda upgrades production with advanced processes for 2026 Passport models Innovative manufacturing enhances efficiency, quality, and ergonomics at Alabama Auto Plant. Nick Holt
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
Pforzheim BA Transportation Design degree show 2025 In the first of a two-part series, CDN looks at the work put together by Pforzheim’s BA Transportation Design students
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
Nissan slashes jobs, closes 3 factories and scales back production in a bid to recover from sustained losses and a failed merger with Honda Nissan is closing factories, slashing jobs and scaling back production as it fights to reverse sustained losses. CEO Makoto Uchida is under pressure after merger talks with Honda collapsed. But analysts warn the measures may not go far enough to secure the company’s future. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Nissan to amplify green steel usage in Japan by 500% aligning with global automakers in pursuit of carbon neutrality by 2050 In an important move towards enhanced sustainable production, Nissan has declared a fivefold increase in the utilisation of green steel in its vehicle manufacturing. The initiative is part of the OEM’s wider carbon neutrality targets and reflects a growing industry trend. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Honda North America’s big investment in flexible manufacturing for EVs, hybrid and ICE vehicles Honda invests $1 billion in retooling its Ohio manufacturing plants to build ICE, hybrid, and EV models on same production line. New technologies being introduced include megacasting, CDC and friction stir welding. Nick Holt
Volkswagen partners with Dassault Systèmes to accelerate software-defined vehicle development with the AI-powered 3DEXPERIENCE cloud platform Volkswagen has selected Dassault Systèmes’ AI-powered 3DEXPERIENCE platform as its primary engineering and manufacturing system. The move aims to drive software-defined vehicle innovation, enhance efficiency and unify fragmented processes across the group. Ilkhan Ozsevim
DeepSeek’s AI model raises questions over the future of computing power, Nvidia’s dominance and automotive AI development The fact that a Chinese startup trained its AI model cheaply caused a stock price crash in the USA. For experts, however, this is a sign that artificial intelligence can be developed more quickly - including in the automotive industry. Timo Gilgen
Rockwell strengthens autonomous production logistics with Clearpath Robotics and OTTO Motors in a major move towards fully integrated smart manufacturing Rockwell Automation has acquired Clearpath Robotics and its industrial division OTTO Motors, integrating autonomous mobile robots into its portfolio. The move signals a transformation in production logistics, optimising efficiency and connectivity across factories. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Mercedes-Benz introduces new paint finish to improve sustainability at Wörth plant In a move toward reducing the facility’s carbon footprint, the Mercedes-Benz plant in Wörth is rolling out a new painting technology for its truck cabs, which is expected to cut energy consumption by up to 40%. Nick Holt
JLR expands sustainable paint facilities with £65m ($80m) investment to meet soaring demand for personalised luxury vehicle finishes across its brands JLR is expanding its paint operations with a £65m ($80m) investment, meeting soaring demand for bespoke vehicle finishes while cutting energy and water use at key sites in the UK and Slovakia. Ilkhan Ozsevim
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
Volkswagen de México opens world’s 1st fully electric paintshop at Puebla plant Volkswagen de México has launched the first fully electric paint shop in the automotive industry, eliminating natural gas use and improving sustainability. The Puebla plant’s advanced automation, AI-driven quality control, and renewable energy integration is a step toward carbon-neutral vehicle production. AMS
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
Rivian strengthens EV ambitions with $6.6B federal loan to develop advanced manufacturing facility in Georgia Rivian’s $6.6 billion loan from the US Department of Energy bolsters its ambitious plans for a key Georgia manufacturing hub. The 9 million sq. ft facility will increase production of next-gen EVs, foster innovation and boost regional production. Ilkhan Ozsevim
Polestar plans European production of imminent Polestar 7, moving away from China in nearshoring drive, solving for supply chain complexities Polestar aims to hit profitability by 2025 with Polestar 7 to be built in Europe, exiting China in regionalisation move enhancing supply chain resilience. The carmaker’s strategy includes streamlined product lines eyeing growth targets for premium EV market. Ilkhan Ozsevim
HORSE launches new high-performance eMotor production at Aveiro, Portugal, for hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles, enhancing automotive electrification HORSE, a leader in hybrid and combustion powertrain solutions, has started producing its high-performance eMotor at Aveiro, Portugal. Designed for hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles, the motor delivers 49kW and 212Nm torque, with a capacity of 160,000 units annually. Ilkhan Ozsevim
The automotive industry weighs the challenges of geopolitics and market factors in 2025 Trade wars, geopolitical tensions, mergers, increasing competition are all considerations that need to be addressed and navigated by vehicle makers and suppliers. Ian Henry highlights some of the key factors to look out for in 2025. Ian Henry
