On the 20th of June 2025, the automotive industry witnessed some significant developments that are shaping the future of the sector. Luca de Meo’s announcement of stepping down as Renault Group’s CEO has sparked speculation about who will be his successor. Reports suggest that Denis Le Vot, the CEO of Dacia, and Maxime Picat, the chief purchasing and supplier quality officer at Stellantis, are among the top contenders for the position.
Meanwhile, Chinese carmaker BYD has been making waves in Brazil with its car deliveries. The arrival of the BYD Shenzhen, the world’s largest car-carrying ship, in Brazil has raised concerns among Brazilian industry officials and labor leaders. They fear that the influx of affordable BYD vehicles could impact local carmakers and jobs in the country. Calls have been made to increase EV import tariffs to protect the domestic industry.
Norway’s EV market continues to outperform other European countries, with an impressive 91.7% share of plug-in vehicles in 2024. The country’s strong growth in EV adoption can be attributed to tax incentives, a robust charging infrastructure, and a high demand for battery-electric vehicles. Norway’s success in promoting EVs serves as a model for other countries looking to transition to green mobility.
In terms of powertrain plans, some carmakers are adjusting their strategies. Audi has decided not to phase out the production of cars with internal-combustion engines by 2033, while Ferrari has delayed the launch of its second BEV to 2028. BMW is also considering offering extended-range electric vehicles to cater to changing consumer preferences.
On the recall front, several carmakers have issued recalls for faulty components. Citroen and DS3 vehicles in France are being recalled due to faulty Takata airbags, while Ford has halted deliveries of its Mustang Mach-e over a door latch defect. Honda is recalling vehicles in the US for a faulty brake pedal, highlighting the importance of addressing safety concerns promptly.
Lastly, Hildegard Müller, president of the VDA, revealed that German carmakers have incurred additional costs of around €500 million due to US import tariffs. The impact of tariffs on the automotive industry underscores the need for a balanced trade environment to support the growth of the sector.
These developments and trends in the automotive industry reflect the dynamic nature of the sector and the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Stay tuned for more updates on the latest industry news and trends.
