RECENT HEADLINES aug 21st
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Approximately 20% reduction, GAC Toyota lowers dealership targets

Recently, Chinese domestic media reported that GAC Toyota dealerships in several regions, including Sichuan, Shandong, and Guangdong, have lowered their sales targets by approximately 20%. To encourage dealers to order more vehicles, a tiered bonus pool incentive program has been implemented. Many GAC Toyota dealerships mentioned that, to maintain profitability, the current price reduction at the retail level has been temporarily narrowed. However, if the manufacturer's sales targets are raised in the third quarter, dealerships will continue to engage in price competition.
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New generation Tesla Roadster revealed, enhanced with rocket technology

Recently, a set of real-life photos of the next-generation Tesla Roadster appeared on  social media. Tesla CEO Elon Musk confidently stated that this model will officially go into production next year, predicting that it will be a "special" product, even claiming that it "is no longer just a car
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Acura expected to launch an electric sports car in the U.S. by 2027 or 2028
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According to global media reports, Shinji Aoyama, Acura's global executive vice president, stated that the company plans to produce an electric sports car "similar to the NSX," expected to be launched in 2027 or 2028. Honda is also collaborating with Sony to develop the AFEELA prototype car, which is expected to debut in 2026.
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U.S. electric vehicle sales in June increase by 3.1%, Tesla leads the market

According to global media reports, electric vehicle registrations in the United States saw a year-on-year increase of 3.1% in June, reaching 108,026 units. In contrast, the overall U.S. auto market experienced an 8.8% decline, with total sales just over 1.2 million units. S&P analyst Kent Chiu noted that while June's sales data is encouraging for electric vehicles, this growth is largely fueled by robust incentive measures.
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Zeekr to launch new large flagship  SUV codenamed ‘EX1E’ Zeekr Ark.

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Recently, it was officially learned that Zeekr will launch a new large flagship SUV in 2025, codenamed EX1E, which will compete with models such as the Ideal L9 and Aito M9 in the future. It is known that Zeekr has already started the tendering process for the EX1E model, planning to enter the VP phase (verification prototype) this September, and to start the SOP phase of the vehicle in July 2025.
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Spy shots of Hyundai IONIQ 9 exposed, expected to debut within the year

Recently, global media captured spy photos of the Hyundai IONIQ 9, a new mid-to-large pure electric SUV that uses the same platform as the Kia EV9, expected to have a maximum range of 480 miles, with both single and dual motor versions likely. It is known that the car will be officially launched later this year.
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New images of Peugeot 208 exposed, possibly launching in 2026

Recently, international media unveiled a conceptual image of the next-generation Peugeot 208. Set to be constructed on the new STLA Small platform, this model features an innovative half-size steering wheel and a touch panel integrated into the center console. The vehicle's overall dimensions are also anticipated to grow. The launch of this updated model is scheduled for 2026.
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BYD entering the Pakistani market? Also planning to build a factory?

Recently, reports emerged that BYD is planning to establish a manufacturing facility in Karachi, Pakistan, in collaboration with a local manufacturer, with completion expected by the first half of 2026. A spokesperson for BYD confirmed the company's intention to enter the Pakistani market and introduce both pure electric and hybrid electric vehicles. However, they did not provide specific comments on the investment details for the factory or other related plans.
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Europe's first gigawatt-level lithium iron phosphate battery factory starts production, plans to build three more factories in the future

Recently, Europe's first gigawatt-level lithium iron phosphate battery factory held its completion and production ceremony in the southern city of Arendal, Norway. Lars Christian Bacher, CEO of Morrow Batteries, stated that the factory has entered the trial production stage and is expected to meet mass production quality standards in the coming months, with the first batch of batteries expected to be delivered to customers by the end of the year. The company also plans to build three more battery factories in the region in the future.
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Waymo's new Zeekr-branded, all-electric minivan makes significant step toward making driverless taxis a reality in the U.S.

 Equipped with Waymo's sixth-generation autonomous driving system, the vehicle boasts a more advanced, cost-effective sensor suite optimized for harsh weather, including self-cleaning sensors. The system includes 13 cameras, 6 radars, 4 lidar sensors, and audio receivers, providing 360-degree coverage with a detection range of up to 1,640 feet. Designed in Sweden and built in China, the minivan features a removable steering wheel, seats five, and has four sliding doors. Despite concerns about import tariffs and safety, Waymo installs all hardware and software in the U.S. after import. Public testing is ongoing, with plans to operate without a human driver soon.

The EU has released the final draft decision on tariffs for electric vehicles from China, reducing Tesla's tariff rate to 9%

According to global media reports, the European Commission has released the final draft of its anti-subsidy investigation results on Chinese electric vehicles and adjusted some of the proposed tax rates. According to the EU's latest plan, companies that do not cooperate with the EU's anti-subsidy investigation may face a maximum tax rate of 36.3%. Chinese companies that form joint ventures with EU automakers may be eligible for lower tax rates and will not be subject to retroactive tariffs.