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Honda Motor Co., Ltd. has unveiled a recalibrated approach to its electrification efforts, responding to the rapidly evolving global automotive landscape. Toshihiro Mibe, the company’s Global Chief Executive Officer, addressed the media today, offering insights into Honda’s revised direction, driven by a dynamic market environment and the growing importance of intelligent mobility technologies.

Despite external challenges, Honda remains committed to its long-term vision of carbon neutrality and zero traffic fatalities by 2050. The Japanese automaker continues to view electric vehicles (EVs) as the most viable pathway to decarbonising mobility. However, in light of regulatory changes and uncertain global trade conditions, Honda is adapting its strategy to ensure sustained competitiveness and broader accessibility to its mobility innovations.

Reassessing Priorities in a Shifting Market

Mibe confirmed that Honda would intensify its efforts in two key areas: the advancement of intelligent technologies across its EV and hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) lineups, and a comprehensive review of its powertrain portfolio. This dual focus aims to strengthen the brand’s foundations while maintaining its innovation momentum.

Although Honda previously set a target for EVs to comprise 30% of global vehicle sales by 2030, this projection has now been revised downward due to a softening in EV demand. Simultaneously, HEVs continue to gain popularity, prompting Honda to place greater emphasis on this transitional technology.

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Chinese automaker BYD has expanded its electric vehicle portfolio with the official launch of the BYD e7, an all-electric mid-size sedan designed to cater to younger drivers and fleet operators such as taxi services. With prices starting from 103,800 yuan to 115,800 yuan (approximately RM67,800 to RM75,700), the e7 offers two CLTC-certified range variants — 450 km and 520 km — providing an accessible option in the growing EV market.

The new e7 features BYD’s signature low-cost e-series design language. The front fascia is completely enclosed, intended to evoke a “smiley face” appearance, complemented by the centrally placed BYD badge and sharply defined rib lines on the bonnet. At the rear, a multi-layered design is matched with a ducktail spoiler and a continuous light strip that spans the width of the vehicle. Additional lighting fixtures are located near the lower bumper, while the “e7” model designation is affixed on the bottom right. Conventional pull-type door handles have been retained, underscoring its entry-level market positioning.

With a body measuring 4,780 mm in length, 1,900 mm in width, and 1,515 mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2,820 mm, the e7 is positioned firmly within the mid-size sedan segment, slightly bigger than a Tesla Model 3. It rides on modest 16-inch alloy wheels, suitable for daily commuting and fleet usage.

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Fiat is preparing to reintroduce a petrol-powered version of its iconic city car, the 500, this time blending a mild-hybrid powertrain with a six-speed manual gearbox. Recently released teaser images reveal a traditional gear shifter positioned in the familiar retro-themed interior, marking a return to basics that Fiat hopes will resonate with buyers seeking charm, efficiency, and affordability over outright performance.

The upcoming 500 Hybrid will be powered by a modest 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine, paired with mild-hybrid technology, delivering approximately 69hp. While modest in output, the emphasis of this model lies not in speed but in its accessible nature—a clear shift from the more premium electric 500e, which has struggled to capture a significant share of the European market.

This new version of the 500 has a somewhat unconventional origin. Fiat originally engineered the latest 500 platform exclusively for electric power, creating the 500e with the aim of embracing the EV transition. However, with lukewarm reception and slow sales of the all-electric model, exacerbated by frequent pauses in production, the brand found itself needing to pivot.

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Geely has achieved a major production milestone with the 200,000th unit of its budget-friendly electric vehicle, the Geome Xingyuan, rolling off the assembly line. This compact city EV has established itself as a serious contender in China’s entry-level electric vehicle market, where it directly rivals BYD’s high-volume Seagull.

With a starting price of 68,800 yuan (approximately RM45,000), the Xingyuan offers customers a competitive range of features for its segment. Two powertrain options are available: a 58 kW variant capable of a 310km range under the China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle (CLTC), and a more powerful 85 kW version that extends the range to 410km. These choices provide buyers with greater flexibility compared to many other vehicles in the same class.

The Xingyuan features Geely’s distinctive rounded front design and a hatchback rear profile. Measuring 4,135 mm in length, 1,805 mm in width, and 1,570 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,650 mm, it offers a relatively spacious interior, especially in the rear, giving it a practical edge over similarly sized competitors such as the Seagull or the BYD Dolphin here. The model is available in a range of colour options, including standout shades like pink and blue, and includes semi-concealed door handles for a cleaner exterior look.

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Volkswagen is preparing to usher in a new era for its iconic performance hatchbacks, confirming that fully electric versions of the celebrated Golf GTI and Golf R are in development. These upcoming models are expected to redefine the brand’s sporty DNA with zero-emission powertrains and cutting-edge technology, while retaining the character that made their predecessors legendary.

The German automaker first hinted at its electric ambitions for the GTI line-up with the unveiling of the ID.GTI concept in 2023. That prototype offered a glimpse into how Volkswagen might reinterpret its performance legacy for the electric age. Now, the carmaker has confirmed that a production version of the electric GTI, based on the forthcoming ID.2 platform, will be introduced exclusively in the European market.

In a recent discussion with AutoExpress, Volkswagen’s CEO, Thomas Schäfer, revealed that a fully electric Golf GTI is slated for launch before the end of the decade. He expressed strong enthusiasm for the model, describing it as an exceptionally potent vehicle that will stay true to the GTI name. According to Schäfer, the electric GTI will maintain the spirit and excitement that fans of the nameplate expect, highlighting that it will be thrilling, authentic, and unmistakably a GTI despite its electric heart.

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Aston Martin has taken a bold step forward in the digital transformation of its vehicles by becoming the first car manufacturer in the world to offer Apple’s next-generation CarPlay Ultra, solidifying its position at the intersection of automotive luxury and cutting-edge technology.

CarPlay Ultra, unveiled as Apple’s latest evolution of the CarPlay platform, is now available across new Aston Martin vehicles in the United States and Canada. The system will also be rolled out globally over the next 12 months and offered as an update to current models equipped with Aston Martin’s next-generation infotainment system. Customers can expect the new technology in models such as the DBX, Vantage, DB12, and Vanquish, with updates for existing vehicles to follow in the coming weeks via the brand’s dealership network.

With the introduction of CarPlay Ultra, drivers are offered a fully integrated, intuitive digital experience that connects their iPhone seamlessly with both the infotainment touchscreen and the digital instrument cluster. The technology allows for real-time information display, personalised layout options, and full-screen map and media visualisation, enabling users to tailor their in-car experience with ease.

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Electric vehicle (EV) sales are on track to continue their upward trajectory this year, despite geopolitical uncertainties and the imposition of fresh tariffs by the United States, the International Energy Agency (IEA) revealed in its latest annual report.

According to the agency, electric cars are expected to make up one in every four vehicles sold globally by the end of 2025, a reflection of shifting consumer preferences and the growing appeal of lower long-term operating costs. The IEA highlighted that affordability and advancements in EV technology are accelerating global adoption rates.

Fatih Birol, Director-General of the IEA, noted that electric vehicles are firmly positioned on a global growth path. He forecasted that by 2030, over 40 per cent of global car sales will be electric, signalling a significant transformation in the automotive landscape.

The surge in demand is already evident. In 2024 alone, global EV sales—including plug-in hybrid models—reached over 17 million units, representing an increase of more than 3.5 million from the previous year. The first quarter of 2025 saw sales jump by 35 per cent year-on-year, with full-year figures expected to surpass 20 million units.

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Audi has broadened its Gran Turismo portfolio with the introduction of the e-tron GT quattro, a new entry point into the brand’s high-performance electric saloon family. This latest model joins the existing S e-tron GT, RS e-tron GT, and the flagship RS e-tron GT performance, offering a refined balance of electric performance, daily practicality, and Gran Turismo styling.

The e-tron GT quattro is equipped with a dual-motor setup capable of delivering 496hp of power, with a temporary boost to 576hp available via Launch Control. Powered by a 105 kWh battery (97 kWh usable), the car provides an estimated range of up to 622km on a single charge, making it well suited for long-distance journeys and urban commuting alike.

Charging capabilities have been significantly enhanced, with the model supporting up to 320 kW of direct current fast charging. In optimal conditions, it can replenish up to 285km of range in just ten minutes. A thermal management system automatically conditions the battery when navigating to high-power chargers, ensuring peak charging efficiency with minimal waiting time.

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In a decisive step toward accelerating its electrification agenda, Mazda Motor Corporation has entered a strategic partnership with Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Ltd. (CATL), the global leader in electric vehicle battery manufacturing. The collaboration, conducted through Mazda’s Chinese joint venture with Changan Automobile, Changan Mazda, will centre around the adoption of CATL’s state-of-the-art CIIC (Cell to Chassis Integrated Intelligent Chassis) platform.

Unveiled in December last year, CATL’s CIIC platform offers a revolutionary skateboard-style vehicle architecture. It employs a decoupled structure that separates the vehicle’s upper and lower bodies, allowing for modular sub-systems and standardised connection interfaces. This setup facilitates enhanced flexibility in both hardware and software integration, enabling automakers to streamline vehicle development while rapidly adapting to shifting market demands.

By merging CATL’s advanced chassis technology with Changan Mazda’s established automotive production capabilities, the joint venture aims to significantly reduce development lead times and introduce new energy vehicles (NEVs) that respond swiftly to evolving consumer and regulatory expectations.

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Japanese automotive manufacturer Toyota is reportedly exploring the possibility of acquiring Neta Auto, a Chinese electric vehicle company facing severe financial distress, reported by Car News China. The potential deal, though not confirmed by Toyota, was highlighted in a report by Kuai Technology on 12 May, suggesting that such a move could serve to strengthen Toyota’s electric vehicle strategy in China, the world’s most competitive EV market.

Neta Auto, operated by Hozon New Energy Auto and founded in 2014, has been in crisis since the middle of 2024. The company halted production and implemented mass layoffs, while simultaneously scrambling to secure outside investment. In February this year, a much-anticipated Series E financing round failed. This round was projected to raise between 4 billion and 4.5 billion yuan (approximately USD 552–621 million), with the bulk of funding—3 billion yuan (USD 414 million)—expected from a lead investor associated with a BRICS country fund. However, the investment was conditional upon the company restarting production and attracting additional matching funds, neither of which came to fruition, prompting the investor to withdraw and causing the financing effort to collapse.

Although Neta attempted to restart operations by briefly reopening its Tongxiang facility in January, a shortage of essential components prevented production from resuming. This setback had a domino effect, undermining investor confidence and leading to a dramatic decline in the company’s valuation.

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