06 Aug Automotive news, commentary and analysis | Chinese cars Sales Up in the UK
(Oilandgaspress) 06/08/26, Sales of brands from China are now expanding more than 10 times faster than those from the rest of the world, with new entrants like Omoda-Jaecoo potentially on track to outsell industry titans like Ford in the UK.
This year saw the best July performance in overall new-car sales since before the pandemic, with 156,571 registrations representing a near-12 per cent increase over the same period in 2025. Yet while manufacturers from Europe, Japan, Korea and America experienced an 11 per cent rise in sales on average, their Chinese competitors enjoyed a stratospheric 180 per cent jump. Broadening the focus to look at 2026 as a whole, Chinese brands have seen a 145 per cent rise in sales, and now account for almost 17 per cent of all cars sold. Related News
A fleet of self-driving cars to be used as “robotaxis” by Uber in London
have been granted minicab licences. Tech firm Wayve said Transport for London (TfL) has awarded private hire vehicle (PHV) licences to a number of its autonomous pure electric Ford Mustang Mach-E vehicles. A human driver will initially sit behind the wheel ready to take control during journeys, while the technology is demonstrated to be safe.
Wayve vice president for global affairs and assurance, Sarah Gates, said: “This licence is an important step towards giving Londoners the chance to experience autonomous driving technology. Related News
A birth certificate is now available for Mercedes-Benz passenger cars built between 1986 and 2010.
It summarizes the manufacturer’s records on the original vehicle configuration. It is available for almost all Mercedes-Benz passenger car model series of this era – from various generations of the E-Class and S-Class, through the SL and SLK, to the A-Class, C-Class, and R-Class. The birth certificate can be ordered through the Mercedes-Benz Classic Store. It is not currently offered for AMG models, vans, or smart vehicles. The information contained in the document includes the vehicle identification number (VIN, for US vehicles), make, vehicle type, body type, shipping date, engine and transmission numbers, paintwork, interior fittings, and factory-ordered special equipment.
The birth certificate is printed on high-quality paper and delivered in a specially designed presentation folder. As a manufacturer’s document, it complements important documents such as the service booklet, operating manuals, invoices, and other sources relating to the vehicle’s history. The birth certificate can be ordered online from the Mercedes-Benz Classic Store .
The price is €130 including shipping. Related News
Porsche focus is on aligning marketing activities more closely with the customer journey
The aim is to connect global brand management and market-specific implementation even more effectively. Serviceplan will play a key role in this transformation: effective 1 January 2027, Serviceplan Group SE & Co. KG will become the global lead marketing agency for Porsche AG, Porsche Deutschland, Porsche Lifestyle, and MHP..As Porsche’s new global creative and marketing partner, Serviceplan will play a key role in shaping the brand and product communications of the future. Together with Porsche, Serviceplan will also support international markets in adapting marketing content more quickly, flexibly, and efficiently to different requirements while creating an even more consistent Porsche brand experience. Related News
In the first six months of 2026 Automobili Lamborghini recorded revenue of €1.74 billion, up 7.4%
Compared with the same period in 2025, with 5,422 vehicles delivered: down 4.6% year on year. This result was achieved despite a complex global environment marked by significant geopolitical instability. Tariffs in the United States, the conflict in the Middle East, the overall performance of the luxury market in China and growing uncertainty in the European market led to a contraction of -7.7% in the relevant segment, against which the brand delivered a resilient performance. Operating profit stood at €395 million with profitability of 22.7%, confirming the strength of the brand and the consistency of its sustainable growth strategy, despite continuing to be affected by external factors that influenced the entire six-month period.
The first half results reflect the contribution of the entire Sant’Agata Bolognese product range, now comprising Revuelto, Urus SE and Temerario. The start of Temerario deliveries in Q1 marked the full integration of the third product family into the brand’s product line-up, alongside continued strong demand for Revuelto and Urus SE. The order book remains robust, with a waiting time of approximately one year.
The second half of the year began with the launch of the Urus SE Performante, the most extreme expression of the Urus family and its performance-focused character. With this product debut opening the six-month period, the Sant’Agata Bolognese company looks ahead to the coming months with a clear understanding of an evolving international environment. Related News
Pebble Beach Automotive Week
Automobili Lamborghini will honor the 60th anniversary of the Miura with a celebration unlike any before it: the largest gathering of Lamborghini Miuras ever assembled anywhere in the world.
This once-in-a-lifetime display of over 40 Miuras will transform Pebble Beach’s famed 3rd fairway into a living tribute to the car that forever changed the automotive world.
On Sunday, August 16, this record number of Miura will come together on the 3rd fairway of Pebble Beach Golf Links, a location that, for the first time in the history of Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, will be opened for a featured activation. The display will be open to the public, offering collectors, enthusiasts, and visitors an extraordinary opportunity to experience one of the rarest moments in automotive history. This unprecedented gathering is made possible through the dedication of Lamborghini Club USA and the passion of its members. Related News
Automobili Lamborghini celebrates the 60th anniversary of the classic Miura
With the introduction of the Revuelto Miura 60° Homage. Just 99 examples of the car will be created by the Ad Personam program, in collaboration with Lamborghini Centro Stile. The Revuelto Miura 60° Homage will make its world premiere at Lamborghini Lounge Monterey during Monterey Car Week. Unveiled in 1966, the Miura is widely regarded as the world’s first super sports car. In its most powerful version, it delivered 385 CV and exceeded a top speed of 290 km/h, setting new benchmarks for high-performance automobiles.
From a technical perspective, the Lamborghini Revuelto sets the benchmark in its segment through the combination of Lamborghini’s iconic naturally aspirated V12 engine and hybrid system, delivering a total output of 1,015 CV and 807 Nm of torque. This translates into exceptional performance, with acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.5 seconds and a top speed of more than 350 km/h. Related News
Audi of America announced the appointment of Esther Francis as Senior VP and Chief Marketing Officer, Brand Marketing and Communications, effective August 1, 2026.
Francis will lead the integrated brand marketing and communications team, overseeing brand strategy, marketing, and external communications to drive growth and elevate the brand’s presence in the U.S. market. Francis reports to Audi of America President, Vito Paladino. Related News
Audi debuted its first-ever SQ9, a spacious three-row SUV built for the U.S. market
Delivering 591 hp (441 kW) and best-in-class 0-60 mph acceleration in 3.8 seconds, effortless performance comes standard in the SQ9. Launching in the fourth quarter of 2026, the Q9 and SQ9 represent a focused commitment to deliver a vehicle designed to meet the needs of U.S. buyers as well as those seeking a prestigious flagship SUV with effortless performance.
Engineering and performance
The SQ9 is powered by a revised 4.0-liter twin turbo V8 producing 591 hp and 590 lb.-ft. of torque, delivering 0-60 mph in 3.8 seconds – making it the quickest accelerating three-row SUV to 60 mph in its class. The engine is paired with an eight-speed Tiptronic transmission and Audi quattro with electronically controlled rear-axle differential lock. Related News
Volkswagen of America, Inc. announced that the 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan has been named one of two winners in Cars.com’s Best Cars
For Car Seats testing, while Atlas earned recognition as a Top Finisher. Placement on the 2026 list extends Volkswagen’s strong performance in the Cars.com Car Seat Check Program. Volkswagen SUVs have consistently earned high marks over the past four years, with Tiguan and Atlas returning to the list for 2026. Previous years also recognized Atlas Cross Sport, ID.4, and ID. Buzz. Related News
On July 30th, Volkswagen Group of America recognized 27 Volkswagen Academy students
That graduated this year with associate in applied sciences (A.A.S.) degrees in Mechatronics Technology and Electrical Vehicle Engineering Technology. The apprentices have gained both in-classroom theory, hands-on lab training, acquired a year of on-the-job-training, and completed rigorous written and practical assessments to prepare for the next chapter in their careers. Each graduate received a conditional job offer with Volkswagen in Chattanooga and has the opportunity to follow multiple career avenues within the company potentially working as specialists and technicians or even in leadership in the near future.
The U.S. Department of Labor’s Director of Workforce Initiatives Troy Selberg joined to celebrate the graduates’ achievements. Related News
Opel and Olympiacos FC, the most successful football club in Greece,
Announced that they will be extending their ongoing partnership. The 2026/27 campaign will be the third consecutive season of the partnership between Opel and Olympiacos.
The cooperation between the German manufacturer and the biggest club in Greek football is based on common values such as consistency, teamwork, innovation and the constant striving for high performance. These also form the foundation of a relationship that is built on stability and mutual trust.
As part of the partnership, Opel will continue to support the club’s activities, offering integrated mobility solutions through its modern and electrified model range, which combines advanced technology, top-notch safety and outstanding efficiency. Related News
The new Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 4MATIC+ crossed the finish line of the Nürburgring Nordschleife,
With an officially measured and notarized time of 7:32.070 minutes, the sporty sedan crowned itself the fastest vehicle in its segment on the legendary Nordschleife. In summery conditions with temperatures of 24 degrees Celsius (air) and 30 degrees Celsius (asphalt), it was able to demonstrate its performance right from the start.
The CLA 45 is powered by highly innovative axial-flow motors. Following the Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupé, it is only the second all-electric vehicle ever to bring this high-performance technology into series production. Three particularly powerful electric motors – two on the rear axle and one on the front axle – together unleash up to 500 kW (680 hp) and accelerate the four-seater from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.7 seconds . This propels the CLA 45 4MATIC+ into realms previously unimaginable in its segment. The power output is further enhanced by the liquid-cooled motors’ ability to consistently deliver full power – ideal for setting record lap times on the demanding Nordschleife. Related News
On July 29, 2026, the new GLA celebrated its world premiere in Warsaw, Poland,
The new Mercedes-Benz GLA SUV is perfectly suited to the dynamics of urban life – with a decidedly sporty and confident appearance. The completely redesigned interior provides more light, space, and sophistication on every journey. Related News
Nissan has achieved a new milestone for e‑POWER, its unique hybrid technology,
After the Nissan Qashqai equipped with next generation e‑POWER earned a Guinness World Records™ title for the longest journey completed by a non-plug-in extended-range electric vehicle SUV without external charging or refuelling.
Covering 1,980 km on a single tank, the record-setting drive showcased the efficiency, range confidence and real-world capability of Nissan’s e‑POWER technology. The journey took place in Colombia from 14 to 17 July 2026, travelling from Bogotá to the Caribbean coast and covering a wide variety of road, traffic and driving conditions. Every stage of the attempt was independently monitored and verified by Guinness World Records™ judges, who certified the achievement following a detailed review process. Related News
Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. announced the following senior management changes effective October 1, 2026.
Alfonso Albaisa, Corporate Executive, Global Design, will step down from his current role effective October 1, 2026, and serve as an advisor through December 31, 2026. Albaisa will retire on December 31, 2026. Albaisa has made significant contributions to the development of Nissan’s global design identity and the enhancement of Nissan’s design reputation around the world. Nissan extends its sincere appreciation for his leadership, dedication, and lasting contributions throughout his distinguished career.
Matthew Weaver, currently Senior Design Director, will be appointed Corporate Executive, Global Design, succeeding Alfonso Albaisa. Since joining Nissan in 2001, Weaver has contributed to the development of the Qashqai, Juke and other key models across Europe and Japan. He brings extensive leadership experience across Nissan’s global design organization, including Infiniti, partnership projects and LCV programs. Weaver will report directly to CEO Ivan Espinosa.
To ensure a smooth transition, Alfonso Albaisa and Matthew Weaver will work together through December 2026 to transfer responsibilities and maintain continuity of operations. Related News
Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. announced financial results for the three months ended June 30, 2026.
Nissan continues to deliver tangible results through disciplined execution of Re:Nissan. The plan delivered an additional ¥60 billion in first-quarter savings and contributed to a year-on-year improvement in operating profit, supporting progress in profitability, competitiveness and recovery.
In the first quarter, Nissan recorded global sales of 701,000 units and consolidated net revenue of ¥2.964 trillion, up ¥257 billion over the prior year. Consolidated operating profit returned to positive territory at ¥77.9 billion, an improvement of ¥157 billion, driven by progress in manufacturing and vehicle cost reductions, favorable foreign exchange, improved sales performance and disciplined cost management. In addition, one-time gains related to FY2025 U.S. tariffs contributed to operating profit. Net income also returned to positive territory at ¥3.8 billion, improving by ¥119.5 billion.. Related News
XPeng Inc. announced its vehicle delivery results for July 2026.
XPENG delivered 38,027 vehicles in July, marking an increase of 4% year over year. As of July 31, 2026, the Company’s cumulative deliveries reached a new milestone of more than 1.2 million units worldwide. On July 16, XPENG held its Brand Day and the L03 Global Launch Event in Munich, Germany. The new global model will launch in 65 countries and regions this year, expanding XPENG’s international product lineup.
On the global expansion front, earlier this month XPENG officially unveiled its long-term strategy for the Australian market, including plans to launch five all-new models in the second half of 2026 and continue expanding its local sales and service network. XPENG also announced that its NGP (Next Generation Pilot) system, powered by the in-house developed VLA 2.0 model, will begin its global rollout in 2027, bringing its intelligent driving technology to markets around the world.
XPENG’s electric vehicles delivered from January to July 2026 are expected to reduce life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions by more than 3.23 million tons compared to internal combustion engine vehicles, equivalent to the carbon absorbed by 53.75 million young trees over 10 years. Related News
Hyundai Motor and Kia are expanding design freedom beyond the constraints of conventional manufacturing through their commitment to engineering excellence.
In Part 3 of our series, we step inside the Additive Manufacturing Solution Center (AMSC), where engineers are utilizing advanced industrial 3D printing to compress development timelines and print complex components from digital blueprints. The Additive Manufacturing Solution Center (AMSC) at Hyundai Motor and Kia’s Namyang Research and Development (R&D) Center flips this paradigm. Here, components move directly from digital design to fabricated reality through a range of advanced additive manufacturing technologies — from laser-melted metals to powder-sintered polymers — with reduced tooling requirements and greater material flexibility. Engineers can design for optimal weight and performance and manufacture complex geometries that are difficult to achieve through conventional methods. The AMSC operates a broad range of additive manufacturing technologies tailored to different materials, geometries and performance requirements. Depending on the application, engineers can utilize both polymer- and metal-based manufacturing processes to achieve production-grade performance and precision. Related News
Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung visited Hyundai Motor Türkiye (HMTR) on July 30
He went to review production readiness for IONIQ 3 and discuss production and sales strategy. During the visit, Executive Chair Chung toured the IONIQ 3 production line and met with local employees to discuss production and sales strategy. Hyundai Motor has maintained a manufacturing presence in Türkiye for nearly three decades and continues to strengthen its production capabilities while supporting local employees and communities. IONIQ 3 marks Hyundai Motor Türkiye’s first step into EV production as the facility expands its future electrification capabilities. The facility established production infrastructure for the new model last year and has been conducting pilot production activities since May. Related News
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