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What is an infotainment system?

Technological advances have rendered older in-car entertainment systems effectively obsolete. Now, carmakers combine entertainment and information as a central point of interior design. Autovista24 special content editor Phil Curry examines the rise of the infotainment system. The rapid development of technology has replaced in-vehicle cassette and CD players with new systems. While music streaming meant losing bulky radio units, the need to display more driver information required bigger screens. By combining information and entertainment, the infotainment system has been a step forward for interior vehicle design and functionality. These systems are now a staple of modern cars, but some developments have been a cause for concern. https://youtu.be/yVLCP0bfm-0 Growth of the infotainment system With the development of touchscreen technology, integrating displays into vehicles for data and control access is a logical step. These screens provide more than just music playback. They also offer access to a wide range of systems. These displays can provide navigation, views from external-facing cameras, as well as battery charge and health in electric vehicles (EVs). Many also feature Bluetooth connection for calls and smartphone integration. This allows users to bring their own music, apps and personal settings into the car. Meanwhile, the infotainment system can act as a control location for certain vehicle functions. Menus and sub-menus provide detailed access to advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), vehicle customisation, driver profiles, and more. Some carmakers have even opted to reduce or remove physical buttons for certain systems. This produces a cleaner and sleeker interior design, but can also lead to potential safety issues. Are screens a distraction? The ability of an infotainment system to house various vehicle controls can free up space inside a car. However, with some controls buried in sub-menus, out of easy reach of the driver, there are concerns around distraction. Climate control, driving profiles, heated seats, and regenerative braking levels in EVs can be reduced from physical to digital buttons. But searching for these settings on a touchscreen can mean less focus on the road. Research published by TRL, on behalf of safety charity IAM Roadsmart in 2020, highlighted these concerns. Findings showed that driving performance was more negatively impacted when using touch controls compared with voice control. Study participants were able to keep their eyes on the road more when using voice control than touch control. They were also more likely to identify stimuli that required attention. Despite this, most participants in the study reported using touch rather than voice control in their real-world driving. Ensuring infotainment system safety The concerns over driver distraction have led to Euro NCAP making a button-based request of carmakers for 2026. The safety body is asking manufacturers to either offer physical controls or dedicate a fixed portion of the cabin display to primary driving functions. This includes the horn, indicators, hazard lights, windscreen wipers and headlights. So, the road ahead looks to be a matter of balance when it comes to infotainment systems. The technology will still need to support an increasing number of vehicle capabilities while also meeting higher consumer expectations. However, this will need to be levelled with control accessibility and driver attention.

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The Automotive Update: The changing fortunes of Chinese and European EV markets

How did the Chinese and European electric vehicle (EV) markets perform at the start of 2026? Plus, which manufacturers are speeding up plug-in vehicle charging? Tom Hooker, Autovista24 journalist, presents the latest episode of the Automotive Update. In this episode, Autovista24 looks at the varying performances of the Chinese and European EV markets. Plus, how are carmakers speeding up EV charging? Also, an insight into which manufacturers are turning to robotics and AI for use in their production lines. Subscribe to the Autovista24 podcast and listen to previous episodes on Spotify, Apple and Amazon Music. China sees EV struggles China’s EV market recorded a decline of 27.1% in January, according to the latest data from EV Volumes. Both the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and battery-electric vehicle (BEV) sectors saw sales decline year on year. The results were reflected in the best-seller tables, where mainstream models struggled. The Xiaomi YU7 was the leading BEV in January, with a dominant display. It was some way ahead of the second-placed Nio ES8. The Tesla Model Y finished third. Meanwhile, the PHEV table saw BYD dominance slip away. Leading the charge was the Fang Chen Bao Tai 7, a BYD sub-brand and model. It was ahead of the Aito M7, while the BYD Song Pro finished third in the month. Europe’s EV market on a high Conversely, Europe’s EV sales grew, according to EV Volumes data. Sales were up 19.2% overall in January, with both BEVs and PHEVs seeing increases. PHEVs posted a 33.5% rise, while BEV deliveries increased by 12.7%. The Skoda Elroq was Europe’s best-selling BEV in January. It was followed by the combined results of the Renault 5 and Alpine A290, with the Tesla Model Y in third. In the PHEV market, two Chinese models led the way. The BYD Seal U came first, ahead of the Jaecoo J7. Both PHEVs were well ahead of the Volvo XC60 in third place. Even faster battery charging The Denza Z9GT, a model from BYD’s premium marque, is set to arrive in Europe later this year. It could enable quicker charging times of up to 12 minutes. According to Denza, the Z9GT delivers a 10% to 70% charge in only five minutes, and a 10% to 97% refill in just nine minutes. The carmaker also quoted a 20% to 97% recharge in 12 minutes, even in temperatures around -30°C. Meanwhile, Chery has revealed its all-solid-state battery that can achieve a range of over 1,500km, Electrek reported. A robotic future? Renault is using an AI-trained humanoid robot, called Calvin, to help it build cars. It was developed by French robotic firm Wandercraft. Renault plans to roll out a further 350 humanoid robots over the next 18 months, according to Auto Express. This comes as carmakers increasingly identify automation and robotics investment as a key response to rising costs and competitive pressures. A recent survey by ABB robotics revealed that 31% of vehicle manufacturers and suppliers felt this way.

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Spain’s new-car market remains strong as new incentives take shape

February provided plenty of positives for Spain’s new-car market. But as the nation’s market continues to grow, is electrification progressing as planned? Autovista24 web editor James Roberts examines the latest numbers. February saw a second consecutive month of growth for the buoyant Spanish new-car market. In total, 97,082 new vehicles took to the country’s roads, 6,755 more than 12 months prior. This ensured a 7.5% year-on-year increase, according to the latest ANFAC data. With only December 2025 blotting an unbroken streak of year-on-year gains for Spain’s new-car market, February resumed a familiar trend. Industry body ANFAC highlighted that all channels achieved growth in the month, particularly the rental sector, which saw a 22.6% uptick. ‘After a hesitant start in January, February is once again a positive month for vehicle sales,’ stated Félix García, director of communication and marketing at ANFAC.‘Last month, the rental car channel was the one that grew the most, accounting for almost one in five sales of passenger cars. It is a logical increase to renew the fleet for the Easter period. Without these sales, the growth of individuals and companies is flatter compared to February 2025.’ This ‘good pace,’ as highlighted by ANFAC, prevailed when assessing the first two months of 2026. Combined January and February totals amounted to 170,185 passenger cars. This ensured a unit upswing of 7,542 compared with the same period in 2025, a healthy 4.6% boost. Hybrids remain top new-car choice Hybrids, made up of both full and mild hybrid powertrains, remained the top seller in February. In total, 46,592 new hybrids joined Spain’s car parc in the month, according to ANFAC. This robust total returned a 17.1% year-on-year increase and a 48% market share. This was just 0.6 percentage points (pp) down on January’s record, suggesting hybrid popularity is not ebbing. It was even up by 3.9pp year on year. Spanning the opening two months of 2026, hybrid cars held a dominant 48.3% market share, up 3.7pp year on year. Across January and February, 82,189 new hybrids made their way to customers in Spain. Spain’s BEV market share issue Amid this preference for hybrids, ANFAC highlighted that EVs, including battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs), continue to be a ‘key segment.’ However, is this consistently strong sector in danger of stagnating, especially when it comes to BEV uptake? February saw 8,889 new BEVs take to Spain’s roads. This equated to a 45.4% volume increase, carving out a 9.2% market share, up 2.4pp. After two months of the year, the BEV market share stood at 9%, 2.2pp up year on year. This comes as volumes reached 15,361 units, establishing a 38.1% year-on-year upswing. One reason for new-BEV buying reticence could be uncertainty. Spain’s relatively successful trend of EV adoption had been enabled by a long-standing incentive framework, the MOVES plan. This was introduced in 2019, funded by the EU’s NextGenerationEU recovery funds, and managed in conjunction with Spain’s regional governments. The issue with incentives The last iteration, MOVES III, came to an end on 31 December 2025. Its replacement, the Auto 2030 Plan (Auto+), announced at the beginning of December, aims to centralise and simplify EV incentives. It will mobilise up to €400 million in public and private investment between 2026 and 2030 to increase electrification in Spain. It will offer varying discounts on BEVs and PHEVs, spanning direct purchases, leasing and renting arrangements. The subsidies will be applied retroactively to vehicles purchased since 1 January in Spain. However, the government website has not yet confirmed publication. According to Carwow, Full implementation of the Auto 2030 Plan is not expected until at least May this year. In late January, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Business proposed amendments to the Auto 2030 Plan, according to La Tribuna. Addressing industry concerns, the change reportedly re-centres the scheme around cars manufactured within the EU. This would make the plan more closely aligned with the system used in France, as reported by electrive. One result of the amendments could be the discouragement of some models made in China from eligibility. This could bring additional uncertainty into the market. An added complication relates to Chinese carmakers investing in Spanish manufacturing, such as Chery and BYD. Spain’s need for clarity ‘Although the Auto+ plan has already been announced, and there are brands that have committed to bringing forward the discounts, there is no doubt that the official publication of clear and agile regulatory bases is essential to increase confidence,’ stated Tania Puche, GANVAM’s director of communication. Raúl Morales, communications director of FACONAUTO, added: ‘For another month, electrification has driven the market, once again exceeding 20% market share in new registrations. This is partly due to the announcement of the retroactive application of the Auto+ Plan, which provides aid to electric vehicles. ‘What we need now is for the regulatory framework for this plan to be published as soon as possible, so that buyers continue to have certainty and electrification can continue to increase its registration numbers,’ he continued. Whatever the outcome, industry bodies are urging further clarity around electrification uptake measures to boost sales in the country. ‘It is urgent to reactivate the tax deduction in personal income tax for the purchase of electric vehicles and the bonus for the installation of charging points, measures that have been overturned in congress for the second time in two months,’ Puche stated. PHEVs still proving popular As BEV uptake looks to push through to new heights, PHEV popularity has helped lift Spain’s overall plug-in sector. Since a notable triple-digit percentage volume surge in May 2025, the powertrain has continued to sell well. In February, 12,092 new PHEVs left forecourts in Spain, equating to a 75.2% year-on-year increase. Across the first two months of this year, PHEVs have seen 20,832 registrations and a 71.6% volume lift. This has ensured a 12.2% market share, up 4.7pp year on year. This strong start to 2026 and the enduring appeal of the powertrain have boosted overall plug-in deliveries. Spanning January and February, combined BEV and PHEV registrations reached 36,193 units. This marked a significant year-on-year climb of 55.6%. This also brought some meaningful market share capture, with the powertrains accounting for 21.3% of overall registrations, up 7.2pp. The combination of electrified registrations, including hybrids, BEVs and PHEVs, took the dominant slice of the Spanish new-car market. Across the opening two months of 2026, a total of 118,382 new electrified vehicles were registered in the country. This 23.7% upswing ensured a market share of 69.6%, a new high, and a 10.7pp increase. Petrol remains a key player With many headlines surrounding EV volume growth, it is easy to ignore the prevailing appeal of petrol within Spain. At first glance, sales have taken a year-on-year nosedive. Fewer new petrol-powered options are available as the industry moves towards net-zero. However, when it comes to market share, the fuel type is clinging on in Spain. In February, 22,534 new petrol vehicles reached customers, a 19.5% year-on-year dip. Although this continued the trend of double-digit monthly declines, the reality is more nuanced. Combining January and February’s new-car registration totals, petrol accounted for 23% of the market, with 39,067 registrations. Although volumes were down 20.8% year on year, the fuel type commanded the second-highest market share after hybrids. Petrol was 14pp higher than BEVs, and 10.8pp above PHEVs. While petrol retained influence in Spain’s new-car market, diesel continued its descent. The fuel type saw just 7,226 new vehicles registered across January and February. This underlined a significant 28.6% year-on-year drop and a meagre 4.2% market share, down 2pp. Total internal-combustion engine (ICE) new-vehicle registrations, including petrol and diesel, totalled 46,293 in January and February. This provided a 27.2% market share, down 9.3pp year on year, but still 5.9pp above EVs. One of the big questions now is whether plug-in sales will overtake ICE volumes in Spain this year.

News

The Automotive Update: What does China’s slowing EV market mean for global sales?

What is happening in China’s electric vehicle (EV) market? How much is Uber investing in autonomous vehicle charging hubs? Can Europe build its own EV batteries? Tom Geggus, Autovista24 editor, discusses these points in The Automotive Update podcast. In this episode, Autovista24 analyses China’s slowing EV market and reveals the best-selling models in the country. Plus, how has Tesla avoided suspension of its dealer and manufacturer licence in the US? Subscribe to the Autovista24 podcast and listen to previous episodes on Spotify, Apple and Amazon Music. China’s slowing EV market Globally, China accounts for 59.1% of battery-electric vehicle (BEV) sales and 70.3% of plug-in hybrid (PHEV) deliveries. But despite dominating the figures, the country saw its total EV numbers struggle in December. Figures rose by just 0.5%, according to the latest data from EV Volumes. Despite total plug-in sales increasing between January and December last year, this was not helped by the country’s PHEV market. It experienced a run of monthly declines from July onwards. One reason for this poor performance was the decline of BYD. The brand accounted for 33.3% of total EV sales in China during 2025 and dominated the PHEV market. Yet its sales were down 9.9% across the year. However, with new players entering the PHEV market, 2026 will see more brand diversification. This could help boost figures, while new BYD models will also help impress buyers. BEV sales rose by just 4% in December 2025 following a run of double-digit improvements. China’s carmakers will be hoping this is not the start of a new trend, especially if the PHEV market continues to struggle. Tesla avoids suspension Tesla has avoided a 30-day suspension of its dealer and manufacturer license in California. This follows the brand halting its use of the term ‘Autopilot’ in its vehicle marketing in the state. The Department of Motor Vehicles adopted a decision that the use of the term is ‘misleading and violates state law’. This is linked to Tesla’s use of Autopilot to describe its advanced driver-assistance systems. Uber invests in autonomous charging Uber Technologies will invest more than $100 million (€84.9 million) into autonomous vehicle charging hubs, according to Reuters. The company will deploy DC fast charging stations at its fleet depots and other locations throughout priority cities. This is expected to begin in the Los Angeles Bay Area as well as Dallas, before hitting other hubs. Uber will also work with charge point operators to establish ‘utilisation guarantee agreements’. This will support the rollout of hundreds of new chargers in cities across the world. EV charging offer in the Netherlands Leasing provider, Ayvens, has launched a new EV charging offering. Ayvens Power promises customers in the Netherlands access to over one million charging points across Europe, spanning different operators. Drivers will get real-time availability and pricing details before arrival. Meanwhile, a fleet portal will provide charging insights, cost visibility and reporting tools. The solution is due to roll out in France, Germany, Italy, Belgium, and the UK later in 2026. Can Europe build EV batteries? Yann Vincent, CEO of the Automotive Cells Company (ACC), has questioned who will make batteries for Europe’s domestic carmakers. ‘One crucial question remains: who will manufacture the batteries for European cars?’ Vincent asked. ‘Asian players, particularly Chinese giants, as is already the case for 99% of them? At the risk of putting the strategic independence of European car manufacturers solely in the hands of BYD, CATL, LG, etc?’. The CEO also confirmed that the ramp-up of ACC’s gigafactory in Hauts-de-France is taking longer and costing more than expected. This is weakening the company’s financial position. He also stated the goal of building the factory was ‘too close to give up on.’

19 February 2026

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What is car financing?

Car financing is key to the automotive ecosystem. It can heavily influence how cars are bought and sold, plus, it provides consumers with multiple purchasing options. But what exactly is it? Tom Hooker, Autovista24 journalist, explains how the process works from start to finish. Finding a vehicle purchase can be difficult for buyers. Car financing allows customers to possess a vehicle without paying for its full value upfront. It converts a large, one-off purchase into a series of predictable payments. In turn, it plays a vital role in how cars are priced, sold, and managed across the automotive industry. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wZqEZdeIVUk Car financing simultaneously prices the value of the vehicle today and its forecast residual value (RV). It also determines the cost and risk of lending money over time. The payment method links the car itself to an agreement. This sets how the car is paid for, who takes on the financial risk and who earns money from the deal. Furthermore, it establishes when the value of the car is recovered. This could be retrieved upfront, gradually through monthly payments, or at the end of the contract. Why does car financing exist? For many consumers, tying up money in a depreciating asset may not be a desirable financial decision. Car financing solves this by spreading the cost over time. It aligns payments with consumer income, usage, and expected vehicle depreciation. Meanwhile, for manufacturers and dealers, it can support consistent demand. Customers may be more willing to buy when monthly payments feel manageable, instead of paying one lump sum. This can allow dealers to sell higher-value vehicles and avoid sales declines. It can also enable them to have more influence over what models customers choose through finance offers. From a commercial standpoint, car financing is a framework made up of different structures that allocate risk in different ways. Some finance products prioritise ownership, while others prioritise usage. Sometimes, RV risk sits with the lender, and in other cases, it remains with the customer. These RVs directly influence pricing competitiveness, profitability, and used-car market performance. Accurate RV forecasting can support lower monthly payments and healthier margins. Conversely, poor forecasting could lead to stock imbalances or value erosion later in the vehicle lifecycle. Where do finance and insurance fit in? In most retail transactions, the finance product is sold by the dealer on behalf of a finance provider. Some finance providers are captives, and others are independent finance houses. These providers supply the funding that allows dealers to present finance agreements to customers. Once a customer has chosen a vehicle, the focus shifts to the design of the finance agreement. This turns the vehicle price into a specific, personalised offer. This stage aims to bring everything together into a single agreement. The contract must meet lender requirements and comply with regulations. Clarity is particularly important, as this part of the process is often unfamiliar to customers. Ultimately, car financing can influence which vehicles sell and how often customers return to dealerships. It also plays a vital role in residual value management and how risk is distributed across the automotive ecosystem. As vehicle prices rise, financing could play an increasingly important role in shaping the automotive industry.

2 February 2026

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The Automotive Update: Carmakers accelerate AI applications at CES 2026

Which carmakers and technology companies are betting big on artificial intelligence (AI), and how do they plan to use it? Autovista24 editor Tom Geggus picks out key talking points from this year’s CES in The Automotive Update podcast. Major automotive companies are integrating AI into their vehicles. This means technology companies such as Nvidia are becoming integral partners in this seismic industry shift. However, they are not alone, as automotive suppliers are looking to keep up. Subscribe to the Autovista24 podcast and listen to previous episodes on Spotify, Apple and Amazon Music. Mercedes-Benz leans into AI with Nvidia Mercedes-Benz used CES 2026 to confirm that the new CLA will feature the AI-powered Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS). This advanced driver-assistance(ADAS) technology is powered by Nvidia’s full-stack drive software, AI infrastructure and compute power. This could assist over-the-air updates (OTA), including planned upgrades to the MB.Drive drive-assistance technology. This is aimed at enabling advanced SAE Level 2 capabilities in complex urban settings. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_tJMYyVaOSw Mercedes-Benz confirmed its electric GLC will utilise MB.OS, as well as AI from Microsoft and Google in its infotainment system. The model is set to arrive in the US in the second half of this year. ‘As the automotive industry embraces physical AI, Nvidia is the intelligence backbone that makes every vehicle programmable, updatable and perpetually improving through data and software,’ said Ali Kani, vice president of automotive at Nvidia. Nvidia is also working on a collection of open-source AI models called Alpamayo family, designed to accelerate autonomous vehicle development. Plus, the company announced that its Drive Hyperion ecosystem will expand to include more automotive companies. This comes as it embraces advanced SAE Level 4 and full self-driving technology. Afeela and AI assistants Sony Honda Mobility brought a new vehicle to CES 2026, the Afeela Prototype 2026. A production version of the model could launch in the US in 2028. Its predecessor, the Afeela 1, has been available for reservations in California since January 2025. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tMkmiZS0brQ Delivery hubs are set to open this spring in the US state. Arizona will see sales in 2027, with Japan due to see deliveries in the first half of that year. Sony Honda Mobility also unveiled the Afeela personal agent, an interactive, conversational AI. It will use Microsoft Azure OpenAI to provide personalised dialogue. BMW gave a demo of its AI-powered personal assistant. Built on Amazon’s Alexa+ technology, the assistant was presented within the Neue Klasse debut model, the BMW iX3. Users can interact with the car’s large language model to control in-vehicle operations. The assistant also has access to information beyond the car, allowing it to answer a broad range of questions. This technology will be gradually rolled out in Germany and the US in the second half of 2026. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3JQu-H-iJqg Ford also announced it will roll out an intelligent assistant. It will be available on users’ phones before it reaches their cars. The Ford and Lincoln apps will support the technology beginning in the first half of this year. The carmaker said it plans to reach up to eight million customers. The Ford AI Assistant promises to be capable of providing contextually useful information, such as vehicle storage capacity. This technology looks set to arrive in Ford and Lincoln vehicles by 2027. Source: Ford Architecture and autonomy Geely brought its full-domain AI 2.0 to CES 2026. This unified vehicle-wide architecture utilises a central intelligence engine, capable of operating all vehicle functions. The autonomous driving system, Geely Afari Smart Driving, uses AI and large-scale real-world driving data. It features high-performance sensors, plus hardware for confident and safe driving. ‘AI is reshaping the automotive industry in many ways, from powertrains and components to a systematic reconstruction of mobility ecosystems and lifestyles,’ said Jerry Gan, CEO of Geely Auto Group. Lucid confirmed a union with Uber and physical-AI company Nuro to produce vehicles for a global robotaxi service. Autonomous on-road testing began in December, ahead of an expected launch in the San Francisco Bay Area later this year. Source: Lucid Suppliers starring at CES Bosch showcased an all-in-one, personalised, AI-based cockpit. Life-like communication appears possible via large language model. Meanwhile, a visual language model can interpret what is happening inside and outside the vehicle. Qualcomm confirmed it is working with ZF to deliver scalable ADAS solutions. Leapmotor’s D19 will use Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Elite platform. It combines cockpit, driver assistance, body control and connectivity into one system. The supplier also plans to expand its collaboration with Google to develop software-defined vehicles while accelerating in-vehicle, agentic AI technology. ‘As the automotive industry rapidly evolves into an AI-powered, software-defined future, our continued collaboration is more critical than ever,’ said Patrick Brady, vice president, engineering at Google. LG’s Mobility Display Solution turns the windshield into an intelligent interface. The Automotive Vision Solution enhances safety and delivers context-aware information via Vision AI. The In-Vehicle Entertainment Solution provides personalised content recommendations, memory-based media, plusreal-time translation. ‘We are bringing our future mobility vision to life by embedding AI across our solutions – many of which, including in-cabin sensing, are already in production with global OEMs,’ said Eun Seok-hyun, president of the LG Vehicle Solution Company. ‘By accelerating these innovations to market, we aim to pioneer the era of AI-driven vehicles in the years ahead.’

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What is an Autovista24 Launch Report?

Every year, dozens of new cars are launched across Europe. Each bring their own benefits to buyers and the wider automotive market. Autovista24 analyses many of these vehicles in the monthly Launch Report series. Special content editor Phil Curry explains the valuable insights on offer. Carmakers are constantly developing vehicles for the automotive market. This results in either brand-new nameplates or next-generation versions of existing models. These new cars each aim to offer drivers something different in an increasingly crowded market. This could be through their design, interior options, technological advances or driving characteristics. While many vehicle reviews will focus on these traits, the Autovista24 Launch Report offers something unique. These monthly vehicle overviews combine a standard review of the car alongside detailed expert analysis and residual value (RV) forecasts. These combined insights elevate the Launch Report to a key piece of information for automotive industry decision makers. https://youtu.be/ZP3RBB0_jfk Launch Report breakdown Each Launch Report features an interactive dashboard that provides analysis and RV comparisons against three competitors. This information is compiled by experts from key European markets, including Austria, France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the UK. The Dashboard features an overview of a vehicle’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. These areas of examination provide a balanced analysis. The strengths segment will look at the best elements of a car, while the weaknesses will point out areas that could be improved. The opportunities section looks at the potential of the model in the automotive market. For threats, the experts look at possible competition, and market conditions that could impede success. Examining residual values Autovista Group experts will also benchmark RV performance against three direct market competitors. These forecast values are determined after 36 months, and market-specific mileages. The study shows the recommended retail price for the model and trim level in question. It also provides the expected value after the time and mileage conditions. This is presented together with the RV, expressed as a percentage of the retained original price. This allows buyers to understand the vehicle’s potential future value. They can then factor this into their purchase decision. This is especially important for fleet buyers, who can understand the financial potential of new models, especially around the average de-fleeting period. This RV information is provided by each market participating in the Launch Report feature. The data is specific to that country, allowing for a more precise and region-specific understanding of vehicle performance. Providing the review Alongside the interactive dashboard, each Launch Report also includes a detailed review of the model itself. This summarises the comments and thoughts of Autovista Group editors, along with Autovista24’s research and experience. The review provides an analysis of the vehicle and adds more context for the dashboard analysis. They are written by experienced motoring journalists and provide a balanced view of each model. This includes more information on design, practicality and driving characteristics. Overall, the Launch Report provides buyers with the complete picture of a vehicle. Alongside the written article, Autovista24 also produces a number of Launch Report videos. These give a visual overview and a detailed look at new models. Alongside this, there is also a breakdown of forecast residual values in select European markets.

18 December 2025

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Can carmakers steer towards a successful 2026?

What has defined 2025 for carmakers? Will these trends continue into 2026? Enterprise sales director Thomas Luxenburger considers the upsides and downsides with Autovista24 editor Tom Geggus. What do you think the big trends have been for OEMs in 2025? We need to distinguish between the established OEMs and the newer players, including those trying to strengthen their position. Established carmakers are struggling with declining margins as they lose market share, particularly in former emerging markets. In China, there is fierce competition between importers and domestic brands, which means lots of pressure on margins. Established brands have been losing local market share, resulting in smaller margins. This means these companies have less money to invest back into development. The timing could not be worse, as these brands need to put money into the electric vehicle (EV) transition. Carmakers are also at the forefront of more protectionist politics and policies, such as tariffs. There has also been increased supply chain tension this year, impacting chips and rare earth metals. To remain competitive, companies are looking to balance the books elsewhere. This can include experimenting with direct sales models or monetising software and services. They have also looked to cut staffing and production costs, with manufacturing moved to more affordable locations. Carmaker competition So, new-car markets have seen increased competition this year. How has this impacted pricing, operational strategies and future products? In terms of development, established players have historically needed up to seven years to bring a new model to market. Meanwhile, new players can develop their cars much faster. Software-defined vehicles take far less time to launch and often cost less. This is pushing established OEMs to accelerate their development process and bring more affordable vehicles to the market. Think just about earlier generations of battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), established brands offered these at a higher price point. These models have now entered the used-car market and have changed hands once or even twice. But their residual values (RVs) are under pressure from a higher cost-new price. But now, established brands are under more pressure to increase new-car sales volumes, which means investing in more affordable cars. This means a lower list price between €20,000 and €30,000. Direct sales model hype? You mentioned direct sales models earlier. What have carmakers learnt about these systems in 2025? Following the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a lot of hype for carmakers to do everything by themselves. Some set up a flagship store in a big city and thought brand awareness would secure the business. But now perspectives on that approach have changed. Previously, I was surprised that a country like Germany did not see larger dealer groups investing in the market from abroad. However, nowadays there is a very different landscape with much larger groups acquiring medium-sized dealers. Additionally, dealers are quite open to new logos and Chinese brands. This is a totally different situation with larger dealer groups becoming increasingly important and having even greater influence. Meanwhile, new brands are battling each other to acquire their interest. In this landscape with margins under pressure, direct sales are being considered as an opportunity for OEMs. Premium brands could run direct sales models, but mass market ones might struggle more. For these carmakers, having dealer groups in the field and closer to the customer is more advantageous. This is because the risk is carried by the dealer, not the carmaker. If the current socioeconomic situation were more stable, the direct sales model would probably be more advanced. Affordable all-electric cars Carmakers have been looking to affordable BEVs to stay competitive. Do you think this trend will continue? The benefit of my job is getting to see cars at an early stage, so we know what is coming down the pipe. There is obviously an appetite to bring more affordable cars into the market. Also, battery chemistries and technologies are advancing, making it possible to reach target groups at a lower price point. In the coming years, we will see more affordable cars for commuting in urban areas. Even so, carmakers still need to earn money to justify the investment in affordable models, and only volume will cover this. To reach optimum volumes, there must be marketing, with advertising to reveal this new generation of cars. The price point for mobility is the key. Consumers will need to ask themselves what they really need in the day to day. Is a 500km BEV necessary for urban commuting, or would a solar panel and a home charger make more sense? But the used-car market is going to play an important role in the future. In the future, internal-combustion engine cars and affordable BEVs will compete in this space in terms of price attractiveness. I think OEMs need to think about a second or a third used cycle. This means supporting dealerships with the likes of a subscription model for used BEVs. Away from the new car market, this would be a new approach for the powertrain. This would certainly help while registrations continue to recover from a turbulent few years. Commercial vehicle connection What about the light-commercial vehicle (LCV) sector, where the electric transition seems far slower. Could 2026 be the year this changes? I would hope so. You know me, I am LCV addicted. I spoke with some of our colleagues to get their electric LCV adoption forecast, and it will take time. We will not see a significant move in 2026. Change will maybe start in 2027 until the end of the decade. I think it will take much more time beyond 2030 for potential customers to become fully aware of the powertrain. But I do know OEMs that have not previously offered electric LCVs and are now investigating the technology. Elsewhere, the hydrogen discussion has become a bit stuck for LCVs. For heavy trucks, it could be a solution in the future, but I would not expect that personally. I think OEMs will invest in electric LCVs. With the legislation and regulations in the EU, I think this technology will be the way forward. It will take a bit of time, but it will become more important, particularly for the total cost of ownership. Carmakers and supply chains You mentioned advancing automotive technology several times. The need for more advanced parts, like chips, has increased accordingly. But how can OEMs protect themselves when supply chains for these parts become disrupted? It will remain a real challenge. I think OEMs have responded by increasing inventory buffers. We saw this with the disruption of Nexperia chips, where many carmakers tried to fast-track alternatives. It also depends on the contracts and the supply in general. But OEMs are now seeing more reason to spread their risk. Just counting on one supplier can result in quite a mess. Companies may invest in long-term contracts to ensure supply, as well as buffers and alternatives. Some carmakers may even look to get rid of some technology. I think development will now emphasise reducing the number of control units a car needs. Less technology means less reliance on these supply chains. These countermeasures may help OEMs ride the waves of supply chain disruption, but they cannot stop the geopolitical storm. International tensions have a huge impact on the automotive industry, and that is unlikely to change in the short term. The opportunities and challenges With all that in mind, what are the biggest challenges and the greatest opportunities for OEMs in 2026? We can start with opportunities. It is generally hard to say, because I do not have a crystal ball here on my desk. However, I believe that the key lies in the used-car business. This can help support decreasing new-car sales margins. With the right pricing, taking care of RV development could be a pillar for securing the business or covering decreasing margins. A well-established, certified pre-owned programme could also help. It is about developing, coaching, and teaching in the established dealer landscape and taking care of these programmes. They could support a stable value of the cars in the market. Yet, I think the greatest opportunity is to make faster development cycles. The market requires that we move faster technologically. However, this must be done purposefully, not randomly or sporadically. A well-thought-out transition to a new technology will take time. I think 2026 will be another year of transition. Established brands will need to reduce costs, optimise their workflows and strengthen their value chains. Newcomers wanting to make an impact in Europe will look to acquire dealer groups and bring volume into the market. This increased competition will likely be reflected in pricing strategies. New brands will be able to quickly gain ground by utilising customer trust in known dealer groups. So, I am not sure whether all OEMs will survive to the end of the decade. There may be another wave of consolidation on the horizon.

17 December 2025

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The Automotive Update: Renault and Ford collaboration plus global EV enthusiasm cools

What has drawn two automotive giants to collaborate on future vehicles? How are delays impacting the EU emissions target discussions? Autovista24 special content editor Phil Curry discusses the week’s biggest stories in The Automotive Update podcast. In the latest episode, further details on the seismic collaboration between Renault and Ford. Also, a look at what the automotive industry wants to see in the delayed EU discussions on 2035 CO2 targets. Plus, is electric vehicle (EV) interest cooling, and what could renewed negotiations between China and the EU mean for Chinese Built EVs. Subscribe to the Autovista24 podcast and listen to previous episodes on Spotify, Apple and Amazon Music. Renault and Ford join forces on EVs Ford is to partner with Renault on development of battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) and all-electric vans. The agreement will see the development of two Ford-branded EVs based on the Ampere platform that underpins the Renault 5 and Renault 4. These vehicles will be produced at Renault’s ElectriCity manufacturing plant in the north of France. Designed by Ford, and developed with Renault Group, the two cars will feature distinctive driving dynamics, authentic Ford-brand DNA and intuitive experiences. The first of the two vehicles is expected in showrooms in early 2028. The RAC has predicted that the partnership could signal a return for the Ford Fiesta. The model was discontinued in 2023, as the carmaker focused on larger vehicles. However, a revival in the small car market could see the popular vehicle return, with the underpinnings of the Renault 5. EU emissions target delay The European Commission has delayed discussions of a new proposal to potentially revise the EU’s 2035 ban on the sale of new CO₂-emitting cars and vans. According to Reuters, talks are now expected to happen on 16 December. The postponement comes as policymakers and industry leaders call for adjustments to the current strategy. ACEA director general Sigrid de Vries recently highlighted the industry’s slow post-COVID-19 recovery and limited investment in EV charging infrastructure. She also argued that the 2030 and 2035 emissions targets are no longer realistic. De Vries offered five recommendations, including stronger consumer incentives , and greater technological neutrality. Environmental groups oppose the easing of restrictions. Lucien Mathieu, cars director at Transport & Environment, warned against permitting biofuels and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) beyond 2035. ’[The new proposals]’may give them short-term comfort, but strategically it is a mistake that risks pushing the European industry into a dead end,’ he stated. Chinese EV tariff talks resume China's commerce ministry has stated that negotiations with the EU over a minimum price plan for Chinese-built electric vehicles have restarted, Reuters has reported. The ministry has also urged the bloc not to talk independently with manufacturers. The EU approved tariffs of up to 45.3% in October 2024. This followed a European Commission investigation into whether Chinese carmakers were benefiting from unfair subsidies that could impact competition in Europe. China insists its manufacturers are simply more competitive than their European counterparts. As a result, Beijing has urged Brussels to accept a minimum price plan in place of tariffs. Study reveals a return to ICE A new study by EY has revealed that many global car buyers are shifting back from EVs to internal combustion (ICE) models. The EY Mobility Consumer Index shows that 50% of global car buyers intend to purchase an internal combustion engine vehicle in the next 24 months. This is an increase of 13 percentage points (pp) from 2024. In addition, battery-electric vehicle preference has fallen to 14pp, a drop of 10pp. Meanwhile hybrids preference had declined to 16%, down five percentage points. Range anxiety appears to continue to be one of the top barriers for consumers choosing EVs. According to the report, 29% of respondents cited this as their top concern, while 28% pointed to the lack of EV charging infrastructure. New autonomous partnerships Mercedes-Benz and Momenta are ushering in the next stage of automated driving with the launch of an SAE Level 4 robotaxi service. The carmaker, together with its advanced driver assistance systems partner for China, is announcing this driverless shuttle service based on the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Following an initial test phase in Abu Dhabi, the partners intend to roll out the service more broadly to other locations and markets. Meanwhile Stellantis and mobility platform Bolt have entered a partnership. They will jointly explore the development and deployment of Level 4 autonomous vehicles for commercial operations across Europe. Automotive AI investment decline? By 2029, only 5% of carmakers will maintain strong, AI investment growth, a decline from over 95% today. That is the forecast from business and technology insights company, Gartner. The firm predicts that only a handful of automotive companies will maintain ambitious AI initiatives after the next five years. Organisations with strong software foundations, technology awareness in its leadership, and a consistent very long-term focus on AI will pull ahead from the rest, creating a competitive AI divide. Gartner predicts that by 2030, at least one manufacturer will achieve fully automated vehicle assembly, marking a historic shift in the automotive sector.

12 December 2025

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What should automotive remarketing and aftersales companies focus on in 2026?

What trends have defined 2025 for automotive remarketing and aftersales companies, and what lies ahead? Paul Marklew, enterprise sales director at Autovista Group, speaks with Tom Geggus, editor of Autovista24. How has 2025 been for remarketers? What trends have defined this year for them? Remarketers, such as dealers, auctions and advertising portals, have seen a slow 2025 that has made trading conditions challenging. With current economic uncertainties, including reduced consumer sentiment, there are fewer cars being bought and sold. Profit margins are being squeezed significantly as dealers compete for the buyers that are in the market. This trend is reflected when looking at residual values (RVs) across the vehicles. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, most markets across Europe have seen a pretty dramatic increase in RVs. Dealers have also enjoyed increased profit margins. Now we are seeing a rationalisation of the market. Values are dropping towards pre-pandemic levels, at quite a fast rate in some cases. This has resulted in lower profit margins when the vehicles finally go into stock. Additionally, consumers are holding on to their cars for a little bit longer. This has reduced the amount of stock in the market. How does this compare to the year the aftermarket has had? Aftersales, like part suppliers for example, are still some of the more profitable parts of dealer businesses. The margins in the car are a bit more difficult, but servicing and maintenance continue to be profitable. The businesses dealing with aftermarket parts, which are normally more affordable than OEM parts, are seeing an increase in business. This comes as they move towards increased digitalisation and an improved buyer experience. So, aftersales and remarketing are really experiencing the same meta trends in different ways. Remarketing and consumers As you mentioned, RVs did soar during the COVID-19 pandemic, and now we are seeing a normalisation. How have remarketing companies dealt with this change? For starters, there has been a focus on cost and buyer experience. AI and digital car-buying journeys are coming into the mix a lot more. There is also a focus on the consumer experience, and there is a lot of competition in this area. This is because you can only compete so far on price and remain profitable. Consumers are spending less time in the dealership and more time online. Consequently, some of these online advertising portals, for example, are becoming increasingly important to the journey. So, dealers are trying to capture people online a lot more now, and they are trying to give consumers choice. Previously, we saw businesses introduce online-only models, particularly during COVID-19. Those models had mixed success and varied longevity. But in the end, the businesses that were more successful with this, created choice for customers. These buyers can complete as much of the buying journey online as they would like. Then, if they would like to come into a dealership to complete the transaction, that is available to them. Closed remarketing ecosystem So how do these digital systems lock in buyers? Information is king in this area. Dealers are looking at new ways of providing information to consumers, including agentic AI on their websites. This helps customers do the research in the dealer ecosystem, keeping them on their website. Then they are more likely to convert that into a sale in the end. We are seeing this in the wholesale environment as well. Traditionally, in places like the UK, physical auctions were the way to buy cars. But since COVID-19, the digital acquisition of stock is becoming more common. Platforms that allow dealer-to-dealer customers to purchase stock digitally, either from other dealers, OEMs, or fleet companies, are becoming more common. The key factors in that are going to be getting the pricing right and accurately describing the vehicle condition. Electric vehicle remarketing Another hurdle for remarketing and aftersales is electric vehicles (EVs). How can the relatively low RVs of these vehicles be managed? The depreciation happens, at scale, in the first life of the vehicle. A lot of first-life EVs go into fleets and leasing. Realistically, that loss is being handled by the businesses that are then remarketing the cars. But EVs do remain a point of uncertainty. In some markets, they are difficult to insure. In others, they are difficult to source parts for. In some countries, they do not have the best charging infrastructure. Some of the markets, like the UK, are bucking these trends. RVs are low, but this is mainly due to the fast development of EV technology. There is also a knowledge gap to overcome, with dealers looking to upskill themselves. Yet, EVs are selling pretty well in the UK, even used models. As long as the dealers buy at the right price, they are not having much difficulty selling them. There are always going to be deviations from that trend, but overall, the UK EV market is pretty strong. What about in other countries? What we are seeing a lot of in mainland Europe is the shifting from one country to another. Many used EVs have low RVs within one country, like Germany, for example. But the vehicles are moved to the Nordics, for example, where the used EV market is strong and RVs are less disrupted. So, if you remarket your vehicle in a country with a low RVs, that is what you will experience. However, if you move it to a country with a stronger used EV market, you avoid absorbing those financial outcomes. Creaking supply chains One problem the industry has dealt with this year is disrupted supply chains. How have aftersales businesses managed? This seems to be a problem more for vehicle manufacturers. For non-OEM parts, business is actually looking pretty good. There are several factors at play. More insurance companies are looking to control costs. Before, they may have had policies that focused on like-for-like replacements. Those become difficult policies to manage during supply chain disruption as the costs of these parts rise. Increasingly, they are looking at viable aftermarket alternatives and, in some cases, recycled parts. When we look at OEM parts and how businesses are trying to adapt to this, digitalisation is a key trend. We are seeing more e-commerce journeys at play. There is also an increase in purchase channels. Dealers are looking at how they can sell parts directly to consumers online. Again, having the right data to facilitate picking the right part for the right car is key. Opportunities and challenges So, moving into 2026, where do you see the biggest opportunities and challenges for remarketing and aftersales companies? I am sure we will see more overseas investment resulting in the consolidation of dealerships. When the top line is pressured, reducing costs is key. So, dealers are going to do that by investing in growing their businesses through acquisition. There is going to be investment in digitalisation to reduce costs. They are going to make sure they have good quality data to make sure that they are making the right purchasing and selling decisions. We will also keep seeing vehicles moving around countries in mainland Europe, ensuring businesses get the best possible price. This is because the desirability and profitability of certain vehicles are different from country to country. The aftermarket will see something quite similar. Digitalisation, consolidation, and the reduction of costs to ensure profitability. For example, we are seeing a lot of parts wholesalers grouping together to share costs. This is not necessarily acquisition, but the forming of powerful buying groups to create economies of scale. So, both sides of the market will need to manage the bottom line, where there is less flexibility in the top line. This means AI, digitalisation, and economies of scale.

11 December 2025

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The Automotive Update: New EV incentives in Spain and tariff hope for VW Group

Spain launches a new national electric vehicle (EV) incentive framework. The EU reviews tariffs on Volkswagen (VW) Group’s countervailing duties. Also, a look into Zipcar’s potential UK exit. Autovista24 editor Tom Geggus goes behind the headlines in The Automotive Update podcast. In this week’s episode, Autovista24 is joined by Autovista Group’s regional head of valuation and insights, Ana Azofra. She offers her thoughts on Spain’s bold new EV incentive plans, and what they mean for the country’s new-car market. Also, a look into how the European Commission is reviewing tariffs on a made-in-China battery-electric vehicle (BEV) from VW Group. Finally, Zipcar looks to cease its UK operations. Subscribe to the Autovista24 podcast and listen to previous episodes on Spotify, Apple and Amazon Music. Spain’s revamped EV inventive plan This week saw the formal unveiling of Spain’s new approach to EV incentives. Dubbed the Auto 2030 Plan, the scheme will replace the current MOVES funding framework, which ends on 31 December. The plan will allocate €400 million to aid direct purchases of electric cars. It will be rolled out from 1 January 2026, according to Motor.es. Under the Auto 2030 Plan, regional administrations will no longer control and allocate funds. Instead, the process will be directed by the central government. Another key change includes providing incentives at the point of purchase, as reported by EFE. The Auto 2030 Plan will direct €580 million from an EU-funded scheme to support industrial development. Additionally, €300 million will be made available to expand the country’s EV charging infrastructure. EU review of tariffs The European Commission is reviewing its tariffs on VW Group BEVs made in China. This follows VW Anhui, producer of the Cupra Tavascan, and SEAT, importer of the model, proposing a price undertaking. Since the EU implemented tariffs on BEVs made in China last year, the model has seen countervailing duties of 20.7%. This is on top of the existing 10% import duty. SEAT confirmed with Autovista24 that its proposal includes an annual import quota and a minimum import price. ‘If accepted, this would result in the non-application of countervailing duties on the Cupra Tavascan. The exemption will take effect once the European Commission accepts the undertaking and adopts the corresponding regulation,’ a spokesperson said. The process can be expected to take a few months. A spokesperson for the European Commission told Autovista24 that: ‘the door remains open for other companies to submit price undertaking offers, either jointly by groups of companies or by individual companies, as long as they adequately address the issue of Chinese subsidies.’ End of the road for Zipcar in the UK Zipcar, the car-sharing platform, looks set to close its UK operations by the end of this year. The Avis Budget-owned company has updated its UK site with a message for customers. ‘Zipcar proposes to cease operations in the UK, subject to formal consultation with affected employees. During this period, we will not be accepting new member applications,’ it reads. Vehicles can still be booked and used up until 31 December 2025. Any new bookings are temporarily suspended beyond this date, pending the employee consultation. Zipcar operations in the US are not affected by this proposal, according to the company’s FAQs.

5 December 2025

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The Automotive Update: Significant EV tax changes in UK and 2026 new-car market forecast

How will the UK’s Autumn budget impact the country’s electric vehicle (EV) industry? What can be expected from the global new-car market in 2026? Plus, the latest key EV battery production announcements. Autovista24 journalist Tom Hooker presents The Automotive Update podcast. In this week’s episode, a look at what the UK government’s budget means for drivers of EVs. Also, an expert-led webinar focused on new-car markets. Finally, the latest EV battery production news, unpacked. Subscribe to the Autovista24 podcast and listen to previous episodes on Spotify, Apple and Amazon Music. UK EV drivers face revamped tax framework The UK government has announced plans for a pay-per-mile tax on battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs). The latest budget outlined that BEVs will be charged 3p per mile, while PHEVs will pay 1.5p per mile, from 2028 onwards. Dubbed the Electric Vehicle Excise Duty (eVED), it will sit alongside the usual annual Vehicle Excise Duty (VED). EV owners will pay both the standard tax and the mileage-based charge. Drivers look to be required to input their annual mileage when renewing their vehicle tax. They can either pay the full amount in advance or spread payments across the year. At the end of the period, they will report their actual mileage. While some have welcomed changes to VED, there is dissent. Critics of the new plans warn that the additional charge could make EVs less appealing and may slow adoption rates. What to expect for new-car markets in 2026 Autovista Group’s latest webinar, Global new-car market outlook 2026, explored some key new-car market forecasts. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i-C26zAOiUU An expert panel discussed whether economic headwinds and supply-chain challenges could prevail into 2026. While gross domestic product is expected to fall in many markets as inflation remains mostly flat, EV adoption will continue. Additionally, the demand for electric powertrains is driving battery innovation. In particular, lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries can be expected to feature in a greater number of new electrified vehicles. The webinar also assessed the potential success of Chinese carmakers in the European market. Affordability and build quality emerged as key factors in dictating potential prosperity. These new brands look set to capture a greater share of the European EV market in 2026. The question is which ones will have the staying power to succeed. EV battery production developments CATL revealed it will train up to 4,000 workers to operate its €4.1 billion battery plant in Spain. According to Reuters, the site will begin production in late 2026, supplying batteries to Stellantis. It marks China’s biggest investment in Spain and is also backed by €300 million in EU funds. The project will be Spain’s biggest battery production facility when it is completed. Three more Spanish battery plants are planned, including projects by Envision AESC, Volkswagen’s (VW) PowerCo and Inobat. LG Chem and Sinopec announced a partnership to develop key materials for sodium-ion batteries, electrive reported. The two companies said the batteries produced would be used for applications in China and globally, including ‘low-speed’ EVs. Foxconn will expand its own battery production, according to electrive. The contract manufacturer plans to produce battery cells for EVs at its Taiwan facility. Finally, Panasonic Energy will supply batteries to Zoox, Amazon’s self-driving unit, Reuters reported. Deliveries will begin in early 2026 under a multi-year agreement.

28 November 2025