The 2026 automotive market forecast shows deepening impacts from global geopolitics, tariffs, rare earth supply risks, and the rise of Chinese EVs, challenging production and growth worldwide.
The Kolon Autoliv airbag deal marks a major step in global automotive safety, with a $48 million Vietnam investment set to expand integrated airbag material production from 2028.
The EU has agreed on a landmark vehicle circularity regulation that transforms automotive design, recycling targets, exports, and end-of-life management under the European Green Deal.
Chinese greenfield investment in Europe is rising fast, but economic benefits are not guaranteed. Stronger EU-wide rules are needed to ensure real value, local jobs and technology gains.
Twisted accelerates its global ambitions with the acquisition of KS Composites, securing carbon fiber expertise, boosting engineering strength and enhancing future automotive and marine innovation.
China’s passenger vehicle sales fell by 0.8 % in October 2025 after eight consecutive months of growth. With government subsidies and tax incentives winding down, consumer sentiment is cooling. The slowdown raises questions about sustainability of the market’s momentum and the future for new-energy vehicles and domestic manufacturers.
Tesla’s China-made electric vehicle sales fell 9.9 % year-on-year in October, underscoring mounting pressure from rivals and shifting demand in the world’s largest EV market.
