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Automotive Industry Weekly Update – Episode 390

This week in the automotive industry: Douvrin's closure, Volkswagen's restructuring, F1 updates, and Singapore's unprecedented driving costs.

Daniel Cole·4 min read·8/7/2026

Stellantis to Cease Engine Production at Douvrin Plant on October 30

Stellantis will end engine production at its Douvrin plant on October 30, 2026. Established in 1969, the site has produced over 40 million engines and is transitioning towards electrification.

Marta Ivanenko·3 min read·7/31/2026

Understanding the Total Cost of Ownership for Electric Vehicles

When considering an electric vehicle, it's crucial to look beyond the purchase price and monthly payments. Understanding the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) reveals the true financial implications of owning an EV compared to traditional vehicles.

Marta Ivanenko·5 min read·7/16/2026

Urgent Reforms Needed for European Automotive Industry, Warns Minister Urso

Italy's Minister of Enterprises, Adolfo Urso, warns that without urgent reforms by 2026, the European automotive industry risks deindustrialization, citing the Green Deal as a major factor in the current crisis.

Daniel Cole·3 min read·7/15/2026

The Shift to Pay-Per-Use: A New Era in Mobility?

Experts predict a major shift in mobility towards a pay-per-use model, eliminating traditional car ownership burdens. This evolution could redefine how we access vehicles in the future.

Marta Ivanenko·4 min read·7/14/2026

BYD Sees Global Sales Surge Driven by Exports Despite Domestic Market Decline

BYD reports a second month of sales growth driven by exports, amidst a declining domestic market in China.

Daniel Cole·3 min read·7/13/2026

Ferrari and BMW Shift to Aluminum Wiring Amid Rising Copper Costs

Ferrari and BMW adopt aluminum for automotive wiring, reducing weight and costs amid rising global copper prices.

Marta Ivanenko·4 min read·7/11/2026

Electric Occasion: Batteries Finally Reassure

A Swedish study on 8,200 used electric vehicles reveals an average battery health of 93.7%.

Marta Ivanenko·5 min read·6/23/2026

Auto Repair: Bills Have Soared by 25% Since 2020

The cost of automotive repairs continues to rise. According to the SRA observatory, the average bill after an accident has increased by another 4% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2026. Behind this figure lies an expense that many drivers overlook.

Marta Ivanenko·3 min read·6/23/2026

Leapmotor's Bold Ambition: From Chinese Manufacturer to Global EV Giant | BlogMotori.com

In a fiercely competitive Chinese automotive market, Leapmotor has doubled its EV sales and is set for global expansion through a strategic partnership with Stellantis.

Daniel Cole·3 min read·6/15/2026

BYD Accelerates Local Production in Europe: All EVs for the EU Market to Be Manufactured Locally by 2028 | BlogMotori.com

The Chinese automotive giant BYD has announced plans to produce all electric vehicles for the EU market locally by 2028, adapting to European market challenges and reducing import costs.

Marta Ivanenko·4 min read·6/14/2026

Why Electric Vehicles Are Changed More Often Than Internal Combustion Engine Cars: Analysts' Explanation

Older generation diesel engines remain among the most popular on the secondary market. Despite their age, they attract drivers with a combination of high torque levels and relatively modest fuel consumption.

Daniel Cole·4 min read·5/29/2026