Legacy Automaker EV Transitions
Covers news and strategies related to traditional automakers phasing out internal combustion engines and transitioning to electric vehicle production.
All Articles
SAIC Volkswagen Launches Golden Range-Extended Powertrain + Momenta Intelligent Driving
SAIC Volkswagen unveils the ID.ERA series, combining its new Golden Range-Extended powertrain with Momenta’s R7 reinforcement learning-based intelligent driving system. The ID.ERA 9X opens for pre-orders this month, with five more models launching in 2024 as part of VW’s Gen 3.0 range-extended offensive in China.
All-New BMW i3 Makes Global Debut
BMW unveils the next-generation i3 on March 19, 2026, featuring Level 3 autonomous driving, over 600 km of WLTP range, and the new Neue Klasse platform. Positioned as the electric successor to the 3 Series, it reinforces BMW's push toward 50% BEV sales by 2030.
BorgWarner Ningbo Campus Celebrates 20th Anniversary
BorgWarner commemorates two decades of operations at its Ningbo campus, highlighting its evolution from manufacturing to R&D and its critical role in the company's global electrification strategy, with strong ties to Chinese automakers.
Mercedes-Benz All-Electric MPV VLE Makes Global Debut
Mercedes-Benz has launched the VLE, its first all-electric luxury MPV built on a new 800V platform, offering over 700 km of WLTP range and two distinct exterior designs. Produced by Fujian Benz, the VLE signals the brand’s accelerated push into China’s premium NEV market.
Renault's 2030 Strategy Leverages China's Ecosystem
Renault’s 'futuREady' strategy aims for 36 new EV models and 2 million global sales by 2030, powered by China’s manufacturing ecosystem—even without selling cars in China. The automaker is streamlining operations and relying on Chinese partners like Envision AESC for batteries and cost-efficient production.
Chery QQ3 Launches with Pre-sale Starting at RMB 68,900
After a 13-year hiatus, Chery revives its iconic QQ nameplate as the all-electric QQ3—an A0-segment EV targeting family users with nostalgic appeal and modern features. Priced from RMB 68,900, it competes directly with the BYD Seagull and Geely Starry Wish.
MPV Market Landscape Reshaped in February
In February, the MPV segment saw significant shifts as Toyota Sienna held onto the top spot while new energy vehicles like WEY Gaoshan and Wuling Starshine 730 surged, signaling a broader market diversification and the rising influence of domestic and NEV brands.
BMW Holds the Line on German Premium Profitability in 2025
In 2025, BMW Group reported a pre-tax profit of over €10 billion, standing as the only profitable 'defender' among Germany’s top three automakers. Through €2.5 billion in cost savings and a balanced, technology-neutral approach to electrification, BMW maintained a 7.7% pre-tax margin despite industry headwinds.
Nine Global Automakers Rapidly Replace CEOs to Navigate EV and Software Transformation
In just over a year, nine major automakers—including Nissan, Toyota, BMW, and Hyundai—have installed new CEOs amid intensifying pressure from EV disruption, Chinese competition, and the rise of software-defined vehicles. Industry experts stress that AI and software fluency are now critical for automotive leadership.
February 2026 SUV Sales Ranking: Tesla Model Y Tops Chart as Xiaomi YU7 Sales Halve
In February 2026, the Tesla Model Y surged to #1 in SUV sales with over 25,000 units, while Xiaomi YU7 sales plummeted by 46.6%. BEVs gained ground as extended-range models and legacy ICE SUVs retreated.
Volkswagen Group Halves Profits in 2025, Announces Layoffs
Volkswagen Group’s 2025 operating profit fell 53% to €8.9 billion—the lowest since 2016—prompting a major restructuring plan that includes cutting 50,000 jobs in Germany by 2030. Declining sales in China and North America, U.S. tariffs, and software delays at Cariad have intensified pressure on the legacy automaker as it navigates the costly shift to electric vehicles.
Honda Cancels Three EV Models, Leading to Massive Losses
Honda has scrapped development of three all-electric vehicles—the Honda 0 SUV, Honda 0 Sedan, and Acura RSX—anticipating a JPY 2.5 trillion impairment loss. The automaker is pivoting to hybrids amid declining U.S. EV demand and rising competition.