Introduction

The industry entered Q4 with resilience and recalibration. Battery technology, premium product launches and connected services accelerated, yet policy risk and component constraints reminded everyone that execution discipline matters. Within MENA, network expansion, digital platforms and smart-mobility pilots underscored the region’s rising influence on global roadmaps. This monthly brief curates what changed, why it matters, and where the value will be created next.

Volvo and Volkswagen Sound Alarm Over Dutch Takeover of Chinese-Owned Chipmaker Nexperia

The Dutch government’s decision to seize control of Nexperia, citing national security concerns over its Chinese ownership, has sparked alarm among major automakers. Volvo and Volkswagen warned that the move could disrupt semiconductor supply chains essential for vehicle production. The intervention, made under a Cold War-era law, underscores Europe’s growing resolve to safeguard its tech assets amid geopolitical tensions. Industry associations in Germany and Japan cautioned that chip shortages could trigger temporary factory shutdowns. The development adds further strain to global automakers already grappling with rare-earth export restrictions and intensifying competition from Chinese EV brands.

Toyota Reveals Camry GT-S Concept at SEMA Show

Toyota has unveiled the Camry GT-S Concept at the 2025 SEMA Show, based on the Camry XSE AWD Hybrid platform. The concept showcases performance-inspired design cues and enhanced suspension tuning while retaining hybrid efficiency. The model underlines Toyota’s intent to infuse sportiness into its mainstream line-up, keeping the Camry relevant amid intensifying EV and SUV competition.

Geely Launches EX5 Electric SUV in UK Market

Geely has introduced the EX5 electric SUV to the United Kingdom, marking the brand’s European debut with a value-oriented compact crossover. The model offers a range of around 267 miles (WLTP) and supports rapid charging from 30 to 80 percent in just 20 minutes via a 160 kW DC system. The launch is part of Geely’s broader expansion strategy, including plans to establish 100 sales and service outlets by 2026. It underscores the automaker’s intent to compete aggressively in Europe’s volume EV segment while enhancing its global footprint.

Porsche Details High-Voltage System for Cayenne Electric SUV

Porsche has unveiled technical details of its upcoming Cayenne Electric, featuring a high-voltage battery with a 113 kWh capacity and an 800-volt architecture capable of delivering up to 400 kW DC fast charging. This allows a 10 to 80 percent charge in under 16 minutes, significantly enhancing range efficiency and usability. The system integrates directly into the vehicle structure, improving rigidity, weight distribution, and driving dynamics—underscoring Porsche’s continued focus on blending performance and electrification in the luxury SUV segment.

GM Returns with Autonomous Cadillac SUV After Cruise Exit

General Motors is preparing to re-enter the autonomous-vehicle segment through Cadillac, with a self-driving luxury SUV expected to debut by 2028. The model will feature next-generation “hands-off” driver-assistance capabilities, representing a more cautious and premium-focused re-entry following GM’s previous exit from commercial robotaxi operations. This strategic pivot highlights the company’s renewed emphasis on integrating advanced autonomy within consumer-facing products, aiming to redefine luxury and technology convergence under the Cadillac brand.

BYD Teases Kei Car Prototype Ahead of Japan Debut

BYD has previewed its first electric kei car prototype ahead of its anticipated debut in Japan, marking the brand’s entry into one of the world’s most compact and demanding automotive segments. The prototype represents BYD’s broader strategy of adapting its EV portfolio to local market requirements and regulations. Targeting Japan’s urban mobility landscape, the model is expected to combine affordability, efficiency, and cutting-edge battery technology, reinforcing BYD’s ambition to expand its global footprint through region-specific innovations.

Bentley Expands in India with Dual Showroom Launches

Bentley has opened new, fully operational showrooms in Mumbai and Bengaluru, signalling a deeper commitment to India’s growing luxury automotive market. The facilities, located at The Galleria, Trident Hotel, and Indraprastha Invictus, reflect the brand’s global retail design standards. Operated in partnership with Infinity Cars and Kun Premium Cars, the sites offer Bentley’s full model range including the Bentayga, Flying Spur, and Continental GT. Supported by Škoda Auto Volkswagen India, the expansion enhances Bentley’s regional presence. The brand frames this move as elevating customer experience and accessibility across the country.

Lamborghini Inaugurates Flagship Mayfair Showroom in London

Lamborghini officially opened its flagship Mayfair showroom in London’s Berkeley Square on 9 October, led by Chairman and CEO Stephan Winkelmann. The new site features an advanced Ad Personam lounge, offering the most extensive range of colours and finishes in Europe. Designed as a ‘destination’ space, it reflects the brand’s evolution towards a fully hybridised model line-up. The showroom will serve as a showcase for the company’s latest models and bespoke options. This opening reinforces Lamborghini’s presence at the heart of one of the world’s leading luxury capitals.

Volkswagen Group Increases Global Deliveries to 6.6 Million Vehicles

Volkswagen Group reported 6.6 million global deliveries by the end of September 2025, marking a slight rise over the previous year. Stronger performance in Europe, where deliveries grew by 8 per cent, offset weaker results in China and the United States. The Group’s ongoing product offensive, featuring around 60 models, supported higher order intake and improved brand momentum. Battery-electric vehicle deliveries surged by 80 per cent in Europe and 40 per cent globally. Management emphasised a healthy order pipeline and continued customer demand across its diverse portfolio.

Stellantis Reports Q3 2025 Shipments of 1.3 Million Units, Down 13% Year-on-Year

Stellantis announced estimated consolidated shipments of 1.3 million units for the third quarter of 2025, reflecting a 13 per cent decline compared with last year. The decrease was largely driven by lower production in Europe due to component shortages and market adjustments. North America and South America remained stable, while the Middle East and Africa recorded moderate growth. The Group continues to optimise its global inventory and product mix to balance demand and profitability. Stellantis reaffirmed its focus on electrification and cost discipline to sustain long-term competitiveness.

2026 Toyota C-HR Gains New Mid-Grade Variant and Expanded GR Sport Range

Toyota has refreshed the 2026 C-HR line-up with an additional mid-grade specification and a broader GR Sport offering. The new trim provides enhanced equipment, improved cabin materials, and refined styling updates. The GR Sport variant now covers more powertrains, reflecting growing customer interest in sport-inspired hybrids. Toyota aims to strengthen the model’s appeal across diverse European markets. The update reinforces the brand’s focus on design emotion, hybrid performance, and accessibility.

Porsche Reports Robust Deliveries Despite Global Market Challenges

Porsche delivered 242,000 vehicles globally in the first nine months of 2025, marking a stable performance amid a volatile economic environment. Demand for the Cayenne and 911 remained strong, offsetting slight slowdowns in some regions. The brand cited healthy order books and expanding customer loyalty across key markets. Despite currency fluctuations and ongoing supply constraints, Porsche maintained solid profitability. Management emphasised resilience through model diversity and the forthcoming launch of new electrified performance models.

Ferrari Unveils the Elettrica, Marking Its First Fully Electric Model

Ferrari has revealed the Elettrica, its first all-electric car, representing a defining milestone in the brand’s evolution. The model blends traditional Ferrari performance with advanced battery and drive technologies, engineered entirely in-house. It delivers instant torque, precision handling, and a unique acoustic signature designed to preserve Ferrari’s emotional appeal. Built in Maranello, the Elettrica reflects Ferrari’s approach to innovation anchored in craftsmanship. The debut signifies the brand’s commitment to electrification while maintaining its legendary character and exclusivity.

Mercedes-Benz Becomes the First Automaker to Join the Renewable Carbon Initiative

Mercedes-Benz has become the first automotive company to join the Renewable Carbon Initiative (RCI), marking a bold step toward replacing fossil‐based carbon sources in vehicle components. The RCI, founded by the nova-Institute, brings together industry leaders to promote biomass, CO₂ utilisation and recycling as sustainable carbon alternatives. Mercedes is planning pilot projects for 2026 in areas such as carbon capture, bio-based plastics and circular material loops. This initiative is integrated into its “Resource Use & Circular Economy” strategic pillar, reinforcing ambitions beyond tailpipe emissions. The move emphasises the brand’s commitment to a holistic, lifecycle approach to decarbonisation.

ECD Automotive Reveals Project Gravette, Its First Bespoke Porsche Build

ECD Automotive Design has launched Project Gravette, its first customisation of a Porsche 911 (993), blending classic styling with modern performance. The build is powered by an air-cooled turbocharged M64 engine (~500 hp) paired with an upgraded 6-speed manual, Brembo brakes, Bilstein suspension, and wide-body styling. Exterior finishes include Icy White with Agate Gray accents, while the interior features custom leather, OEM-style gauges, and premium audio. The project signifies ECD’s expansion into the Porsche restomod segment beyond its traditional Land Rover, Jaguar and Mustang work. It underscores increasing demand in the high-end bespoke market for iconic models reimagined with modern technology.

BYD UK Showcases Electric Vehicles at “Everything Electric” Farnborough

BYD UK participated in the “Everything Electric” event in Farnborough, displaying its latest EV models and technologies. The showcase included passenger EVs and commercial electric mobility solutions, reinforcing BYD’s push into the UK market. The firm used the platform to engage with fleet operators, media and government stakeholders on zero-emission transitions. Its presence highlights ambition to expand brand visibility and influence in European electrification efforts. BYD continues to leverage events like these to accelerate uptake and partnerships in key overseas markets.

Aston Martin Launches DB12 S as New Performance Flagship

Aston Martin has introduced the DB12 S, a halo variant of its DB12 series, elevating performance, dynamics and styling. The car features a more potent version of its 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, with enhanced chassis tuning, aerodynamic upgrades and bespoke interior detailing. Its exterior is distinguished by more aggressive cues, including revised splitters, vents and visual accents. The “S” derivative underscores Aston’s tradition of pushing the limits within its line-ups. With this release, Aston positions the DB12 S as the ultimate “Super Tourer” in its current portfolio.

South Korea’s booming used car exports cushion impact of U.S. tariffs

South Korea’s used car export segment is rapidly expanding, helping to offset losses from U.S. tariffs on new vehicle exports. In August 2025, used car exports rose ~35 % year-on-year and now account for around a quarter of Korea’s total auto export volume. The growth is largely driven by demand in the Middle East, Russia and Central Asia, aided by favorable exchange rates and right-hand drive compatibility.

Maserati MCPura captivates at Turin Auto Show

The Turin Motor Show saw the Italian premiere of Maserati’s new MCPura, which drew significant attention from the more than 500,000 visitors in attendance. The reveal turned Turin’s city centre into a dramatic open-air stage for iconic supercars and prototypes, with the MCPura debuting alongside the striking Cielo variant. The launch signals Maserati’s next chapter in design and performance, building on the legacy of the MC20.

GM Earns Fast Company’s “Next Big Thing in Tech” for LMR Battery Innovation

General Motors has been recognised by Fast Company with the “Next Big Thing in Tech” award, spotlighting its development of lithium-manganese-rich (LMR) battery cell technology. The innovation promises higher energy density and improved sustainability, positioning GM at the forefront of next-generation EV battery chemistry.

Hyundai Records $24.6B Brand Valuation in 2025 Interbrand Rankings

Hyundai Motor achieved a record brand valuation of US$ 24.6 billion in the 2025 Interbrand Best Global Brands rankings, placing it 30th overall. The valuation reflects sustained growth over 16 consecutive years, driven by rising vehicle sales, strategic global expansion, and strong progress in EV, software and mobility capabilities.

Auto-Sector Bankruptcies Raise Fresh Credit Risk Concerns for Wall Street

Recent filings by auto parts supplier First Brands and subprime lender/dealer Tricolor have spurred renewed scrutiny over credit risk in the automotive sector. The bankruptcies highlight tightening margins, supply chain stress, and vulnerability among weaker suppliers and finance arms—potential headwinds for downstream OEMs and lending institutions.

Stellantis to Invest US$13 Billion to Expand U.S. Operations

Stellantis has announced a $13 billion investment plan aimed at growing its presence in the United States, including EV capacity, R&D, and mobility service infrastructure. The programme reflects Stellantis’s ambition to capture higher shares in the fast-evolving American automotive and electrification landscape.

Hyundai IONIQ 9 Wins “Premium Car of the Year” in Germany

The all-electric Hyundai IONIQ 9 has clinched the German Car of the Year 2026 title in the premium category, just months after launching in the country. The jury praised its elegant exterior design, ultra-fast charging technology and high levels of personalisation. It underscores IONIQ 9’s strong positioning as a luxury three-row EV in Europe.

Regional Highlights:

Jordan Customs Clears 800 Vehicles Daily at Zarqa Free Zone

The Jordanian customs authority is currently processing between 700 and 800 vehicle clearance declarations each day at the Zarqa Free Zone. To streamline operations, the vehicle department has added staff, extended working hours (including Fridays and holidays), and implemented pre-estimation systems. Meanwhile, the Standards & Metrology agency has announced exceptional Friday working hours this month to expedite approvals ahead of new regulatory changes.

Karwa Motors to Produce Mercedes-Benz Bus Chassis in Oman

Karwa Motors, Oman’s leading vehicle manufacturer, has entered into a strategic partnership with Daimler Truck to build Mercedes-Benz bus chassis at its Duqm facility. As an “Approved Builder,” Karwa will serve both the domestic Omani market and export operations, strengthening Oman’s industrial credentials and positioning the Sultanate as an automotive manufacturing hub.

Abu Dhabi ITC Rolls Out “Shary” — Fully Digital Platform for Vehicle Transactions

Abu Dhabi’s Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) unveiled “Shary”, a new digital service enabling citizens to securely buy and sell vehicles online without cash handling or paperwork. The platform uses escrow accounts to guarantee transaction safety, eliminating the need for visits to service centres. The launch aims to bolster confidence in the used-vehicle market with a reliable, end-to-end digital process.

Theeb Rent a Car Expands into Najran & Jazan to Strengthen Presence in Saudi Arabia

Theeb Rent a Car has inaugurated new branches in Najran and Jazan, reinforcing its network across Saudi Arabia. The expansion supports its national footprint strategy and aims to improve accessibility in underserved southern regions, especially for tourists, local travellers and corporate clients.

Al-Futtaim and IBM Partner on Major SAP Modernisation for Automotive Division

Al-Futtaim is collaborating with IBM to drive a landmark digital transformation of its automotive division — migrating from SAP ECC to SAP S/4HANA on Microsoft Azure via RISE with SAP. The project involves consolidating over 2 billion records, remediating legacy data and integrations, modernising business processes, and delivering enhanced agility across operations with minimal downtime.

Evolve Future Mobility Show Debuts AI-Driven Autonomous F1 Car

At the Evolve Future Mobility Show in Sharjah, organisers revealed the world’s most advanced AI-powered autonomous Formula 1 car, dubbed A2RL. The vehicle is capable of exceeding 340 km/h, fully driverless, and integrates perception, decision, and control systems via cutting-edge AI. The unveiling signals a bold push toward high-performance autonomy in motorsports.

Volkswagen Launches New Transporter Range in South Africa

Volkswagen has introduced its latest Transporter models in South Africa, offering variants powered by a 2.0 TDI engine with outputs of 81 kW, 110 kW and 125 kW, paired with manual and automatic transmissions. The new range seeks to blend versatility, efficiency and comfort across commercial and passenger configurations.

Hyundai Commits $5 Billion to India for Manufacturing & R&D Boost

Hyundai Motor has pledged around $5 billion investment in India through 2030, directed toward expanding manufacturing capacity, research & development and product localisation. The strategy aims to strengthen India as a major export hub, while supporting growth across electrified and hybrid segments.

Omoda & Jaecoo Open New Showroom in Abu Dhabi

Omoda and Jaecoo have expanded their UAE presence by launching a new showroom in Abu Dhabi. The facility showcases the brands’ full model line-ups, supports aftersales, and enhances their regional visibility. This move underscores their growing ambition in the GCC electric and premium segments.

Parkin & Toyota Tsusho ME Announce Strategic Connected Mobility Tie-Up

Parkin and Toyota Tsusho Connected Middle East have entered a strategic collaboration to develop connected mobility solutions across the region. The partnership will target services such as fleet telematics, data analytics, OTA updates and integrated vehicle connectivity platforms—aiming to accelerate smart mobility adoption across GCC markets.

Mercedes-Benz “AMG-GT XX” Concept Makes Record-Breaking Middle East Debut at GITEX Global

Mercedes-Benz premiered its record-breaking AMG-GT XX concept car in the Middle East during GITEX Global 2025. Known for pushing performance boundaries, the concept car combines hypercar design, extreme aerodynamics and electric-hybrid propulsion. The regional unveiling underscores Mercedes’ intent to lead in high-performance electrified mobility here.

Keyloop Fusion Live Dubai Charts Future of Automotive Retail in Middle East

Keyloop’s Fusion Live Dubai event convened regional auto retailers, OEMs and technology providers to explore trends shaping future retail: connected showrooms, data monetisation, e-commerce, mobility services and AI in sales. The event offered panels, product showcases and real-world case studies tailored to GCC dynamics.

Toyota Egypt Partners VT Batteries to Distribute Girling Batteries

Toyota Egypt Group has signed a strategic partnership with Spain’s VT Batteries SL to become the exclusive distributor of Girling batteries in Egypt. The agreement enhances Toyota Egypt’s aftersales portfolio and strengthens the local battery supply chain amid EV growth ambitions.

AutoTrader South Africa to Roll Out Next-Gen AI Tools

AutoTrader South Africa is preparing to launch a new suite of artificial intelligence tools across its platform to enhance vehicle search, pricing insights, user matching and fraud detection. The initiative is positioned to elevate digital customer experience and improve platform monetisation in the South African used-vehicle market.

Lynk & Co Redefines Urban Cool with UAE Debut through Galadari Brothers

Swedish-engineered and Volvo-backed, Lynk & Co has officially made its UAE debut under the Galadari Brothers, introducing a new era of lifestyle mobility to the region. The 2026 line-up — featuring the 01, 03+, 05, 06, and flagship 09 — merges Scandinavian design, cutting-edge technology, and advanced connectivity for modern drivers who expect more than just performance. Leading the range, the 09 SUV showcases Volvo-grade safety, a six-screen cockpit, BOSE surround sound, and refined comfort tailored to UAE conditions. With its pop-up showroom open in Dubai and a flagship location launched in Sharjah, Lynk & Co invites customers to “See It. Drive It. Live It.” — a premium experience that redefines what it means to drive with confidence, style, and connection.

Saudi Arabia and Minth Group explore automotive supply chain cooperation

Saudi Arabia is in discussions with China’s Minth Group to integrate locally produced materials — notably aluminium and plastics — into Minth’s automotive parts manufacturing. The talks align with the Kingdom’s ambition to produce 300,000 vehicles per year by 2030 and aim to deepen value-chain localization by transforming raw minerals into high-value components. This cooperation could strengthen Saudi Arabia’s position in regional parts supply and support emerging domestic vehicle production ambitions.

Fiat targets 90,000 cars per year in Algeria by 2026

Fiat intends to scale its Algerian operations to produce 90,000 vehicles annually by 2026, with increasing local content and job creation projected. The Tafraoui / Oran facility is already active, assembling models such as the Fiat 500 and Doblò, and expansion into full CKD (complete knock-down) production is underway. The move reflects Fiat’s long-term commitment to Algeria’s automotive industrialisation and export potential.

Fully autonomous vehicles could unlock US$18.7 billion for Gulf economies by 2035

A Strategy& Middle East report forecasts that fully autonomous vehicle (FAV) technologies could generate a US$18.7 billion market for Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) economies by 2035. Major value is expected from robo-taxis, driverless shuttles and autonomous public transit systems, especially within megaprojects and smart city frameworks in the UAE, Saudi Arabia and regionally. Realising this upside will depend heavily on regulatory readiness, infrastructure upgrade and public acceptance.

South African car dealers face mounting pressure, NADA warns

The National Automobile Dealers’ Association (NADA) in South Africa has cautioned that dealers are operating under severe strain, citing intense competition, shrinking margins, burdensome compliance demands and rapidly shifting consumer behaviour. With more than 1,700 dealerships representing dozens of brands, these outlets account for roughly 84 per cent of new vehicle sales, yet must juggle rising finance complexities, regulatory risk and market disruption. Despite the headwinds, NADA stresses that dealers remain vital to industry stability and employment.

AutoData ME issues H1 2025 used-car market report for UAE & KSA

AutoData Middle East’s H1 2025 report sheds fresh light on used-car market trends in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, highlighting shifts in consumer preferences, valuation dynamics and brand mix. The report underscores growing demand for transparency, with buyers increasingly relying on vehicle history data, and notes that Chinese automakers are gaining share in the region’s used segment.

AD Ports, China’s SPG Yantai to build green automotive industrial parks

AD Ports Group has partnered with China’s SPG Yantai Port to develop automotive parks with green infrastructure, aiming to strengthen vehicle logistics and manufacturing ties between the Middle East, Africa and China. The initiative looks to integrate sustainable energy, bilateral trade hubs and vehicle handling nodes, positioning the UAE as a key node in the global auto corridor.

Ford retrenches in South Africa amid UK tax and export pressures

Ford South Africa plans to cut jobs as it scales back exports to the UK, triggered by recent changes to UK tax rules reclassifying pickups as passenger vehicles, which undermines their competitiveness. The retrenchments reflect deeper pressures from reduced volumes and shifting export economics.

South Africa New Vehicle Sales on Track to Surpass Pre-Pandemic Levels in 2025

South Africa’s new vehicle market is poised to exceed the pre-pandemic peak for the first time in five years, with first-half 2025 sales up 14 per cent year-on-year and imports rising 30.2 per cent to meet rising demand. Pre-pandemic annual sales were 536,612 units, while 2024 totals stood at 515,850. The rebound is underpinned by consumer demand for value models — notably from Chinese and Indian entrants — a shift in buyer behaviour from prestige to affordability, and easing macro conditions including lower interest rates and inflation.

Stellantis to Broaden Vehicle Lineup at Its Planned South Africa Plant

Stellantis has announced that its upcoming Gqeberha plant, initially slated to produce only Peugeot Landtrek pickups, will now accommodate a broader range of vehicles. The pivot reflects evolving market dynamics, with demand increasingly favouring smaller, more affordable models rather than pure pickup trucks. The plant — expected to begin operations in the latter half of 2027 — will operate as a CKD (completely knocked down) facility using a mix of local and imported components, and will serve both South African and broader African markets.

Omoda & JAECOO Launch J7 SHS Hybrid & New Showroom in Sharjah

Omoda & JAECOO, in partnership with Galadari Automobiles, officially launched the JAECOO J7 SHS (Super Hybrid System) in the UAE with the inauguration of a new showroom in Sharjah. The model features up to 90 km of pure electric driving range and a total range exceeding 1,200 km, blending EV and fuel power to reduce range anxiety. The new showroom is the brand’s fifth in the UAE, and one in Abu Dhabi is set to open soon, signalling aggressive expansion in the region. Pricing starts at AED 99,900, with features including V2L (vehicle-to-load), advanced safety systems, and a next-generation infotainment system. The launch aims to appeal to buyers seeking both electrified and versatile mobility in the Middle East.

Volkswagen’s Kariega Plant Celebrates Three-Million-Vehicle Milestone

Volkswagen’s Kariega plant in South Africa has produced its three-millionth vehicle, marking a historic achievement for one of the brand’s most significant manufacturing hubs outside Europe. The milestone model, a Polo Vivo, highlights the site’s enduring role in both domestic and export markets. Established in the late 1940s, the facility has evolved into a cornerstone of Volkswagen’s African operations. Production continues to centre on the Polo and Polo Vivo, with plans for a third model line from 2027. The accomplishment underscores Volkswagen’s sustained investment in local talent, infrastructure and long-term regional growth.

BMW Opens Iraq’s First Retail Next Showroom in Sulaymaniyah

Al Uroush Automotive has opened Iraq’s first BMW Retail Next showroom in Sulaymaniyah, setting a new benchmark for premium automotive retail in the country. The facility embodies BMW’s latest retail philosophy, integrating digital experiences with personalised customer engagement. It marks the brand’s expansion beyond Baghdad and Erbil into the Kurdish region, reflecting growing demand for luxury vehicles. The showroom design emphasises comfort, interactivity and advanced service capability. This opening reinforces BMW’s regional strategy to strengthen presence and elevate brand experience across the Middle East.

Tesla Opens Cybertruck Sales in Saudi Arabia, UAE & Qatar

Tesla has officially begun accepting orders for the Cybertruck in Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Qatar, expanding its reach beyond its traditional markets. The entry-level all-wheel drive version starts at SAR 434,990 in Saudi Arabia, with the higher-performance “Cyberbeast” variant priced at SAR 484,990. In the UAE, pricing begins at AED 404,990 for the AWD version and AED 454,990 for the top trim. Estimated range is 523 km and the performance variant can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds. Deliveries are expected to commence in 2026 as Tesla seeks to capitalise on Middle East EV appetite.

Ford to Launch Mustang Mach-E in Saudi Arabia

Ford Motor Company is preparing to enter Saudi Arabia’s EV market with the launch of the Mustang Mach-E starting in November, targeting an initial volume of 500 to 1,000 units. Despite its ambition, Ford views the EV as a niche product for now, expecting gradual adoption given the region’s current preferences for hybrids. The rollout aligns with rising EV interest in the Kingdom, as incumbents like Lucid, BYD and local startups intensify competition. Ford plans to monitor market response closely before scaling volumes or introducing additional models. Observers see this as a cautious but significant step in Ford’s Middle East EV strategy.

Lucid Sees Slower UAE Sales But Growing Saudi Fleet Demand

Lucid executives say retail demand in the UAE has cooled after a strong launch phase, while Saudi Arabia is seeing increased fleet procurement uptake. The company is actively supplying EVs from Saudi Arabia to a growing number of Saudi embassies worldwide, pointing to institutional momentum. Lucid’s Saudi facility is planned to scale from semi-knockdown assembly to full vehicle production, aiming for up to 155,000 units annually. The shift reflects Saudi’s strategy to localise EV manufacturing under its economic diversification agenda. Lucid continues expanding its regional footprint with showrooms and service centres across the Gulf.

Kia MEA Launches Connected-Car Services Platform “Kia Connect” Across GCC

Kia Middle East & Africa has launched its Kia Connect platform across five GCC markets, offering over fifty advanced connected-car features including remote start, digital key access, geo-fence alerts, and over-the-air updates. The rollout includes a complimentary three-year trial on select models and will expand across sixteen models by 2027. This development reinforces Kia’s regional strategy to enhance digital engagement, optimise ownership convenience, and elevate its competitive positioning through technology-driven mobility services.

Kuwait to Revive Region’s Largest Vehicle Auction Market Project

Kuwait’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry has confirmed plans to revive the Al-Salmi Vehicle Auction Market, which will span over 500,000 square metres along Al-Salmi Road. The project will feature showrooms for new and pre-owned vehicles, trading offices, and integrated government service centres. The initiative positions Kuwait as a major regional automotive trading hub and demonstrates how Gulf markets are diversifying infrastructure to support both domestic and cross-border vehicle commerce.

ACDelco and Central Trading Company Set New Benchmark in Automotive Batteries

ACDelco, in partnership with Central Trading Company of the Al Rostamani Group, has introduced a new generation of Enhanced Flooded Batteries designed for Start-Stop vehicles. The batteries promise twice the lifecycle of conventional models and include an extended two-year warranty. This collaboration showcases the growing importance of advanced battery technology in modern vehicle performance and reinforces the region’s shift toward energy-efficient, high-durability automotive components.

Lynk & Co Redefines Showroom Experience with UAE Debut in Sharjah

The brand has launched its first dedicated UAE showroom in Sharjah, offering a fully immersive retail-and-service experience centred on lifestyle and mobility rather than traditional dealership norms. This marks a strategic step for Lynk & Co’s growth in the GCC, emphasising network expansion, premium customer engagement and brand differentiation in a competitive regional market.

FBB Holding LLC Signs Strategic Partnership with EXEED to Launch Automotive Brand in Jordan

FBB Holding is teaming with EXEED to bring the premium automotive brand into the Jordanian market, marking EXEED’s first regional foray via a local partner. The tie-up underscores increasing momentum for Chinese premium marques in the Middle East and highlights the importance of strong distributor alliances in scaling new-brand launches across emerging markets.

Jordan’s Customs Department Steps Up Operations Before Ban on Non-Compliant Vehicles Takes Effect

The Department has intensified vehicle clearances ahead of a forthcoming ban on non-compliant imports, urging traders and importers to finalise transactions before the enforcement deadline. The move signals a tightening of regulatory standards in Jordan’s automotive sector which has implications for regional supply-chain, remarketing and duty-compliance strategies.

AutoTrader Intelligence Redefines the Way South Africans Buy and Sell Cars

AutoTrader South Africa has introduced AutoTrader Intelligence, an AI-powered platform transforming how vehicles are bought and sold. It combines data insights with advanced technology to make decision-making simpler and more transparent. Described as a “quiet revolution,” the platform enhances trust and efficiency for both buyers and sellers. The launch strengthens AutoTrader’s leadership in South Africa’s digital automotive market. It marks a key step towards smarter, data-led solutions shaping the future of online car trading.

OMODA & JAECOO Expand UAE Presence with First Abu Dhabi Showroom in Mussafah

The two Chinese automotive brands have opened their first showroom in Abu Dhabi’s Mussafah region, augmenting their UAE footprint alongside existing sites in Dubai and other emirates. The expansion reflects the increasing retail focus of new-energy and lifestyle-oriented brands in the Gulf, emphasising point-of-sale visibility, brand accessibility and aftermarket readiness.

Autonomous Vehicle Service Beneficiaries Surpass 950 in Riyadh

The Transport General Authority has confirmed that more than 950 passengers have benefited from its autonomous vehicle service operating across Riyadh. The pilot currently runs along two main routes — Roshn Front and Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University — and is part of the Kingdom’s broader smart mobility initiatives under Vision 2030. Each vehicle is accompanied by a safety operator to ensure passenger security and regulatory compliance, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s progressive approach to integrating autonomous technology within its public transport network.

Faraday Future Announces Strategic Cooperation with RAK Motors for UAE Market Entry

Faraday Future has signed a strategic cooperation agreement with RAK Motors to oversee sales, delivery, and after-sales operations for the FX Super One in the UAE. The collaboration includes a new 108,000-square-foot facility in Ras Al Khaimah featuring offices, production workshops, and operational hubs. The first customer deliveries are scheduled for November 2025. This partnership marks Faraday Future’s official entry into the GCC market and highlights the UAE’s growing role as a hub for advanced mobility and premium electric vehicle distribution.

Uber and WeRide Launch Robotaxi Service in Riyadh

Uber, in partnership with WeRide, has launched Saudi Arabia’s first robotaxi pilot service in Riyadh, allowing passengers to experience autonomous rides through the Uber platform. The service operates under the supervision of the Transport General Authority and currently connects Roshn Front with Princess Nourah University. This milestone underscores the Kingdom’s rapid progress in autonomous mobility deployment and positions Riyadh as a regional testbed for next-generation smart transport technologies.

Conclusion

October confirmed that growth now favours operators who blend prudence with pace. Those who hedge supply risk, invest in customer-centric hybrids and EVs, and professionalise omnichannel marketing will outperform. With the Gulf accelerating pilot-to-production transitions in autonomy and digital retail, the opportunity is to localise global best practice, not merely import it. AMENA Auto will continue to track the metrics that matter and translate insight into action.

At AMENA, we partner with leading OEMs and Dealer/Importer networks across the MENA region to drive measurable performance across Sales, Aftersales, Parts, CSI, and NPS. Leveraging deep industry expertise, we deliver tailored strategies that elevate customer experience, optimise operational KPIs, and enhance brand loyalty.

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