West Europe Decline for Diesel, Toyota Focuses on BEVs, Buick and Cadillac Future – Weekly Update

According to LMC Automotive, diesel’s share of the Western European car market is continuing to decline. In March, diesel cars accounted for a preliminary 16% share, the second-lowest result since the diesel downturn began. This represents a modest 2.1% year-on-year fall to emphasise the steady exit of diesel from the region’s powertrain mix. Toyota is ramping up its battery electric vehicle (BEV) production and sales as it targets carbon-neutrality in 2050 under its new CEO Koji Sato. Toyota’s new strategy includes strengthening its hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicle ranges. Second-life Renault batteries are being used in Nottingham City Council’s fleet depot to boost municipal energy efficiency in the UK. Changan Automobile has agreed to invest THB9.8bn (US$286m) in a Thai plant supplying electric and hybrid vehicles. Ford has announced the battery-electric F-150 Lightning pickup is ‘going global for the first time’ with entry into Norway. Tesla profits fell sharply in Q1 2023 due to price cuts to drive sales. Jaguar Land Rover said its Halewood plant in northwest England would become an all-electric factory as part of the company’s ‘Reimagine strategy’. BYD showcased new EVs at Auto Shanghai including the Dynasty series Song L concept model and the Chaser series 07. VW has revealed its new ID.7, the brand’s first global electric model for the upper mid size class.