Production Adjustments
General Motors has temporarily suspended production at its CAMI Assembly plant in Ingersoll, Ontario, due to lower-than-expected demand and high inventory levels for its electric delivery vehicle, BrightDrop. The halt will begin in May and is expected to last until October, electric vehicle affecting approximately 500 workers who will face indefinite layoffs. GM emphasized that this decision is a strategic move to align production with market demand and is unrelated to U.S. tariffs. AP News
Policy Changes and Government Initiatives
In the United Kingdom, Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government has relaxed regulations on electric vehicle mandates, allowing car manufacturers more flexibility in meeting zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) targets. The ZEV mandate requires 28% of car sales to be emissions-free in 2025, increasing to 80% by 2030, but fines for non-compliance will now be deferred until 2030, with a 20% reduction in penalties. Hybrid vehicles can be sold until 2035, while pure petrol and diesel models will be banned from 2030. These changes aim to balance environmental goals with the protection of the domestic car industry. Latest news & breaking headlines+1The Guardian+1
Germany’s coalition government has outlined plans to support the automotive sector by introducing incentives to boost demand for electric vehicles. These measures include purchase subsidies, tax discounts for company cars, and an exemption from vehicle taxes for EVs until 2035. The government also plans to support the expansion of hydrogen refueling infrastructure for commercial vehicles and is considering converting surplus car manufacturing plants for defense production to address growing demands for military equipment across Europe. Reuters+1The Guardian+1
Market Dynamics and International Relations
The European Union and China are exploring the possibility of setting minimum prices on Chinese electric vehicles. Negotiations are set to start immediately, with the German auto industry expressing support for these discussions. Reuters
New Model Introductions and Incentives
Ford has launched a new initiative called the “Power Promise,” aimed at encouraging drivers to switch from petrol to electric vehicles, potentially saving up to £100 a month through lower fuel and servicing expenses. The initiative includes six key benefits: a free fitted home charger, 10,000 miles of charging credit with Octopus Go tariff, five years of servicing, five years of roadside assistance, free recovery if the vehicle runs out of charge, and an eight-year/100,000-mile battery warranty. Ford’s UK chief, Lisa Brankin, emphasized the initiative’s intent to address both practical and emotional concerns about EVs, such as charging accessibility and battery durability. The Scottish Sun
Tesla has launched a redesigned version of the Model Y in China, with deliveries set to begin in March. Codenamed “Juniper,” the new Model Y features a full-width light bar as its daytime running lights, tail lights, and a touchscreen for passengers in the rear seat. The long-range version also has an extended range of 719 km, up from the previous 688 km. Notably, the 2025 Model Y refresh retains the traditional turn signal stalk in response to customer feedback. Wikipedia
Additionally, several electric vehicles are available with 0% financing offers in April 2025. For instance, the 2025 Nissan Leaf can be leased for $259 per month for 36 months, with $2,279 due at signing. The 2025 Hyundai Kona Electric is available for $249 per month for three years, with $3,999 due at signing. These deals aim to make EVs more accessible to a broader range of consumers. ElectrekU.S. News CarsKbb.com
These developments reflect the dynamic nature of the EV industry, with manufacturers, governments, and consumers navigating a rapidly evolving landscape.
