Detail

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) Regional Forum, held in Liverpool for the first time, brings together UK automotive leaders to explore leveraging the shift to zero emission mobility for new business and growth in the North West. Since 2021, global brands have invested £2.8 billion in the region, transforming factories to produce electric vehicles and components, directly creating 20,000 jobs. The North West is crucial to UK automotive manufacturing, producing one-seventh of the country's vehicles last year, equivalent to over 140,000 units. The forum will discuss attracting further investment and creating new business opportunities to boost regional economic development.

The next-generation Lexus ES has been spotted at dealerships ahead of its April market launch. The redesign features the brand's evolved spindle grille—now closed-off for electrification—paired with split-type irregular LED headlamps comprising lightning-bolt DRLs above and integrated main beams within vertical black trim panels. A trapezoidal lower grille with graduated diamond patterning completes the front fascia. The model will debut with both hybrid and battery-electric powertrains, initially offered as CBU imports before transitioning to local production upon completion of Lexus' Chinese manufacturing facility.

Spy shots of the facelifted BMW M5 Touring have emerged, revealing significant front-end design changes for the mid-cycle update. The prototype features a flatter, wider kidney grille inspired by the classic E39 5 Series, paired with slim headlights and a prominent front splitter. Intelligent cockpit upgrades are anticipated, while powertrain options are expected to retain the 4.4T V8 plug-in hybrid system. The high-performance estate is slated for a spring 2027 debut with market launch later that year, signaling BMW M Division's return to classic design elements while maintaining electrified performance credentials in the luxury wagon segment.

Mercedes-AMG has acknowledged its four-cylinder downsizing strategy as a mistake, launching the new GLC53 to replace both GLC43 and GLC63 variants. Powered by the CLE53-sourced M256M 3.0-litre inline-six producing 449 PS and 600 Nm, paired with a 48V ISG mild-hybrid system, the SUV accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds. The key attraction is the "powerful, sonorous" exhaust note, augmented by optional AMG Real Performance Sound. Standard AMG Performance 4Matic+ all-wheel drive features rear-biased torque distribution and Drift mode with the Dynamic Plus Package. A limited Golden Accents launch edition debuts Obsidian Black with techgold detailing.

BYD has unveiled the Song Ultra EV, the Dynasty Network's first B-class pure electric SUV. Featuring a design blending Eastern aesthetics with contemporary styling, the vehicle measures 4,850/1,910/1,670mm with a 2,840mm wheelbase. Its second-row legroom of 986mm surpasses mid-large luxury SUVs such as the Mercedes GLE and BMW X5. Positioned to fill the product gap in BYD's B-class electric SUV lineup, the Song Ultra EV combines minimalist design, spacious interior, and competitive pricing around 180,000 yuan, delivering exceptional value proposition in a highly competitive segment.

Zeekr Malaysia has confirmed local assembly (CKD) of the Zeekr 7X electric SUV, establishing Malaysia as the brand's first overseas production hub outside China. Managing Director Lu Jiamin emphasized this strategic move demonstrates Zeekr's long-term commitment to the market. The CKD operation will enhance supply chain integration, pricing competitiveness, and delivery efficiency. Zeekr targets cumulative sales of 10,000 units between 2025-2027, with an annual sales goal of 10,000 units from 2028 onwards. The brand plans to expand its network to 18 showrooms, 12 service centers, and 9 body and paint shops to support the local assembly initiative.