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Honda has unveiled the facelifted ZR-V for the Japanese market, set for March 2026 launch with a hybrid-only lineup. The 1.5-litre VTEC Turbo engine has been discontinued in favor of the e:HEV powertrain, combining a 2.0-litre Atkinson-cycle inline-four with a dual-motor hybrid system delivering 184 PS and 315 Nm. The model range has been streamlined from two to one trim level (Z), with Black Style and Cross Touring variants. The Black Style features a honeycomb grille, while the Cross Touring "special edition" adds rugged styling with side rocker panels, skid plate-equipped front bumper and light-colored interior with orange stitching. Positioned between the HR-V and returning CR-V, the Civic-based C-segment crossover transitions to full electrification for the Japanese market.

Geely Riddara Thailand is evaluating plans for a local EV production facility following its October 2024 market entry with the RD6 electric pick-up. General manager Cao Feng expressed confidence in the long-term growth potential of BEV pick-ups despite current market slowdowns, citing superior energy efficiency over fossil fuel counterparts. The RD6 is priced between 899,000-1,299,000 baht, offering RWD and dual-motor 4WD variants with 63-86 kWh batteries, 815 mm wading depth and 1,030 kg payload capacity. The company targets 3,000-5,000 unit sales this year with new single-cab fleet variants, while exploring expansion into Myanmar, Laos, the Philippines and Malaysia.

Hyundai Motor Group has signed an MOU with the South Korean government and Jeonbuk State to establish a KRW 9 trillion innovation hub in Saemangeum. The project encompasses an AI data center, robotics manufacturing cluster, 200 MW-class PEM electrolyzer plant, and gigawatt-scale solar infrastructure, with operations commencing from 2027. Through the D.E.S.I.G.N. framework, the Group will develop an AI hydrogen smart city, integrating physical AI, hydrogen economy and intelligent manufacturing technologies to enhance Korea's industrial competitiveness and drive regional economic growth.

During his visit to China, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz joined Mercedes-Benz Group CEO Ola Källenius for a test ride of the new S-Class in Beijing, experiencing the urban and highway pilot assist driving system co-developed with Momenta. The S 450 L 4MATIC variant, measuring 5,304/1,921/1,503 mm with a 3,216 mm wheelbase, made its domestic debut in metallic green with Y-spoke silver wheels. Mercedes-Benz and Momenta simultaneously signed an upgraded strategic cooperation MoU to accelerate full-industry-chain localization. Mercedes-Benz became the first international automaker to invest in Momenta in 2017.

NIO has entered into a strategic partnership with Bosch, covering its three brands—NIO, ONVO and firefly—with focus on intelligent electric vehicle core technologies. The collaboration spans x-by-wire chassis systems including brake and steering control, drivetrain, body electronics and perception modules, as well as battery management systems. The agreement deepens Sino-German cooperation in energy transition and advanced manufacturing. NIO founder and CEO William Li attended the Sino-German Economic Advisory Committee symposium on February 25, engaging with German automotive executives on mutual development opportunities amid global industry electrification and intelligent transformation.

Stellantis Malaysia has introduced a mild update to the nine-year-old second-generation Peugeot 3008, maintaining the list price of RM169,388 but offering a RM31,388 rebate for an effective price of RM138,000. Exterior revisions include the new shield logo, 18-inch two-tone turbine alloys from the 408 and updated corporate typography, while the interior gains the latest 12.3-inch i-Cockpit display. The 1.6-litre THP turbo four-cylinder engine continues to deliver 165 PS and 240 Nm through a six-speed Aisin automatic. Despite featuring blind spot monitoring and lane keeping assist, the model lacks autonomous emergency braking. According to Stellantis ASEAN chief Isaac Yeo, the third-generation 3008 remains too costly for the Malaysian market.