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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.

Tesla Malaysia has commenced operations in East Malaysia with its first vehicle deliveries in Kuching, following a pop-up showroom launch at Vivacity Megamall. This Borneo expansion represents the brand's sixth local outlet, supplementing existing locations in the Klang Valley, Penang and Johor Bahru. Notably, no service centres or charging infrastructure are currently present in Sarawak. As of early 2026, Tesla operates 18 Supercharging stations (76 Superchargers) and 17 Destination Charging stations (79 connectors) nationwide. Despite the expiration of CBU tax exemptions, Tesla has maintained 2026 pricing and recently introduced the Model Y Premium RWD and Model 3 RWD (formerly Standard), with the latter becoming the most affordable Tesla in Malaysia at RM147,600.

The Lepas L4 SUV from Chery's new sub-brand has been spotted in Malaysia during promotional filming, signaling the brand's local market entry in H1 2026. Featuring the "Leopard Aesthetic" design language, the L4 measures 4,406mm in length with a 2,700mm wheelbase, surpassing competitors like the Honda HR-V and Toyota Corolla Cross in interior space. Distinctive elements include a radiating chrome grille and 1.5-liter turbocharged engine (147 PS/225 Nm) paired with a six-speed DCT. The L4 and flagship L8 are slated for South African launch in March, with Malaysian introduction to follow.

SMMT data reveals the UK used car market sustained post-pandemic recovery in 2025, with EV transactions surging nearly 50% to represent nearly one in ten sales. The industry faces significant workforce transformation, with almost two-thirds of roles requiring new competencies in battery management, high-voltage systems, and AI within a decade. SMMT showcased automotive apprentices at the House of Lords, highlighting sector commitment to talent development. Additionally, SMMT partnered with the Bus Centre of Excellence to launch "Meet the Bus Operator," facilitating zero-emission bus fleet decarbonisation through targeted investment and supplier engagement at the Commercial Vehicle Show.

FAW-Volkswagen has announced an official price reduction of 30,000 yuan across the 2026 Bora compact sedan lineup, with the price range adjusted from 112,900-143,900 yuan to 82,900-113,900 yuan. The adjustment is strictly pricing-focused with no changes to styling or equipment. Standard features include rear parking sensors, front center armrest, and varying configurations of 8/10.25-inch digital instrument clusters and 8/12-inch central touchscreens. Powertrain options span 1.2T, 1.4T, and 1.5T engines paired with manual and dual-clutch transmissions. The significant price cut enhances the Bora's competitive positioning in China's compact sedan segment.