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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.

The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ—marketed under the tagline "Freedom & Joy"—will launch in Thailand at end-March, subject to PPV tax classification for truck-based SUVs, with exports to Japan commencing mid-2026. Built on the IMV0 body-on-frame platform shared with the Hilux Champ, the five-seater features unconventional proportions: at 4,575 mm long with a 2,580 mm wheelbase, it stands 1,960 mm tall—340 mm higher than the Corolla Cross. Design highlights include C-shaped DRLs, optional retro round headlamps, and an octagonal side-hinged tailgate with external spare. The cabin features 12.3-inch displays and MOLLE cargo panels. Power comes from a 2.7-liter naturally-aspirated 2TR-FE four-cylinder producing 163 PS/246 Nm, paired with a six-speed automatic and part-time 4WD with low-range transfer case. Toyota claims wheel articulation matching the Land Cruiser 70, targeting lifestyle adventurers and camping enthusiasts.

Hyundai Motor Company and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) have extended their corporate partnership—LACMA's largest programmatic commitment in history—through 2037. Since 2015, the collaboration has produced eight major exhibitions and advanced Korean art scholarship. The new chapter introduces the "Hyundai Project," a biennial survey series launching in 2028 featuring Los Angeles and Pan-Pacific artists with newly commissioned works and large-scale exterior banners at the Broad Contemporary Art Museum. Additionally, the Art + Technology Lab will transition to a biennial grant cycle in 2026 with expanded programming. Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung emphasized the partnership's mission to foster cross-cultural dialogue at the intersection of art and technology.

Jeep has unveiled the Gladiator Whitecap special edition featuring a retro-inspired design package priced at $495. Sharing its aesthetic with the Wrangler Whitecap, the truck features a bright white removable hardtop, matching body decals, and a white-accented seven-slot grille. "1941" door badging pays homage to the original Willys MB. Power comes from a 3.6-liter naturally-aspirated V6 producing 285 hp, paired with an eight-speed automatic and four-wheel-drive system. The package delivers 3.4-ton towing capacity and 780 kg payload rating. The Whitecap joins four other special editions in Jeep's current lineup, emphasizing authentic off-road capability and customization.

Interior spy shots of the new Audi A2 e-tron have revealed the brand's latest cockpit design, featuring a curved dual-screen setup integrating the MMI touch interface with CarPlay connectivity. The driver's display adopts a slim, elongated format showing comprehensive information including speed limit warnings. The thick-rimmed irregular steering wheel retains physical buttons and heating functionality, while the column-mounted gear selector frees up center console storage space. Physical controls are retained below the touchscreen for ergonomic operation. The exterior honors the original A2's distinctive "bread van" silhouette and aluminum-intensive lightweight construction philosophy.

Spy shots have revealed the new Audi Q2 e-tron, an entry-level compact electric SUV merging the A1 and Q2 nameplates for a 2027 market launch with an estimated starting price of RMB 293,000. The design features split Matrix LED headlights matching the A6 e-tron, a sloping roofline, and a distinctive rear window positioned above the spoiler—an homage to the classic Audi A2. The cabin adopts a layout similar to the new Q3 with a floating dual-screen setup, physical climate controls, and wireless charging. Powertrain details indicate a single-motor configuration with 500 km and 600 km range options targeting the affordable premium EV segment.