Japanese automaker rooted in Yokohama, selling Nissan and Infiniti brands
Several companies have advanced robotaxi plans while operational problems have forced pauses and recalls. Uber and Wayve have opened an interest list for a London rollout that will start with human safety supervisors. Tesla has sought permission for up to 5,000 robotaxis in Las Vegas and expanded unsupervised service in Texas. Waymo has paused service in several US cities to fix software that mishandles flooded roads.
Chinese automakers have accelerated global expansion in 2026, showcasing rapid advances in batteries, charging and autonomous tech at the Beijing Auto Show while exports have surged. BYD, Geely and CATL have rolled out ultra-fast charging batteries and chargers; Geely is exploring US production through Volvo; legacy automakers are reorganising to respond to the pressure.
Chinese automakers are now producing leading electric vehicles with advanced powertrain technology and rapid charging capabilities. CATL has unveiled a third-generation lithium-iron phosphate battery that charges faster and performs well in cold weather, signaling significant progress in EV battery development.
Nissan has reported a narrowed annual loss and flat revenue as CEO Ivan Espinosa cites “clear signs” of a turnaround. The company is cutting costs and pursuing faster product execution, with a plan to return to profit in the current fiscal year, while facing intense competition from Chinese makers.
The EU has reached a compromise to enact the Turnberry trade accord with the United States, which has pledged to cap many U.S. duties on European goods at 15% while the EU will remove tariffs on U.S. industrial and some farm products. European institutions are racing to complete legislation before a July 4 deadline and recent U.S. tariff moves are hardening opposition in the Parliament.
BYD aims to become the world’s top automaker within five years, expanding Europe operations including new factory plans in Hungary and potential plant in Europe. China’s EV exports are surging as domestic demand softens, with BYD leading overseas growth and facing scrutiny over Hungary factory labor and EU tariffs.