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Autonomous vehicles are driving the auto industry toward humanoid robots
Leveraging its expertise in autonomous driving technology, the automotive industry is accelerating its entry into the robotics sector. At CES 2026, several companies announced robotics strategies, with global robot deployments projected to reach 13 million units by 2030.
Auto dealers seek more policy wins in 2026, including curtailing direct sales
At the 2026 NADA Convention, the American Automobile Dealers Association celebrated its 2025 policy victories while clarifying that it will continue lobbying in 2026, focusing on curbing direct sales, adjusting tariffs and emissions policies, and advancing related legislation.
Automated driving is staging a comeback with the help of AI
At CES 2026, industry insiders noted that advances in artificial intelligence and market demand are driving autonomous driving technology back to the forefront of the industry. Automakers are shifting investment from pure electric vehicles to advanced driver assistance systems, with multiple companies announcing new plans.
5 auto industry trends to watch in 2026
In 2025, the automotive industry faced challenges such as tariff pressures and declining EV sales. How will automakers respond in 2026? WardsAuto spoke with several analysts to outline five key trends: Ford and GM will leverage CAFE standard adjustments to maintain profits; hybrid models will fill the gap during the electrification transition; tariff impacts will persist, making supply chain restructuring difficult; and generative AI and software-defined vehicles will become the new battleground.
Toyota focuses on personality with its all-hybrid 2026 RAV4 lineup
The Toyota 2026 RAV4, as the sixth-generation model, will begin deliveries in December 2025, offering only hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains. The new vehicle brings adjustments in technology, software, and marketing strategy, with the core change consolidating 11 configurations into three 'emotional tiers'—Core, Rugged, and Sport—totaling 7 versions. Chief Engineer Yoshinori Futonagane stated that the new powertrain system is not inferior to the fifth-generation gasoline version in both on-road and off-road performance, and offers greater driving pleasure.
Industrial M&A ramps up as tariffs settle in, interest rates drop and funds are flush
Industrial M&A activity in 2025 started slowly amid uncertainties such as tariffs, but experts point out that as the policy environment becomes clearer, interest rates drop, and capital remains abundant, deal activity is gradually picking up. Private equity firms sitting on large amounts of dry powder and long-held assets, strategic buyers facing growth pressures, aging business owners seeking exits, coupled with a domestic manufacturing renaissance, will drive a vibrant M&A market in the coming years.
RAV4: The phenomenon three decades in the making
In December 1995, Toyota's new RAV4 sold only 2 units; thirty years later, sales in the first three quarters of 2025 reached 358,134 units, ranking first in its class. From the initial 'cute off-roader' to today's hybrid-dominated lineup, how did the RAV4 achieve this transformation? This article incorporates insights from executives and analysts to analyze the key factors behind its success.
Rivian readies for next evolution with R2 launch
With the R2 model slated for launch early next year, Rivian is leveraging brand momentum, technological expertise, and supply chain optimization to tackle market challenges. The company's Q2 revenue grew 12.5% year-over-year, and September will mark key milestones including the resumption of work at the Georgia plant and the activation of its East Coast headquarters. Management is confident in the R2's market fit while controlling costs through simplified design and long-term supplier agreements to address pressures from tariffs and changes in tax credits.
Waymo readies its robotaxis for winter weather
Waymo is expanding its autonomous taxi service to cities in the northeastern and midwestern United States with harsh winter climates. The company plans to start commercial operations in Washington, D.C. next year and has already begun testing with safety drivers in Boston, New York, and Philadelphia. Industry experts point out that before offering paid services, Waymo needs to collect a full year of four-season data from the northeastern region to verify its safety and reliability in complex weather conditions such as ice and snow.
Congress could soon revoke California’s vehicle emissions standards
The U.S. Senate could vote as early as next week on a resolution aimed at overturning the Environmental Protection Agency's waiver for California's vehicle emission standards under the Congressional Review Act. The House of Representatives passed a similar resolution on May 1, despite rulings by both the Government Accountability Office and the Senate's parliamentarian that the waiver does not fall within the CRA's scope. If the waiver is revoked, California and the 17 states and Washington, D.C., that have adopted its standards will face greater challenges in achieving air quality goals.