Top automotive industry conferences in 2025

Several trade shows will focus on the hot topics of recent years, including EVs, battery tech, hybrid powertrains and software-defined vehicles.

Battery startup Northvolt to lay off workers, scale back expansion plans

More than 200 employees were affected by the decision to close the company's R&D facility in San Leandro, California.

Powell says Fed policymakers not ‘in a hurry’ to cut interest rates

“We’re recalibrating policy to maintain the strength in the economy, not because of weakness in the economy,” Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said.

Volkswagen slashes financial outlook — again

It’s the second time in less than three months that VW has warned of reduced profits.

$2B in tax credits awarded to EV buyers so far in 2024

Inflation Reduction Act funds have enabled upfront discounts on the purchases of more than 300,000 clean vehicles since Jan. 1, federal agencies say.

Ford tries to sway EV buyers with free home charger

The automaker is throwing in complimentary installation and roadside assistance, among other benefits, as part of its “Ford Power Promise.”

Stellantis’ sales struggles spur lower guidance

The automaker also adjusted its inventory and shipment plans, citing "corrective actions" in North America.

Layoffs mount amid low manufacturing demand: September PMI

The presidential election, an East Coast port strike and the impact of Hurricane Helene are creating a flurry of challenges for manufacturers this fall.

Hyundai, Kia launch advanced battery technology project

To better compete in the EV market, the automakers plan to jointly develop lithium iron phosphate battery cathode material manufacturing technology in South Korea.

ILA strike begins, disrupting East and Gulf Coast ports

Without a new port labor deal, the International Longshoremen’s Association instructed its members to halt work after midnight Tuesday.

Ford reaches tentative union deal with tool and die unit

The UAW said Local 600's agreement would strengthen job security at the Dearborn, Michigan, facility by protecting against the impacts of advancements in 3D printing.

Volkswagen integrates Google’s generative AI to enhance app experience

Through a Google collaboration, car owners will be able to search their owners’ manuals by posing questions like “How do I change a tire?”

Dealer pessimism rises amid concerns about economy, election

The sentiment is likely driven by rising costs and declining profitability relative to an industry peak in 2021, according to a recent Cox Automotive survey.

Fed rate cut unlikely to boost US auto sales in Q4

However, continued interest rate cuts and lower vehicle prices could make a difference in 2025, analysts said.

Trump vs. Harris on manufacturing: A tale of 2 speeches

In dueling remarks this week, the Republican nominee focused on tariff hikes, while the Democratic nominee talked of boosting clean energy production. 

Stellantis lays off seasonal workers at Michigan plant

The automaker cut 177 supplemental employees as well as 14 full-timers at its Sterling Heights Assembly Plant, citing multiple reasons.

White House backs $1B EV supplier fund

Monroe Capital’s managed fund is focused on helping small- and medium-sized auto manufacturers transition to electric vehicle production.

Ford recalls nearly 145K Mavericks for rear camera display failures

The recall covers certain 2022-2024 Maverick pickups equipped with Ford’s Connected Touch Radio.

Kia will offer NACS adapters for its EVs in early 2025

The automaker says the adapter will “vastly expand charger availability” for U.S. electric vehicle customers.

Customer satisfaction with public EV charging is improving: JD Power

Electric vehicle owners are particularly satisfied with the speed of public fast chargers.

Companies are investing less time and money in women: study

McKinsey & Co. emphasized that the “broken rung” of advancement remains a core issue for women.

Employers increasingly shed jobs, reflecting economic uncertainty

Hiring intentions fell to the lowest year-to-date total since data tracking began in 2005, Challenger, Gray & Christmas said.

US seeks to limit China, Russia’s role in connected vehicle supply chains

The Department of Commerce's proposed new rule would require vehicles used in the U.S. to exclude suppliers with links to those countries.

BMW taps Redwood Materials for battery recycling

The company will work directly with BMW of North America at over 700 locations, including dealerships and distribution centers, to collect batteries for recycling.

GM releases NACS adapter for access to Tesla Superchargers

The device is now available to customers in the U.S., followed by Canada later this year.