Kia confirmed that it will bring a mid-sized EV pickup to the USA. Get all the latest automotive news in the Executive Briefing.

Today’s headlines: 

+   The best-selling new vehicle in the USA so far in 2025 is the Ford F-150, followed by the Chevrolet Silverado, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ram pickup, and GMC SIerra. More at Car and Driver. 

+   Analysts predict that President Trump’s 25 percent tariff on automobiles and parts will cost the U.S. automakers $107.7 billion and increase prices $2,000 to $4,000 per vehicle. More at CNBC. 

+   Stellantis has released its preliminary global shipment figures for the first quarter of 2025, estimating 1.2 million vehicles delivered worldwide, a 9 percent year-over-year decline. More at CBT News. 

+   IndyCar Series owner Penske Entertainment is considering a financing plan to help teams acquire new chassis as the series switches to a new formula as soon as 2027. More at Racer. 

+   Volkswagen’s Scania truck division announced it has agreed to buy the division of bankrupt battery maker Northvolt of Sweden that produces battery packs for heavy industry. More at World Auto Forum. 

+   The total compensation package for General Motors chairman and CEO Mary Barra increased 5.9 percent in 2024 to $29.5 million, based on record adjusted profits for the year. More at The Detroit News. 

+   With 4,400 lbs of fan-produced aerodynamic downforce, the McMurtry Speirling battery-electric sports car can drive upside-down on a specially prepared demonstration rig. More at The Drive. 

+   General Motors is pausing production of its BrightDrop commercial electric delivery vans at the CAMI plant in Ingersoll, Ontario in an adjustment to changing market demand. More at Electrek. 

+   Kia confirmed that it is working on an EV pickup for the USA with “best-in-class interior, robust towing system, and off-road capabilities” and aims to sell 90,000 per year. More at Autoweek. 

+   British IndyCar and touring car veteran Katherine Legge has plans to enter seven more NASCAR Cup and Xfinity races in 2025 with financial backing from e.l.f Cosmetics. More at Motorsport.com.

Kia Tasman photo courtesy of Kia. 

Review the previous MCG Executive Briefing from April 11 here.

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