Tesla unveiled the restyled 2025 Model Y Juniper on its website in China. Get all the latest auto industry news in the Executive Briefing.
+ Mercedes-Benz sold 1,983,400 cars in 2024, a 3 percent decline compared to 2023, weighed down by a 7 percent drop in sales in China and a 3 percent decline in Europe. More at U.S. News & World Report.
+ Ford’s operations in China, which include production of Lincolns for export, earned roughly $600 million last year despite challenging market conditions, says CEO Jim Farley. More at CNBC.
+ Antonio Filosa, chief operating officer for Stellantis North America and former head at Jeep, says the automaker has a plan to increase sales and boost retail market share. More at the Detroit Free Press.
+ NASCAR released a flurry of changes to the rule book to address multiple issues, including playoff waivers, penalties to manufacturers, and provisionals for celebrity drivers. More at NBC Sports.
+ In Tokyo, Mazda unveiled its most powerful Miata to date, the MX5 12R boasting a 2.0-liter four with 197 hp, built for both road and track use and to be limited to 200 copies. More at The Drive.
+ The Canadian government announced that its retail incentives on EVs will end on March 31 or when funds run out, though business incentives continue for another year. More at Motor Illustrated.
+ Ken Block’s Hoonitruck, a heavily modified 1977 Ford F-150 used in the late rally driver’s “Gymkhana” video series, will be offered at Barrett-Jackson’s annual Scottsdale sale. More at Motor Authority.
+ In a surprise reveal on its consumer website in China, Tesla unveiled its restyled Model Y Juniper featuring full-width lamps front and rear, with a launch in the USA expected soon. More at Car and Driver.
+ South Korean automaker Hyundai will offer an entry-level EV in Japan called the Inster, which at $18,000 will be the lowest-priced compact EV on the Japanese market. More at World Auto Forum.
+ Aston Martin Formula 1 CEO Andy Cowell will take on an additional role as team principal to replace Mike Krack, who has been effectively demoted to a trackside role. More at BBC Sport.
Photo courtesy of Tesla.
Review the previous MCG Executive Briefing from January 10 here.
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