American Automakers Lead This Week's Biggest Automotive Headlines
Here's a comprehensive look at the standout stories shaping the conversation this week.
Chevrolet Breaks Records: Corvette ZR1X Becomes Fastest American Car at Nürburgring
Chevrolet made history on Germany's Nürburgring Nordschleife as the 2025 Corvette ZR1X clocked a blistering lap time of 6:49, securing its position as the fastest American production car ever to conquer the challenging track. What elevates this achievement beyond raw performance is that all three entries—the Z06, ZR1, and ZR1X—were driven not by pro racers but by GM's own engineers. This strategic move demonstrates not only Chevrolet's technical prowess but also the brand's belief in real-world engineering credibility, bridging the gap between development and authentic track-tested capability.
BYD Faces First Output Drop in Over a Year Amid Fierce Local Competition
China's electric vehicle giant BYD, long seen as a pillar of growth in the EV market, reported its first production dip in 17 months, with July output slipping by 0.9%. Sales saw only marginal growth at 0.6%, prompting the company to scale back amid an increasingly brutal price war and intensifying domestic rivalry. The slowdown comes after a long phase of aggressive expansion, hinting at a potential recalibration in the world's largest EV market.
Chevrolet Bolt to Return in 2027 as Affordable Long-Range EV
General Motors has confirmed the return of the beloved Chevy Bolt, revamped as a next-generation electric model set for release in 2027. Built on GM's Ultium platform, the new Bolt is expected to offer an estimated 300-mile range and carry a competitive price tag near $30,000. The announcement breathes new life into the budget EV segment, promising practicality without compromising modern tech and range.
Trade Truce Between US and EU Offers Relief to Automotive Sector
In a move likely to bring greater predictability to global supply chains, the US and European Union have agreed to reduce tariffs on European imports to 15%—a notable drop from the anticipated 30%. The deal, finalized during a summit in Scotland between President Donald Trump and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, marks a welcome de-escalation of trade tensions. The automotive and aerospace industries stand to benefit directly, with more accessible transatlantic exchange and lower cost burdens on manufacturers.
Ram TRX Returns in 2026 with Legendary Hellcat Power
The muscle truck is back. Stellantis has officially confirmed that the high-performance Ram TRX will return to the market in 2026, once again powered by the ferocious Hellcat V8 engine. Its reappearance reaffirms the enduring appeal of raw American horsepower, even as the industry accelerates toward electrification. For performance truck enthusiasts, it's a powerful reminder that combustion still has its place in the era of change.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
ArabGT
3 hours ago
- ArabGT
The 2026 Mercedes GLC EV Unveils a Game-Changing Futuristic Grille
Mercedes-Benz is setting the stage for the future of its design language—starting at the very front. Leading the charge is the striking new front grille that will debut on the upcoming 2026 Mercedes GLC electric SUV. Teased in official previews, this grille isn't just a facelift—it marks the beginning of a new chapter in Mercedes' design evolution. This is more than a design refresh. It's a visual manifesto. With the release of detailed teaser images, the direction Mercedes-Benz is heading with the all-electric 2026 GLC has come into focus. And while the specs are impressive, what's making headlines is the radical redesign of the front grille—a bold, unmistakable statement that signals where the brand is headed. A Grille That Redefines Identity The new GLC will arrive as a fully electric model, stepping in to replace the outgoing EQC. But this isn't just an EV version of an existing SUV—it's the flagship of a new design language that moves away from the separate EQ aesthetic. At the center of this identity is the grille, which seamlessly blends luxury, heritage, and future-forward thinking. Far from being a blanked-out front panel, this grille reinvents the idea entirely. Mercedes draws inspiration from its design heritage—particularly the iconic Ponton era—but reinterprets it through a futuristic lens. Advanced LED lighting is integrated directly into the grille, creating a dramatic visual signature that's as expressive as it is elegant. The illumination isn't just eye-catching—it's emotional, changing the atmosphere and creating a visual rhythm that connects car and environment. The Beginning of a Brand-Wide Shift The 2026 GLC EV won't be a one-off. Mercedes confirms this new front-end design will shape the look of its entire future lineup—electric and hybrid alike. It marks the brand's departure from the now-retired EQ design language, opting instead for a unified, sophisticated identity that feels both rooted in the brand's DNA and daringly new. Launching this design philosophy with the GLC makes sense: it's one of Mercedes' best-selling and most versatile models, and serves as the ideal entry point to showcase this transformation to the world. Engineering Meets Expression Built on the Mercedes-Benz electric platform, the GLC EV will support ultra-fast charging up to 320 kW and deliver over 700 km of range in its top configuration (WLTP). Performance enthusiasts will also have an AMG variant to look forward to, promising thrilling capability in the luxury electric SUV segment. Inside, the tech revolution continues. Expect a massive Hyperscreen stretching across the dashboard, powered by the next-generation operating system—delivering a user experience that's just as forward-looking as the exterior. This Is Not an Upgrade—It's a Statement With the new GLC EV, Mercedes isn't tweaking its existing formula—it's rewriting it. The brand is signaling that its electric future isn't just about switching drivetrains—it's about reshaping the entire ownership experience. The GLC EV embodies a design philosophy that respects heritage while embracing the full potential of electric innovation. It's more than a car. It's the face of a new era. And that face is striking, futuristic, and undeniably Mercedes. As 2026 approaches, one thing is clear: the electric GLC isn't just another model. It's the vehicle that will carry Mercedes-Benz into a new design generation—and possibly redefine what German luxury means in the EV age. Are you ready for the next chapter in electric luxury?
Argaam
7 hours ago
- Argaam
ADES performance seen to accelerate in H2 2025: CEO
Mohamed Farouk, CEO of ADES Holding Co., said the group expects its performance to accelerate in the coming months as all contracted rigs become fully operational by the end of Q4 2025. Speaking to Argaam, Farouk reaffirmed the company's guidance for 2025, targeting EBITDA between SAR 3.28 billion and SAR 3.39 billion, which reflects an annual growth rate of 8% to 12%. This growth is supported by expansion in both existing and new markets, improved utilization of recently commissioned rigs, and strengthened regional presence. He highlighted that the company benefits from its flexible operating model, diversified geographical footprint, and financial agility — all of which support its ability to sustain growth in the coming period. Commenting on the financial results, Farouk explained that despite revenue growth, the drop in profits was mainly due to higher depreciation and interest expenses relative to revenue, driven by the expanded rig fleet and the commissioning of several rigs during the period. He noted that the results were in line with market expectations for Q2. The top executive added that during H1 2025, the company fully commissioned six rigs, while another six underwent preparations at various times, including two newly built rigs. These rigs fall under the six-rig contract awarded to the company in 2024. Of these, five were gradually brought online during Q2, while the sixth — which had already started operations earlier in Q2 — is currently undergoing final preparations and is expected to restart in Q3 2025. Operations in Kuwait are expected to reach full capacity by the end of Q3 2025, with 12 rigs in operation. On a geographical basis, Farouk said the company posted revenue of approximately SAR 3.05 billion in H1 2025, largely unchanged from the same period last year. Saudi Arabia led with SAR 1.82 billion in revenue, followed by Egypt with SAR 294 million, and Southeast Asia with SAR 279 million. Revenue by Geographic Region (SAR mln) Region H1 2025 H1 2024 Change Saudi Arabia 1,817.0 2,170.0 -16.3% Egypt 294.1 224.7 +30.9% Southeast Asia 279.2 6.8 +4032% Kuwait 257.8 319.0 -19.2% Qatar 174.7 152.1 +14.9% India 119.6 98.8 +21.0% Algeria & Tunisia 99.9 86.0 +16.2% Nigeria 6.6 - - Total 3,048.9 3,057.4 -0.3% Farouk pointed out that the total number of active rigs reached 73 by the end of H1 2025, compared to 77 during the same period last year. The company continued implementing its rig reactivation plans across multiple markets, including Saudi Arabia, Nigeria, Qatar, Thailand, and Egypt, while also preparing to expand operations in Thailand, Brazil, Nigeria, and Cameroon. The global oil sector continues to experience long-term balance between supply and demand, which supports demand for ADES's high-efficiency fleet amid growing tender activity across strategic regions in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and West Africa. 'With the continued ramp-up of rig operations, we expect stronger performance in H2, in line with our reaffirmed 2025 financial guidance," the CEO said. He added that the company's financial flexibility enables it to continue capturing promising growth opportunities, enhance shareholders' equity, and advance its global expansion strategy. 'I am confident that the group's operations are ideally positioned to maintain this upward trajectory moving forward,' Farouk added.
Arab News
8 hours ago
- Arab News
Petromin Express marks 25 years with ‘Millionaire' campaign
In celebration of its 25th anniversary, Petromin Express, one of the Kingdom's leading names in fast automotive maintenance services, has launched a campaign titled '25 Years of Leadership, Your Chance to Become a Millionaire!' The aim is to thank loyal customers and attract new ones. As part of this new marketing initiative, Petromin Express is offering exclusive deals and prizes, including raffle draws with valuable rewards. The grand prize is a staggering SR1 million ($266.6 million) and additional prizes include free maintenance vouchers, ACDelco batteries, Nexen tires and Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles. The raffle events are conducted in the presence of representatives from the Ministry of Commerce and the ECOPON platform. Yazid Waleed Al-Mutairi has been announced as the first winner, walking home with a new Jeep Grand Cherokee. Running until Aug. 13, the campaign is open to individuals aged 18 and above. To participate, customers simply need to visit any Petromin Express branch. Officially licensed by the Ministry of Commerce, the campaign has received extensive media coverage and support from influencers and celebrities across various platforms, highlighting the significance of the initiative and the strong reputation Petromin holds in the Saudi market. In line with its continued commitment to digital transformation and enhancing the customer experience, Petromin Express has introduced an interactive chatbot service — 'Virtual Assistant' — on WhatsApp, offering fast and responsive support. The company launched the 'Petromin It' mobile app, designed to provide a suite of smart services that efficiently and conveniently meet customer needs. Tariq Javed, CEO of the National Automotive Services Company, a subsidiary of Petromin Group, said: 'Petromin Express has successfully built a strong brand since its inception. The company has established a notable presence both locally and internationally, with operations in Egypt, Pakistan, India, Malaysia, and the UAE.' 'Our customers are integral to our success,' he added. 'This exceptional campaign shows our ongoing commitment to strengthening our relationship with them, offering innovative, interactive experiences that reflect Petromin Express's leadership in the automotive maintenance sector. The campaign also represents our aspirations to reach the highest levels of customer satisfaction and loyalty.' Since its inception, Petromin Express has served over 10 million customers through a wide network of more than 650 service centers across Saudi Arabia.
