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New EU car registrations* rose by 5.7% year-to-date, with a solid performance in June contributing to a positive first half of 2026, according to data published today by the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association. [aka ACEA at AutoInformed after its original French name].
“This came against a backdrop of persistent geopolitical headwinds weighing on the outlook. The market continued to benefit from robust consumer demand for a range of electrified technologies, driven primarily by market support measures. Hybrid-electric vehicles lead as the most popular powertrain choice…, while battery-electric cars reached 20.7%. In addition, plug-in hybrids captured 9.8% of the EU market,” ACEA said. Continue reading
J.D. Power 2026 APEAL Scores Rise Again
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Automakers are delivering vehicles that are more satisfying to own and drive, according to the JD Power 2026 U.S. Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) StudySM. Overall satisfaction among new-vehicle owners reached 858 (on a 1000-point scale), rising 7 index points for a third consecutive annual increase. The increase is the largest since 2018 and the fifth largest in study history, highlighting how improvements in quality and vehicle experience are translating into stronger owner enthusiasm.*
“Automakers have made real progress in reducing problems, but JD Power data makes it clear that quality alone isn’t enough,” said Frank Hanley, senior director of auto benchmarking at JD Power. “Owners are most enthusiastic when their vehicle not only works reliably but also feels thoughtfully designed and offers comfortable interiors, useful storage and technology that’s easy to live with. The brands that get both sides of that equation right see the strongest advocacy from their customers.”** Continue reading →