Pew – Confidence in Trump Dips, Fewer Support His Policies

Posted on 31 January 2026 by Ken Zino

Americans’ views of President Donald Trump, already more negative than positive, have continued to slip one year into his second term, according to the latest poling data from the estimable Pew Research Center.*

A new Pew survey of 8512 U.S. adults, conducted Jan. 20-26, also finds that – across six key qualities and abilities needed to serve as president – more Americans express little or no confidence in Trump than say they are extremely or very confident in him.** Continue reading →

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IndyCar – Freedom 250 Grand Prix at Washington National Mall

Posted on 30 January 2026 by Ken Zino
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IndyCar said that an executive order signed today by President Donald J. Trump directed the White House Task Force on Celebrating America’s 250th Birthday to designate a race route through Washington, D.C. and the National Mall for the purposes of conducting an NTT IndyCar Series race on 21-23 August 2026. The event – part racing and part political rally for sagging Administration voter approval – will be administered by IndyCar in coordination with the Task Force, U.S. Department of Transportation, U.S. Department of the Interior and Washington, D.C.’s Executive Office of the Mayor. (See the latest Pew Research on AutoInformed.com)*

“President Trump has bestowed an incredible distinction upon our sport, and we’re grateful for his trust and support as INDYCAR prepares to honor our country with a tremendous racing spectacle,” said Roger Penske, owner of the IndyCar series. “This will be a truly memorable event that celebrates our country’s independence and the legacy of patriotism, innovation and excellence that powers motorsports across America.” Continue reading →

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Brr Frozen January U.S. Auto Sales

Posted on 30 January 2026 by Ken Zino
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January 2026 US auto sales are forecast to reach 1.13 million units, according to S&P Global Mobility. This equals an estimated sales pace of 15.2 million units (seasonally adjusted annual rate, aka SAAR), a drop from the 16.0 million unit SAAR in December. However, mirroring the precedent from the prior two years – slower January sales following strong year-end close outs.*

“Weather-related impacts from cold weather and late-month winter storm activity will likely contribute to some of the mild January result,” said Chris Hopson, manager of North American light vehicle sales forecasting for S&P Global Mobility. “Setting up what could be some volatility for the monthly SAAR metric in the first half of 2026.” Continue reading →

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GM to Layoff 500 Employees at Oshawa Assembly

Posted on 29 January 2026 by Ken Zino
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General Motors (NYSE:GM) conformed today that Oshawa Assembly will return to two shifts of production beginning 2 February. However approximately 500 employees will be placed on layoff.*

“Preparations continue at Oshawa Assembly to build the next generation of gas-powered full-size pickups, supported by a $280 million investment that reinforces Oshawa’s future in GM’s key full-size truck program,” GM said in a release. Continue reading →

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GM Spending $30M at Fairfax to Flex EV and ICE Making

Posted on 29 January 2026 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on GM Spending $30M at Fairfax to Flex EV and ICE Making

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General Motors (NYSE:GM) said today that it adding $30 million into preparing the Fairfax Assembly Plant workforce for three major vehicle launches. The plant opened in 1946, is currently producing the Chevrolet Bolt, an electric vehicle, soon to be followed by the gas-powered Chevrolet Equinox and a next-generation Buick compact SUV. [The Buick Encore is currently built in South Korea and China. Both under attack during the Trump Tariff Wars. – AutoCrat]

“For us, this work is more than building vehicles – it’s building a legacy. General Motors has been a place where families grow their careers across generations, including my own,” Fairfax Plant Director Michael Youngs said. “The investment in people isn’t just about preparing for the production of new vehicles; it’s about giving our people the opportunity to build a future their families can be proud of.” Continue reading →

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First Look – Genesis X Skorpio Concept

Posted on 29 January 2026 by Ken Zino
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Genesis this week unveiled the X Skorpio Concept, an off-road vehicle designed to perform within demanding terrain including deserts. This happened in Rub’ al Khali “Empty Quarter” desert in the UAE.*

“The X Skorpio concept is an extreme off-road vehicle designed to be driven across the toughest and harshest terrain,” said Luc Donckerwolke, Chief Creative Officer of Genesis. “With a tubular frame, a full roll cage and many components sourced directly from off-road endurance racing specialists, the X Skorpio Concept explores yet another facet of the Genesis brand and highlights our intent to inject emotion and adrenaline into different segments.” Continue reading →

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Porsche Head of Design – Sühlmann Succeeds Mauer

Posted on 28 January 2026 by Ken Zino
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Porsche AG (P911.DE) said today that a generational change will see Tobias Sühlmann (46 left) succeed Michael Mauer (63 right) as Head of Design at Porsche from 1 February 2026. Sühlmann comes from, ahem, the British sports car manufacturer McLaren. Michael Mauer “will continue to support his successor Tobias Sühlmann in a transitional period,” Porsche said.*

“Michael Mauer shaped an era at Porsche. Together with his team, he has carefully brought the iconic design of the 911 into the modern era and at the same time unmistakably transferred the Porsche design DNA to new model series,” said Dr. Michael Leiters, Chairman of the Executive Board of Porsche AG.

[The Panamera, the first sports sedan in the history of the sports car manufacturer saw Mauer as head of design and Leiters as product strategist launching the controversial four-door model in 2009. – AutoCrat] Continue reading →

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GM Posts 2025 Net of $12.7B on $185B Revenue

Posted on 27 January 2026 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on GM Posts 2025 Net of $12.7B on $185B Revenue

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General Motors (NYSE: GM)* today reported full-year 2025 net income attributable to stockholders of $2.7 billion and EBIT-adjusted of $12.7 billion. Fourth-quarter 2025 net income attributable to stockholders was a loss of $3.3 billion, EBIT-adjusted was $2.8 billion. The GM Board announced a dividend at 20% higher quarterly rate, and approved new $6 billion share repurchase authorization. [Earnings per share took a big hit in 2025. Cash flow apparently allows the aggressive dividend increase and share buyback program in what could the least year for the aging – 65 – GM CEO. -AutoCrat]

“We expect the U.S. new vehicle market will continue to be resilient, and with our compelling vehicles, technology-driven services, and operating discipline, 2026 should be an even better year for GM. We expect our full year EBIT-adjusted margins in North America will be back in the 8-10% margin range,” said Mary Barra GM CEO and Chair. Continue reading →

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EVs Outsell Internal Combustion Vehicles in EU!

Posted on 27 January 2026 by Ken Zino
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EV sales outsold internal combustion vehicles in EU during December 2025 according to data published today by the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association. Notably, Tesla at 150,504 dropped -38% for the year. Chinese maker BYD at 128,827 posted a 228% increase. [aka ACEA at AutoInformed after its original French name].* EV sales for the full year amounted to 17.4% of the European market.

“During 2025, new EU car registrations increased by 1.8% compared to the same period last year. However, overall volumes remain well below pre-pandemic levels. The battery-electric car market share reached 17.4%, in line with projections for the year, yet still a level that leaves room for growth to stay on track with the transition. Hybrid-electric vehicles lead as the most popular power type choice among buyers, with plug-in hybrids consolidating their position in the market,” ACEA said today. Continue reading →

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Volvo Car Financial Services Extends BoA Deal

Posted on 27 January 2026 by Ken Zino
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Volvo Car Financial Services (VCFS) and Bank of America (NYSE: BAC) today announced the extension of their long-standing relationship to provide auto loan and lease origination, financing, and servicing for Volvo Cars customers and Volvo Cars’ 280 U.S. retailers.* The collaboration, which began in 2012, will now continue through 2030.

“Bank of America (BoA) has been a trusted partner for over a decade, assisting Volvo Cars customers in financing and enjoying their vehicles,” said Robert Manna, President of Volvo Car Financial Services. “By extending this relationship through 2030, we are reaffirming our commitment to providing competitive financing options and a high-quality experience for both customers and retailers.” Continue reading →

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Tesla, Toyota Top Power 2026 U.S. ALG Residual Value Awards

Posted on 26 January 2026 by Ken Zino

The J.D. Power 2026 U.S. ALG Residual Value Awardssm released today, highlight the importance of brand management showing Tesla and Toyota with strongest results. Affordability pressures see more customers looking at the total cost of vehicle ownership. The estimated vehicle worth at lease end, aka residual value, is a key indicator of long-term resale value and affordability.

“Strong wholesale retention, solid brand value and a disciplined approach on rental fleet and incentives propelled Toyota to the top spot among mainstream brands,” said Danny Battaglia, managing director of ALG customer success at J.D. Power. “Toyota topped six segments for 2026, including a four-peat for GR Supra and five-peat for Tundra. Meanwhile, Tesla avoided the high incentives of other luxury battery electric vehicle brands in 2025. That helped earn it the top rank among luxury brands with the highest performers in three segments–including the refreshed Model Y, which included introduction of a lower-priced base version and additional content on mid-level trims.” Continue reading →

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Fire Risk – Ford Recalls Escape, Explorer, Focus, MKC Models

Posted on 26 January 2026 by Ken Zino

Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F)* is recalling more than 119,000 model-year 2013-2018 Focus, 2013-2019 Escape, 2024 Ford Explorer and 2015-2016 MKC vehicles equipped with a 2-liter engine. The engine block heater may crack and develop a coolant leak, causing it to short circuit when the block heater is plugged in. This increases the hazard of an under-hood fire.

“A short circuit in the engine block heater increases the risk of an under-hood fire. The risk is increased when the block heater is plugged into a 110-volt electrical supply without a functional circuit breaker or Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) power outlet. This risk only exists when the block heater is plugged in,” Ford said in the mandatory recall filing made public by The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) today. Continue reading →

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Pessimism on the Economy – A Pox on Both Parties

Posted on 23 January 2026 by Ken Zino
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During January 2025, 70% of voters said that “inflation or costs of goods” were getting worse for people like them. One year later, that figure has remained largely unchanged, with 74% of voters now saying that inflation is getting worse, according to the latest polling this week by Data for Progress (DFP).*

“Despite Trump’s campaign promises, voters’ perceptions of the economy have not improved since he took office. But in a warning sign for Democrats, voters are still largely split over which party has solutions to lower the cost of living,” said DFP. Continue reading →

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Nissan Sells South African Plants to Chery SA

Posted on 23 January 2026 by Ken Zino

Nissan and Chery SA, a subsidiary of Chinese automaker Chery Group** [China’s Number One exporter with more than 100,000 employees and sales in 132 countries or regions. AutoCrat*], said today they have reached agreement on the acquisition of Nissan’s manufacturing assets in Rosslyn, South Africa. Subject to the fulfilment of certain conditions, including regulatory approvals, Chery SA will purchase the land, buildings and associated assets of the Nissan facilities, including of its nearby stamping plant, in mid-2026.

“Nissan has a long and proud history in South Africa and has been working to find the best solution for our people, our customers and our partners. External factors have had a well-known impact on the utilization of the Rosslyn plant and its future viability within Nissan. Through this agreement we’re able to secure employment for the majority of our workforce thereby also preserving opportunities for our supplier network. This move also ensures that the Rosslyn site will continue contributing to the South African automotive sector,” claimed Jordi Vila, Nissan Africa President. Continue reading →

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January 2026 U.S. Auto Sales Forecast Down

Posted on 23 January 2026 by Ken Zino
Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on January 2026 U.S. Auto Sales Forecast Down

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Total new-vehicle sales for January 2026, including retail and non-retail transactions, are forecast to reach 1,118,700, a 2.7% decrease year-over-year, according to a joint analysis from J.D. Power* and GlobalData.** January 2026 has 26 selling days, one more than January 2025. Comparing the same sales volume without adjusting for the number of selling days translates to an increase of 1.2% from 2025. The seasonally adjusted annualized rate (SAAR) for Retail new-vehicle sales is expected to be 12.7 million units, down 500,000 from January 2025.

“January is historically the lowest volume sales month of the year and is also historically the least indicative of full-year sales performance. Nevertheless, January opens 2026 with a modest performance with retail sales expected to increase by 1317 units compared to a year ago,” said Thomas King, president of OEM solutions at J.D. Power. Continue reading →

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