![Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on IIHS - Driver Death Rate Data and Vehicles That Kill other Drivers. [Deaths per million registered vehicle years, 2023 and equivalent earlier models, 2021-24]](https://autoinformed.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Lowest-Rates-Of-Driver-Deaths-Courtesy-of-and-Copyright-IIHS-July-2026-all-rights-reserved-256x300.png)
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“Even the safest small cars don’t fare well in crashes with large pickups and heavy SUVs,” IIHS President David Harkey said. “Powerful engines and marketing that attracts aggressive drivers is the issue for sports cars and muscle cars. They’re dangerous mainly because of how they’re driven.” Continue reading
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Stellantis (NYSE: STLA. STLAM.MI) today posted Q2 2026 financial results showing modest improvements in operating results that are still negatively affected by previous capital investments and management’s neglect of key brands, compounded by the ongoing negative effects of the foreign policy wars and tariff impositions of the Trump mis-administration that all global automakers are dealing with.* The 2026 net tariff gale Stellantis is sailing into is now estimated to be at €1.0 billion to €1.2 billion of costs. During H1 2026 net tariff costs were €0.3 billion, including an International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) tariff refund of €0.4 billion.
“The second quarter was marked by continued progress, led by North America and supported by important contributions from all other regions. We improved performance across our key financial metrics with Net revenues, AOI and Industrial free cash flows all showing significant gains. With implementation of our FaSTLAne 2030 strategy well underway and this year’s exciting new product launches on time and on track, we remain confident of delivering our 2026 financial guidance,” said Antonio Filosa, CEO. Continue reading
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Penske Automotive Group (NYSE: PAG)* today posted Q2 2026 financial results that showed revenue increased 6% to $8.5 billion when compared to $8.0 billion in Q2 2025. However, net income attributable to common stockholders at $260.4 million dropped ($266.6 million in 2025), and related earnings per share at $3.96 dropped as well ($4.03 in 2025.) [Penske Automotive is subject to a take the company private bid at $210 per share:Take Private Offer Made to Penske Automotive Group! PAG stock is currently trading in the $223.69 per share range – AutoCrat.]
“In the second quarter of 2026, our diversified business delivered over 125,000 retail automotive units and more than 5400 commercial truck units. Retail automotive same-store revenue increased 6%. Retail automotive new and used vehicle gross profit per unit remained strong and consistent when compared to the first quarter of 2026, and service and parts gross margin increased by 80 basis points. Additionally, I am encouraged with the trends we are experiencing across the commercial truck market from an improved freight environment, driving strong orders of Class 8 trucks,” Chair Roger Penske said.** Continue reading
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Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) posted Q1 2026 financial results.* They showed revenue of $48.3 billion, down $1.9 billion year-over-year; a net loss of $1.3 billion, down $1.3 billion year-over-year, adjusted EBIT of $2.5 billion, up $0.4 billion year-over-year. As predicted, the net loss includes a $3.6 billion largely non-cash special item charge tied to the previously announced disposition of the BlueOval SK (BOSK) joint venture.
“We delivered another strong quarter and raised our full-year guidance, but the more important story is the growing evidence that Ford is becoming a more profitable, more disciplined and genuinely different company,” claimed Ford President and CEO Jim Farley. “Our iconic trucks, off-roaders and hybrids are commanding real pricing power; our quality is now industry-leading in the U.S.; and profitable new adjacencies, such as Ford Energy, are opening fresh sources of growth.” Continue reading
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Magna (TSX: MG; NYSE: MGA) said today that it has secured an 800-volt electric drive (eDrive) program award with Chery, advancing the Canadian parts supplier advanced electrification strategy in China. The program will be produced at Magna’s new Wuhu plant bringing what is inarguably state of the art electric drive technologies into localized production for leading Chinese OEMs. Unlike U.S. based suppliers and automakers, Magna operates relatively unfettered by its government policies in stark contrast to King Trump’s latest threatened 50% tariff tirade against Canadian goods, which will hurt U.S. automakers and suppliers.*
“Magna’s strength lies in our ability to support customers across propulsion technologies and regions,” said Diba Ilunga, President Magna Powertrain. “This new 800V eDrive award with Chery reflects how we support OEMs as they move forward, whether through electric, hybrid or mixed technology strategies, while delivering the performance, efficiency and scalability today’s markets demand.”
“Magna’s strength lies in our ability to support customers across propulsion technologies and regions,” said Diba Ilunga, President Magna Powertrain. “This new 800V eDrive award with Chery reflects how we support OEMs as they move forward, whether through electric, hybrid or mixed technology strategies, while delivering the performance, efficiency and scalability today’s markets demand.” Continue reading
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Urban public transit with a Bosch fuel cell has started test operations in Madrid. Equipped with a fuel-cell power module (FCPM) from Bosch, an Irizar bus has been transporting passengers through the Spanish capital for several weeks now. Vehicle operation will focus on routes where the fuel cell’s long range allows it to demonstrate its advantages. The operator is the Spanish bus company Alsa.
“The fuel cell is the perfect complement to battery-electric powertrains – even in bus operations,” said Thomas Pauer, member of the Bosch Mobility sector board and president of Bosch Power Solutions.* Continue reading
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Stellantis* (NYSE: STLA. STLAM.MI) and Mutares** (ISIN: DE000A2NB650) said today that they have an agreement for the sale of Stellantis’ entire shareholding in the Free2move car-sharing business to Mutares. The transaction is expected to conclude by the end of 2026, subject to customary closing conditions. This strategy move of shedding companies is a core part of Stellantis’ FaSTLAne 2030 plan. Under it, financially ailing Stellantis will focus investments and resources to the regions, brands and technologies that it thinks can generate the strongest returns.
“By sharpening our focus on core automotive activities, we strengthen our capacity to deliver long-term performance,” commented Virgilio Cerutti, Head of Business Development & Partnerships at Stellantis. “We are committed to working closely with all stakeholders to support a smooth transition process for customers, partners, and employees.” Continue reading
The Center for Automotive Research (CAR) Management Briefing Seminars 2026 held 15-16 June had a so called roundtable series that convened automotive experts from the U.S. and Canada to discuss one of the industry’s most pressing challenges: how tariffs are redefining manufacturing, supply chains, and the future of North American competitiveness. Participants included automakers, suppliers, researchers, and representatives from Canada and the United States for a dialogue on the trade and operational strains facing the auto industry resulting from tariffs.
King Trump’s latest tariff tirade against Canada threatens a 50% tariff on Canadian goods. [Currently there is a 25% levy on non-US content on Canadian-assembled passenger vehicles, components not covered under the existing but up for renewal North American free trade pact (USMCA). There are also steel tariffs, which indirectly affect the industry. All of these will soar if Trump follows through with a looming 50% increase on Canadian goods, including autos in August. These issues make the CAR findings expressly relevant in AutoInformed’s view.] The CAR analysis bared a critical point for the North American automotive industry. Key issues centered around the consequences of tariffs on automakers and the increasing strain on the supply base. AutoInformed’s conclusions is that the King has no clothes. Read more AutoInformed coverage on related topics below – AutoCrat.* Continue reading
The Volvo Group, Daimler Truck AG, cellcentric (sic) and Toyota Motor Corporation said today that they have signed a binding agreement for Toyota to join as an equal partner and shareholder in cellcentric. Each owner will hold a one third share. This completes a previously announced non-binding agreement to cooperate in the Daimler Truck and Volvo Group fuel cell system joint venture called cellcentric.*
“Completion of the transaction is conditional upon obtaining regulatory approvals. Through the collaboration, the parties intend to strengthen cellcentric’s position as a leading developer and manufacturer of fuel cell systems for heavy-duty commercial applications,” the companies said. Continue reading
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Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) is recalling ~566,000 model year 2021-2026 Bronco and Bronco Raptor vehicles. The Mexican made engine compartment wiring harness may become damaged and short circuit.*
“The problem is caused by insufficient protection on the wiring harness which can lead to exposed wires and short circuiting. In the event of a short, drivers may notice smoke in the air vents or a warning message on their dashboard followed by flames coming from the passenger’s side of the engine compartment,” Ford told the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in the mandatory safety defect recall filing made public by NHTSA today. Continue reading
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The UAW* said today that workers at Autokiniton (formerly Jaytec, Inc.) in Milan, Michigan voted by a massive 92% in a National Labor Relations Board election to form a union with UAW. The final vote count was 136-12. Workers at the Milan Autokiniton plant build parts for several major automakers including Ford, Honda, and Toyota.
“The main reason I wanted to unionize is our wages,” said Randy Struble, a member of the Workers Volunteer Organizing Committee. “I worked at American Axle in 2006 making $25/hour. I do the same job now at Autokiniton for $23/hour. I have not had a raise since September 2022. When someone quits or gets fired, they don’t replace them. They just put the work on the remaining workers.” Continue reading
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Total new-vehicle sales for July 2026, including retail and non-retail transactions, are forecast to reach 1,415,800, a 1.4% increase year-over-year, according to a joint forecast today from J.D. Power and GlobalData. The SAAR for total new-vehicle sales is expected to be 16.9 million units, up 0.3 million units from July 2025.*
“As with last year, macroeconomic uncertainty and affordability challenges persist, while higher fuel prices are an additional headwind this year. Despite all these complex dynamics, new vehicle demand remains robust. In fact, retail consumers are expected to spend $51.8 billion buying new vehicles this month, up $1.2 billion from a year ago and the highest ever for the month of July,” said Thomas King, president of OEM solutions at JD Power. Continue reading
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Volvo Car USA (VOLCAR B: STO. ADR OTC VLVCY) said today it has received Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) certification for the all-new 2027 Volvo EX60 P10 AWD with an estimated driving range of up to 330 miles on a single charge [based on the battery being preconditioned before charging – AutoCrat], exceeding earlier estimates by the company.*
“After its debut earlier this year and the opening of U.S. order books in May, the EX60 positions Volvo Cars in the mid-size electric SUV segment, the largest and fastest-growing category in the electric vehicle market. The game-changing SUV offers impressive range, fast charging, and exceptional performance – all at a competitive price,” Volvo Car claimed. Continue reading
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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
Magna International Posts Record Q2 Earnings per Share
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Magna International (TSX: MG; NYSE: MGA) today reported relatively strong financial results for the second quarter ending 30 June 2026 and H1 2026. Income from operations before income taxes increased 21% to $599 million. Diluted earnings per share were $1.72; Adjusted EPS increased 29% to $1.86, a record for the second quarter. Magna also increased its full year forecast for Adjusted EBIT margin, Adjusted EPS and Free Cash Flow.*
“Our strong second-quarter results reflect solid operating performance, disciplined execution, and further progress against our strategic priorities. Supported by record second-quarter adjusted EPS, strong free cash flow, and confidence in our business and global team, we are raising our 2026 outlook. As we look ahead, we remain focused on delivering profitable growth, expanding margins, generating cash, and returning capital to shareholders, while remaining agile in a dynamic global environment,” said Swamy Kotagiri, Chief Executive Officer. Continue reading →