Global automotive industry sees shifts in EV production and trade

The global automotive industry is seeing significant shifts in production and trade policy. In Saudi Arabia, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman unveiled CEER’s flagship electric EXOBOT sedan and SUV, marking a strategic move to establish the Kingdom as a global automotive hub under the Saudi Vision 2030 initiative.

In Europe, BMW has implemented a third shift at its Debrecen plant in Hungary to meet high demand for the new iX3 electric SUV, which has received over 100,000 orders within a year. Meanwhile, the European Union and India are negotiating a free trade agreement that proposes a gradual reduction of tariffs on electric vehicles, subject to specific annual quotas.

Market trends also show varying consumer behaviors. In Serbia, research indicates that while used car buyers are increasingly prioritizing technical condition and vehicle history over price, nearly 44% still plan to make a purchase by the end of 2026. Additionally, the upcoming 2026 Paris Motor Show is expected to feature over 100 brands, with a strong presence from Chinese manufacturers and new electric models from established names like Audi and Alpine.