Global & MENA Automotive Industry Monthly Update – June 2025

Introduction

June 2025 proved to be a dynamic month across the global automotive landscape, as OEMs accelerated innovation in electrification, hydrogen propulsion, AI safety systems, and high-performance luxury design. Major announcements from Bugatti, Tesla, and Toyota revealed a clear commitment to redefining mobility through bold product unveilings and tech-forward strategies. Meanwhile, MENA markets continued to show strong momentum — with landmark EV launches in Saudi Arabia, strategic dealership expansions in the UAE and Qatar, and a renewed focus on infrastructure investment to fuel commercial and passenger vehicle growth.

Notably, the region saw rising interest in financial services hubs, live auto auctions, and pre-owned vehicle demand. Globally, sustainability and ESG reporting took centre stage, alongside design accolades and leadership shifts at top-tier OEMs. This report captures the key developments, launches, and market signals that are shaping the future of the automotive industry — from Modena to Maabelah, from Riyadh to Riyuka.

Mercedes-AMG Teases GT2-Inspired Performance Concept

Performance Innovation
The Concept AMG GT XX debuts as a track-focused prototype, blending aggressive GT2 race styling with next-level road engineering. This prototype previews the future of Mercedes-AMG’s performance language and underscores its motorsport DNA.

BYD Appoints Voestalpine as Key Supplier for European Plant

EV Supply Chain Expansion
BYD has named Voestalpine as a strategic supplier for its first European passenger vehicle plant. The move strengthens its local manufacturing capabilities and affirms BYD’s long-term EV production commitment in Europe.

Lamborghini Releases First ESG Report

Sustainability & ESG
Lamborghini has published its inaugural ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) report, signaling a shift toward responsible luxury. The brand outlines sustainability goals and initiatives focused on long-term social and environmental impact.

Tesla’s Robotaxi Control Model Sparks Debate

Autonomous Mobility
Tesla’s plan to remotely operate its future robotaxis is raising safety and regulatory concerns. The approach reflects Elon Musk’s ambitious autonomous vehicle roadmap, but questions remain over its technical and legal readiness.

Rolls-Royce Phantom ‘Goldfinger’ Unveiled for 100th Anniversary

Ultra-Luxury Heritage
Rolls-Royce revealed a bespoke Phantom ‘Goldfinger’ edition to celebrate 100 years of the nameplate. Inspired by the 1964 James Bond film, the design blends cinematic nostalgia with handcrafted, ultra-luxury artistry.

XPeng Launches MONA M03 Max: Affordable EV with Advanced AI

Smart Mobility – China
XPeng has introduced the MONA M03 Max, a $20,000 electric hatchback featuring advanced AI driving systems. With 120,000 units sold, the model brings premium ADAS and a smart cockpit to the affordable EV segment.

Maserati Celebrates Trident Centennial at Motor Valley Fest

Brand Heritage
Maserati marked 100 years of its iconic trident badge by showcasing the GT2 Stradale and electric GranCabrio Folgore in Modena. The celebration reinforced Italian design, production, and legacy craftsmanship.

Toyota Chairman Re-Elected Amid $33B Marelli EV Bid

Leadership & Investment
Akio Toyoda retained his chairmanship at Toyota despite investor pressure, coinciding with Japan’s $33B bid for EV supplier Marelli. The move signals urgency in Japan’s transition to electrified mobility solutions.

Bugatti Unveils Tourbillon: A New Era in Electrified Hypercars

Ultra-Luxury EV Innovation
The Bugatti Tourbillon debuts as a hybrid hypercar fusing French design with electrification and extreme engineering precision. It marks a bold evolution in Bugatti’s legacy of high-performance craftsmanship.

Bentley Continental GT Speed Wins Best Interior Award

Design Excellence
Bentley’s Continental GT Speed has been awarded Robb Report’s 2024 “Best of the Best” for automotive interiors. The handcrafted, tech-integrated cabin sets new standards for luxury interior design.

Toyota Unveils Hydrogen GR H2 Concept at Le Mans

Hydrogen Innovation
Toyota showcased its zero-emissions GR H2 Racing Concept during the 24 Hours of Le Mans, underlining the brand’s continued investment in hydrogen propulsion alongside hybrids and EVs.

BMW Appoints New Heads for Financial Services and IT

Leadership & Digital Strategy
BMW has appointed Alexander Buresch as Head of Financial Services and Franz Decker as CIO. The changes reflect BMW’s focus on digital transformation across finance and global IT infrastructure.

Volvo Introduces World’s First Multi-Adaptive AI Safety Belt

Automotive Safety Innovation
Volvo has revealed a next-gen AI-driven safety belt for the EX60, adapting in real time to crash variables using 11 load profiles. This OTA-updatable tech sets a new benchmark in occupant protection.

Ferrari Wins Three Red Dot Design Awards for 2025 Lineup

Design Leadership
Ferrari has won triple Red Dot awards for the 12Cilindri, 12Cilindri Spider, and F80 hybrid supercar. The victories highlight Ferrari’s continued innovation in high-performance design and visual identity.

Regional News

AW Rostamani Group Secures UAE Distribution Agreement with JMMC

Partnership & Dealer Growth
AW Rostamani Group signed an exclusive distribution deal with Jiangling Motors Corporation (JMMC) for the UAE. The partnership supports portfolio diversification and positions JMMC for entry into the GCC passenger and commercial vehicle market.

Soueast Launches S06, S07, and S09 in Saudi Arabia

Regional Expansion – Middle East
Chinese automaker Soueast has unveiled three new models — S06, S07, and S09 — in Saudi Arabia. The launch supports its strategic Middle East growth and responds to rising demand for smart, affordable vehicles in the region.

Used Car Sales Surge in South Africa; Toyota and Ford Lead

Pre-Owned Market Trends
South Africa’s used car market saw a sharp rise in May, led by Toyota and Ford models. Affordable pricing, wide availability, and economic pressure are fuelling robust secondhand vehicle demand across the country.

Tesla Opens First Saudi Arabia Center in Riyadh

GCC Expansion Strategy
Tesla has inaugurated its first center in Saudi Arabia, located in Riyadh. The facility provides sales, service, and delivery, marking a milestone in Tesla’s GCC expansion and increasing EV presence in the Kingdom.

Oman Launches Financial Services Hub to Boost Automotive Growth

Retail Finance & Market Expansion
A new automotive-focused financial services centre has opened in Maabelah, Oman. Tailored for consumers and SMEs, the hub supports local vehicle financing growth and aligns with Oman’s Vision 2040 economic diversification strategy.

Mannai Automotive Orders BYD Denza and Yangwang Models

Gulf EV Growth
Qatar’s Mannai Group has placed a strategic order for BYD’s Denza and Yangwang brands, reinforcing Chinese premium EV entry across the GCC. The move underscores rising regional demand for smart electric mobility.

Al-Futtaim Toyota Debuts Land Cruiser LC300 Hybrid in UAE

Electrified Off-Road Debut
Toyota has globally launched the LC300 Hybrid in the UAE. The hybrid flagship blends rugged performance with greater fuel efficiency, designed for Middle East terrain and driving conditions.

Marhaba Auctions to Host UAE’s Largest Live Car Auction

Aftersales & Auction Activity
Marhaba Auctions will hold the UAE’s largest live auto auction on June 15, featuring bank-repossessed and used cars. The event reflects strong demand within the region’s secondary car market.

Blacklane and Lucid Partner for Premium EV Chauffeur Fleet in Saudi Arabia

Sustainable Mobility – GCC
Global chauffeur firm Blacklane will deploy Lucid EVs in Saudi Arabia, supported by Singapore-style training through its Chauffeur Academy. The deal boosts green mobility and luxury ride services.

South African Vehicle Sales Jump 22% in May

Market Performance – Africa
South Africa’s new vehicle sales surged 22% YoY in May, reaching over 45,000 units. Growth was led by passenger cars and supported by an interest rate cut, despite lower export activity.

Volkswagen Considers Egypt as Regional Assembly Hub

Manufacturing Strategy – Africa
Volkswagen is evaluating Egypt for vehicle and component production, aiming to strengthen local assembly and serve broader African markets. The initiative supports VW’s localisation and access plans.

Dubai Allocates $10B to Accelerate Commercial Vehicle Growth

Infrastructure Investment – GCC
The UAE has committed $10 billion to boost its commercial vehicle sector, supporting freight and logistics growth ahead of Automechanika Dubai 2024. This is part of a broader $267B GCC infrastructure strategy.

Conclusion

June 2025 has underscored a clear message: the global automotive industry is no longer evolving — it is transforming. From the rise of AI-enhanced safety features and the global rollout of affordable electric vehicles, to heritage brands redefining luxury through sustainability and performance, the sector is accelerating toward a future shaped by bold reinvention.

In the MENA region, we’re witnessing a historic convergence of ambition and execution — with infrastructure megaprojects, new OEM partnerships, and demand for intelligent mobility redefining the customer experience. Markets such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Oman are emerging not just as sales hubs, but as strategic command centres for regional innovation and growth.

Meanwhile, design excellence, ESG accountability, and advanced propulsion systems are driving competitive differentiation on the world stage. As the second half of the year begins, every brand — whether legacy or disruptive — must strike a balance between identity and agility. The road ahead belongs to those who are not only fast, but forward-thinking.

At AMENA, we partner with leading OEMs and Dealer/Importer networks across the MENA region to drive measurable performance across Sales, Aftersales, Parts, CSI, and NPS. Leveraging deep industry expertise, we deliver tailored strategies that elevate customer experience, optimise operational KPIs, and enhance brand loyalty.

As the region embraces electric mobility, AI-driven innovation, and premium customer expectations, AMENA ensures automotive businesses stay ahead—through actionable insights, bespoke training, and operational excellence programmes that deliver real-world impact.

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