AMENA Auto Monthly Review – June 2025
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