AMENA Auto Monthly Review – October 2025
Introduction The industry entered Q4 with resilience and recalibration. Battery technology, premium product launches and connected services accelerated, yet policy risk and component constraints reminded everyone that execution discipline matters. Within MENA, network expansion, digital platforms and smart-mobility pilots underscored the region’s rising influence on global roadmaps. This monthly brief curates what changed, why it matters, and where the value will be created next. Volvo and Volkswagen Sound Alarm Over Dutch Takeover of Chinese-Owned Chipmaker Nexperia The Dutch government’s decision to seize control of Nexperia, citing national security concerns over its Chinese ownership, has sparked alarm among major automakers. Volvo and Volkswagen warned that the move could disrupt semiconductor supply chains essential for vehicle production. The intervention, made under a Cold War-era law, underscores Europe’s growing resolve to safeguard its tech assets amid geopolitical tensions. Industry associations in Germany and Japan cautioned that chip shortages could trigger temporary factory shutdowns. The development adds further strain to global automakers already grappling with rare-earth export restrictions and intensifying competition from Chinese EV brands. Toyota Reveals Camry GT-S Concept at SEMA Show Toyota has unveiled the Camry GT-S Concept at the 2025 SEMA Show, based on the Camry XSE AWD Hybrid platform. The concept showcases performance-inspired design cues and enhanced suspension tuning while retaining hybrid efficiency. The model underlines Toyota’s intent to infuse sportiness into its mainstream line-up, keeping the Camry relevant amid intensifying EV and SUV competition. Geely Launches EX5 Electric SUV in UK Market Geely has introduced the EX5 electric SUV to the United Kingdom, marking the brand’s European debut with a value-oriented compact crossover. The model offers a range of around 267 miles (WLTP) and supports rapid charging from 30 to 80 percent in just 20 minutes via a 160 kW DC system. The launch is part of Geely’s broader expansion strategy, including plans to establish 100 sales and service outlets by 2026. It underscores the automaker’s intent to compete aggressively in Europe’s volume EV segment while enhancing its global footprint. Porsche Details High-Voltage System for Cayenne Electric SUV Porsche has unveiled technical details of its upcoming Cayenne Electric, featuring a high-voltage battery with a 113 kWh capacity and an 800-volt architecture capable of delivering up to 400 kW DC fast charging. This allows a 10 to 80 percent charge in under 16 minutes, significantly enhancing range efficiency and usability. The system integrates directly into the vehicle structure, improving rigidity, weight distribution, and driving dynamics—underscoring Porsche’s continued focus on blending performance and electrification in the luxury SUV segment. GM Returns with Autonomous Cadillac SUV After Cruise Exit General Motors is preparing to re-enter the autonomous-vehicle segment through Cadillac, with a self-driving luxury SUV expected to debut by 2028. The model will feature next-generation “hands-off” driver-assistance capabilities, representing a more cautious and premium-focused re-entry following GM’s previous exit from commercial robotaxi operations. This strategic pivot highlights the company’s renewed emphasis on integrating advanced autonomy within consumer-facing products, aiming to redefine luxury and technology convergence under the Cadillac brand. BYD Teases Kei Car Prototype Ahead of Japan Debut BYD has previewed its first electric kei car prototype ahead of its anticipated debut in Japan, marking the brand’s entry into one of the world’s most compact and demanding automotive segments. The prototype represents BYD’s broader strategy of adapting its EV portfolio to local market requirements and regulations. Targeting Japan’s urban mobility landscape, the model is expected to combine affordability, efficiency, and cutting-edge battery technology, reinforcing BYD’s ambition to expand its global footprint through region-specific innovations. Bentley Expands in India with Dual Showroom Launches Bentley has opened new, fully operational showrooms in Mumbai and Bengaluru, signalling a deeper commitment to India’s growing luxury automotive market. The facilities, located at The Galleria, Trident Hotel, and Indraprastha Invictus, reflect the brand’s global retail design standards. Operated in partnership with Infinity Cars and Kun Premium Cars, the sites offer Bentley’s full model range including the Bentayga, Flying Spur, and Continental GT. Supported by Škoda Auto Volkswagen India, the expansion enhances Bentley’s regional presence. The brand frames this move as elevating customer experience and accessibility across the country. Lamborghini Inaugurates Flagship Mayfair Showroom in London Lamborghini officially opened its flagship Mayfair showroom in London’s Berkeley Square on 9 October, led by Chairman and CEO Stephan Winkelmann. The new site features an advanced Ad Personam lounge, offering the most extensive range of colours and finishes in Europe. Designed as a ‘destination’ space, it reflects the brand’s evolution towards a fully hybridised model line-up. The showroom will serve as a showcase for the company’s latest models and bespoke options. This opening reinforces Lamborghini’s presence at the heart of one of the world’s leading luxury capitals. Volkswagen Group Increases Global Deliveries to 6.6 Million Vehicles Volkswagen Group reported 6.6 million global deliveries by the end of September 2025, marking a slight rise over the previous year. Stronger performance in Europe, where deliveries grew by 8 per cent, offset weaker results in China and the United States. The Group’s ongoing product offensive, featuring around 60 models, supported higher order intake and improved brand momentum. Battery-electric vehicle deliveries surged by 80 per cent in Europe and 40 per cent globally. Management emphasised a healthy order pipeline and continued customer demand across its diverse portfolio. Stellantis Reports Q3 2025 Shipments of 1.3 Million Units, Down 13% Year-on-Year Stellantis announced estimated consolidated shipments of 1.3 million units for the third quarter of 2025, reflecting a 13 per cent decline compared with last year. The decrease was largely driven by lower production in Europe due to component shortages and market adjustments. North America and South America remained stable, while the Middle East and Africa recorded moderate growth. The Group continues to optimise its global inventory and product mix to balance demand and profitability. Stellantis reaffirmed its focus on electrification and cost discipline to sustain long-term competitiveness. 2026 Toyota C-HR Gains New Mid-Grade Variant and Expanded GR Sport Range Toyota has refreshed the 2026 C-HR line-up with an additional mid-grade specification and a broader GR Sport