The Iran conflict threatens global automakers with rising oil prices the real risk. Ford pivots its Kentucky battery plant to energy storage. Hyundai invests $6 billion in robotics and hydrogen. Plus, wealthy shoppers keep auto sales afloat while lower-income buyers struggle with seven-year loans.

Cox Automotive Executive Analyst Erin Keating says dealers continue to face a cloudy outlook, but there’s reason to be optimistic heading into Spring 2026. Chrysler CEO Chris Feuell has left Stellantis for personal reasons. Plus, new research shows automakers face big risks related to the Iran conflict, especially Asian manufacturers.

Pinewood.AI CEO Bill Berman explains why private equity firm Apax Partners backed out of acquiring his company, and it has everything to do with AI disruption fears in the software market. More buyers are stretching auto loans to seven years or longer just to afford record vehicle prices. Plus, the Iran conflict forces automakers to delay Middle East shipments.

Automotive News’ Larry P. Vellequette explains why he thinks Toyota may be considering a sixth U.S. assembly plant to build a compact pickup and meet surging demand. Two more Volkswagen dealers are suing to block Scout Motors from direct sales, seeking class-action status. Plus, Hyundai invests $6 billion in robotics and AI in South Korea.

The conflict with Iran has effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz, threatening oil supplies and raising recession fears. AlixPartners’ Dan Hearsch and Hart Energy’s Darren Barbee break down what the auto industry needs to know right now — from oil and gas price impacts to supply chain risks. Plus, Asian automakers post higher February sales despite a weak market.

Honda will export U.S.-built models to Japan for the first time in nearly four decades, reviving a reverse-import strategy amid streamlined rules and trade-balance pressures. European auto suppliers face a “polycrisis” with 350,000 jobs at risk. Plus, analyst Lei Xing argues the threat to legacy automakers from Chinese electric vehicle makers is overblown.

Automotive News’ Larry P. Vellequette and Michael Martinez discuss Stellantis UAW workers losing profit-sharing checks while General Motors and Ford Motor Co. workers see payouts drop. They also weigh in on Nissan’s dual Pathfinder strategy, Hyundai’s midsize pickup ambitions, and Ford’s decision to charge $495 for a frunk on the Mustang Mach-E.

Software problems continue to plague automakers as J.D. Power finds infotainment remains the least reliable vehicle component. BMW’s humanoid robots move past the pilot stage. Plus, Widewail’s Cuyler Owens talks about dealership service communication trends.

Stellantis UAW workers won’t receive profit-sharing checks for the first time since 2011 after the automaker posted losses in North America. Lear scores historic Super Duty seating win from Forvia. Plus, attorney Chauncey Mayfield of Honigman explains what comes next for companies hoping to get refunds for tariffs that the U.S. Supreme Court has now deemed illegal.

Nissan plans to sell two distinct Pathfinders starting mid-2029, mirroring Toyota’s utility vehicle strategy. Nissan, Stellantis and Mercedes invest in UK self-driving startup Wayve. Plus, Automotive News’ Molly Boigon explains the massive regulatory obstacles facing Chinese automakers trying to enter the U.S. market.