May 2025 was a pivotal month for the global automotive industry, marked by significant shifts in electric vehicle (EV) markets, strategic investments, and evolving trade policies. Here's a comprehensive overview of the most impactful automotive headlines from around the world.
UK's EV Market Sees Surge Amid Tesla's Decline
The UK's new car market experienced a 1.6% year-over-year increase in May, totaling 150,070 units—the strongest May performance since 2021. This growth was largely driven by substantial discounts on EVs, particularly from Chinese manufacturers, which intensified competition and pressured profit margins across the industry. EVs accounted for over 47% of total sales, with battery electric vehicle (BEV) sales soaring 25.8% compared to the previous year. Resource
However, Tesla's UK sales plummeted by 36% year-over-year, dropping to 2,016 units in May. This decline is attributed to increasing competition from brands like BYD, whose UK sales surged 407% to 3,025 vehicles, surpassing Tesla. Public perception of CEO Elon Musk's controversial behavior is also believed to contribute to declining sales. Resource 1 Resource 2
BYD's Aggressive Discounts Fuel Global Sales Growth
Chinese EV giant BYD implemented significant price reductions across 22 models in May, with discounts reaching up to 34%. These aggressive pricing strategies led to a surge in dealership traffic and sales, both domestically and internationally. In the UK, BYD's sales increase positioned it ahead of Tesla, signaling a shift in market dynamics. Resource 1 Resource 2
Bollinger Motors Rescued from Financial Collapse
U.S.-based EV manufacturer Bollinger Motors faced significant financial challenges in early 2025, including lawsuits and a court-ordered receivership. On June 4, Mullen Automotive acquired an additional 21% stake in Bollinger, increasing its total ownership to 95%. This acquisition resolved Bollinger's debts and legal claims, lifting the receivership and allowing the company to resume normal operations. The move is expected to accelerate the development of Bollinger’s B4 commercial EV chassis cab. Resource 1 Resource 2
Toyota Invests £40 Million in UK Plant for GR Corolla Production
Toyota announced plans to build the GR Corolla hot hatch at its Burnaston plant in Derbyshire, UK, starting next year. The move includes a £40 million investment to establish a new assembly line at the facility, which currently produces the standard Corolla models. This strategic expansion aims to meet increasing demand and relieve production pressures at Toyota's Motomachi plant in Japan. Resource
U.S. Auto Sales Slow Amid Tariff Concerns
U.S. new-vehicle sales in May reached approximately 1.47 million units, reflecting a 1.4% year-over-year increase. However, this marked a deceleration from the sales surge observed in March and April, as consumers had rushed to purchase vehicles ahead of anticipated price increases due to new tariffs. The seasonally adjusted annual sales pace dropped to 15.7 million, down from April's 17.3 million. Resource 1 Resource 2
General Motors CEO Mary Barra expressed support for former President Donald Trump's 25% auto import tariffs, viewing them as a tool to level the global playing field for U.S. automakers. Despite the tariffs potentially costing GM up to $5 billion in 2025, the company is enhancing its U.S. manufacturing capabilities, including a major investment of $888 million to produce a next-generation V-8 engine at a New York plant. Resource 1 Resource 2
Stellantis Appoints New CEO with Focus on American Market
On May 28, Stellantis announced the appointment of Antonio Filosa as the new CEO, effective June 23, 2025. Filosa, a 25-year veteran of the company, has led operations in both North and South America and served as the brand CEO of Jeep. His appointment signals a strategic shift towards a greater focus on the American market. Resource
Hyundai Reports Mixed Global Sales Performance
Hyundai Motor Company reported global sales of 351,174 units in May 2025, a 1.7% year-over-year decrease. Sales outside of Korea totaled 292,208 units, a 0.9% decrease compared to May 2024. Resource
WeRide Expands Autonomous Vehicle Operations in Europe
In February 2025, WeRide announced its first European fully driverless Robobus as part of a shuttle service partnership in Drôme, France. The company also received regulatory approval to launch its latest-generation Robotaxi, the GXR, for fully unmanned paid autonomous ride-hailing services in Beijing. In March, WeRide and Renault Group conducted a free autonomous Robobus trial in Barcelona, showcasing these technologies in a complex urban environment. Resource
Conclusion
May 2025 highlighted the dynamic nature of the global automotive industry, with significant developments in EV markets, strategic investments, and evolving trade policies. As automakers navigate these changes, the focus remains on innovation, sustainability, and adapting to shifting consumer demands.