Technology

Why most AI investments in auto finance aren’t delivering

When it comes to AI, point solutions tend to create more problems than they solve.

May 18, 2026

Redesigned Jeep Avenger launched in European markets

The brand’s top-selling model in Europe adds new features and a cost-saving gasoline powertrain.

By Paul Myles • May 15, 2026

Explore the Trendline➔

Artificial Intelligence

Automakers and dealers alike are increasingly seeing the use case for AI within their operations. Explore some use cases in this trendline.

By WardsAuto staff

Honda shifts focus to hybrid, ICE models amid significant EV losses

Over the next three years, Honda said it will invest 4.4 trillion yen ($27.8 billion) in new gasoline and hybrid vehicles and 1 trillion yen in software technologies.

By Eric Walz • May 15, 2026

Hyundai’s next-gen ‘Pleos Connect’ infotainment tech launching this month

The AI-powered system features a smartphone-like interface and the automaker plans to deploy it in approximately 20 million vehicles by 2030.

By Eric Walz • May 13, 2026

Ford launches ‘Ford Energy’ battery energy storage subsidiary

The subsidiary will manufacture battery energy storage systems for data centers, utilities and large industrial and commercial customers in the U.S.

By Eric Walz • May 12, 2026

Lexus unveils the 2027 TZ, its first three-row electric SUV

The SUV is built on Toyota’s New Global Architecture platform and will be available with two battery options with an estimated range of 300 miles.

By Eric Walz • May 11, 2026

Kia cuts entry price of EV6 by $5,000 amid surging hybrid sales

A price drop for the sporty-styled electric vehicle bodes well for the upcoming entry-level EV3, which arrives at U.S. dealers later this year

By Bengt Halvorson • May 8, 2026

Toyota reveals grand AI vision for vehicles and beyond

The automaker’s foundational vision-language model will be central for the learning and decision-making of its autonomous-driving and safety systems.

By Bengt Halvorson • May 7, 2026

Ford’s upcoming $30,000 electric truck: 7 intriguing new twists

Fewer parts and rapid iteration are among the keys to keeping efficiency high and costs low for the automaker’s future family of affordable EVs. 

By Bengt Halvorson • May 7, 2026

GM rolling out Google’s Gemini to 4M vehicles in the US

The company says it’s one of the largest deployments of generative AI in the auto industry.

By Eric Walz • May 6, 2026

Inside Ford’s efforts to build an affordable electric truck

WardsAuto's tour of the automaker's Long Beach facility found a skunkworks team that's focused on rapidly testing new ideas as it races to gain a competitive edge.

By Bengt Halvorson • May 5, 2026

Volkswagen reveals ID. Polo as new entry-level EV

The compact hatchback targets Europe and other global markets with its sub-$30,000 price, but it’s not planned for the U.S.

By Greg Kable • May 1, 2026

Auto industry ransomware attacks more than doubled in 2025

The former deputy assistant director of the FBI’s Cyber Division said hackers are targeting OEMs and suppliers who must act quickly to identify attacks.

By Paul Myles • April 30, 2026

2027 Infiniti QX65 review: Luxury fastback SUV makes a smooth statement

The QX65 channels FX design flair and delivers refinement and comfort for the road, not necessarily the trail.

By Eric Walz • April 29, 2026

Analysts hail Stellantis, Microsoft’s AI training partnership

Efforts to embrace AI systemically could help accelerate the automaker's competitiveness versus emerging brands from China.

By Paul Myles • April 28, 2026

Tesla plans over $25B in capital spend for robotics, chips and AI

The planned expenses this year are triple the amount of capital spent in 2025 and will support the automaker’s factory and production line conversions.

By Eric Walz • April 24, 2026

SDVs pose challenges to automotive supply chains, Moody’s says

Quality control of software is not as easy as hardware, but automakers are warned not to overreact.

By Paul Myles • April 24, 2026

The $100B quality tax: Why the industry is losing the war on defects

Automakers are trying to build more complex vehicles in less time, while navigating broad technology shifts. What could possibly go wrong?

By John McElroy • April 23, 2026

Renault plans global tech, production hub in India

The automaker aims to launch seven models in the local market by decade-end offered with a full range of powertrain options.

By Paul Myles • April 23, 2026

Honda recalls nearly 441K Odyssey minivans over unintended airbag deployment

The supplemental restraint system control module may misinterpret potholes and speed bumps as collisions, and inadvertently trigger some airbags.

By Kalena Thomhave • April 22, 2026

Mercedes-Benz secures multi-year EV battery supply deal with Samsung SDI

The automaker plans to use the nickel-manganese-cobalt batteries for future compact and mid-size electric SUVs and coupe models.

By Eric Walz • April 21, 2026

As EV load grows, utilities use managed charging to harness flexibility, lower costs

Active managed charging can delay costly system upgrades while saving individual customers money on their bills, utilities, automakers and aggregators say, but a lack of standardized data-sharing is slowing adoption.

By Herman K. Trabish • April 20, 2026

Honda considers an analog spin for software-defined vehicles

With an investment in semiconductor manufacturer Mythic, analog computing might help cut energy consumption in future AI-powered vehicle systems.

By Bengt Halvorson • April 20, 2026

Stellantis teams with Microsoft to strengthen digital capabilities

As part of the 5-year agreement, collaborative teams will co-develop more than 100 initiatives relating to AI and cybersecurity.

By Eric Walz • April 20, 2026

Rivian, Redwood Materials announce energy storage partnership

The EV maker’s second-life battery packs will be integrated into an energy system for its Illinois assembly plant.

By Eric Walz • April 20, 2026