"Honda CEO States, 'We Stand No Chance Against This,' After Visiting Factory of Chinese Supplier: TDS"

      BYD

      The latest automotive news and reviews, no nonsense

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      Good morning and welcome to The Downshift, or TDS for short.

      Compact, concise, and packed with information, TDS compiles the most recent automotive headlines from around the world and presents them in one place. Each story is summarized in a single sentence with a link for those wanting to read more.

      I’m back in the TDS driver’s seat, having finished my first cup of coffee, and it's time for a refill. Let’s dive in.

      🚘 My current ride: This week, I’m getting acquainted with the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid, which is quickly proving to be the most efficient, fastest, quietest, and most refined iteration of this small hatchback to date. I'm really enjoying it.

      😳 Honda CEO and President Toshihiro Mibe visited a supplier factory in Shanghai, after which he remarked, “we have no chance against this,” realizing just how advanced the competition has become. This comes shortly after Honda discontinued its upcoming 0 Series EVs, which were supposed to begin production in Ohio this year.

      😬 Edmunds tested the Geely Galaxy M9 and stated that this plug-in hybrid SUV demonstrates that Chinese cars could become serious competitors in the American market.

      🙅‍♂️ Three Democratic senators, including Tammy Baldwin, Elissa Slotkin, and Chuck Schumer, urged President Trump and his administration to prevent vehicles made by Chinese manufacturers in Mexico or Canada from entering the U.S. market.

      🕵️‍♀️ The NHTSA has concluded its investigation into Tesla’s summon feature.

      🏢 It's the conclusion of an era as GM has removed its brand logos from Detroit’s RenCen.

      👀 Porsche hinted at a new “pure driving” variant of the 911, expected to debut on April 14.

      📺 Mazda is defending its extensive use of screens, asserting that “the focus remains on driving,” despite the inclusion of a 26-inch touchscreen in the new CX-6e model intended for Europe.

      📈 Tesla regained its title as the world's leading EV producer after BYD’s sales dropped by 25%.

      🔋 The EPA has released its figures for the Rivian R2, which boasts an impressive range of 335 miles and better efficiency than the Tesla Model Y.

      🔊 Mercedes-Benz stated it does not want its new electric AMG to feel like an EV.

      🚨 Ford has recalled 422,613 vehicles due to a windshield wiper malfunction.

      Do you have a news tip or feedback? Reach out to us at tips@thedrive.com.