Toyota Motor Corporation is partnering with autonomous taxi leader Waymo to advance its dual-track strategy in self-driving vehicles, as the auto industry faces the rapid rise of autonomous driving and software-defined vehicles (SDVs).
As low capacity utilization, steep tariffs, and fierce competition from Chinese automakers pressure the industry, significant growth in European defense spending is opening new business opportunities for European and US automotive supply chains. Automakers are entering the defense sector through four main models, namely plant conversion, platform adaptation, protection and security, and autonomous logistics, channeling idle capacity and technological strengths into this new blue ocean.
Alphabet's autonomous taxi service Waymo began operations in San Diego, California, in September 2026 and expanded its coverage on October 27. However, EV owners have reported that large numbers of robotaxis are using public fast-charging stations, forcing other drivers to queue and prompting local politicians to call for tighter oversight of autonomous vehicles.
LG Energy Solution's third-quarter recovery shows energy storage as a growing earnings driver as the battery maker redirects production toward North American demand. Better factory utilization helped restore operating profit even without manufacturing incentives, although a consolidated net loss and cash outflow show that the recovery remains incomplete.
Stellantis said on November 2 that shortages of critical electronic components for engine control units (ECUs) had significantly disrupted production of several Fiat models in Italy. The automaker said the supply-chain problem had already affected October sales and could continue into November and December as it works to find alternative parts and gradually restore normal production.
Foxconn outlined EV expansion plans for Europe and Japan at its 2026 Hon Hai Tech Day (HHTD 26), positioning Taiwan as more than a manufacturing base. The strategy could give Taiwan's auto industry new ways to enter international markets through vehicle exports, contract manufacturing, and overseas platform partnerships.
JPP Holding's Thai operating arm, Jinpao Precision Industry, joined Praksa subdistrict authorities in Samut Prakan Province, Thailand, on October 31 to hold the finals of the Jinpao–Praksa automation and robotics innovation competition, strengthening its efforts to develop AI and smart-manufacturing talent locally. Chairman Chung Kuo-sung said corporate philanthropy should involve long-term engagement with local communities rather than one-time donations.
Denso, Japan's largest auto parts maker, reported falling profits for the first half of fiscal 2026 as surging memory and other component costs, driven partly by the AI boom, offset revenue growth. The company said it will pass some costs on to customers when necessary while securing supplies through long-term contracts.
Tong Hsing Electronic Industries (THEIL) outlined the latest developments and market trends across its four major product lines of optical communications, ceramic substrates, new semiconductor materials, and image sensors, during an earnings call on October 30.
Foxconn is in advanced discussions with Polish electric vehicle (EV) company Electromobility Poland (EMP) to establish a joint venture, with an agreement expected soon, according to Jun Seki, Chief Strategy Officer of Foxconn's EV business.
Hon Hai Precision Industry (Foxconn) and Japan's Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus (MFTBC) will officially launch their bus joint venture on November 2, according to Foxconn chief strategy officer for electric vehicles (EVs) Jun Seki. Separately, Foxconn's joint venture with Mitsubishi Electric's automotive business is expected to take around nine to 10 months to complete antitrust reviews in various countries.
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