Automotive News Daily Drive

Steven Rattner, who led the Obama administration’s auto rescue, reflects 16 years later on General Motors and Chrysler’s bankruptcies and addresses whether he’d do anything differently today. Plus, why Europe’s EV future remains intact despite this week’s combustion ban reversal— and what Ford dealers fear as the Escape goes away.

The EU’s reversal on its combustion engine ban will reshape where automakers invest billions and which vehicles they prioritize globally. Automotive News Europe’s Peter Sigal details how this policy shift creates winners and losers for companies operating in both Europe and the U.S. Plus, California could suspend Tesla sales, and Scout Motors wins direct-sales rights in Colorado.

John Irwin, Automotive News supply chain reporter, introduces the Supplier Distress Tracker, revealing over 60,000 job cuts in the auto sector this year. He discusses how tariffs and EV shifts have strained suppliers. Meanwhile, RJ Scaringe, founder and CEO of Rivian, outlines the launch of their R2 mass-market EV, targeting a price of $45,000, and highlights the competitive edge of Chinese manufacturers in technology and cost. Insights into Rivian's strategic focus and production plans make this conversation particularly engaging.

Automotive News’ Molly Boigon explains why relaxed emissions standards are likely to cost consumers more than they would save. Nissan revamps its stair-step bonuses after a dealer uproar. Plus, JLR says it did not, in fact, fire its controversial design chief.

Volvo Cars CEO Hakan Samuelsson talks about the automaker’s powertrain strategy moving forward, its relationship with parent company Geely and more.

Automotive News reporters Molly Boigon and Richard Truett discuss some of the biggest news stories in the auto industry from the past week, including President Donald Trump’s threat to dismantle USMCA and EV registrations doing better than expected in October after the repeal of federal tax credits.

South Korean battery maker SK On is ending its joint venture with Ford. Mexico plans tariffs as high as 50 percent on Chinese cars. Plus, Jeremy Stephens of Bozard Ford joins the show to talk about how mobile service has helped serve his customers and boost the company’s bottom line.

In this second and final part of Automotive News’ interview with Seth Cutler, the Ionna CEO discusses softening electric vehicle demand after the loss of the federal tax credit and why the company is opting not to develop its own charging app. Automakers push to preserve USMCA as President Donald Trump floats bilateral deals. Plus, EV registrations do better in October than analysts expected.

Seth Cutler, CEO of the Ionna charging network, talks about the eight automakers trying to beat Tesla at its own game. U.S. inventory dips with affordable cars flying off dealer lots. Plus, VinFast’s U.S. expansion collapses.

Volvo Cars CEO Hakan Samuelsson says 2026 will be a comeback year for the automaker. Nissan considers making hybrid powertrains in Tennessee to make the Rogue tariff-proof. Plus, Asbury Automotive’s CEO is stepping down.