Automotive Industry News & Contents 2026 [Daily Updates]

April 13, 2026

Leapmotor launch schedule in Europe / China's March sales down 0.6% / Chinese OEMs expand in South America / Supply chain: Toyota Aqua

Updated daily with the latest information for the automotive industry. Coverage (Japanese/English/Chinese) of information directly related to business, including complete vehicles, EVs, automated driving, sales figures, and industry reports.

Table of contents

▶ Leapmotor launch schedule in Europe

▶ Statistics

▶ Market & Tech Reports

▶ Supply chain: Toyota Aqua

▶ Exterior Supply Chain

▶ News

Leapmotor launch schedule in Europe

Newly added listings for Leapmotor models for European market.

A total of eight models are covered: four current models and four new models, including both EV and REEV variants.
China’s emerging EV maker Leapmotor is accelerating its push into the European market, underpinned by a strategic partnership with Stellantis.
The alliance spans a broad range of initiatives, from the development of sales networks in Europe to plans for local production, and is playing a pivotal role in Leapmotor’s global expansion strategy.

Statistics

Flash report: China's March sales down 0.6%

Chinese demand, including EVs, continues to stagnate due to reduced government subsidies and rising fuel prices.

Flash report: China's March production down 3.0%.

In addition to the prolonged slump in domestic sales, the decline in overseas sales due to soaring fuel prices is also having an impact, leading to continued reductions in passenger car production.

Market & Tech Reports

Chinese OEMs: Expanding in South America, Shifting to Local Production

Market share in Brazil reaches approx. 9%; accelerating plant construction

South American market: Sales are recovering and Chinese OEMs are experiencing rapid growth.
Brazil: NEVs drive market share expansion from 1% to 9%
Accelerating Localization: BYD, GWM, Chery, and Changan

Previous reports

Easter Timing and Surging BEV Demand Lift March Results

Supply chain: Toyota Aqua

The Toyota Aqua is a B-segment hybrid vehicle launched in July 2021, primarily targeting the Japanese market.
It was the first mass-produced vehicle in the world to adopt bipolar nickel-metal hydride batteries manufactured by Toyota Industries (primarily in higher trim levels).
It is equipped with the second-generation Toyota Safety Sense as its advanced safety system, with sensors primarily supplied by Denso.
Denso serves as a major supplier, providing inverters and HVAC systems, while Aisin supplies door locks and electric water pumps.

Production plant for Toyota Aqua