EU Safety Mandate: From July 7, all new cars and vans sold in the EU must include a driver-facing infrared camera for the Advanced Driver Distraction Warning system, warning drivers if they look away too long—part of the bloc’s Vision Zero push. Volkswagen Restructuring: VW CEO Oliver Blume says a further 50,000 jobs could be cut, on top of 50,000 already planned in Germany, with potential factory closures still uncertain amid tariff and China pressure. Self-Driving Policy Clash (US): Uber and Waymo are fighting over a Washington, D.C. bill that would expand robotaxi testing and commercial use, with Uber warning it could sideline human drivers. Battery Deal: Stryten Energy will acquire C&D Trojan to expand global battery manufacturing and strengthen US energy storage capacity. EV Supply Chain Shift: Japan’s automakers are increasingly leaning on Chinese partners for fast, low-cost components as Chinese EVs accelerate. Tech & Security: SGS says its Pune Chakan lab is now a TISAX-approved assessment provider, helping automakers and suppliers meet automotive cybersecurity standards. Mobility Tech Economics: A Kerrigan OEM survey finds automakers expect AI to boost dealership profitability while absorbing most tariff costs. Rare-Earth-Free Motors: Niron Magnetics and Aspina signed a supply agreement to develop rare-earth-free permanent magnet motor products for automotive and other markets. China Electrification Plan: Hainan’s 15th Five-Year plan reiterates a 2030 phase-out of new gasoline vehicle sales, targeting 45% NEV share by then.