you are welcome downshiftor TDS for short, of drive Morning News Roundup brings you the biggest automotive headlines from around the world.
downshift Summarizes news with links to full stories for those seeking more information. Here is your bulletin for Friday, July 10, 2026.
⏳ Toyota has delayed the launch of its first Highlander EV that was originally scheduled for later this year. It is unknown when the model will now hit the market, but in the meantime, the gas and hybrid versions will remain in production. The company’s official view is that it is making “additional adjustments to the vehicle before launch”. (cars.com)
👎 Volkswagen is reportedly considering cutting half its model lines across all brands as part of its massive restructuring. However, the plan proposed by the automaker at its latest supervisory board meeting was rejected 12-7 by labor representatives. Union members and the state of Lower Saxony have a majority on the company’s board. (automotive news)
🌏 Meanwhile, VW reported an 8.6% decline in second-quarter deliveries globally. Check it out till the usual suspect: weak demand in China. Sales in the country are down 20% compared to the same period a year ago. Heritage performance in this area has been declining for so long, it’s almost surprising they haven’t already dropped. (reuters)
📈 Meanwhile, BMW had a strong second quarter in the US, where sales rose 13% compared to the same period last year, thanks to the strength of the 3 Series, X3 and X5. Deliveries in the states also increased by 4.7% in the first half. (automotive news)
▶️ Lexus is showcasing its upcoming LFA electric supercar at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, and it’s apparently “almost finished” and still on track for a 2027 launch, according to a designer of the vehicle. (autocar)
🏭 According to alleged production figures revealed on an enthusiast forum, General Motors is seriously prioritizing the Corvette Grand Sport among all sports car trims for 2027, except the base Stingray. (carb)
🛜 BMW has announced that Verizon will supply 5G connectivity for all of its new models sold in the US, as well as the Mini and Rolls-Royce. (BMW Blog)
🏁 Weekend races to watch (all times Eastern)
- NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series at Lime Rock Park: Saturday at 1pm on FS1
- IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park: Saturday 1:20 pm youtube
- NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series at Echopark Speedway: Saturdays at 7pm on The CW
- MotoGP German Grand Prix: Sundays at 8am on FS1
- FIA WEC 6 Hours of Sao Paulo: Sunday at 10:30am on truTV
- IMSA SportsCar Championship at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park: Sunday afternoon 2 pm peacock
- NASCAR Cup Series at Echopark Speedway: Sunday 7pm on TNT
Got any tips or feedback for TDS? Contact us at tips@thedrive.com
