Tech

Israel lags behind Europe and North America in adopting semi-autonomous vehicle technology due to strict traffic laws and restrictive tax classifications by authorities.

The Zomet Institute and Geely published a halachic ruling recommending electric vehicles over gasoline cars for emergency personnel driving on Shabbat in Israel.

Elon Musk unveiled a redesigned Tesla Roadster prototype featuring SpaceX-inspired cold-gas thrusters capable of short hovering maneuvers, targeting a 2028 production launch.

Saudi Arabia's first electric vehicle brand, Ceer, has unveiled its initial two models under the Exobot series, marking a major milestone in Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Vision 2030 economic diversification strategy.

The Israeli automotive sector is experiencing a wave of franchise reshuffling as struggling Chinese electric vehicle brands swap local importers amid regulatory pressure and shifting market strategies.

Fiat unveiled the Multiplay concept car at the Paris Motor Show, featuring a watermelon-inspired design, transformable body, and innovative features for families and pets.

A comprehensive 500-kilometer comparison test between the updated automatic Dacia Duster and the Subaru Crosstrek evaluates performance, off-road capability, and interior comfort to determine the ultimate family SUV.

Mercedes-Benz reports a 61% surge in global electric vehicle sales, highlighted by the launch of the new electric GLC. Featuring advanced luxury, a 489-hp dual-motor setup, and a 500 km real-world range, it competes directly with BMW and Audi in the high-end Israeli market.

Tesla unveiled its long-awaited new Roadster, featuring SpaceX-developed thrusters, sub-one-second 0-60 mph acceleration, and a 2028 production target date.

The 2026 Toyota Hilux arrives with a refreshed design, dual 12.3-inch screens, and a mild-hybrid 2.8-liter diesel engine. Priced up to 360,000 shekels, it retains its legendary off-road dominance and rugged durability in Israel.

Chinese automakers are aggressively expanding across the European market with advanced technology and competitive pricing, forcing legacy European brands to rely on heritage and regulatory protection.

South Korean automotive giant Hyundai has unveiled a historic $15.5 billion investment plan in India through 2032, aiming to transform the subcontinent into a global manufacturing hub while integrating advanced robotics from Boston Dynamics.

Israeli bus importer Auto Chen Mobility is expanding into European markets, partnering with Chinese EV giants Golden Dragon and CRRC to supply electric and hydrogen buses.

New Vespa 150cc models are absent from Israeli showrooms due to local driving license regulations, contrasting sharply with markets like Indonesia where basic licenses cover up to 250cc.

Delek Motors announced a recall for 111 Ford vehicles in Israel due to potential rearview camera system malfunctions, offering free repairs at authorized service centers.

Israel's Ministry of Transport plans to cap small-series vehicle imports at ten units annually by 2027, threatening the availability of non-certified Chinese electric models.

A Knesset research paper reveals major hurdles for electric vehicle owners in Israel, including scarce public chargers, high tariffs, and underutilized state subsidies for infrastructure development.

A 22.1 million shekel class-action lawsuit was filed against Tesla Israel over sudden battery failures in Model Y vehicles, alleging consumer deception and lack of recalls.

The Paris Motor Show 2026 highlights the growing dominance of Chinese automakers over struggling European manufacturers in both mass-market and premium electric vehicle segments.

Geo Mobility offers three years of free home charging for Geely E5 buyers in Israel through a partnership with Super Power, providing up to 250 kWh of monthly credits.

A 26-meter bi-articulated electric bus carrying 160 passengers has arrived in Israel for pilot testing in high-demand public transit and BRT networks.

Honda revitalizes the classic sport-touring segment with the new Honda CB1000GT, merging a 150-hp inline-four engine with sharp handling and long-distance comfort.

The Deepal S05 PHEV has arrived in Europe, offering an advanced plug-in hybrid option with generous equipment, high energy efficiency, and competitive pricing in a crowded market.

British automaker Jaguar has unveiled the Type 00 electric vehicle, a high-end luxury model aimed at rivaling Bentley. Featuring 1,030 horsepower and a 120 kWh battery, the make-or-break model faces significant branding and market challenges.

Tesla has expanded its Powershare Home Backup feature to Model 3 and Model Y vehicles, allowing cars to power homes for days during blackouts when paired with a Powerwall 3.

Delhom Motors takes over JAC operations in Israel, offering extended 5-year warranties, free maintenance, and upgraded service support for all vehicle owners.

Tesla's FSD autonomous driving rollout in Israel faces regulatory delays over tax classifications, with podcaster Tamir Dortal criticizing the Ministry of Finance.

Data from Yad2 shows interest in electrified cars in Israel surged nearly fivefold, reaching 23.5% in September despite government fuel subsidies and price drops.

Israel's EV market faces severe stagnation as upcoming elections delay crucial purchase tax decisions, leaving importers without inventory and dividing buyers into polarized luxury and budget segments.

Geely Auto debuts its new Monjaro EM-i plug-in hybrid SUV at the Paris Motor Show ahead of its scheduled arrival in Israel by the end of the year.

CBC Israel has deployed its first 28-ton electric truck from Renault Trucks, featuring a 250-300 km range and rapid charging infrastructure as part of its expanding green fleet initiatives.

Hyundai Motor America issues a massive recall for around 294,000 vehicles in the US, including the Ioniq 6, Santa Fe, and Genesis G90, due to a dangerous seat belt anchor defect.

Tesla extended its Austin robotaxi operating hours to 11 PM, as CEO Elon Musk highlighted the challenge of detecting dark-colored pets on asphalt using camera-based AI.

Tesla introduces an emergency escape feature allowing US vehicles to shift out of park while plugged in, following violent disputes at charging stations.

Iran's 7th International Auto Show reveals a heavy reliance on rebranded Chinese vehicles, including models from Chery and Hongqi, adapted for the local market despite severe Western sanctions.

Israel's automotive market data for January through September shows Toyota leading overall sales, Tesla dominating electric vehicles, and Chery emerging as the largest automotive group.

An overview of automotive recalls, exploring their origins, famous historical cases, recent leasing issues with Chery vehicles, and new police laser speed guns.

Chinese automakers are flooding export markets with ultra-competitive electric and plug-in vehicles, driving down car prices in Israel and offering budget-friendly alternatives amid rising living costs.

A NIOSH report reveals that four firefighters remain out of work nearly a year after inhaling toxic smoke during a Tesla Model 3 thermal runaway incident in California.