Leapmotor, a prominent player in the electric vehicle sector, is backed by Fiat owner Stellantis and has recently made significant strides in its global expansion efforts. The company has opened its first overseas research and development hub in Munich, Germany, marking a pivotal moment in its strategy to tap into international markets.

In the first three months of 2026, Leapmotor reported impressive delivery figures, with a total of 110,155 new energy vehicles delivered. This momentum is expected to continue, as the company anticipates that its deliveries outside China could exceed 150,000 units by the end of the year, a substantial increase from its previous target of 100,000 units.

March 2026 alone saw Leapmotor deliver 50,029 vehicles, contributing to a strong quarterly performance that has seen deliveries surpass 100,000 units for four consecutive quarters. With total sales projected to exceed 1 million vehicles this year, Leapmotor is positioning itself as a formidable competitor in the global EV market.

As part of its growth strategy, Leapmotor is also considering potential local assembly operations in Canada, which could further enhance its ability to serve North American customers. Qian Kang, a spokesperson for the company, emphasized the importance of international markets, stating, “None of Chinese EV makers will ignore opportunities offered by overseas markets.”

The rising popularity of Chinese electric vehicles worldwide has prompted Leapmotor to focus on establishing a foothold in regions like Europe. Qian Kang noted, “Leapmotor’s goal of gaining a foothold in markets like Europe is a result of the rising popularity of Chinese EVs worldwide.”

With these developments, observers are keenly watching how Leapmotor will navigate the competitive landscape of the automotive industry, particularly as it seeks to expand its influence beyond China. The company’s proactive approach in establishing an R&D hub in Munich is seen as a strategic move to enhance its technological capabilities and adapt to local market demands.

As Leapmotor continues to ramp up its operations and delivery capabilities, the coming months will be critical in determining its success in achieving its ambitious sales targets and solidifying its position in the global electric vehicle market.

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“Some customers think that driving an SUV is not as pleasant as a hatch or a wagon. [Such] propositions have a better balance between driveability, efficiency and space,” said Frank Marotte, Dacia’s sales boss, highlighting the brand’s commitment to enhancing the driving experience with its new model.

The Striker is set to be a significant addition to Dacia’s lineup, featuring a hybrid engine that combines a 1.8-litre petrol engine with a 49bhp electric motor, yielding a total output of 153bhp and 170Nm of torque. This model will also be equipped with Dacia’s new hybrid four-wheel drive system, Hybrid 150, which integrates a mild-hybrid setup with a six-speed dual-clutch transmission and an additional rear electric motor.

With a length of 4.65 meters, the Striker will be longer than the existing Bigster model, aiming to provide more space and comfort for its occupants. Dacia describes the Striker as an “unexpected and dynamic crossover,” reflecting its ambition to capture a broader market segment.

The Striker will be available with a range of hybrid engines and optional all-wheel drive, catering to diverse consumer preferences. Dacia expects the starting price to be around £25,000 in the UK and below €25,000 in Europe, approximately £21.6k.

Dacia’s strategy includes plans to grow mid-size car sales from one-fifth to one-third of its total volume, indicating a strong focus on this segment. The company also aims to launch four new all-electric models by 2030, including a compact city car, further diversifying its offerings.

As Dacia continues to carve out a credible presence in the C-segment, with Bigster deliveries beginning in July 2025, the Striker is positioned to make a significant impact in the market. The new model features a full-length glass roof and a familiar steering wheel design, enhancing its appeal.

With the Striker, Dacia hopes to attract customers who are looking for a blend of efficiency, space, and driving pleasure. The company will be closely monitoring the model’s reception in the market, as it aims to solidify its reputation for practical and value-focused vehicles.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact launch date and availability of the Striker, but Dacia is optimistic about its potential success.

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WCM Europe Ltd has entered administration due to financial difficulties, a development that raises significant concerns regarding job security and the continuity of operations at the company. The appointment of joint administrators on March 4, 2026, by the High Court of Justice’s Business and Property Courts in Birmingham marks a critical juncture for the firm.

Specializing in the engineering and production of plastic components and automotive systems, WCM Europe operates primarily out of Basildon, Essex, and is registered in Nottingham. The company has six specialized divisions focusing on product development for various automotive brands, positioning itself as a manufacturer that excels in merging engineering with production.

In 2017, WCM Europe expanded its Basildon production space by 50%, indicating a previous commitment to growth and innovation. However, the recent administration process, overseen by Interpath Advisory, has raised alarms about the future of its operations and the potential impact on its workforce.

The administration process may include reorganization, asset disposal, or even closure, as the company seeks a buyer. This situation has led to concerns about potential short delays and the need for change-control reviews, particularly if tooling, fixtures, or materials are affected.

Additionally, the administration serves as a cue for stakeholders to review trade credit insurance, debtor limits, and payment plans with remaining suppliers. The implications of WCM Europe’s financial struggles highlight the vulnerability of mid-tier manufacturing firms to economic stress.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of the impact on employees, with uncertainties surrounding how many may be affected and whether operations at the Basildon site will continue during the administration process. The specific causes behind WCM Europe’s financial difficulties have not been disclosed, leaving many questions unanswered.

The administration process itself formally opens several possible pathways but does not guarantee continuity, leaving the future of WCM Europe in a precarious position.

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