Volkswagen Restructuring: Volkswagen’s supervisory board backed “Future Plan — 2030,” aiming to cut about 50,000 more jobs and slash the model lineup, with total cuts potentially reaching ~100,000 by 2030 as the automaker targets lower costs amid China pressure and tariff headwinds. Mercedes Labor Threat: Mercedes-Benz management warned it could close a German plant and shift production to Eastern Europe unless workers accept cost cuts, including changes to benefits and working hours—sparking works-council backlash. F1 Italian GP Shock: Alpine’s Pierre Gasly grabbed a surprise maiden pole at Monza, beating Mercedes’ George Russell by 0.060s, with grid penalties reshaping the field. Mercedes Amphibious Idea: A new Mercedes patent points to SUV “swimming” capability using inflatable/foam inserts for buoyancy and easier entry/exit. Hyundai Skills Push (Ghana): Hyundai and KOICA launched the five-year Hyundai-KOICA NextGen project to strengthen Ghana’s automotive TVET training and job pathways. Dealership Expansion: Crossroads Automotive Group expanded into Florida by acquiring Top 100 Ford dealer Bartow Ford. Ramcharger Revival: Ram is reviving the Ramcharger name for a full-size, body-on-frame SUV to take on the Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban and Ford Expedition. Consumer Safety/Service: A reminder story focused on brake fluid leaks as a key warning sign for drivers. Local Automotive Partnerships: Austin Peay State University named Mercedes-Benz of Music City as its official luxury partner, including a stadium club-level rename.