EV Incentives in California: Gov. Gavin Newsom says 13 automakers (including Ford, GM, Tesla, Toyota, Hyundai and others) will back a new $3,500 instant rebate for first-time EV buyers, after the federal $7,500 credit ended—aimed at keeping EV demand alive as prices stay high. China Supply Chain Shock for Chips: China temporarily restricts helium exports to protect domestic supply; since helium is used in semiconductor manufacturing and battery testing, the move could ripple into EV and electronics production planning. Robotization Meets Labor Reality: Hyundai workers in South Korea staged partial strikes over humanoid robots, with unions pushing back before any robot deployment date in Korea—while Hyundai plans humanoids for a Georgia plant by 2028. New EV Product Push: Volkswagen unveiled the ID. Cross compact electric crossover (37/52 kWh batteries, up to ~208 hp motor), adding another MEB+ option as the EV lineup expands. Used-Car Market Turns Corner (China): China’s new-car retail sales fell over 20% in Jan–May, while used-car transactions rose slightly, narrowing the gap to near parity as policy easing boosts used circulation. Safety/Recalls Watch: BMW recalled thousands of vehicles over fire-risk issues (including multiple series and PHEVs), keeping safety compliance in focus.