The latest automotive headlines include Ford’s bid to supply the U.S. Army with new tactical trucks, BMW’s reported plans for an all-electric i4 convertible, Porsche’s workforce reduction strategy, and Mercedes-Benz posting stronger quarterly profit despite weaker sales in China. Here’s a roundup of the key developments from Tuesday, July 28, 2026.
Ford Competes for U.S. Army Tactical Truck Contract
Ford is competing against General Motors for a contract to supply the U.S. Army’s next-generation tactical truck.
The automaker plans to submit three prototypes based on its Super Duty pickups for evaluation by the Department of Defense. If selected, Ford would supply 600 vehicles under the proposed contract.
BMW Reportedly Planning an i4 Convertible
According to a new report, BMW intends to introduce a convertible version of the i4 electric coupe featuring a folding fabric roof.
If the project proceeds as planned, the model is expected to reach the market in 2028. It would become one of the few electric convertibles available, alongside the Maserati GranCabrio Folgore, which is priced above $150,000.
Porsche Targets 9,000 Job Cuts by 2035
Porsche plans to reduce its workforce by one in five employees by 2035, resulting in approximately 9,000 job cuts.
The planned reductions are part of Volkswagen Group’s broader restructuring effort, which affects all of the company’s brands.
Land Rover Ends Discovery Sport in Parts of Europe
Land Rover has confirmed it is retiring the Discovery Sport in several European markets.
Mercedes-Benz Reports Higher Quarterly Profit
Mercedes-Benz posted improved profit during the second quarter of the year despite a 30% year-over-year decline in sales in China.
Following the results, the company’s stock traded nearly 6% higher on Tuesday.
Stellantis Sells Free2move Car-Sharing Business
Stellantis has completed the sale of its Free2move car-sharing business to a German private equity firm.
Free2move currently operates in 14 cities across the United States and Europe.
BYD Targets Japan’s Electric Kei Car Segment
BYD is expanding into Japan’s electric kei car market with the introduction of the new Racco.
The vehicle carries a price equivalent to $12,213 after subsidies.
The latest developments highlight continued shifts across the global automotive industry, with manufacturers advancing new vehicle programs, restructuring operations, pursuing government contracts, and expanding into new market segments.
