The latest automotive headlines for July 31, 2026, include reports involving Tesla’s operations in China, Rivian’s stronger financial outlook, production disruptions in Japan following an earthquake, Ford’s outlook on Chinese automakers, Zoox’s commercial robotaxi approval, and new California vehicle sales data.
Tesla Rejects Report on China Business Sale
Tesla reportedly considered selling its business in China because of the possibility of a merger between the electric vehicle maker and SpaceX, according to a report cited by The Downshift. The report said SpaceX’s military contracts could create regulatory challenges if the two companies were combined while Tesla maintained a significant presence in China.
Tesla China and CEO Elon Musk have both dismissed the report.
Rivian Raises Delivery Outlook After Strong Quarter
Rivian reported a strong second quarter, with revenue rising 27% year over year while exceeding Wall Street estimates.
The automaker now expects to deliver 70,000 vehicles by the end of 2026, increasing its previous forecast of 65,000 deliveries following the strong launch of the R2.
Japan Earthquake Disrupts Vehicle Production
An earthquake that struck Japan earlier this week has temporarily halted production at facilities operated by Toyota, Nissan, Mitsubishi, and Daihatsu, as well as at a Honda motorcycle plant.
The disruptions stem from supply chain issues affecting key suppliers, including Renesas and Aisin. According to the report, the production pauses are generally expected to continue through the first week of August.
Ford CEO Discusses Chinese Automakers
Ford CEO Jim Farley told employees during a company town hall that he expects Chinese automotive brands to enter the U.S. market within the next five to 10 years.
According to the report, Farley made the comments despite numerous proposed laws intended to prevent their entry.
Zoox Receives Approval for Commercial Robotaxi Service
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has approved Zoox for limited commercial deployment of its steering-wheel-free robotaxis.
The approval allows the company to begin charging passengers for rides, with commercial service scheduled to launch first in Las Vegas before expanding to additional cities.
Hybrids Outpace EVs in California
New data show that 22% of new vehicle buyers in California purchased hybrid models during the first half of 2026.
Battery electric vehicles accounted for 16% of new-car purchases during the same period.
Weekend Motorsports Schedule
- WRC Rally Finland: All weekend on Rally.TV
- Supercars Championship at Perth (Race 1): Saturday at 12:20 a.m. Eastern on Racer Network
- Formula Drift Pro Class Top 16 at Indianapolis: Saturday at 7 p.m. Eastern via livestream
- IMSA SportsCar 6 Hours of Road America: Sunday at 11:30 a.m. Eastern on Peacock
These developments headline the automotive news roundup for Friday, July 31, 2026, covering electric vehicles, manufacturing, autonomous driving, and motorsports.
