Editor's letter

The last year has been another challenging one for the auto industry. By historical standards, the global vehicle market was disappointing, particularly in Europe.  

A price war in China and slower than expected sales of electric vehicles were among the headwinds that the industry had to contend with. As ever, the industry faces the challenge of calibrating manufacturing capacity to sales and market geography. If new trade friction in the form of import tariffs comes to pass, an extra level of challenge to company strategies will be added.    

There are many positives going into the new year though. Sales have been consistently higher than forecast in the US and markets in Asia. Electric vehicle sales are rising everywhere. More affordable electric models are coming to market and the higher volumes will be helping to reduce unit costs across the industry. The next year is also sure to see more technological advances in the automotive industry, as well as a raft of new products that are engineering and creative marvels. My best wishes to all.

David Leggett, editor