Industry news, leasing insights, and market updates curated for Saudi enterprise mobility.
Toyota has unveiled the all-new 2026 RAV4, the sixth generation of one of the world’s best-selling SUVs, with total sales exceeding 15 million units since its launch in 1994....
Read ArticleToyota has unveiled the all-new 2026 RAV4, the sixth generation of one of the world’s best-selling SUVs, with total sales exceeding 15 million units since its launch in 1994. The 2026 RAV4 features comprehensive updates encompassing design, performance, digital technologies, and advanced safety systems. A new exterior design reflects the RAV4’s strong identity. The 2026 RAV4 boasts a robust and stylish exterior design that reflects its sporty character and off-road capabilities, while maintaining similar dimensions to the previous generation. The design features a powerful front end and a new badge, while the interior enhances the feeling of spaciousness and luxury, supported by high-quality materials and a more comfortable and intelligent driving experience. Plug-in hybrid technology. The new RAV4 will be available in Europe in only two versions: conventional hybrid and plug-in hybrid (PHEV), as part of Toyota’s multi-path strategy to achieve carbon neutrality. The PHEV version is equipped with a high-capacity lithium-ion battery (22.7 kWh), providing an electric driving range of up to 100 km according to the WLTP cycle, which is among the longest in the plug-in hybrid SUV category.
DAMMAM: Saudis make up 70 percent of Lucid Motors’ workforce in Riyadh and King Abdullah Economic City, Faisal Sultan, the company’s Middle East president, told Al-Eqtisadiah. Sultan explained that the company runs an annual program to develop local talent, sending Saudi employees to the US to gain advanced manufacturing skills and expertise before returning to apply and transfer that knowledge in Saudi Arabia, strengthening local capabilities and industrial value chains. He further said that the Saudization rate is expected to rise in the coming years, alongside the planned expansion of production at the AMP-2 plant, which will create thousands of new job opportunities, adding that the company anticipates hiring an increasing number of Saudis as production ramps up. Sultan highlighted Lucid’s leadership in advanced manufacturing in Saudi Arabia, noting that the company has established a strong industrial presence through its AMP-2 plant at the King Salman Automotive Cluster in King Abdullah Economic City. Spanning 1.3 million sq. meters, the facility is a central pillar of the company’s plans to boost production capacity and expand local industrial operations. Last week, Lucid CEO Marc Winterhoff told Al-Eqtisadiah that the company attracted new institutional investors over the past six months, including a $300 million investment from Uber, adding that talks are ongoing with other investment institutions and players for additional funding in the near future. He highlighted that the company is working to double production capacity, noting that Lucid doubled its output in the US this year, with further increases planned for next year. The new Saudi plant, Winterhoff added, is expected to begin operations by the end of next year and continue into 2026, forming a key part of Lucid’s expansion plans for 2027 with the launch of its new mid-size platform, emphasizing that this will result in a significant jump in production compared with current levels. Regarding competition in the EV market, the CEO said Lucid is not targeting the low-price segment locally or globally and will maintain its position in the premium category. He added that the new platform will deliver a mid-size vehicle priced at $50,000, describing it as a broadly accessible segment. However, he stressed that the company will not compete with low-priced Chinese imports, given the level of support those vehicles receive. Winterhoff previously projected that Saudi Arabia’s EV market will grow at an annual rate of six percent through 2030, reaching sales of between 210,000 and 250,000 vehicles per year.
Škoda Auto is advancing its internationalisation strategy by entering the fast-growing Saudi Arabian market in partnership with SAMACO Motors, which has represented other Volkswagen Group brands in the country for more than 15 years. The portfolio includes the Octavia hatchback and the Kushaq, Karoq and Kodiaq SUVs. The Superb hatchback and Combi estate will follow soon. Looking ahead to 2026, Škoda will also introduce the Slavia compact saloon to meet strong demand in the segment in the Saudi Arabian market. The first two state-of-the-art retail sites will open by the end of the year in Jeddah and Al Khobar, with a flagship outlet in Riyadh scheduled for 2026. Škoda Auto intends to target primarily young drivers and families in larger cities in Saudi Arabia. To maximise synergies and capture growth potential – given the current level of only 156 vehicles per 1,000 inhabitants – Škoda Auto has established a Škoda Middle East office as part of Volkswagen Group Middle East (VWGME), which leads Škoda’s growth plans and coordinates the brand’s activities in the region. Škoda Auto’s entry into Saudi Arabia marks the next strategic step in the Middle East. In the first half of 2025, the car manufacturer entered the Omani market, restarted operations in Qatar and opened two new state-of-the-art showrooms in the United Arab Emirates. With Saudi Arabia now joining this rapidly growing network, Škoda Auto continues to strengthen its presence across the region, introducing a comprehensive model line-up that includes the Octavia, Superb, Karoq and Kodiaq, along with the Kushaq SUV and the Slavia saloon. To achieve its ambitious goals in the region, Škoda is entering a strategic partnership with SAMACO Motors, a member of the Al Nahla Group. The two showrooms, covering more than 1,200 m², will open in Jeddah and Al Khobar by the end of 2025. A flagship outlet in the capital, Riyadh, will follow in 2026. Founded in 1930, the Al Nahla Group is one of the longest-established trading companies in the Kingdom. SAMACO Motors, established in 1978, is a leading car importer and distributor in Saudi Arabia. For more than 15 years, it has served as the exclusive representative for Audi, Volkswagen and Porsche, and has recently added Bentley and Lamborghini to its portfolio.
Ford Saudi Arabia 2025 marks a pivotal moment for the brand. With double-digit sales growth, exciting new product launches, and connected technologies on the way, Ford is doubling down on its commitment to Saudi customers and its role in shaping the country’s automotive future. In the first eight months of 2025, Ford achieved a 16% increase in year-to-date sales compared to the same period in 2024, making this its strongest August since 2016. This milestone cements Ford’s status as a key player in Saudi Arabia’s rapidly evolving market. Ford’s sales performance in Saudi Arabia has been nothing short of exceptional. Year-to-date sales are up 16% compared to August 2024. August 2025 was the strongest August since 2016. Ford now ranks fifth overall by sales volume in the Kingdom. The Taurus, Territory, and Everest remain Ford’s top-selling models, demonstrating the strength and breadth of the lineup. Ravi Ravichandran, President of Ford Middle East and North Africa, emphasized: “Saudi Arabia is our largest market in MENA, and we’ve consolidated our position among the top five automakers despite increased competition. This success reflects the dedication of our teams and distributor partners, and the trust customers place in Ford.” This impressive performance is part of a multi-year growth trajectory, with nearly 140% regional growth recorded over the past three years.
The Saudi automotive market is welcoming a new generation of hybrid vehicles equipped with advanced Range-Extended Electric Vehicle technology. Although this technology has previously been introduced in the Kingdom, the latest models showcased at the EV Auto Show Riyadh 2025 feature significant upgrades in efficiency, performance, and driving range. Among the standout participants was Rox Motors, a fast-growing Chinese automaker that unveiled its latest hybrid model — the Adamas — featuring an evolved version of REEV technology. Ahmed Al-Obaidi, CEO of Rox KSA, explained that the system combines the practicality of traditional fuel with the efficiency of electric power. “Our REEV technology allows gasoline to generate electricity directly,” Al-Obaidi said. “Part of the fuel powers a generator that charges the battery, while another portion goes into the extender, which increases the electric output and provides power to the car. “This hybrid approach is a fast way to combine electric and gas technology — ideal for the Saudi market.”
Saudi Arabia’s automotive sector localization is fast on track as part of the government’s efforts to achieve its Vision 2030 targets, according to a senior official. At the Saudi-American Business Council seminar, Aftab Ahmed, a senior adviser to the Kingdom’s National Center for Industrial Development in the automotive sector, underscored the rapid transition toward domestic production of passenger vehicles and parts. He stated that this effort aligns with the ambitious objectives outlined in the National Industrial Strategy under Saudi Vision 2030, the Saudi Press Agency reported. The council, in collaboration with the NCID, recently hosted a virtual seminar on the future of the Kingdom’s automotive sector. Over 100 industry leaders from Saudi Arabia and the US convened to discuss various aspects of the sector, including government initiatives, investment standards, and operational experiences within the Kingdom. The event facilitated the exchange of insights and opportunities in this rapidly evolving field.
In a historic move reflecting the industrial transformation underway in Saudi Arabia, the South Korean Hyundai Motor Group inaugurated its new factory at the King Salman Automotive Complex, marking a new phase in the local automotive industry. The official visit of the group's CEO, Euisun Chung, included high-level discussions with His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, aimed at establishing a joint strategy to support the goals of Vision 2030 and strengthen industrial and technological partnerships in the Saudi market.
The 2026 Toyota Supra has officially arrived in Saudi Arabia through Abdul Latif Jameel Motors, bringing with it a perfect blend of performance, style, and heritage. Powered by a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder twin-scroll turbo engine producing 382 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque, the new Supra offers both 6-speed manual and 8-speed automatic options for driving enthusiasts. Its bold design, aerodynamic body, and 19-inch alloy wheels create an unmistakable sports presence, while a driver-focused cabin, premium materials, and modern infotainment features ensure a refined yet exhilarating experience. Priced from around SAR 276,000 (including VAT), the 2026 Supra combines cutting-edge technology with Toyota’s legendary reliability. It includes advanced safety systems like ABS, Vehicle Stability Control, and multiple airbags, making it as secure as it is powerful. Available in a range of eye-catching colors — including Matte Avalanche White, Volcanic Ash Gray, and Prominence Red — the Supra continues its legacy as Toyota’s ultimate performance coupe, designed for those who crave excitement on Saudi Arabia’s roads.
" The global and local automotive sector is anticipating the debut of an all-new generation of the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ sooner than expected. Japanese reports have revealed the vehicle's launch date is set for the second quarter of 2026 in Japan, with global markets arriving later. Experts expect this version to feature a modern design while retaining the legendary off-road performance and classic identity that previously distinguished the FJ, amid fierce competition in the small SUV segment ".
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