Car News

Australians are buying more cars made in China in 2020 than any other time in our automotive history. Official sales figures compiled by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industry (FCAI) show Chinese brands LDV, Haval, MG and Great Wall sold a record number of new vehicles up to the end of November 2020, despite a shrinking car market due primarily to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

UPDATE, 5 January 2021: Since this story was published, the British brand's Australian arm has confirmed the first examples of the updated Bentayga landed in Australia in November 2020. Additionally, the facelifted Bentayga Hybrid has been revealed and confirmed for our market, though arrival timing remains unconfirmed. The updated story continues below.

Alpine hasn't exactly enjoyed a stellar 2020, selling just five examples so far this year of its lone model, the gorgeous and totally charming A110 mid-engined coupe. Yet, the French brand could be about to experience a renaissance. While little has been confirmed for 2021, the fact that parent company Renault is rebranding its Formula One team to Alpine, suggests a portfolio soon to expand.

It was a big year for automotive in 2020, with the exit of Holden, the cancellation of international motor shows and the Australian Grand Prix due to coronavirus, and the steady decline of new car sales. In a challenging climate, it's perhaps unsurprising that carmakers reduced their ranges, discontinued under-performers and replaced older models with hybrids, electric cars or new creations altogether.

All trucks made in Europe will be fossil fuel free by 2040, after an agreement was reached between manufacturers this week. In a joint declaration issued by the European Automobile Manufacturers' Association (ACEA) and the Postdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK), truck makers concluded all heavy commercial vehicles will drop engines powered by conventional fuels (such as diesel) in order to reach carbon-neutrality by 2050.