Good morning and welcome to our daily digest of automotive news from around the globe, starting with…

Shell Defends ‘Difficult’ Decision To Buy Russian Oil At Record Discount Price

Shell has come under fire for buying 100,000 metric tons of Russian crude oil, with the company defending itself by saying it was a “difficult decision” and that it was thinking of European supply lines. Shell stated it would commit profits from the oil it bought from Russia to a dedicated Ukraine relief fund.

Peugeot 308 Voted As Women’s World Car of the Year For 2022

In time with World Women’s day, the Peugeot 308 has been awarded this year’s winner of the Women’s World Car Of The Year for 2022. It was voted on by 56 female motoring journalists from 40 countries across five continents.

2022 Renault Austral SUV Replaces Kadjar, Debuts New Esprit Alpine Trim Level

The Renault Kadjar is dead, and replacing it is the Austral. It’s an electrified compact SUV that has much in common under the skin with the Megane E-Tech Electric. There’s also a new Esprit Alpine trim level that doesn’t bring any performance upgrades but does add some nice touches, such as Alcantara upholstery with blue stitching, a Nappa leather steering wheel, and aluminum pedals.

Russian Invasion Of Ukraine Could Lead To Second Wave Of Microchip Shortage

Just when you thought the auto supply chain crisis couldn’t get any worse, the war in Ukraine means that there could be another microchip shortage. It’s because 70 percent of the world’s neon output is sourced from Ukraine and Russia. This gas is essential in the manufacture of semiconductors, with U.S. chipmakers relying almost entirely on gas from the eastern region.

New Nissan Qashqai E-Power Hybrid Detailed With 188 HP Electric Motor

Nissan has released more details on the upcoming Qashqai e-Power Hybrid. The new addition will build upon the range, which already features mild hybrids. It will combine a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine with an electric motor, an inverter, and a battery. It’ll offer self-charging, but the ICE motor won’t be connected to the drive wheels. The Nissan Qashqai e-Power is set for a European market launch in late summer 2022.

BMW’s Updated 2023 BMW 8-Series Unveiled At Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance

The 8-Series is getting a few subtle updates for the 2023 model year. The facelifted model was unveiled at the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance, along with the M division’s 50th-anniversary celebrations. Changes include an illuminated ‘Iconic Glow’ kidney grille, aerodynamic wing mirrors on the V8 models, and an extended range of equipment.

NHTSA Rejects GM’s Bid To Avoid GMC Terrain Recall Over Too Bright Headlights

GM had been fighting to avoid a recall of its GMC Terrain SUVs since 2019. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) claims that the Terrain’s headlight beams are too bright, posing a risk to oncoming drivers. GM says it is reviewing the decision and is trying to figure out its next move.

What Else Is Making The News

Haas Could Miss First Day Of F1 Test

It seems that American F1 team Haas just can’t catch a break. Fresh from dropping Russian title sponsor Urakali and Russian driver Nikita Mazepin, it looks like the team won’t make the first day of the Bahrain Pre-season test. The plane that was to transport the cars and parts to Bahrain is reportedly stuck in the UK thanks to a mechanical failure.

Ed Sheeran Denies Copyright Claims In Court

Ed Sheeran has been accused of using parts of another song, “Oh Why” from Sami Switch, without credit when making the 2017 hit “Shape of You.” Sheeran denied the claim in a UK High Court reports the BBC.