Industry Voices
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Stellantis Maintains Independence, Denies Renault Merger Speculations
Italian headlines fuel rumors of a Stellantis/Renault merger, promptly dismissed by Chairman John Elkann. He reaffirms Stellantis' focus on long-term strategy. French government's involvement adds intrigue to the speculation. Reuters provides insight into the situation.
By Dabbie Davis
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GM Takes Swift Action, Notifies Pontiac Vibe Owners to Stop Driving
General Motors (GM) has issued a critical warning to Pontiac Vibe owners, urging them to stop driving due to dangerous Takata airbag inflator issues. Approximately 11,000 affected Vibe units in the United States are at risk of exploding inflators, posing grave threats to occupants.
By Dabbie Davis
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Authorities Raid Toyota Group Plant: CEO Apologizes Amidst Engine Testing Scandal
“My job is to steer the way for where the overall group should go,” Akio Toyoda said. Japanese transport authorities have raided a Toyota group plant amidst allegations of engine test cheating. This comes as Toyota claims the world's top automaker spot in 2023 with 11.2 million sales but faces reputation damage. Toyota's Kei car division is accused of crash test manipulation, and diesel engines face scrutiny for irregularities. Chairman Akio Toyoda apologizes and emphasizes the company's commitment to quality.
By Dabbie Davis
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Authorities Confiscate 41 Luxury Cars, Including Ferraris and Lamborghinis, from Mukesh Ambani’s Mall
The Mumbai police have confiscated 41 luxury cars, including Ferraris and Lamborghinis, from Mukesh Ambani's Jio World Drive Mall. A FIR has been registered against the owners for organizing an unauthorized rally.
By Dabbie Davis
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Nissan Aims for EV Price Reductions, Countering BYD's Dominance
Nissan aims to produce cost-effective lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries to cut electric vehicle (EV) prices and compete with BYD. Despite BYD's lead in EV sales, Nissan plans to introduce LFP batteries into its EVs by 2026, forging partnerships to advance the technology.
By Dabbie Davis
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Dodge and Ram Gear Shifter Investigation Ends Without Recall Request
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has closed its investigation into rollaway incidents involving Ram 1500 pickup trucks and Dodge Durango SUVs, initiated in December 2016. The inquiry encompassed 1.3 million vehicles, focusing on modern electronic rotary gear shifters, a departure from traditional mechanical shifters.
By Dabbie Davis
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GM's Cruise Unfolds AV Incident: Sparking Two US Investigations
The Department of Justice (DoJ) and Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) are investigating GM's Cruise division due to an incident in October. A pedestrian was hit by another vehicle and dragged 20 feet by a Cruise autonomous vehicle, prompting scrutiny. Cruise is addressing its organizational culture and leadership issues.
By Dabbie Davis