Russians set to buy more subcompacts

Russia will emerge as a top automotive market in Europe as consumers in the country are beginning to place emphasis on driving dynamics and are willing to pay more for advanced driveline technology features.     

Nissan to make 200,000/y in Brazil

Nissan has opened its US$1 billion assembly plant in Resende, Brazil.

According to Nissan the plant will have a production rate capacity of 200,000 vehicles and engines a year, making it one of the largest investments by any manufacturer in Brazil.

Renault-Nissan head for more ‘convergence’

The Renault-Nissan alliance is about to embark on its next significant wave of integration: the convergence of engineering, manufacturing and supply chain management, purchasing and human resources from 1 April.

Renault and Nissan joined forces in 1999, when Renault invested 643 billion yen (approximately €5 billion or US$ 5.4 billion at the time) for a 36.8% stake in Nissan, which at the time was close to bankruptcy.

GKN set to drive into Russia

GKN Driveline is to open a 5,000 square metre plant in Togliatti in the Volga region of Russia, where a number of large car manufacturers are already based. 

GKN production of constant velocity jointed side-shafts for a number of automotive customers is expected to commence in early next year.