Group 1 - Ford Motor Co. and Stellantis NV are in discussions with Nissan Motor Co. to develop a new electrified SUV, potentially an updated version of the Rogue SUV [1][2] - The partnership may involve the use of Nissan's e-power Hybrid powertrain for a new Hybrid crossover SUV, with possibilities for jointly developing all-electric vehicles [2][3] - Nissan is open to strategic partnerships that complement its core model development, but no formal agreements have been established yet [3] Group 2 - A fire at Novelis' aluminum plant in Oswego, New York, which is a key supplier for Ford, may disrupt production, prompting Ford to seek alternative supply channels [4] - Ford has allowed Nissan to utilize half of its battery assembly plant in Kentucky, a joint venture with SK On, and has invested over $5 billion to enhance domestic manufacturing capabilities [5] - Stellantis is planning a $10 billion investment in the U.S. to strengthen its market position, potentially reopening manufacturing plants and launching new models [6]

Core Points - Nissan is recalling over 19,000 vehicles in the US due to a potential fire risk associated with lithium-ion batteries during rapid charging [1][3] - The recall specifically affects certain 2021-2022 LEAF SUVs equipped with a "Level 3" quick-charge port, with an estimated 1% of the recalled vehicles, or 191 LEAFs, having the defect [1][3] - The lithium-ion batteries may have excessive lithium deposits, leading to increased electrical resistance and rapid heating, which poses a fire risk [3] Company Actions - Nissan advises owners to refrain from using the "Level 3" quick charge function until the vehicles can be serviced at a dealer, where battery software updates will be provided at no cost [4] - Notifications to vehicle owners regarding the safety risk are expected to be mailed on October 24, with follow-up communications once the fix is available [5] - The defective batteries were manufactured in Smyrna, Tennessee [5]

Core Viewpoint - Nissan Motor Co. Ltd has issued a recall for 19,077 units of its entry-level Leaf EV due to a potential fire risk associated with the lithium-ion battery during Level 3 Quick Charging [1][2][3] Group 1: Recall Details - The recall affects 2021 and 2022 model years of the Leaf EV, which retails for approximately $29,990 for the 2026 model [1][2] - The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicated that the lithium-ion battery may overheat during Level 3 charging, increasing the risk of fire [2][3] - Owners of the affected units are advised to avoid Level 3 charging, and dealers will provide battery software updates free of charge [3] Group 2: Company Developments - Nissan is testing a next-generation Driver Assistance System developed by Wayve, a self-driving company backed by Nvidia, with plans to introduce the technology in Japan by 2027 [4] - The company is reportedly sharing half of Ford Motor Co.'s Kentucky EV battery manufacturing plant, a joint venture with South Korean battery manufacturer SK On [5] Group 3: Industry Context - Ford Motor Co. has also faced multiple recalls this year, including one for over 115,000 F-250, 350, and 450 pickup trucks due to a steering column issue, raising concerns about quality control practices in the industry [6]

Core Point - Nissan is recalling 19,077 electric vehicles in the United States due to a potential fire risk linked to overheating during quick charging [1] Group 1 - The recall affects electric vehicles specifically in the U.S. market [1] - The action is prompted by concerns raised by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration [1] - The issue is related to overheating that may occur during the quick charging process [1]

Core Insights - Incentive programs for battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) are increasingly favoring local automakers while excluding vehicles built in China and other non-European locations to promote zero-emission mobility [1][2] Group 1: Incentive Programs - The U.K. has introduced a new Electric Car Grant that aligns with France's Ecobonus scheme, both focusing on environmental metrics related to the manufacturing location of the car and battery [1] - France is considering increasing bonuses for vehicles with batteries made in Europe, reflecting a trend among EU member states to adopt similar exclusionary practices [2] Group 2: Qualification Criteria - In France, 70% of the environmental score for BEVs is based on the carbon footprint throughout the vehicle's life cycle, which includes manufacturing and transport, leading to the exclusion of BEVs made in China, Japan, or South Korea [3] - The U.K. program also evaluates the carbon intensity of the electricity grid in the source country for both the battery and vehicle, penalizing countries reliant on fossil fuels [4] Group 3: Current Grant Recipients - Currently, only two vehicles qualify for the maximum £3,750 ($5,050) grant in the U.K.: the Ford Puma Gen E and Ford E-Tourneo Courier, both manufactured in Romania but with electric drivetrains sourced from the U.K. [5] - The Toyota bZ4X and Nissan Ariya are among the few Japan-built models eligible for the lower tier £1,500 grant in the U.K., with both manufacturers having plants in the U.K. [6] - Other automakers like Renault, Vauxhall, Citroen, and Skoda also have models that qualify for the lower tier £1,500 grant [7]

Industry Overview - The auto industry is transforming with electric vehicles (EVs) and autonomous vehicles (AVs) becoming mainstream, challenging traditional automakers and increasing competition from startups [2] - Government support through subsidies and incentives is accelerating the shift to electric mobility, alongside advancements in battery technology and charging infrastructure [3] EV Market Dynamics - Global EV sales increased by 25% in 2024, reaching 17.8 million units, and are projected to hit 21.3 million in 2025, representing nearly 25% of all auto sales [4] - By 2030, annual EV sales could exceed 40.1 million units, with Europe expected to have 63% of sales from EVs, and China already surpassing 50% [5] AV Market Growth - The global AV market, valued at approximately $106 billion in 2021, is projected to grow to over $2.3 trillion by 2030, driven by advancements in AI, machine learning, and connectivity [6] Investment Opportunities - The EV and AV sectors present significant growth and innovation potential for investors, with recommended stocks including QuantumScape Corp. (QS), Nissan Motor Co. (NSANY), and Blue Bird Corporation (BLBD) [7] Company Highlights: Blue Bird Corporation - Blue Bird is transitioning from a traditional school bus manufacturer to a leader in clean transportation, with over 22,000 alternative-powered buses in operation [9] - The company is benefiting from government incentives, with more than half of its sales now from non-diesel vehicles, and has expanded into infrastructure support for fleet transitions [10] - Recent innovations include the launch of an electric step van and a propane-powered chassis, enhancing its product offerings [11] Company Highlights: QuantumScape - QuantumScape is recognized as a solid-state battery pioneer, recently partnering with Volkswagen to accelerate battery development and establish a pilot production line [13] - The company has improved its manufacturing process, increasing efficiency significantly, and is moving closer to mass production of solid-state batteries [14][15] - With ongoing collaborations and upcoming field testing, QuantumScape is positioned to make a substantial impact in the electric mobility sector [16] Company Highlights: Nissan Motor Co. - Nissan has a long history in the EV market, launching new models like the sixth-generation Micra EV and the third-generation LEAF, which incorporates advanced features and connectivity [17][20] - The company is also advancing its autonomous driving technology, aiming to roll out an autonomous ride-share service in Japan by 2027 [19] - These developments reflect Nissan's strategy to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving market dominated by U.S. and Chinese rivals [20]

Core Points - The article emphasizes the necessity of driving in Dubai, stating that without a car, one cannot fully experience the city and its culture [4][5][13] - It serves as a comprehensive guide for Chinese expatriates on how to navigate driving in Dubai, sharing personal experiences and tips [2][3] Group 1: Driving Necessity - In Dubai, the population is around 4 million, with daily visitors reaching nearly 6 million, making car travel essential for most residents [5][8] - Public transportation is limited, with only two metro lines covering a small portion of the city, accounting for less than 20% of total travel [5][7] - The city is designed with a "you should drive" philosophy, neglecting public transport and pedestrian infrastructure [7][8] Group 2: Traffic and Road Conditions - Dubai has 2.5 million registered vehicles, resulting in a per capita ownership of 0.65 cars, which is high compared to many cities globally [8][9] - The number of vehicles on the road daily (3.5 million) exceeds the registered vehicles, indicating a significant influx of vehicles from neighboring emirates [9] - The road infrastructure is well-developed, with wide main roads and ample parking, although most parking is outdoor, posing challenges in extreme heat [10][12] Group 3: Driving Culture - The article describes a unique driving culture in Dubai, including a practice known as "tailgating," where cars maintain very close distances while driving at high speeds [21][22] - Roundabouts are prevalent in Dubai, replacing traffic lights at many intersections, which can be challenging for new drivers to navigate due to strict right-of-way rules [24][30] - Speed bumps are common and significantly more pronounced than those found in other regions, requiring drivers to be vigilant [39][40] Group 4: Navigation Tools - Waze is recommended as the preferred navigation app in Dubai, offering superior local knowledge compared to Google Maps [46][49] - Waze provides real-time updates on road conditions and police locations, enhancing the driving experience [54][58] Group 5: Traffic Regulations and Penalties - Dubai's traffic enforcement is characterized by heavy fines rather than point deductions, with significant penalties for violations [68][70] - Examples of fines include 400-600 AED for minor speeding and up to 20,000 AED for DUI offenses, highlighting the strict enforcement of traffic laws [72][74] Group 6: Automotive Market Trends - The automotive market in Dubai is dominated by traditional fuel vehicles, with a notable absence of electric vehicles except for a few brands like Tesla [77][89] - Chinese automotive brands, such as Jetour and BYD, are gaining traction in the Dubai market, although they still lag behind established Japanese brands [97][98] - Jetour has become particularly prominent, leveraging effective local marketing strategies and appealing vehicle designs to capture market share [101][103]

Core Viewpoint - AM Best has downgraded the Financial Strength Rating and Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of Nissan Global Reinsurance, Ltd. (NGRe) while maintaining a stable outlook for these ratings [1] Group 1: Rating Changes - The Financial Strength Rating has been downgraded to A- (Excellent) from A (Excellent) [1] - The Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating has been downgraded to "a-" (Excellent) from "a" (Excellent) [1] Group 2: Rating Justifications - The ratings reflect NGRe's balance sheet strength, assessed as very strong [1] - The operating performance is deemed adequate, with a neutral business profile [1] - The overall assessment includes appropriate considerations [1]

Core Insights - Nissan has initiated road testing demonstrations for its next-generation ProPILOT advanced driving assistance system, aiming for a launch in fiscal year 2027 in Japan [1] - The prototype fleet, based on the all-electric Nissan Ariya, has showcased safe and reliable driving capabilities in complex urban conditions in central Tokyo [1] - The next-generation ProPILOT system integrates Wayve's AI driving software with Nissan's next-gen lidar-based ground reality perception technology, setting new standards for driving assistance [1] Summary by Categories Technology Development - The Wayve AI Driver is built on Wayve's embodied intelligence foundational model, capable of autonomous driving on highways and urban roads using advanced end-to-end AI technology [1] - The system can handle complex traffic situations similarly to human drivers and is designed to tackle unprecedented challenges [1] Competitive Advantage - Nissan emphasizes that the Wayve AI Driver can efficiently and rapidly learn from vast amounts of data, ensuring the company's competitiveness in the future [1]

French officials are investigating whether Nissan's European arm honoured supplier payments on time and have requested detailed financial records for 2024, Reuters has reported. According to the news agency, a letter dated 19 August from the competition division of the French economy ministry notified Nissan Automotive Europe of the review, saying it formed part of a wider initiative to ensure firms settle supplier invoices promptly. The correspondence indicates authorities intend to carry out an inspect ...