Author: Central Desk

The Vietnamese automobile market experienced a challenging 2024, marked by economic struggles and increased competition. However, a strong recovery in the final months, supported by government stimulus policies, new model launches, and advancements in electrification, enabled the auto market to close the year on a high note. The year ended with total vehicle sales nearing 500,000 units, a 12.6% increase over 2023. This rebound came after a rocky start to the year, with sluggish sales during the first half as economic difficulties curbed consumer spending on high-cost items like cars. By August, the market had recorded only modest growth, with…

Nissan is preparing to scale back its U.S. operations, the automaker’s largest market, as part of a broader restructuring effort. The company plans to cut nearly 2,000 jobs at its American plants by the end of this year and reduce vehicle production in the United States by approximately 25%. The job reductions and production cuts will impact two major facilities: the Smyrna plant in Tennessee and the Canton plant in Mississippi. Currently, each plant operates four assembly lines. Nissan intends to halt one line at Smyrna as early as April and another at Canton by autumn, effectively reducing the plants’…

Kudelski IoT, a division of the Swiss digital security conglomerate Kudelski Group, has introduced a new identity verification product tailored to the U.S. automotive market. The product, known as RecovR ID Check, is powered by Idemia’s biometric technology and aims to enhance security and streamline dealership operations. According to the company, RecovR ID Check is designed to protect auto dealerships from identity theft and fraud in processes such as test drives, sales, and financing, whether conducted in-person or online. It integrates seamlessly into existing dealership workflows without requiring additional equipment or monthly subscription fees. Dealerships can purchase prepaid packages of…

Mitsubishi Motors is considering opting out of the proposed merger between Nissan and Honda, according to a source familiar with the matter. Instead, the Tokyo-based automaker is expected to prioritize strengthening its cooperation with the two larger firms. The decision reflects Mitsubishi Motors’ concerns about potentially losing management autonomy under a holding company structure. While Mitsubishi is already a partner of Nissan and boasts a strong market presence in Southeast Asia, including Indonesia and the Philippines, doubts persist regarding the synergistic benefits of a merger with Honda and Nissan. Industry observers highlight that the global automotive sector’s focus is shifting…

Deloitte’s ‘2025 Global Automotive Consumer Study’ provides key insights into hybrid vehicle interest, declining brand loyalty, and the influence of emerging technologies on U.S. automotive consumer behavior. Growing Interest in Hybrid Vehicles Consumer interest in hybrid vehicles in the U.S. has increased by 5%, now accounting for 26% of potential buyers, while interest in internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles has declined by 5% to 62%. Interest in battery electric vehicles (BEVs) remains low at just 5%, presenting challenges for automakers. Consumers are prioritizing cost savings (56%), environmental benefits (44%), and driving experience (36%) when considering EVs. However, barriers such as…

Toyota has reclaimed its position as the world’s most valuable automotive brand, according to the 2025 Brand Finance Global 500 ranking. The Japanese automaker climbed from 21st to 18th place overall, maintaining a consistent and steady growth trajectory. Tesla, however, experienced a sharp decline, dropping to the 36th spot in 2025 from 18th in 2024 and 9th in 2023. Once celebrated as a disruptor in the automotive industry, Tesla’s fall from grace is attributed to several factors outlined by the report. These include its reliance on the Chinese electric vehicle market, BYD surpassing Tesla as the world’s largest EV maker,…

Nissan Motor Acceptance Company (NMAC) and Infiniti Financial Services (IFS) have expanded their SignatureFLEX lease program to cover drivers with legacy leases maturing on or after February 1, 2025. This move enables eligible lessees to purchase additional miles up to 30 days before the lease ends, offering enhanced flexibility and convenience. The decision comes in response to evolving driving trends, with 10,000-mile leases now more popular than 12,000-mile options among Nissan and Infiniti customers. Additionally, demand for ultra-low 5,000-mile leases has doubled over the past two years. Jim DeTrude, Vice President of NMAC Sales & Marketing, stated, “SignatureFLEX is an innovative…

South Korea’s leading battery manufacturers achieved record-breaking investments in research and development (R&D) in 2024, despite a slowdown in global electric vehicle (EV) sales, according to industry sources. LG Energy Solution (LGES), Samsung SDI, and SK On collectively invested over 2.5 trillion won (approximately $1.7 billion) in R&D, surpassing the previous year’s 2.47 trillion won. This preemptive approach is seen as preparation for an anticipated recovery in battery demand, as the EV market transitions through a challenging phase referred to as the ‘EV chasm.’ LGES, South Korea’s top battery maker, reportedly invested over 1.1 trillion won in next-generation battery development,…

The automotive industry is facing critical uncertainty as US President Donald Trump announced plans to impose 25% tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico starting February 1. This move, revealed hours after his inauguration, threatens to disrupt the daily shipment of billions of dollars worth of vehicles and parts across the borders. Industry experts are closely monitoring the situation, with many viewing the announcement as a potential negotiation tactic rather than an imminent policy shift. Mark Wakefield, global automotive market lead at AlixPartners, remarked, “Most people in the industry are waiting to see what happens and to see what the…

The ‘Star of Sector’ Awards aim to recognise excellence across diverse fields, including Services, Products, Experiences, Solutions, Platforms, Applications, Systems, Brands, and Individuals, as stated in the press release. “Founded on authenticity and credibility, this prestigious award recognises innovation, impactful contributions, and excellence across industries. Winning a ‘Star of Sector’ award enhances brand reputation and drives significant sales growth, making it a highly sought-after honour,” the release stated. Scheduled to take place in Dubai during the second quarter of 2025, the inaugural event will confer 32 awards annually. Of these, 30 recipients will be selected through applications, while two special…