Peter Sigal News Editor of Automotive News Europe [email protected] +33 6 70 96 49 77 See All Staff Page Recent Stories Dacia-Lada business unit will unleash brands' power, Renault execs say The group's two low-cost brands will share a single platform and jointly develop models, including a SUV in the profitable compact segment. Renault to follow Peugeot, VW in seeking higher transaction prices CEO Luca de Meo is revamping the brand's compact and midsize offerings, which have lagged European competitors in recent years, to capture higher profit margins in larger segments. What to expect from Renault's new strategic plan CEO Luca de Meo will present his vision for a new-look Renault on Thursday, as the automaker seeks a return to profitability after record losses in 2020. Renault to form JV with U.S. hydrogen specialist Plug Power for fuel cell vans The France-based joint venture is seeking to win 30 percent of the European fuel cell van market, which could be as big as 500,000 units by 2030. Renault names former Google exec to run Alpine brand Laurent Rossi will lead the sports car brand as well as Renault's racing efforts. Renault CEO Luca de Meo plans to expand Alpine, which has just a single model. Key roles remain open at Stellantis as merger closing nears PSA's Carlos Tavares will be CEO, Exor Chairman John Elkann will lead the board and FCA's Mike Manley will head Americas. But top jobs such as CFO and head of Europe have not been announced. COVID crisis holds peril, but also promise, for Lynk & CO's European debut Health concerns might make users wary about sharing their Lynk & CO cars, as the automaker intends. But in a shaky economy, consumers may be more willing to join a membership service than commit to buying. New COVID-19 lockdowns threaten 2021 recovery, analysts say Restrictions in the UK and Germany have dampened expectations for a rebound. Analysts expect European auto sales will grow from around 9 percent to as much as 14 percent in 2021, still far from pre-pandemic levels. Ex-Peugeot, Renault-Nissan exec Ramirez joins Hyundai Ken Ramirez had been head of European sales at Peugeot and held a similar position at Renault. In his new role, he will be in charge of Hyundai's business in central and South America. EV-only future looks closer than ever in Europe Sales of non-hybrid gasoline and diesel engine cars could end as early as 2030 in Europe, with even plug-in hybrids facing an uncertain future after 2035, as more and more countries announce target dates for their demise in favor of zero-emissions vehicles. How FCA-PSA merger could fix problem areas Issues include troubles in China for both PSA and Fiat Chrysler, excess capacity in Fiat's European factories, PSA's over-reliance on Europe for profits, and poor results at Maserati and Alfa Romeo. What the merger will mean for PSA The creation of Stellantis will reduce PSA's dependence on Europe and give it access to the lucrative North American market. It also offers a chance for a fresh start in China. Fiat Chrysler-PSA merger moves to a shareholder vote Shareholders vote Monday on whether to approve the merger to create Stellantis, a new company with global reach that will be one of the biggest automakers by volume. French sales fell 12% in December despite showrooms reopening Toyota, Hyundai, Jeep, Opel, and Peugeot increased sales during the month even though the market as a whole was down. FCA's Manley to head Stellantis American operations Manley was a key figure in driving forward the FCA-PSA merger, working with PSA CEO Carlos Tavares since late 2018. Load More
Peter Sigal News Editor of Automotive News Europe [email protected] +33 6 70 96 49 77 See All Staff Page