[HemiCharger]

Originally Posted by exitspeed

Well we can put this discussion to bed. Ghosn says we're in recession.


n an interview at the Geneva Auto Show, Carlos Ghosn, CEO of Renault-Nissan, strongly stated that he is not seeking any key alliance with American carmaker Chrysler. “We have an OE deal. Period,” Ghosn said, “I don’t want you to think there’s more in this.” Nissan is currently in an agreement with Chrysler to supply its Versa sedan for sale in South America.

“The U.S. is in recession. We are very cautious,” he said, but also stated, “We are going to continue to do deals with everybody when they make sense,” presumably putting any major alliance plans on hold until the U.S. economy takes a turn for the better.

Ghosn also spoke of Renault-Nissan’s plans for Avtovaz, their new Russian partner, of which they own a 25% stake, according to Detroit Free Press. He also spoke on plans to revise the entire line up, but added that Avtovaz could also produce Nissan or Renault vehicles too. This might prove to be a big boost for Avtovaz’s leading brand, Lada, which is in need of new platforms, equipment and drivetrains. “Russian car sales may surpass Germany to become Europe’s largest single market this year,” he said.

Renault, meanwhile, is working on moving slightly upscale with the help of Korean partner Samsung. Also in the pipeline is a luxury crossover for 2010.

looks as if somebody or something changed his mind pretty quickly...

see bottom of article

http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/14/b...ly-agreements/