Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Japanese government chides Mitsubishi over recall delays]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/27/japanese-government-chides-mitsubishi-recall-delays/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/27/japanese-government-chides-mitsubishi-recall-delays/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/27/japanese-government-chides-mitsubishi-recall-delays/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



An official with the transport ministry in Japan has some stern words for Mitsubishi, taking the carmaker to task for not being more proactive and honest about its recalls. An investigation into The Tri-Star last December found Mitsubishi was tardy investigating problems and didn't explain itself forthrightly to the transport ministry about the issues. None of Mitsubishi's actions were illegal, and we should stress that this is a dialogue with Mitsubishi in Japan, not Mitsubishi Motors North America.

The official advised the automaker to, "Come up with plans for improvement, implement them and report them to the ministry." It looks like the company will get more practice than it wants in that department, having to announce another recall for the Outlander PHEV over software and hardware glitches. Those recalls come just after Mitsu finally figured out the problem with overheating lithium-ion batteries that caused a production halt of the plug-in hybrid SUV.

Japanese government chides Mitsubishi over recall delays originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 27 Apr 2013 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japanjapan transport ministrymitsubishimitsubishi outlandermitsubishi outlander phevrecallsafetySat, 27 Apr 2013 08:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20548785/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/27/japanese-government-chides-mitsubishi-recall-delays/20548785/article-detail.xml 20548785 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/mitsubishi-outlander-phev_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/mitsubishi-outlander-phev.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes G550 Night Edition is just for Japan]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/22/mercedes-g550-night-edition-is-just-for-japan/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/22/mercedes-g550-night-edition-is-just-for-japan/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/22/mercedes-g550-night-edition-is-just-for-japan/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



The Mercedes-Benz G550 Night Edition is the latest to join the queue of limited-edition vehicles lined up for some yen. Following closely on the wheels of the Japan-only C63 AMG Special Edition, the all-Nippon version of the G-Class is limited to 100 units and will only be shown at the Mercedes-Benz Connection in Roppongi - the swanked-up, nightlife district of Tokyo.

Buyers will get a G550 in Obsidian Black with fenders from the G63 AMG hovering over dark-finish, twin-five-spoke alloys. The interior can be optioned in either Classic Red or Porcelain White Designo. It will require 13,900,000 yen to be among the 100 (roughly $142,000 US), and if you're curious, it will roll into Roppongi on April 22.

Mercedes G550 Night Edition is just for Japan originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Apr 2013 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japanlimited editionmercedesmercedes g550mercedes g550 night editionMon, 22 Apr 2013 09:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20545557/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/22/mercedes-g550-night-edition-is-just-for-japan/20545557/article-detail.xml 20545557 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/mercedes-benz-g550-night-edition_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/mercedes-benz-g550-night-edition.jpg <![CDATA[US, Japan trade talks could see scrapping of car and truck tariffs]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/us-japan-trade-talks-could-see-scrapping-of-car-and-truck-tarif/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/us-japan-trade-talks-could-see-scrapping-of-car-and-truck-tarif/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/us-japan-trade-talks-could-see-scrapping-of-car-and-truck-tarif/#commentsFiled under: ,

Japan protest Trans-Pacific Partnership

Trade issues between the United States and Japan, especially in the automotive sector, have struck a repetitive note for decades: our market is open to them, their market is effectively closed to us. Even though Japan doesn't apply tariffs to cars we export there - whereas we tax Japanese passenger cars 2.5 percent and Japanese light trucks 25 percent - other barriers like Japan's 2,000-unit cap in the Preferential Handling Program and regulatory hurdles have limited the amount of effective trade US companies can conduct there. In 2011 for instance, the US exported $1.5 billion in auto products to Japan but imported $41 billion in auto products from Japan. And it's said that Japan sells 120 cars in the US for every car a US manufacturer sells there.

That's why potential US approval of Japan's request to enter the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) is sending automotive criers out in the streets. The TPP is a series of long-running talks to open up trade between the US and 10 other nations (Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Chile, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, and Vietnam). Last month, Japan asked to join the talks, and the TPP membership would need to assent to the request within 90 days of the next TPP meeting, scheduled for Peru in July.

It looks like the US will agree to let Japan in and that has some politicians and labor groups concerned, the fear being that Japan will get an even easier time of it here without truly eliminating hurdles over there. Talks between Japan and the US are said to be at "an advanced stage," with the US trying to get some early agreements in advance in sectors like auto, insurance and agriculture before the July meeting.

The AFL-CIO is wary, just one of the labor groups worried about losing ground just when it's said that American manufacturing is coming back. Ford, not a newcomer to being vocal about trade issues with Japan, is against Japan's inclusion to the TPP talks, as is the American Automotive Policy Council. And certain members of Congress are hesitant to let Japan sit at the table, based on past and current unresolved issues. Nevertheless, it doesn't look like the Obama Administration and a large pro-business lobby will turn away from the possibility of adding the world's third largest economy to the proceedings, the US government having already unofficially welcomed Japan to the TPP talks.

US, Japan trade talks could see scrapping of car and truck tariffs originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Apr 2013 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exportsfordimportsjapantariffstpptradetrans-pacific partnershipTue, 16 Apr 2013 07:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20539869/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/16/us-japan-trade-talks-could-see-scrapping-of-car-and-truck-tarif/20539869/article-detail.xml 20539869 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/japan-tpp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/japan-tpp.jpg <![CDATA[Mazda's first profit in five years in sight due to weak yen]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/05/mazdas-first-profit-in-five-years-in-sight-due-to-weak-yen/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/05/mazdas-first-profit-in-five-years-in-sight-due-to-weak-yen/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/05/mazdas-first-profit-in-five-years-in-sight-due-to-weak-yen/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2014 Mazda CX-5 - front three-quarter view

Automotive News reports Mazda is set to turn a profit for the first time in five years. The automaker is more dependent on exports from Japan than other automakers based in that country, and as a result, it has long suffered at the hands of a strong yen. But the currency has declined in value by some 16 percent over the past six months and Mazda's shares have tripled in value to their highest level since 2008. Contrast this situation to a year ago when Mazda printed 1.22 billion new shares to raise cash. The move was equivalent to 70 percent of the company's then-outstanding stock, and values tumbled to record lows as a result.

Now that the yen has fallen to a value of around 96 per dollar, Mazda operations in the US are more profitable and the company now projects it will earn around $279 million for the next fiscal year. Automotive News says a one yen change against the dollar can have a 9.1 percent impact on Mazda operating profit compared to 4.7 percent at Subaru parent Fuji Heavy Industries or 3.1 percent at Toyota. Those automakers better insulate themselves from currency fluctuations with overseas manufacturing facilities.

Mazda's first profit in five years in sight due to weak yen originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japanmazdamazda profitprofityenFri, 05 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20531408/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/05/mazdas-first-profit-in-five-years-in-sight-due-to-weak-yen/20531408/article-detail.xml 20531408 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2014-mazda-cx-5-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2014-mazda-cx-5-628.jpg <![CDATA['World's Most Expensive Car Crash' results in 10 charged [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/19/worlds-most-expensive-car-crash-results-in-10-charged-w-vide/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/19/worlds-most-expensive-car-crash-results-in-10-charged-w-vide/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/19/worlds-most-expensive-car-crash-results-in-10-charged-w-vide/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

World's Most Expensive Car Crash

Justice is slowly being served to those drivers who were involved in a 10-car pile up in Japan last year that saw eight Ferrari models, one Lamborghini and three Mercedes-Benz vehicles hauled off for scrap. As you may recall, the lead driver lost control of his machine, pin balling into those following behind and doing some $4 million in damage in the process. Now the 61-year-old lead driver and nine others have had their cases sent to prosecutors.

The group are currently being charged with suspicion of violating traffic laws. We'll take a moment to wait for the laughter to die down before continuing.

Prosecutors claim the drivers were exceeding the speed limit and not paying attention to the road when the incident happened. Six people were injured in the dust up, but everyone survived. The group was on their way to a supercar event in Hiroshima. Feel free to watch the original news reports below.

Continue reading 'World's Most Expensive Car Crash' results in 10 charged [w/video]

'World's Most Expensive Car Crash' results in 10 charged [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 19 Mar 2013 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10-car crash in japanexotic car crashferrariferrari crashjapanlamborghinimercedessupercar crashTue, 19 Mar 2013 15:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20509810/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/19/worlds-most-expensive-car-crash-results-in-10-charged-w-vide/20509810/article-detail.xml 20509810 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/japanferrarisaccident-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/japanferrarisaccident-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Watch Japanese postal workers celebrate the new year in style]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/06/watch-japanese-postal-workers-celebrate-the-new-year-in-style/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/06/watch-japanese-postal-workers-celebrate-the-new-year-in-style/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/06/watch-japanese-postal-workers-celebrate-the-new-year-in-style/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Japan Postal Scooters video

It would seem mail gets to its destination a little differently in Japan. While the US Postal Service relies on the world's largest fleet of trucks, Japan gets its letters to doorsteps all over the country via an endearing fleet of scooters. Each year, postal workers in Hakata celebrate the new year by taking to the streets en masse. It's a freakish display of small-displacement, two-wheeled insanity, and we absolutely love it. Of course, it's even more fun when set to Wagner's Flight of the Valkyries. You'll need to mute the first video for the full effect.

Check out the display in the video below, but don't blame us if you want to drop everything and pick up a scooter of your very own.

Continue reading Watch Japanese postal workers celebrate the new year in style

Watch Japanese postal workers celebrate the new year in style originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 Feb 2013 20:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japanjapanese postal service scooter videopostal servicescooter videoscootersvideoWed, 06 Feb 2013 20:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20449508/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/06/watch-japanese-postal-workers-celebrate-the-new-year-in-style/20449508/article-detail.xml 20449508 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/japan-postal-scooters-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/japan-postal-scooters-628.jpg <![CDATA[Subaru readies BRZ RA Racing for Japanese trackdays]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/27/subaru-readies-brz-ra-racing-for-japanese-trackdays/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/27/subaru-readies-brz-ra-racing-for-japanese-trackdays/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/27/subaru-readies-brz-ra-racing-for-japanese-trackdays/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



As if we needed any more reasons to take a Subaru BRZ to the track, Subaru has just announced that it will be producing a racing-spec version of the car straight from the assembly line. The only problem is that the BRZ RA Racing is being offered for the Japanese domestic market only, and won't be visiting any road courses in the US any time soon.

To get the BRZ ready for some serious track time, Subaru added brake ducts beneath the front fascia, removable tow hooks and an oil cooler behind the grille. Inside, the car gets a factory six-point roll cage (including custom-fit floor mats) and a four-point race harness for the driver. Now we get to pricing where US enthusiasts will get even more miffed. The entire suite of racing add-ons increases the BRZ's price by 31,500 yen, which converts to less than $350 US; the total price of the car converts to right around $31,500 US.

There is a brief press release posted below, which has been translated (somewhat poorly) by Google.

Continue reading Subaru readies BRZ RA Racing for Japanese trackdays

Subaru readies BRZ RA Racing for Japanese trackdays originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 27 Jan 2013 18:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 subaru brz ra racnigbrzbrz ra racingjapanracing spec subaru brzsubaruSun, 27 Jan 2013 18:24:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20439371/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/27/subaru-readies-brz-ra-racing-for-japanese-trackdays/20439371/article-detail.xml 20439371 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/subaru-brz-ra_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/subaru-brz-ra.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan gives history lesson on how the Skyline legend was born]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/11/nissan-gives-history-lesson-on-how-the-skyline-legend-was-born/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/11/nissan-gives-history-lesson-on-how-the-skyline-legend-was-born/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/11/nissan-gives-history-lesson-on-how-the-skyline-legend-was-born/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Vintage video of Prince Skyline being chased by Porsche during race

The only reason we have the Nissan GT-R is because of the exploits of all those GT-Rs we didn't get, and it started with the first one, a model at the time called the Skyline GT, at the 1964 Grand Prix at Suzuka. It was there that modified Prince Motor Company Skyline sedans, only just homologated and never raced, took the green flag and drifted their way to second through sixth places.

The video also explains how the rivalry between the GT-R and Porsche didn't just begin with competing lap times at the Nürburgring a few years ago. The car that came in first was a Porsche 904 Carrera GTS, and when one of the Skyline GT drivers got in front of it to lead the race, the men in charge decided to keep tinkering with the vehicle that would become the second Godzilla. Scroll down to enjoy the rest of the story in video and a press release from Nissan.

Continue reading Nissan gives history lesson on how the Skyline legend was born

Nissan gives history lesson on how the Skyline legend was born originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 11 Dec 2012 16:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1964 suzuka grand prix2013 nissan gt-r904 carrera gtsgt-rgtrjapannissanprince motor companyskylineskyline gtsuzukasuzuka grand prixTue, 11 Dec 2012 16:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20399455/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/11/nissan-gives-history-lesson-on-how-the-skyline-legend-was-born/20399455/article-detail.xml 20399455 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/skylinegtrhistory_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/skylinegtrhistory.jpg <![CDATA[Mazda CX-5 named Japan's Car of The Year, Subaru BR-Z wins "Special Award"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/03/mazda-cx-5-named-japans-car-of-the-year-subaru-br-z-wins-spec/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/03/mazda-cx-5-named-japans-car-of-the-year-subaru-br-z-wins-spec/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/03/mazda-cx-5-named-japans-car-of-the-year-subaru-br-z-wins-spec/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,



The Mazda CX-5 stamped its Kodo design and SkyActiv technology authority all over the Japan Car of the Year awards, taking the top prize ahead of the Subaru BRZ/Toyota GT 86. It is Mazda's second victory in the last ten years, the 2005 MX-5 claiming the same trophy, and the fourth time the Hiroshima company has won.

The award is decided by 60 local "automotive experts and journalists," and open to any passenger car released in Japan from November 1, 2011 to October 31, 2012 that has sold more than 500 units. Each judge gets 25 votes, his or her top vote getting 10 points, the rest of the points being spread among the judge's choice for the next best four cars.

The second-place getters were the Toyobaru twins with 318 votes, the surprise being they didn't beat or get any closer to the crossover. The Subaru BRZ did claw some mojo back, earning the Special Award given to cars that have made "an exceptional impact." The BMW 3 Series was third overall and won the Import Car of the Year award with plenty of room between it and the second place Range Rover Evoque.

The full list of winners is below, along with press releases from the organization and the manufacturers. Congratulations to Mazda on the win.

Continue reading Mazda CX-5 named Japan's Car of The Year, Subaru BR-Z wins "Special Award"

Mazda CX-5 named Japan's Car of The Year, Subaru BR-Z wins "Special Award" originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 03 Dec 2012 10:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3 seriesawardsbmwcar of the yearcx-5evoquefr-sgt 86gt86japanjapan car of the yearland rovermazdascionsubarutoyotaMon, 03 Dec 2012 10:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20392368/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/03/mazda-cx-5-named-japans-car-of-the-year-subaru-br-z-wins-spec/20392368/article-detail.xml 20392368 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/japancotycx-5_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/japancotycx-5.jpg <![CDATA[Tunnel collapses in Japan, seven missing [UPDATE: w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/02/tunnel-collapses-in-japan-seven-missing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/02/tunnel-collapses-in-japan-seven-missing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/02/tunnel-collapses-in-japan-seven-missing/#commentsFiled under: ,

Tunnel collapse in Japan

The Associated Press reports a tunnel collapse between Tokyo and central Japan has left seven people missing. Rescue workers were unable to reach trapped and injured drivers on Sunday after a vehicle caught fire and filled the tunnel with smoke. Those who escaped reported hearing the voices of those still trapped by rubble calling for help, and early reports say at least three bodies have been found inside the collapsed tunnel. A spokesperson with the Fire and Disaster Management agency could not confirm those reports, however.

The three-mile tunnel, about 50 miles outside of Tokyo, originally opened in 1977, but receives regular inspections to ensure safety. Central Japan Expressway Company is currently investigating why the panels gave way in the first place, and says the tunnel's roof showed no signs of failure during evaluations in September and October.

UPDATE: Video added below.

Continue reading Tunnel collapses in Japan, seven missing [UPDATE: w/video]

Tunnel collapses in Japan, seven missing [UPDATE: w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 02 Dec 2012 10:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Central Japan Expressway Companychuo expresswayjapantokyotunneltunnel collapseSun, 02 Dec 2012 10:05:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20392467/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/02/tunnel-collapses-in-japan-seven-missing/20392467/article-detail.xml 20392467 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/japan-tunnel-collapse_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/japan-tunnel-collapse.jpg <![CDATA[This is the much better looking Lexus HS 250h that we won't get]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/22/this-is-the-much-better-looking-lexus-hs-250h-that-we-wont-get/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/22/this-is-the-much-better-looking-lexus-hs-250h-that-we-wont-get/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/22/this-is-the-much-better-looking-lexus-hs-250h-that-we-wont-get/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



The Lexus HS 250h was put to rest in the US at the beginning of this year, but it is apparently being offered a way back onto the mortal coil in the Japanese market. This is reputedly a picture of what the JDM-spec entry-level Lexus hybrid sedan will look like, and what a difference 11 months makes. It appears that only the front clip changed, the brand's new design language giving it much more visual oomph than the hyped-up hybrid Corolla look we were offered.

It doesn't hurt that the front treatment virtually clones the 2013 Lexus ES, the blacked-out center bar in the spindle grille adding some aggression to the smaller package. The rest of the slow-seller's exterior looks to be carried over largely as it was when it left us, and a report by Lexus Enthusiast indicates the model's resurrection is scheduled to go on sale in Japan by the end of this month.

This is the much better looking Lexus HS 250h that we won't get originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Nov 2012 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 lexus hs 250hhshs 250hhs250hjapanlexusThu, 22 Nov 2012 13:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20384422/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/22/this-is-the-much-better-looking-lexus-hs-250h-that-we-wont-get/20384422/article-detail.xml 20384422 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/lexushs250japan_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/lexushs250japan.jpg <![CDATA[Japanese automakers ramping production for renewed American sales]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/21/japanese-automakers-ramping-production-for-renewed-american-sale/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/21/japanese-automakers-ramping-production-for-renewed-american-sale/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/21/japanese-automakers-ramping-production-for-renewed-american-sale/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



The 2011 earthquake and tsunami that struck Japan took quite the toll on the automotive industry in that nation. Not content to lean on that tragedy as excuse for slagging sales, the Japanese automakers are planning on a major production expansion in North America. The aim is to reclaim the market share lost from the Tsunami-based dip, and overcome a dollar/yen exchange rate that makes exporting to America unprofitable.

Following the Tsunami, Japanese automakers ramped up production in their North American facilities to compensate, but according to Automotive News, Nissan, Honda and others have all reported plans for still-further increased production in the year ahead. As part of this ramp-up, Mazda will open a facility in Salamnca, Mexico before March of 2014. Part of that increase in output is 50,000 units of a Toyota-badged compact car, which Mazda will produce.

Other Mexican production facilities opening include a Honda plant, which will open in Spring 2014 in Celaya, and a Nissan plant, set to open later this year in Aguascalientes. Nissan also said that it will need another plant in North America within the next five years. According to Nissan Boss Carlos Ghosn, the company aims to raise its stake in the US market from 8 percent to 10, and adding production will help achieve that goal. Even Mitsubishi is aiming to boost production at its Normal, Illinois plant. Production of the Outlander Sport is currently at 50,000, which Mitsubishi wants to raise to 70,000.

All of these moves come in reaction to growing demand for Japanese cars, as well as the yen's growing value versus the American dollar. Such a disparity hurts Japanese automakers' ability to make a profit from exporting vehicles. As a result, moving production to the US and Mexico have become the best viable option.

Japanese automakers ramping production for renewed American sales originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Nov 2012 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>factorieshondajapanmazdamexicomitsiubishinissantoyotayenWed, 21 Nov 2012 10:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20383806/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/21/japanese-automakers-ramping-production-for-renewed-american-sale/20383806/article-detail.xml 20383806 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/honda-civic-plant-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/honda-civic-plant-628.jpg <![CDATA[Watch Mercedes-Benz's new A-Class in an anime adventure]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/19/watch-mercedes-benzs-new-a-class-in-an-anime-adventure/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/19/watch-mercedes-benzs-new-a-class-in-an-anime-adventure/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/19/watch-mercedes-benzs-new-a-class-in-an-anime-adventure/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Mercedes-Benz A-Class anime video screencap

What do you do with a new success? Work it. The still-warm A-Class is already the most successful launch in Mercedes-Benz history, yet the German brand is still coming up with new ways to show it off to more people. The latest example comes from Mercedes' Japanese outpost, which has created an anime series for the compact hatch called "Next A-Class." The new video shorts are part of the promotion ahead of the model's launch in Japan this January.

The futuristic, city-shifting action centers around a mythical, mystical noodle truck, the hitch being that you have to somehow find it and then actually catch it before you can buy anything from it. Thankfully, the protagonists have an A45 AMG to do the trick. An insider's note: the noodle truck is based on the 1955 Blue Wonder, an actual Fifties-era race transporter powered by the inline six from the 300SL Gullwing. Check out the series' first installment below.

Continue reading Watch Mercedes-Benz's new A-Class in an anime adventure

Watch Mercedes-Benz's new A-Class in an anime adventure originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 Nov 2012 12:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-classa-klassea45 amgamganimeblue wonderjapanmarketingmercedes-benzvideoMon, 19 Nov 2012 12:46:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20382742/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/19/watch-mercedes-benzs-new-a-class-in-an-anime-adventure/20382742/article-detail.xml 20382742 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/nexta-classjapan_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/nexta-classjapan.jpg <![CDATA[Honda cuts year-end forecasts, looking to rebound in China]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/30/honda-cuts-year-end-forecasts-looking-to-rebound-in-china/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/30/honda-cuts-year-end-forecasts-looking-to-rebound-in-china/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/30/honda-cuts-year-end-forecasts-looking-to-rebound-in-china/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Honda Emblem

Automotive News reports Honda has slashed its net profit forecast by 20 percent following poor sales in China. Like other Japanese manufacturers, Honda sales suffered at the hands of anti-Japanese sentiment in China following a territorial dispute between the two nations. All told, Honda sales fell off by 40.5 percent last month alone in the People's Republic. As a result, the company has cut production at its two largest Chinese manufacturing facilities to just one shift. Even so, the automaker says it still plans to move forward with an $880 million investment to expand manufacturing at its Guangzhou and Wuhan plants over the next few years.

Meanwhile, Toyota and Nissan are expected to adjust their profit forecasts shortly. Other automakers have been quick to take up the slack left by their Japanese rivals, with Hyundai, BMW and Volkswagen claiming more market share. Automotive News reports the turbulence between China and Japan could extend into the fourth quarter.

Honda cuts year-end forecasts, looking to rebound in China originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Oct 2012 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chinahondahonda profit forecastjapanprofit forecastTue, 30 Oct 2012 09:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20363798/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/30/honda-cuts-year-end-forecasts-looking-to-rebound-in-china/20363798/article-detail.xml 20363798 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/honda-emblem-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/honda-emblem-628.jpg <![CDATA[Harley-Davidson Museum opens tsunami motorcycle exhibit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/26/harley-davidson-museum-opens-tsunami-motorcycle-exhibit/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/26/harley-davidson-museum-opens-tsunami-motorcycle-exhibit/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/26/harley-davidson-museum-opens-tsunami-motorcycle-exhibit/#commentsFiled under:



Ikuo Yokoyama was just one man among hundreds of thousands of people directly affected by the devastating earthquake and tsunami that struck Japan in 2011, but his name will likely resonate with motorcycle enthusiasts for some time.

Yokoyama's 2004 Harley-Davidson FXSTB Softail Night Train was in a container box that was swept away during the tsunami in March 2011, and it washed up on the shore of British Columbia where it was discovered almost a year later. His motorcycle is now on display at the Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in the exact same condition that it was found on the remote Canadian beach back in April.

After the motorcycle was traced back to Yokoyama, Harley-Davidson offered to have the bike restored and returned to its rightful owner, but instead he has asked that the motorcycle be kept in its current tattered and corroded state and displayed as a memorial to the victims of the earthquake and tsunami. Yokoyama lives in the Miyagi Prefecture, which was one of the hardest-hit areas of Japan, and in addition to his motorcycle, it's reported that he also lost his home and three family members as a result of the natural disaster.

Continue reading Harley-Davidson Museum opens tsunami motorcycle exhibit

Harley-Davidson Museum opens tsunami motorcycle exhibit originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Oct 2012 15:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 japan tsunamiearthquakeharley-davidsonharley-davidson museumikuo yokoyamajapantsunamitsunami motorcycle exhibitFri, 26 Oct 2012 15:43:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20359897/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/26/harley-davidson-museum-opens-tsunami-motorcycle-exhibit/20359897/article-detail.xml 20359897 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/tsunami-harley-davidson_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/tsunami-harley-davidson.jpg <![CDATA[VW Up! says "What closed market?" by recording 3,000 Japanese orders in 3 weeks]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/26/vw-up-says-what-closed-market-by-recording-3-000-japanese-or/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/26/vw-up-says-what-closed-market-by-recording-3-000-japanese-or/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/26/vw-up-says-what-closed-market-by-recording-3-000-japanese-or/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Volkswagen Up! two-door hatchback - red, front three-quarter view

The initial prognosis for the Volkswagen Up! in Japan is going the same direction as the name of the car: three weeks after launch, 3,000 orders have been placed in Nippon. That beats Ford's sales total for the entire year and is almost a month's worth of BMW imports. Posting those numbers, Japan's Nikkei newspaper says the Up! "may beat the Golf subcompact to become the German automaker's most successful new-car launch in Japan."

The backdrop to this is that European and US automaker groups have been protesting what they see as barriers to the Japanese auto market, with many wary of entering into free trade agreements with the island nation. To put some numbers to it, VW led the table for share of the import market through September of this year, with 18 percent and 41,971 cars sold. That, however, is in a market expected to be worth 4.3 million cars this year, which would put VW at 1.3 percent of the total if the numbers before the Up! range's launch held steady. It's a vertiginous drop after VW, though. Audi, in fifth for yearly sales, has 18,356, while Fiat, in tenth, has 4,353. And those numbers are way up, with the top ten automakers save for Nissan posting meaty double-digit gains over last year. The Europeans are also wary of what has happened on The Continent after a free trade agreement with Korea has given a huge boost to Korean imports.

As far as VW Japan is concerned, it has no concerns. With Up! pricing competitive with the Japan-only kei-car segment, a VW rep told the Asahi Shimbun that their offering will "squarely challenge the small-car market" and that even if "the barrier against imported cars is lowered, we will still have opportunities." The German company wants to more than double its annual sales there to 110,000 cars by 2018. The Up! is giving it a good start.

VW Up! says "What closed market?" by recording 3,000 Japanese orders in 3 weeks originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Oct 2012 14:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 volkswagen upauto salescar salesjapanjapan auto salesprotectionismupvolkswagenvwFri, 26 Oct 2012 14:16:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20360135/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/26/vw-up-says-what-closed-market-by-recording-3-000-japanese-or/20360135/article-detail.xml 20360135 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/vwupjapan_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/vwupjapan.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota, Nissan, Honda to assist in $2.55B bailout of chipmaker Renesas with Japanese gov.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/15/toyota-nissan-honda-to-assist-in-2-55b-bailout-of-chipmaker-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/15/toyota-nissan-honda-to-assist-in-2-55b-bailout-of-chipmaker-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/15/toyota-nissan-honda-to-assist-in-2-55b-bailout-of-chipmaker-r/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Renesas Chips

According to a Reuters report, the Japanese government and several of the country's largest manufacturers are joining forces to rescue troubled electronics manufacturer Renesas Electronics. Toyota, Nissan, Honda, Panasonic, Canon and Denso are set to contribute a combined $637.9 million to a $2.55 billion deal that will see the group gain control of the company. Robert Bosch GmbH is also considering investing in the electronics manufacturer.

Why are so many varied corporations interested in Renesas' future? The company is the world's leading supplier of microcontroller chips. Even so, the strengthening yen and heavy competition from South Korea's Samsung Electronics Company has seen Renesas suffer through five years of financial losses. As a result, the company has laid off 12 percent of its workers and currently has plans to either sell or consolidate more than half of its domestic manufacturing facilities.

Toyota, Nissan, Honda to assist in $2.55B bailout of chipmaker Renesas with Japanese gov. originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Oct 2012 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>densohondajapannissanrenesastoytoaMon, 15 Oct 2012 09:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20349586/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/15/toyota-nissan-honda-to-assist-in-2-55b-bailout-of-chipmaker-r/20349586/article-detail.xml 20349586 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/renesas-chips-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/renesas-chips-628.jpg <![CDATA[Chinese auto sales take unexpected September slide amidst anti-Japan sentiment]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/12/chinese-auto-sales-take-unexpected-september-slide-amidst-anti-j/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/12/chinese-auto-sales-take-unexpected-september-slide-amidst-anti-j/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/12/chinese-auto-sales-take-unexpected-september-slide-amidst-anti-j/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

China anti-Japan protests

Vehicle sales in China took a sizable dip for the first time in eight months, due largely to the fact that buyers in the country are turning away from Japanese brands. Automotive News China reports wholesale deliveries fell by .3 percent last month, while Toyota and Nissan saw sales figures fall to their lowest levels since 2008. Meanwhile, figures compiled by Bloomberg indicate Honda had its worst month since May of 2011.

While analysts in China expect market share to shift from Japanese brands to automakers like General Motors, Hyundai and Volkswagen, the Chinese Association of Automobile Manufacturers expects October to be another down month.

Anti-Japanese riots recently broke out in China, with demonstrators targeting Japanese businesses and products with violence. Since then, buyers have participated in boycotting Japanese goods, including large items like cars and SUVs. Sales of Japanese vehicles fell by 41 percent to 160,000 units last month alone, slicing market share from 20.5 percent this time last year to 12.2 percent.

Chinese auto sales take unexpected September slide amidst anti-Japan sentiment originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Oct 2012 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anti-japan protestsboycottcar sales in chinachinachinese car salesdemonstrationsjapanprotestsFri, 12 Oct 2012 09:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20347627/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/12/chinese-auto-sales-take-unexpected-september-slide-amidst-anti-j/20347627/article-detail.xml 20347627 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/china-malaysia-anti-japanese-protestors_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/china-malaysia-anti-japanese-protestors.jpg <![CDATA[Japanese companies to cut car production in China by 50%]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/09/japanese-companies-to-cut-car-production-in-china-by-50/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/09/japanese-companies-to-cut-car-production-in-china-by-50/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/09/japanese-companies-to-cut-car-production-in-china-by-50/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Toyota Emblem

Automotive News reports Japanese manufacturers are set to cut production in China by half. Toyota, Nissan and Honda have seen sales fall off by steep margins in the People's Republic after a territorial dispute between Japan and China resulted in anti-Japanese protests. Sales of Japanese goods have declined amid calls for boycotts all over China. As a result, Nissan is currently planning to halt the night shift at its two Chinese facilities. Toyota and Honda, meanwhile, will reduce production by cutting back work hours and slowing production lines. The news comes courtesy of a report in the Nikkei newspaper, but has not been confirmed by the manufacturers themselves.

There's no indication as to how long the cut in production will last.

As Automotive News points out, Japanese manufacturers were already scaling back production to meet demand before the protests broke out. The Chinese economy is currently in its slowest period of growth in the past three years. Even so, the shift away from Japanese vehicles has seen Hyundai sales jump by 15 percent last month. Likewise, Audi saw it's numbers swell by 20 percent, and BMW enjoyed a boost of 55 percent.

Japanese companies to cut car production in China by 50% originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Oct 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chinahondajapanmanufacturingnissantoyotaTue, 09 Oct 2012 11:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20344341/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/09/japanese-companies-to-cut-car-production-in-china-by-50/20344341/article-detail.xml 20344341 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/toyota-emblem-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/toyota-emblem-628.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Japanese Grand Prix sees some drivers make their points, one makes a huge 25 [spoilers]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/07/2012-japanese-grand-prix-sees-some-drivers-make-their-points-on/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/07/2012-japanese-grand-prix-sees-some-drivers-make-their-points-on/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/07/2012-japanese-grand-prix-sees-some-drivers-make-their-points-on/#commentsFiled under: ,



Even though the 2012 Japanese Grand Prix wasn't an especially exciting race, it involved "destiny" and resurrection, chanting, and a "nutcase" as some drivers tried to make their impression on the Formula 1 World Championship standings this year, while other tried to make cases for retention to their teams for next year.

Unlike the Singapore Grand Prix when the grid managed to make it through the first corner without colliding into one another - save for the two Caterhams kissing each other at the back - Suzuka's right-hand turn number one saw some heavy hitters getting hit heavily. The first one of them would be driving a Ferrari...

Continue reading 2012 Japanese Grand Prix sees some drivers make their points, one makes a huge 25 [spoilers]

2012 Japanese Grand Prix sees some drivers make their points, one makes a huge 25 [spoilers] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 07 Oct 2012 22:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 japanese grand prixf1formula 1formula onegrand prixjapanjapanese grand prixsebastian vettelsuzukaSun, 07 Oct 2012 22:04:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20343558/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/07/2012-japanese-grand-prix-sees-some-drivers-make-their-points-on/20343558/article-detail.xml 20343558 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2012-japan-grand-prix-1349656176_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2012-japan-grand-prix-1349656176.jpg -1 2