Jalopnik: Carlos Ghosn

Nissan To Sell Pure Electric Cars In Oregon

Matt Hardigree — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 17:45:00 EST

Nissan will begin selling electric cars in Oregon state as early as 2010, according to a statement by Nissan-Renault CEO Carlos Ghosn at the LA Auto Show. There's been a lot buzz surrounding Nissan electric cars, especially with the debut of the Nissan Denki Cube concept at the New York Auto Show earlier this year. Oregon's governor Ted Kulongoski is recommending the state replace the $1,500 hybrid tax credit with a $5,000 electric vehicle credit, essentially subsidizing part of the cost of the vehicle. Nissan also plans a larger scale production of electric cars by 2012. Details in the statement from Nissan below.

LOS ANGELES (Nov. 19, 2008) – Carlos Ghosn, president and CEO, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., today announced a new electric-vehicle partnership with the state of Oregon, in line with Nissan’s commitment to begin offering pure electric cars in 2010 in the United States and Japan. The announcement came in a keynote address at the opening of the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show.

“We see in Oregon the vision that is evident in all the places that are eager for sustainable mobility,” said Mr. Ghosn. “Demonstrating their care for the environment, the state and its partners are creating the conditions that will promote zero-emission vehicles as an attractive choice for consumers.”

Nissan will launch its first electric vehicle in Oregon in late 2010. Oregon Gov. Ted Kulongoski is proposing replacing the current $1,500 tax credit on hybrid vehicles with a $5,000 credit on all-electric cars.

[Source: Nissan]

2009 Nissan Maxima Pricing Announced

Andrew Stoy — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 08:30:00 EDT

The restyled 2009 Nissan Maxima S is arriving in showrooms bearing a marketing-friendly "under $30k" MSRP of $29,950, including destination. That's up from $28,790 for the base 2008 Maxima, money well spent if the 2009 Maxima's sporting intentions prove genuine. If the S is too basic for you, upgrade to a 2009 Maxima SV for $32,650.
[Automotive News (sub. req.)]

Nissan Developing Electric Car For 2010

Ben Wojdyla — Tue, 13 May 2008 14:40:00 EDT

The Nissan G37 Convertible wasn't the only news to come out of the Nissan GT 2012 strategic plan. Apparently, Carlos the destroyer has gone on record committing Nissan to an all-electric vehicle available by the end of calender year 2010 which will compete directly with cars in its segment. This of course significantly raises the bar for green-tastic PR bragging rights and will leave the Chevy Volt and the plug-in Toyota Prius looking dirtier than a Flint River trout. Although Ghosn wouldn't commit to a price, segment, or volumes, he did say they were planning on having a regular lineup of EVs in place by 2012. Maybe that Denki Cube we saw in New York was more than just a concept car. [NYTimes]

LA Auto Show: US-Spec Nissan GT-R Revealed Live

Ray Wert — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 15:29:30 EST

Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn just revealed the US-Spec version of Godzilla — the all-new Nissan GT-R here at the LA Auto Show. Ghosn claims that "this car could only be built with both our heads and our hearts." Apparently he forgot to add they needed their balls as the speedy super car's supposedly rated at 480 horses under the hood from the 3.8-liter twin turboed V6 engine. Also, Brian Lam says the seats are made for skinny Asian kids like him. He also says I'm a fit Midwestern boy and should leave any vehicle reviews of Godzirra to him and his Gizmodo nerdry. What say you fair Jalopnik readers?

LA Auto Show: Go, Go, Go Ghosn!

Ray Wert — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 15:25:17 EST

Nissan CEO Carlos "The Jackal" Ghosn is in the process of revealing the new Nissan GT-R in a tourgasm of force. Or is it a tour of forcegasm? Whatever it is — it's friggin' epic. Actually, I think Brian Lam sitting right here next to me just had a GTRgasm. Wait, yes, he's soaking wet. The US-Spec GT-R shots will be up momentarily — please stand by.

Carlos Ghosn Wild: Renault-Nissan CEO Still Considering US Partnership

tingwall — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 08:30:00 EDT

After his dressing like a superhero last week, we wouldn't be surprised if Renault-Nissan's Carlos Ghosn picked up a pimp cane and snapped in a set of diamond teeth to announce he still wants to get it on with a beleaguered US automaker. Perhaps it's Ghosn's experience with a struggling company that has him willing to bet on an American horse. Nissan, on the verge of collapse in 1999, was on the gold-digging end of the relationship when the company partnered with Renault. But since then, both companies have grown while cutting costs. Ghosn says it makes sense to add a large American automaker to his French-Japanese venture to realize additional economies of scale. But don't count on anything in the near term; Ghosn says Nissan must consolidate before any such union will be made. What's more, after talks of an alliance between GM and Nissan fell apart last year, it's now likely down to Ford or Chrysler. [The Detroit Free Press]

Carlos Ghosn Gets Ready To Fight Super-Villains With The 2009 Nissan GT-R

Ray Wert — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 09:30:00 EDT

If for some reason you don't believe the Line on the Inside over at Edmunds got the inside scoop on the new 2009 Nissan GT-R, you need but one glance at the picture above to correct that fallacy. That's Nissan main man and CEO Carlos Ghosn doing his best impression of a comic book hero in front of the new 2009 Godzilla. All we know is he's not called the Stig, but he is called one ham and a half. This shot has now become our favorite picture of any automaker CEO — at least until Rick Wagoner dons a fire suit himself and starts to hump the back of a 2009 Corvette ZR1. But for serious, Inside Line got the full scoop on the new Nissan sports car when they took a trip out to Germany to take a lap of the Nurburgring in the 2009 Nissan GT-R. Jeez, some guys get all the fun. We're still struggling to get a Sentra press car. For a higher-res shot of Super-Carlos, go here. [Inside Line]

Nissan reporting a 16% drop in quarterly ...

Ray Wert — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 08:45:00 EDT

Nissan reporting a 16% drop in quarterly profit. That's no good thing especially considering they sold more vehicles this past quarter than the same quarter last year. Damn you rising material costs, incentives and new models! [Detroit News]

Nissan's Ghosn Green

Davey G. Johnson — Thu, 28 Jun 2007 18:45:00 EDT

Carlos "Guitarlos" Ghosn is pushing his company's dedication to lighter, more compact battery units. While Nissan's current hybrid system is based on NiMH batteries with powertrain tech licensed from Toyota, Renault's Japanese brothers are hammering on lithium ion cells in hopes of gaining a competitive advantage in electrical propulsion; in fact, Ghosn says he'd love to see Nissan in the ring with a viable electric vehicle. With GM having offered up a full-boat commitment to the Volt project and Toyota continuing to be well, Toyota, the melee in the hybrid market's only going to get more interesting before it gets codified. – Davey G. Johnson

Nissan developing smaller, lighter car batteries for hybrids and electric cars, CEO says [IHT]

Related:
Nissan Rolls Out First Fuel Cell Car-For-Hire [Internal]

Hump Day Special: Caption This!

Jonny Lieberman — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 12:45:00 EDT

If we were God, the Jackal here and Dr. Z would be cast in a remake of Bosom Buddies. Get to work. – Jonny Lieberman

Related:
Caption This Photo: Ghosn Time [Internal]

Caption This Photo: Ghosn Time

Jonny Lieberman — Wed, 02 May 2007 19:04:17 EDT

The other night over dinner some of us Jalops were cracking each other up musing about how oddly photogenic Sir Carlos is. And while the regular photo we use can never be topped (click here), the image above is, well, worthy of your best work. 10 extra points will be awarded if you work in "The Jackal." – Jonny Lieberman

And That's The Nissan Way...Where Are My Shoes?

Ray Wert — Fri, 16 Mar 2007 11:30:16 EDT

Here's the following note Carlos Ghosn, the CEO of the cross-global alliance, sent to his North American staff today to explain why he wouldn't be coming to this year's Christmas party. I feel like I'm reading a speech by Imelda Marcos or something. – Ray Wert

Sent on behalf of Carlos Ghosn, president & chief executive officer, Nissan Motor Company, Ltd.
Today we are announcing the new global leadership team for 2007. These changes are a natural part of our management process in order to ensure that Nissan continues on its path of sustainable growth and profitability. Our financial results for 2006 have been for the first time in eight years below our forecast, and management needs to respond to this challenge.

Through the Nissan Way, we have put people at the center of our competitive advantage. Now, more than ever, it will be the power coming from inside the company that will make the difference between Nissan declining or renewing with healthy, profitable growth for the long term. The need to rebuild the integrity of our culture of commitments and rediscover the urgency and transparency that drove our revival is more important than ever.
Regarding my own role, I have decided that it is the right time to hand responsibility for MC-A to Hiroto Saikawa now that in the U.S. we have completed the transition of the HQ, the product offensive has started and a new team is in place. This will allow me to focus on the total Nissan business and on the Alliance.

We have also decided to expand the size of the executive committee, recognizing the importance and number of breakthroughs we need to deliver under Nissan Value-Up and beyond. This change will enable us to act with a deeper and broader insight into all the factors that drive our performance.

We have proved in the past that Nissan is capable of fast and decisive actions that deliver remarkable results. I am confident that these changes provide the leadership and focus needed to boost our short-term performance in 2007 and put the company back on track for delivering our true potential in the long term.

# # #

Nissan Chief Gives Up North American Duties [NYT]

It's Official, Carlos Ghosn's An Official Honorary Knight

Ray Wert — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 17:31:00 EST

Good timing on those voluntary buyouts from earlier today, Carlos. While you're being feted at Buckingham Palace over your honorary knighthood today, your folks in Tennessee are deciding whether they'd like to take a couple thousand bucks or continue working with a scythe hanging over their necks. Good job with helping "improve Anglo-Japanese relations," now maybe you should try your "public relations." – Ray Wert

Ghosn is made a knight [Freep]

Carlos Ghosn Addresses His "Performance Crisis" While HQ Staff Go Bonus Bonkers

Ray Wert — Fri, 02 Feb 2007 16:53:49 EST

The Japanese side of the cross-global partnership announced today their profits took a bit of a hit during the fourth quarter. Ok, that's an understatement, in reality it was a 22.6% slide. In response, CEO Carlos Ghosn told reporters in Tokyo on a conference call from Paris, "We have today a performance crisis and we need to fix it as soon as possible." We've only got to ask the normally virile doubled-up CEO superhero one question — Levitra, Cialis or Viagra?

But unfortunately for the superhero CEO, we're not the only ones with a question. Apparently the folks at the still bright, shiny and new Nashville HQ (yes, that's the same one that experienced some network "performance issues" yesterday) have some questions of their own regarding bonuses. We'll let our anonymous source detail the issue for you:

"Here's a good one. We all got called in to confidential lunch meetings today to be told that after 6 straight years of record profits, and a $4 billion profit this year, there will be no employee bonuses for FY2006. The bonuses, based on hitting ever-escalating profit objectives, comprised a substantial part of our income..."

"...for those past 6 years in this sweatshop. Granted, we should still be happy we have jobs, I know. But really. Did anyone really believe that by not making salary cuts in the move to Tennessee from California, Carlos was not going to get his pound of flesh elsewhere? We're told that executives will not be getting bonuses either, but that's probably about as true as the time monkies flew out my ass."

Uh-oh, Carlos. – Ray Wert

Nissan has a 'performance crisis': Ghosn [globeandmail.com]

Go Figure: Carlos Ghosn Has A Hot Daughter

Ray Wert — Tue, 28 Nov 2006 17:30:00 EST

In case you're wondering why you're seeing the link below re-directing you over to a post about "debutards" over on Gawker, fear not — we're ready to explain. You see, the post references a young lady named Caroline Ghosn, a first-year student at Stanford. Yes, as I'm sure you've figured out, it's the daughter of Carlos Ghosn, CEO of Renault-Nissan, who we're sure was standing proudly by with wife watching as Caroline was busy being quoted by WWD while simultaneously getting ready for the 16th annual Paris Crillon Ball (Le Bal Des Debutantes) — well, ok, she's not doing a whole lot — in reality, her ~~lesbian lover~~ boyfriend is helping her into her shoes. Her quote though, was probably pretty tough for daddy-dearest to take:

"Isn't this the best? Just like Cinderella..."

And in the corner, behind young Caroline, her father cocks his head slightly towards Detroit, his eyes glistening with tears as he thinks about what could have been between he and Rick Wagoner, his very own Prince Charming. Oh, and in case you're wondering — yes, Caroline is hot. – Ray Wert

Introducing the Next Generation of Debutards [Gawker]

Ghosn Don't Need No More Stinking Alliances! Nissan Quarterly Profit Up 31%

Ray Wert — Thu, 26 Oct 2006 10:50:17 EDT

~~Sir~~ Carlos Ghosn, the man normally all about makin' friends and influencin' people, just dropped some pretty impressive numbers out of the Tokyo HQ of his globe-spanning alliance, Renault-Nissan. Net income popped up like a champagne cork to 164 billion yen ($1.38 billion) during the third quarter of 2006, that's up from 125 billion yen a year earlier. This came despite a sales slide of 0.9% to 2.324 trillion yen ($19.5 billion) — off of sales which dropped 7.6% to 883,000 vehicles. But, we can guess that first number must have buoyed the Napoleonic nanny of the Japanese-French alliance into his comments this morning:

"We have no need to find more partners. We are in no hurry to find more partners. And we are not taking any initiatives"

Man, Chrysler better totally hope the folks in Germany don't get sick of them anytime in the near future, because I've no idea where they're going to turn to for a dance partner. But, Ghosn did add that...

...if the alliance were to be looking for a threesome, the logical choice would be NorAm — but they were under "no obligation or need." Tom, calm down and wait patiently — jumping up and down in your seat is only going to make your corsage fall off and plus you'll end up making Chrysler look desperate — and remember, you're not a whore if you do it for free. – Ray Wert

Nissan quarterly profit surges 31% [Freep]

Well Played, Sir! Carlos Ghosn To Receive Honorary Knighthood, No Title

Ray Wert — Tue, 24 Oct 2006 15:23:16 EDT

Everyone's favorite automakin' CEO in charge of the global-spanning alliance that is GM-Renault-Nissan just received word he's the next "Honorary Knight Commander of the British Empire." The ceremony will be occurring at the British embassy sometime in early 2007. Unfortunately, because Ghosn is the very model of a modern non-english auto-man, the Napoleonic sized chief exec won't be getting the ability to be called Sir Carlos — despite our fervent wishes for it to be so.– Ray Wert

Carlos Ghosn To Get The Chainmail And Sword Treatment [Winding Road]

Breaking! Nissan Has No Comment, But Joint GM-Renault-Nissan Statement To Be Released Soon

Ray Wert — Wed, 04 Oct 2006 14:55:26 EDT

In what will likely be the last thing these three companies ever do together, Nissan's told Reuters to expect a joint statement shortly on the WSJ report that the best laid plans of Carlos Ghosn and men have gone all screwy and he and the General's Rick Wagoner have said to hell with everything. We're going to start drinking early in anticipation of a fun afternoon. – Ray Wert

Nissan says no comment on GM report, statement soon [Reuters]

Tripartite's Over: Ghosn And Wagoner Terminate GM-Renault-Nissan Talks

Ray Wert — Wed, 04 Oct 2006 13:10:20 EDT

The Wall Street Journal's reporting GM CEO Rick Wagoner and Renault-Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn have killed talks on a threesome between automakers:

The chief executives of General Motors Corp. and Nissan-Renault terminated talks about a possible globe-spanning alliance, according to a person familiar with the situation.
In a phone call this morning, GM's CEO Rick Wagoner and Carlos Ghosn, chief executive of Nissan Motor Co. and Renault SA, decided that the two sides were too far apart on the value of the potential tie-up and decided to stop the high-stakes talks which had been underway for two months.

A GM spokesman...

...declined to comment. The move comes ahead of the mid-October deadline the two sides had set for a decision.

Behind the failed talks was GM's demand that Nissan-Renault pay GM a "control premium" if it bought 20% of GM's stock as part of the alliance, according to another person familiar with the matter. Mr. Wagoner told his board Tuesday that investment bankers advised GM to secure a 20% control premium because such an alliance -while not technically control—would prevent the Detroit auto maker from making any other joint ventures.

Although we saw it coming like everyone else, we kinda thought they'd at least wait eleven days before the deadline the two sides had set for completion of the talks. But it now makes sense why GM's board yesterday voted to make changes in corporate governance at the General — they didn't want KirkKerk to start running around and bashing stuff in with his head.

It's breaking news, so we'll get you more as we know it. – Ray Wert

Alliance Talks Between GM, Nissan-Renault Are Terminated (sub. req.) [WSJ]

It Takes Two, Baby! Rick And Bob Versus The World

Ray Wert — Fri, 29 Sep 2006 12:19:39 EDT

Earlier, we showed you Renault et Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn getting his media shwerve on, but what about the tumultuous twosome of the General's General Wagoner and his hetero life-mate, Bob Lutz? And although some folks might give you the full frontal, we like to take things from behind every once in a while. And as you can see, these two're no slouches when it comes to media hawtness. But Ghosn's got two things going for him Rick n' Bob'll never have in attracting media attention. First, Ghosn's like a rock star with the Japanese and French elbow press, and second, he's got a comic book about his adventures. What kind of a comic book would Bob and Rick have — the "The Generally Ambiguously Gay Duo?" Oh wait, maybe it'd be "The Adventures of Bob and Silent Rick." Yeah, that'd totally be it. – Ray Wert

Kerkorian Pushes G.M. for Renault-Nissan Deal [NYT]

Ghosn Ape! Carlos, Suits Tour the Paris Auto Show

Mike Spinelli — Fri, 29 Sep 2006 07:43:14 EDT

Swarm! Swarm! Renault- Nissan's daddy and potential Ford main squeeze visited the Paris auto show this morning, a murder of Renault gendarmes, toadies, media and one jackass from New York in tow. The man's a celebrity, people, with more juice than Welch's and Ocean Spray combined, and thusly requires the company of thousands to keep him from going supernova. He's so important, his scalp is insured for billions. He's so big, he's got size-36 loafers over size-six feet. And, by our limited grasp of French, he either wants GM, or a cup of grapefruit juice.

Breaking! Kirk Kerkorian's Got A Stomach For More GM

Ray Wert — Thu, 28 Sep 2006 11:52:06 EDT

KirkKerk, like the Mona Lisa, has a dangerous smile when he's thinking about his ~~beloved~~ ~~loved~~ despised General Motors. Guess he and his hetero life partner, Tracinda, are thinking about what they'll do once they've snagged off of the street up to 12 million more shares of the company, which would give it more than a 10% stake, as the world's largest automaker continues discussions with Carlos Ghosn's Renault and Nissan about a three-way. The move by the world's most auto-tastic corporate raider comes just after Wagoner met with Carlos Ghosn, the head of Renault and Nissan, in Paris on Wednesday and agreed to continue talking about the alliance even though the talks are running into difficulties. What's our take? We're still of the opinion that Kirk wants to keep the pressure on the General and more importantly, on Slick Rick and his colonels participating in talks. We'll keep watching the story...despite the fact there's so many more fun things to be checking out here in Paris.

Kerkorian wants up to 12% GM stake [Freep]

Related:
The Jalopnik Morning Shift [internal]

Ghosn's Napoleonic Complex Continues, Now Eyeing A Ford-Renault-Nissan Threesome?

Ray Wert — Mon, 25 Sep 2006 07:55:00 EDT

According to the triumvirate of Bloomberg newsies — Jacqueline Simmons, John Lippert and Jeff Green — the man at the head of the wannabe-number-one is casting his net about looking for someone else to be a part of his team, and he's likely snared a big fish out in Dearborn, MI. That's right, now that family guy Bill is no longer as much on the scene, and the GM idea's not coming to pass, he's beginning to gaze longingly at the glass house. Just be careful Carlos, don't gaze too long, you might hurt your eyes from the glare. Yes, a FoMoCo-Renault-Nissan alliance may make a bit more sense, but come on, little big man — did ya actually think you could be the #1 auto man in the world just by willing it to be so? That's so J rgen Schrempp — or really, Napoleonic of you.

Ford, Ghosn May Talk as GM-Renault Fades, People Say (Update2) [Bloomberg News]

Super-Mega-Merger: GM-Ford Alliance In The Works?

Ray Wert — Mon, 18 Sep 2006 08:31:03 EDT

Automotive News is reporting a story this morning with an amazing level of detail that if true, would be the biggest news to rock the automotive world since the invention of the truck-car. They are reporting the possibility GM may cast Carlos Ghosn and talks of an alliance with Renault-Nissan to the winds in favor of keeping things in the Detroit family — and pursuing a merger or alliance with the boys and girls in Dearborn. That's right, they're claiming a GM and Ford tie-up's a possibility with talks occuring between GM CFO Fritz Henderson and FoMoCo CFO Don Leclair. Although there's no clear indication how those talks went, and both GM and Ford spokespersons aren't talking, what's clear is the mere possibility of it will send the pundit and press classes all atwitter quicker than a free buffet at a press conference.

The ultimate alliance: GM and Ford (sub. req.) [Automotive News]

Ghosn Going To Get Free Checks! Renault, Nissan Reportedly Hiring Banks To Advise On A GM Threesome

Ray Wert — Wed, 06 Sep 2006 11:38:43 EDT

Word on the street from both the business boys over at Bloomberg and the fiscal yet still frisky folks at the Financial Times is Renault-Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn's gone and hired advisory banks for a possible alliance with General Motors. The Financial Times report says Renault's hired investment bank BNP Paribas as its bank of choice for setting up Ghosn's three-way action with the General and Nissan. Although Nissan spokespeople are doing the "decline to comment" dance — we all know that's just the only way PR people know how to say "yes."

Renault has no comment on advisory bank reports [Reuters]

Le Whey Forward: Did Ghosn Get a Call From Bill Boss?

Mike Spinelli — Wed, 23 Aug 2006 10:41:26 EDT

The Wall Street Journal Europe is somehow under the impression Bill Ford recently called Renault-Nissan- World Domination, LTD boss Carlos Ghosn to explore a cooperation between the companies if a possible deal with GM fell through. According to Automotive News a Renault spokesman, whom we'll call Jean Claude, declined to comment. And, notwithstanding some wild-ass speculation by one journalist, at least one analyst has said a Ford-Renault-Nissan tie-up would be tidier than a comparable alliance between R-N and GM. (It's common knowledge FoMoCo once courted Ghosn for its top job, but Ghosn declined). With so much chatter in the pipeline, we just know someone's going to make a big announcement soon. We'll have to ask our bookie.

Breaking! Nissan's Quarterly Net Profit Rises 4.2%

Ray Wert — Tue, 25 Jul 2006 11:00:00 EDT

Carlos Ghosn shows yet again that he too knows the secret of "Step 2" — at least on the Japanese side of the globe-spanning alliance. There were approximately 110.2 billion reasons why we know he knows the secret (and yes, that's in yen...not American dollars. That'd be $945 million for the currency calculator adverse). That's a rise of 4.2% over the same quarter last year. Nissan also saw quarterly sales rise 3.1% to 2.2 trillion yen ($18.9 bilion). Not bad Ghosn, you trying to show off or something?

Nissan profit rises 4.2 percent as weaker yen lifts sales [Detroit News]

Related:
Nissan: Go, Go Ghosn Profits! [internal]

Breaking! Ghosn: GM-Renault-Nissan Discussions Won't Include Talk Of A Capital Stake

Ray Wert — Fri, 21 Jul 2006 10:04:24 EDT

Kirk Kerkorian's big time plan for a "Big" capital stake in General Motors for Renault-Nissan may not only not be in the cards — it won't even be discussed over the next 90 days. So says Renault-Nissan CEO, Carlos "Big Man" Ghosn in a discussion with reporters outside Nissan's Tokyo headquarters:

"We are not making the capital investment inside General Motors as the first element or condition...I am totally aware General Motors is an icon in the U.S. Because I know that, I don't believe in anything hostile. I believe this has to be a strong partnership."

Since prevailing opinion was KirkKerk's only interest in this whole cockamamie scheme was as a way to boost price of his own "Big" share of the General's general stock, we wonder how his shares will do on news this whole thing may just end up in a partnership over building wiring harnesses or cup holders in Korea?

Ghosn: Initial talks with GM won't address capital stake question [Detroit News]

Chrysler CEO Tom LaSorda Dodges Fastballs From CNBC's Bartiromo

Ray Wert — Mon, 17 Jul 2006 12:49:27 EDT

There are so many great combinations of "Dodger" and "Tom LaSorda" — we almost don't know where to start. Ok, well — we'll just play it straight down the plate then. Chrysler President and CEO Tom LaSorda sat down on CNBC's "Closing Bell" with Maria Bartiromo to answer some questions on the late-night dinner between Renault-Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn and GM CEO Rick Wagoner. Nothing really special, with LaSorda staying on his talking points — but damn it if he doesn't look like he's dropped a few pounds. Those shakes must really be helping.

Rick And Carlos Have Dinner; General Motors, Renault-Nissan Arrange 90-Day Money Back Guarantee

Ray Wert — Sat, 15 Jul 2006 11:00:00 EDT

Rick and Carlos had dinner last night in Metro Detroit — and although folks may not know where, we do know they've now moved from an agreement to sit down and talk about an "alliance" — to an agreement to discuss for 90 days an "alliance." But for us anyway, the question of "where" they ate is much more interesting — and both parties are being very quiet about the location. To wit, our thoughts on potential Ren Cen restaurants for last nights dinner:

Coach Insignia: Top o' the Ren Cen to ya Carlos Ghosn! This up-scale modern restaurant at the top of the Ren Cen has a penthouse view of Metro Detroit. The fare fuses some of the best of American tastes with Asian and French cuisines — the perfect way to say "Hey, we're open to having the best of all of our worlds working together — we can be like 'Ebony and Ivory' and live together in perfect harmony." However, the high cost of the meal may leave certain spending-adverse CEO's wondering whether they'll be able to leave the table without bankruptcy protection.

Riverwalk Cafe: Like a Saab, this over-priced eatery looks good from the outside, what with the view of the riverfront — but as all who go know, it's nothing more than a hotel restaurant — despite the taglines to the contrary. This would be the perfect location — if one of them was just trying to screw the other.

Seldom Blues: The Freep's restaurant of the year. Detroit's premier jazz restaurant, combines live Jazz music and a cutting-edge contemporary menu featuring continental cuisine with a French flair. This would be Carlos Ghosn's best choice to remind Monsieur Wagoner how not only can all three companies work together — but look at how well they can do together when unified under one French roof. Start enjoying those escargot now, Rick.

Andiamo's: This Italian eatery's tagline is "What Italian's meant to be!" And oh, it is! Despite a Spaghetti Alla Andiamo that isn't quite as good as Lelli's or Mario's in its prime — the bolognese sauce is still simply to die for. And considering the Bloomfield Hills location of this restaurant (back when it was another famous Metro Detroit eatery named Machus Red Fox) was the last known sighting of Jimmy Hoffa — we think this is the best place possible for GM's CEO to put a li'l bit of a squeeze on the boisterous Brazillian-French-Lebanese Renault-Nissan CEO. You hear us, wise guy?

The RenCen Food Court: More than likely, the cash-strapped GM CEO took Carlos to the only place he could afford — the RenCen Food Court. With its neon signs and harsh fake lighting, this could be exactly the type of bargain basement dining spot Rick could use to say "Hey Carlos, we've got a lot of baggage — is this really the kind of thing you want hanging like an albatross over your neck?" Plus, we hear they have a Sbarro!

CEOs SET TIMETABLE: Ghosn, Wagoner meet, order 90-day review of proposal [Freep]

Here's Looking At You, Rick: Carlos "Big Man" Ghosn Heads To GM

Ray Wert — Fri, 14 Jul 2006 11:22:49 EDT

GM's Rick Wagoner took to the stage earlier this week, and yesterday it was Carlos Ghosn's turn on the runway. We already gave you a look at Ghosn's conquest of the beaches of Bartiromo, but that wasn't his only foray into the media wilds yesterday. Ghosn sat down for coffee and pastries with all sorts of print journalists (don't worry Carlos — we were busy yesterday anyway) resulting in a number of interesting and provocative stories on the energetic and excitable Renault-Nissan CEO along with the accompanying conjecture on today's meeting with Wagoner. Just as importantly — it resulted in a number of funny quotes and exchanges like these from today's New York Times:

"I do not take too much in what's said, because we haven't started," Mr. Ghosn said. "This is the beginning of the story."
Told that those words sounded like a line from the film "Casablanca,'' Mr. Ghosn declared, with a smile, "This is Ghosn. This is not 'Casablanca.' "

In addition to Ghosn wanting to be clear he's no Ilsa Lund or Rick Blaine, he's of the belief the idea of a GM-Renault-Nissan tripartide alliance is gonna be well, let's let him tell you:

"I would not be here today if I did not think it was big...big! I am focused on what is the size of the prize..."

We feel like maybe this whole thing is about either Ghosn looking to be the big man of the auto industry or maybe he feels like GM has a hole his alliance can fill — perhaps a small (and mid-size car) hole, but a hole nonetheless. Likewise, Renault-Nissan probably has a hole in its product lineup as well — possibly one big enough to drive a pickup truck (or SUV) through. And you know, if things don't work out — Rick and Carlos will always have Detroit.

A Big Vision, Only if G.M. Is Willing [NYT]

Related:
All of our GM-Renault-Nissan coverge [internal]

Ghosn Goes Live All Over CNBC's Maria Bartiromo

Ray Wert — Fri, 14 Jul 2006 09:00:00 EDT

Maria "The Hottness" Bartiromo had GM's newest and biggest pal, Carlos "Big Time" Ghosn (more on that later on) on "Closing Bell" yesterday. Although Ghosn didn't say much more than he already has — there was one additional nugget of knowledge the sparkling Bartiromo gleaned from the boisterous Renault-Nissan CEO, and it's that he isn't looking to be the next ~~Napoleon~~ CEO of General Motors. Wagoner's got to be happy to hear that — however, Ghosn said nothing about whether he's willing to take the job of "Supreme Allied Commander" or "Emperor" — so we guess those are still potentially up for grabs. Oh and by the way — that meeting — it should be starting right about now. [Video via LLN]

Ghosn Talking The Talk On GM

Ray Wert — Thu, 13 Jul 2006 14:21:53 EDT

Renault-Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn sat down with Detroit News auto writer Christine Tierney to discuss life, his favorite flavor of ice cream and, oh yeah...his belief that a three-way alliance with General Motors could generate big benefits for all three companies by increasing short-term performance but also helping with long-term direction. Ghosn emphasized it would only work if it were a friendly deal benefiting all three automakers and in addition:

"This would define the industry for many years to come if it were to happen...is there any possibility that in a few weeks, we just step down together and say, we're not able to see enough potential? I can tell you yes, this is possible. But if I didn't think that there is more chance that we will outline a big prize, I wouldn't be here today...the potential is big, as long as there is good faith from both parties to pursue it, outline it and be ready to work for it."

Now that's some pretty big talk about big potential from Ghosn — and there seem to be two really surprising things from just this little blurb. First thought is the man is totally looking at doing some serious nation-building — the man wants to be top dog, king and king-maker all in one. Second, if he's being honest about this it almost rules out using these talks as a feint to the left (or east really, cause that's where Dearborn is in relationship to the RenCen). It's unfortunate that Tierney and the Detroit News only have this one quote up until the rest of the article hits stands tomorrow. Kind of like some sort of...

...tease.

Ghosn: Alliance could help all 3 automakers [Detroit News]

Related:
Breaking! GM CEO Rick Wagoner Live [internal]

Autoextremist Feels Ghosn, York, KirkKerk; Doesn't Like It

Davey G. Johnson — Wed, 12 Jul 2006 18:00:00 EDT

Sweet Peet D looks at the ways GM, Nissan and Renault could unite on specific products, including an engine-manufaturing alliance much like Hyundai, DCX and Mitsu's GEMA, as well as some platform-sharing. And in the Autoextremist's eyes, that's all they're gonna get out of Ghosn, York and Kerkorian's talks with Wagoner. Or, all they should get. In his eyes, this is nothing short of a hostile bid, with York as the conductor and Kerkorian the cash behind the operation. Peet thinks GM can and will resist the attack, also going so far as to only allow Kerkorian to have a rep on the board that isn't Jerry York.

A scenario that GM can live with is a scenario that won't sit well with Kerkorian-York [Autoextremist]

Breaking! Pontissanault Here We Come: GM Board Agrees To Consider Alliance With Renault-Nissan

Ray Wert — Fri, 07 Jul 2006 14:13:44 EDT

The General's Board of Directors agreed today to consider an alliance with Renault-Nissan. CEO Rick Wagoner made the following statement after what many say was a surprisingly short board meeting:

"We will enter into discussions with the managements of Renault and Nissan with an open mind — eager to hear their ideas of how an alliance between our companies might work to our mutual benefit"

We gotta say that's a really slick move Rick. It's smart to at least be talking, and it paints Wagoner as not being against possible solutions — which was what many folks feared he would be. Kudos to Rick for saving his butt from being dropped directly into the coals for at least one more day. But wait, Wagoner had more to say:

"Given the complexity of any potential relationship, it has to be carefully considered on its merits before coming to any conclusion...we are committed to an objective and thorough review of that potential."

Ah, now there's the Wagoner we all know and love! Let's paint it as both "complex" and a "relationship" — not so much an attempted "ousting." Well played sir, well played. The board is yours, Kirk.

GM board agrees to consider three-way tie-up [MSNBC]

Related:
The whole GM-Renault-Nissan shmear [internal]

Could Kerkorian Push GM Into Ghosn Renault-Nissan?

Davey G. Johnson — Wed, 05 Jul 2006 21:30:00 EDT

According to the AP, KirkKerk's Tracinda Corp, which owns nearly a 10th of GM, in a partnership with Renault and Nissan, could easily purchase 30% of the ailing American automaker, giving them a hefty vote on the board, and possibly ending Rick Wagoner's lifelong career with the General. Some are for the deal, hailing Carlos as a turnaround genius, while others see it as a ploy by Kerkorian to get his way. In any event, things undoubtedly just got more hairball at the RenCen, especially among the lifelong Michiganders who blanch at the thought of moving to the Volunteer State.

Experts: Kerkorian may take control of GM [Contra Costa Times]

Related:
More GM-Renault-Nissan

BREAKING! GM Board Calls Emergency Meeting Over Proposed Renault-Nissan Alliance

Mike Spinelli — Fri, 30 Jun 2006 15:29:40 EDT

Automotive News just reported GM called an emergency board meeting Friday to examine Kirk Kerkorian's proposal for a GM-Renault-Nissan alliance. GM's not commenting yet. We've already ordered an LS7-powered 350Z — in our mind.

Wagoner Strikes Back: GM Responds to Renault-Nissan Merger Talk Ghosn Crazy? Renault-Nissan Looking to Buy Minority Interest in GM [internal]

Wagoner Strikes Back: GM Responds to Renault-Nissan Merger Talk

Mike Spinelli — Fri, 30 Jun 2006 13:23:41 EDT

General Motors issued a "oh no you di'int" to this morning's media feeding frenzy regarding ot the recent 13-D filing that indicated Renault-Nissan's intention to buy an interest in GM:

General Motors Corp. (NYSE: GM) has received no offer or proposal from Renault/Nissan with respect to its participating in the Renault/Nissan Alliance, as suggested in the 13-D Filing made today by the Tracinda Corporation. The Tracinda request will be taken under advisement by the GM Board of Directors. At this time, we have no further comment.

Just checking — "taken under advisement" still means "go fuck yourself," right?

Breaking! Japanese Automakers Post Sales Growth In May -- Except Nissan

Ray Wert — Mon, 26 Jun 2006 18:08:50 EDT

Go-Go-Go-Ghosn, You Know What They Say! Now, Now, Now Ghosn, Nissan'll Make It Some Day! Sha-la-la-la Ghosn, you're doin' fine — you and your management, ahead of your time!

-Joseph & The Amazing Technicolor Dream-Car

Tho' we're no fan of showtunes, we think that's how Andrew Lloyd woulda written it if the bible story had been about Carlos Ghosn — the CEO of the only major Japanese automaker not to show sales growth in the month of May. Nissan, Japan's second-largest automaker posted a decline in global production of 11%, selling only 248,349 cars — and making the company's fifth straight month of declining sales. All this while Toyota, Honda and Mazda all showed positive sales growth. Can this be the end of the fabled story of Mr. Ghosn and his amazingly fabulous techni-color Dream-car? Only time and a story-teller know for sure. Go-go-go, GO!

Most Japanese automakers report global production rise in May [Detroit News]

Related:
Nissan: Go, Go Ghosn Profits! [internal]

Ghosn Fishing? Is Renault-Nissan-Ford In the Works?

Mike Spinelli — Thu, 25 May 2006 11:13:28 EDT

It's some wild-ass speculation to be sure. BusinessWeek's David Kiley picked up on a recent quote from Renault-Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn and ran screaming into the fortune-teller's tent. In a recent article in Forbes Kiley notes on BW's Autobeat blog, Ghosn was asked, "Do you see the day where you could expand the Renault-Nissan alliance to include a North American company?" to which he responded, "Why not?" That said, Kiley came up with Ford as the only such firm available (well it couldn't be GM — the legal fees alone would be 12 figures). Of course it could be wishful thinking, considering such an outrageous story would likely net Kiley about 1,000 column inches and put him in range of a Pulitzer. But could it happen? Would it take too much genius even for Carlos the Great. Hmmm.

Can Ghosn See Ford In His Future? [BusinessWeek's Autobeat blog]

Related:
Carlos Ghosn Says 'Non' to Bill Ford [internal]