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We are wheels up to NYC, but not before a little tour around the world of auto. We are looking at how Nissan is setting up for a model release onslaught, Fisker running out of runway, and Starbucks thinking Locally Global.
Show Notes with links:
- Nissan announced a sweeping three-year strategy, introducing e-Power hybrid tech in the U.S., launching seven new models in North America, and aiming for a significant sales boost.
- CEO Makoto Uchida unveiled ambitious plans to boost global sales by 1 million vehicles, deploy advanced battery technologies, and cut the cost of EVs by 30% to achieve cost parity with internal combustion vehicles by 2030.
- The plan, named "The Arc," aims to revitalize Nissan through radical changes, including launching 30 new models globally over the next three years, with a focus on electrification and innovation.
- "We must make radical changes to become a sustainable company. Disruption is the new normal. We aim to recover volume and drive profit," says CEO Makoto Uchida, emphasizing the necessity for drastic shifts in Nissan's approach to car manufacturing and sales.
- Fisker's negotiations with Nissan have abruptly ended, throwing the electric-vehicle startup into turmoil. With its shares halted and bankruptcy looming, Fisker is frantically seeking strategic solutions.
- The company is exploring in- or out-of-court restructurings and capital markets transactions to salvage its situation.
- Thomas Hayes of Great Hill Capital warns of the growing likelihood of Fisker filing for bankruptcy protection, potentially marking Henrik Fisker's second failed auto startup.
- Amidst fundraising challenges and less than $100 million in market valuation, Fisker struggled with continual supply chain issues, production delays, and a recent poor review of the Ocean from YouTube influencer Marques BrownleeÂ
- Fisker's attempt to raise up to $150 million by selling convertible notes has fallen through after missing a crucial interest payment.
- "I can't put it if it is next week or next year, but it is inevitable," Thomas Hayes, Chairman at Great Hill Capital, on the chances of Fisker filing for bankruptcy.
- Starbucks has promoted Brady Brewer from Global CMO to CEO of its international business, signaling the end of the traditional CMO role within the company. This strategic move is part of a broader trend among major companies reevaluating the role of marketing in their organizational structure.
- Starbucks is shifting to a regional CEO model with localized marketing support, emphasizing tailored marketing strategies.
- Two new marketing roles are introduced: an EVP, Chief Merchant and Product Officer for global product strategy, and a Global Brand Creative Leader to oversee the brand's global identity.
- This change aligns with Starbucks' "Triple Shot Reinvention" plan, aiming to expand its store footprint and double i
Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.
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