MCG Executive Briefing for June 7, 2019

This 1970 Plymouth Superbird is one of two genuine Richard Petty NASCAR racers to be offered at the Mecum Harrisburg auction. Get all the latest auto industry news in the Executive Briefing. 

 

 

 

Today’s Headlines:

 Fiat Chrysler Automobiles has withdrawn its merger offer to Renault after the French government, French union, and Renault shareholder Nissan balked at the deal. More at Forbes.

 Reid Bigland, North American sales chief of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, has filed a whistleblower suit alleging that FCA retaliated when he cooperated with government investigators. More at The Detroit News. 

 Ford confirmed that it will close its UK engine plant in Bridgend, South Wales by September of 2020 as part of its $11 billion global restructuring plan. More at Automotive News Europe. 

 British engineer and entrepreneur Robin Herd, a noted Formula 1 and Indy car designer and the co-founder of March Engineering, has passed away after an extended illness. More at Motor Sport. 

 Toyota and Subaru have joined their engineering and production resources to develop a common platform for battery-electric C and D-segment sedans and SUVs. More at The Drive. 

 Automakers have backed a compromise aimed at heading off a confrontation between California and the Trump administration over emissions regulations through 2026. More at Autoblog.

+   After 20 years, celebrated automotive designer Ian Callum will be stepping down as design director for the Jaguar brand and will be replaced by Julian Thomson. More at Motor Trend.  

+  Two Plymouth NASCAR Grand National racers formerly campaigned by Richard Petty will be among the headliners at the Mecum Harrisburg sale on July 31-August 3. More at Hemmings Daily. 

+  General Motors is teaming with Michelin to develop the Uptis airless wheel/tire combination on a fleet of Chevy Bolts for possible introduction in 2024. More at USA Today. 

+  Formula 1 could switch from carbon-carbon to carbon-ceramic brakes in the near future if it needs to become more road relevant, according to series supplier Brembo. More at Motorsport.com. 

Review the previous Executive Briefing from June 3 here.

Photo courtesy and copyright Mecum Auctions. 

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