Nov. 15, 2025 | Weekend Drive: Toyota, Nissan bet big on North America
About this episode
Toyota's significant $10 billion investment in U.S. manufacturing, particularly in a new battery facility in North Carolina, highlights its commitment to local production. Meanwhile, GM faces challenges in Canada with executive changes and labor tensions following the closure of its BrightDrop line. Nissan aims to revitalize its North American sales with a focus on hybrids and plans to resume production of key models in Canada after a tariff-related hiatus. The episode also teases upcoming highlights from the LA Auto Show.
Automotive News’ Omari Gardner and Automotive News Canada’s Greg Layson talk about major moves by Japanese automakers this week to boost manufacturing and sales in the U.S. and Canada amid tariffs.
Toyota
"So Omari, you were down in North Carolina this week with Toyota to check out its massive plan..."
Toyota is a big car company from Japan that makes many popular cars, including hybrids and electric models.
Toyota Motor Corporation is a Japanese automotive manufacturer known for its reliable, fuel-efficient vehicles and pioneering hybrid technology.
battery facility
"and they have a couple of buildings up that make hybrid battery cells and modules, but they're still working on the..."
A battery facility is a factory where batteries for cars are made. These batteries power electric and hybrid vehicles.
A battery facility is a manufacturing plant dedicated to producing battery cells and modules, which are essential components for electric and hybrid vehicles.
hybrid battery cells and modules
"and they have a couple of buildings up that make hybrid battery cells and modules, but they're still working on the..."
Hybrid battery cells are small parts that hold electricity. They’re put together into larger groups called modules, which go inside hybrid cars.
Hybrid battery cells are individual units that store electrical energy, while modules combine multiple cells into a single pack used in plug‑in hybrids.
plug-in hybrid
"but they're still working on the, I believe the plug in hybrid and the building that builds EV batteries."
A plug‑in hybrid is a car that can run on gasoline or on electricity. You can charge its battery from a wall outlet.
A plug‑in hybrid is a vehicle that combines an internal combustion engine with rechargeable battery packs, allowing it to drive on electric power alone for short distances.
EV batteries
"but they're still working on the, I believe the plug in hybrid and the building that builds EV batteries."
EV batteries are big batteries that let electric cars run. They store electricity so the car can move without gas.
EV batteries are large battery packs that power fully electric vehicles, providing the energy needed for propulsion without gasoline.
Nissan
"Omari, now Nissan made a splash this week with CEO Ivan Espinoza telling our own Hans Grimo that the Japanese automaker is planning a blitz of new product next year to jumpstart US sales."
Nissan is a big car company from Japan that makes many different kinds of cars, like small city cars and larger SUVs.
Nissan is a Japanese automotive manufacturer known for producing a wide range of vehicles, from compact cars to SUVs and electric models.
hybrid vehicles
"And again, I think the getting hybrids, you know, that's where the market is right now. Again, those hybrids in market will be key to their profitability."
Hybrids are cars that use both gasoline and electric power to save fuel and help the environment.
Hybrid vehicles combine an internal combustion engine with one or more electric motors to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.
Kia Telluride (second generation)
"One of the more interesting things will be the next generation Kia Tell You Ride. It's in the second generation."
The Telluride is a popular SUV from Kia. The new version that came out recently looks nicer and has better tech.
The Kia Telluride is a midsize crossover SUV that debuted in 2019. The second generation, introduced for the 2023 model year, features updated styling, more advanced technology, and improved interior quality.
Chrysler Pacifica
"So if there is any development on the Chrysler Pacifica, I am always interested in that in particular that model."
The Pacifica is a big van made by Chrysler that’s good for families because it has lots of room and comfy seats.
The Chrysler Pacifica is a full‑size minivan produced by the American automaker Chrysler, known for its spacious interior and family‑friendly features.
Honda RAV4
"And then of course anything that has to do with Honda or Toyota because for those that don't know the RAV4 is only made in Canada."
The RAV4 is a small SUV made by Honda that’s built in Canada and is liked for being easy to drive and good on gas.
The Honda RAV4 is a compact crossover SUV that, in Canada, is manufactured at the Alliston plant and is popular for its practicality and fuel efficiency.
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