[Quinn]

Mercedes has confirmed yet another manufacturing site for batteries that will support their EQ models. This marks the 9th plant that now spans across three continents. They are taking every precaution to prevent any supply issues resulting in delayed production. Lets hope this also starts a transition towards renewable energy for Poland. https://insideevs.com/mercedes-benz-battery-factory-poland/

 

[PetersBenz]

I have a feeling the local government gave Mercedes some incentive to setup during what's currently some hard economic times for Poland.

 

[Enzo]

Considering their aggressive EV strategy, securing this infrastructure is a crucial first step. Glad to see that some brands are continuing to create new jobs while many other automakers are currently making huge cuts. They should also consider some joint ventures with established battery suppliers.

 

[PetersBenz]

Considering their aggressive EV strategy, securing this infrastructure is a crucial first step. Glad to see that some brands are continuing to create new jobs while many other automakers are currently making huge cuts. They should also consider some joint ventures with established battery suppliers.

I think its the start of something major because other well established brands haven't gotten into EV's as yet, Toyota and Honda being a couple of them.

 

[Quinn]

Toyota has been focusing on hybrids, because that's still the more popular segment of EV's and Honda has the Urban EV in development. Toyota just recently announced a partnership with Panasonic which could mean new models on the horizon.

 

[PetersBenz]

Toyota has been focusing on hybrids, because that's still the more popular segment of EV's and Honda has the Urban EV in development. Toyota just recently announced a partnership with Panasonic which could mean new models on the horizon.

from a profitability stand point its what sells and in mass volumes right now over anything else

 

[Enzo]

Being first to market isn't as important anymore in this segment, and it will allow those late to the party to address shortcomings and gaps in lineups. Daimler made a multi million dollar investment in battery startup StoreDot awhile back.

 

[PetersBenz]

Other tech features like those infotainment related we're seeing now should play a big factor as well.

 

[Quinn]

Those who get to market first get to set benchmarks though, but that's all looking fairly normalized for 2019. The disparity between models aren't like they were for first generation EV's.

 

[PetersBenz]

Those who get to market first get to set benchmarks though, but that's all looking fairly normalized for 2019. The disparity between models aren't like they were for first generation EV's.

If that was true then Acura would currently be the only leading Japanese luxury automaker