Reuters, PARISPlans to merge automakers Renault SA and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) NV could re-emerge, despite the breakdown of negotiations last week, French Minister of Transport Elisabeth Borne said yesterday, joining a chorus of French officials hoping the deal could be revived. France has a 15 percent stake in Renault and the collapse of the talks deprived the companies of an opportunity to create the world’s third-biggest automaker with 5 billion euro (US$5.6 billion) in promised annual synergies. Separately, FCA on Monday said that it would develop self-driving systems for its commercial vehicles in partnership with Aurora Innovation, a tech start-up led by a former Google auto executive. Under the partnership, Aurora is to supply a self-driving platform that comprises the hardware, software, and data services that aim for “level 4” autonomy, which can navigate without human intervention. “Aurora brings a unique skillset combined with advanced and purposeful technology that complements and enhances our approach to self-driving,” he said.

Source: Taipei Times June 11, 2019 15:56 UTC