Honda moves full speed into N. Amercian truck market

Article Abstract:

Honda Motor Co. Ltd. of Japan has begun manufacturing its Odyssey minivans in Canada and is planning for production of sport utility vehicles eventually as minivan production reaches its peak capacity at 120,000 units annually. The planned SUV, which would be called MAV, will be of the same size as Toyota's Lexus RX300. Honda's entry into the truck business in North America would raise the stakes of Japanese auto makers against the Big Three US auto makers, which have dominated the market with around 87% of the Canadian truck market.

Comment:

Begins manufacturing minivans in Canada & is planning for production of sport utility vehicles eventually

Product information, Light Truck and Utility Vehicle Manufacturing, Minivans, Honda Motor Company Ltd., Article

Ford to crank up engine production at windsor

Article Abstract:

Ford Motor Company of Canada Ltd will increase the production at its Windsor Engine Plant by 100,000 engines annually. The plant, which produced 800.000 4.6-liter, 5.4-liter and 6.8-liter engines in 1998, will boost its annual production to 950,000 engines per year. The increase in engine production has been spurred by an increasing North American demand for full-sized pickup trucks and SUVs. Total production of pickups and SUVs is projected to reach more than 1.3 million in 1999.

Production data, Gasoline Engine and Engine Parts Manufacturing, Auto Gasoline Engines & Engine Parts, Ford Motor Company of Canada Ltd.

Magna delays spinoff of Venture unit

Article Abstract:

Magna International Inc, a Canadian auto parts giant, has delayed the spinoff of its MI Venture Inc scheduled on Sep 15, 1999, to the next three months. The move was necessary in light of Venture's recent US$87-million purchase of Gulfstream Park Racing Association Inc from two Japanese companies. Venture will close the transaction by third quarter 1999. Magna will also have its next regular dividend payment date on Dec 15, 1999.

Asset sales & divestitures, Motor Vehicle Parts Manufacturing, Parent-to-subsidiary activities, Motor Vehicle Parts, Magna International Inc.