In ramping up regional output to meet booming demand for EVs, Panasonic also aims to increase localized sourcing of battery materials, targeting a 50 percent local procure rate.

Toyota boss Akio Toyoda had a big hand in testing and vetting his new namesake GR Corolla hot hatch, which will be go on sale this winter in Japan and be available on U.S. dealer lots next year as a 2023 model.

Solid-state power packs promise safety, cost, weight and performance improvements over today's lithium ion batteries. They could help bring larger trucks and SUVs into the EV segment.

Does it make sense these days to invest in a new generation of small, gasoline-powered, modestly priced sports cars? Absolutely, say Toyota and Subaru.

Nissan is pushing through its product revival to bring out 10 new or updated models in a span of 20 months.