Japanese corporations are losing their position in the consumer electronics segment, but with the hope of looking at automotive electronics segment, which in recent years is not only involved in the entertainment of the driver, but also becoming more active in helping to operate the vehicle. In addition, the fashion for hybrids and electric vehicles increases the demand for rechargeable batteries, in which the release of the Japanese yet retain the lead when it comes to technological competition with the Chinese and Koreans. The same Panasonic, for example, is involved in financing the construction Gigafactory - the largest enterprise in the United States for the production of battery cells, which will be installed in electric Tesla Motors.
As noted by Reuters, with reference to the Japanese agency Nikkei, Panasonic Corporation is in the final stages of negotiations to buy ZKW Group assets - European manufacturer of automotive lighting, which supplies its products to General Motors, BMW and other major automakers. It is expected that Japanese investors will lay out for ZKW assets of at least $ 1 billion. The representatives of the Japanese brand declined to comment on the deal.
Panasonic is still specialized in navigation systems and batteries, but in recent years demonstrates the intention to increase the automotive components market coverage. Last year, the Japanese company bought 49% stake in the Spanish manufacturer of automotive mirrors Ficosa International. Korean competitors also monitored the market of automotive components - recently became aware of the intention to buy a Samsung Harman International Industries for $ 8 billion.