The Renault-Nissan alliance which has acquired a controlling stake in Mitsubishi is on target to become the world’s biggest manufacturer.
Even before it took Mitsubishi under its wing, the Franco-Japanese company thought it would be in the world’s top three by 2018, with VW and Toyota vying for the top spot.
But the Mitsubishi deal has moved them ahead in production and JATO Dynamics says it was still uncertain if the Alliance operation would put them on top this year, although boss Carlos Ghosn says it will.
Renault and Nissan sales have steadily improved and out-performed rivals as well so they are well on course to hitting the top spot.
They have also been bolstered by strong sales of sub-brands Dacia, Lada, Infiniti and Samsung cars and they are leading sectors with Zoe and LEAF EV sales.