Volkswagen has been considering taking over Japan’s Isuzu, in a joint venture with Germany’s truck maker MAN.  They’re a little hesitant after the 11 March 2011 disasters.

VW is also working on a partnership with Suzuki.  The German car maker has cited cultural differences as problems getting into the Japanese market, but now has to consider the damaged ‘just in time’ production practices in Japan, which is causing the current severe parts shortages.