Automakers eye Israel’s transition from start-up to high-tech nation

A decade ago, one would have been forgiven for ignoring Israel’s contribution to the automotive industry. According to figures from the International Organisation of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers (OICA), Finland’s contribution of just 11,000 passenger and 64 commercial vehicles placed it ahead of Israel on the world stage. Today, however, automakers are flocking east in vast numbers. So far in 2019, Ford, Renault and Nissan have all opened innovation labs in Tel Aviv alone.