WSJ Tech News Briefing – Tech Minute: Daimler Truck’s Japan Unit and Foxconn to Set Up Electric Bus Maker
Date: January 22, 2026
Host: Julie Chang
Podcast: WSJ Tech News Briefing
Overview
This Tech Minute episode delivers a quick roundup of major tech and business developments for the day. Featured stories include:
- The formation of a new electric bus company in Japan by Foxconn and Mitsubishi Fuso (a Daimler Truck Holdings unit)
- Ubisoft’s dramatic restructuring and market shock
- Elon Musk’s late addition to the World Economic Forum lineup amid ongoing controversy
Key Discussion Points & Insights
1. Foxconn and Mitsubishi Fuso’s Electric Bus Venture
[00:37–01:14]
- Announcement:
Foxconn and Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus (Daimler Truck Holdings' Japan unit) will establish a new electric bus company in the second half of 2026. - Purpose:
The company aims to develop and sell electric buses in Japan and internationally. - Collaboration Details:
- Fuso brings its expertise in design, development, and manufacturing of buses.
- Foxconn contributes its zero emission vehicle technology and global presence.
- Pending Approvals:
The project awaits shareholder and regulatory sign-off. - Background Context:
“Foxconn, which is best known for assembling Apple's iPhones, has been diversifying its business lines in recent years.”
– Julie Chang [01:09]
2. Ubisoft’s Structural Overhaul and Market Fallout
[01:14–01:44]
- Market Reaction:
Ubisoft stock plunged over 30% in Paris following major announcements. - Company Changes:
- Structural overhaul: shifting to a new organizational structure centered on five creative houses, effective April.
- Discontinuation of several games.
- Revised financial targets: Guidance for fiscal 2026 net bookings lowered to €1.5 billion, and the company expects a €1 billion operating loss.
- Memorable Quote:
“As we told you yesterday, the French video game group said it would set up a new structure... and expects a 1 billion euro operating loss.”
– Julie Chang [01:29]
3. Elon Musk at the World Economic Forum (WEF)
[01:44–02:12]
- Surprise Appearance:
Elon Musk added late to the WEF agenda, scheduled for an interview with WEF Chair and BlackRock CEO Larry Fink at 10:30 AM Eastern. - Context:
- Musk has been highly critical of European politics and supportive of right-wing movements.
- His appearance comes amid an online dispute (“flame war”) with Ryanair’s CEO.
- Quote:
“Musk has been a major critic of European politics and a supporter of right wing movements in the region. His appearance coincides with an ongoing online flame war with the CEO of Europe's largest airline, Ryanair.”
– Julie Chang [01:58–02:12]
Memorable Quotes & Notable Moments
- “Foxconn, which is best known for assembling Apple's iPhones, has been diversifying its business lines in recent years.”
— Julie Chang [01:09] - “Ubisoft lowered its fiscal 2026 net bookings guidance to 1.5 billion euros and expects a 1 billion euro operating loss.”
— Julie Chang [01:38] - “Musk has been a major critic of European politics and a supporter of right wing movements in the region. His appearance coincides with an ongoing online flame war with the CEO of Europe's largest airline, Ryanair.”
— Julie Chang [01:58–02:12]
Key Timestamps
- [00:37] – Start of today’s tech headlines with Julie Chang
- [00:41–01:14] – Details on Foxconn and Mitsubishi Fuso’s electric bus collaboration
- [01:14–01:44] – Ubisoft’s restructuring, guidance cut, and shares tumble
- [01:44–02:12] – Elon Musk added to WEF, context on his recent criticisms and controversies
For more updates, tune in to the next episode.
