In the contemporary International Relations, the automobile manufacturing is one of the most important yet profit-making business, providing numerous jobs, and a pivotal aspect of enhancing research and development. However, with the growing geopolitical tensions, enhanced protectionism, and the revival of nationalism; the value of automobile manufacturing has become a matter of national pride and national identity. It is understandable that states take great pride in their national and indigenous carmakers, and consider them to be a part of their national identity, power, and prestige. Likewise, owning and travelling in nationally produced vehicles is now and has always been a source of showcasing patriotism and nationalism.

International Leaders and their Automobiles

The United States (US) President travels in the specially built Cadillac known as the Beast, manufactured by the General Motors, and it weighs around 10 tons. The Japanese Emperor prefers to travel in an especially built Toyota Century. The Malaysians preferred their locally built Proton cars, and the German statesmen travel in the locally produced either a Mercedes-Benz or a BMW. The British Royals travel in Rolls-Royce, Bentley, Jaguar, or Land Rover vehicles to portray the prestige of their national automakers.

Similarly, The Chinese President Xi Jinping uses an especially built Hongqi L5 (N701), which has unique features including armour, electronic countermeasures, and sophisticated communications.

Russia’s Aurus Motor Company

The name Aurus comes from combining two words, where Au comes from the Latin name of gold, i.e., Aurum, and Rus is the........

© New Eastern Outlook