As the world continues to grapple with its deepest recession in more than a generation, the global car industry is facing unprecedented turmoil unlike anything seen in many decades. Consumer demand is down as is production, with companies closing plants, laying off workers and considering alliances and outright sales that would have been unthinkable just a year earlier.

What will likely emerge out of all of this is that they’ll be fewer brands, several mega mergers and a different landscape come 2012, the first full year that the current recession will probably be over. Let’s take a look at some of the emerging and pending trends taking place in the world of cars:

Chrysler and Fiat – If the US government gives its approval, Chrysler and Fiat will begin a historic alliance. Chrysler will get several Fiat models to sell as Dodges and Chryslers while Fiat will gain access to the Chrysler distribution network to sell its Alfa Romeo line in the US and Canada. For its part Fiat gains a 35% stake in Chrysler. » Read more: As the Car Industry Sinks, New Buyers Emerge