Nissan says it is considering working with a third party to fully utilise its Sunderland plant.
Former Nissan staff want pre-1997 pension pot payments to reflect current inflation rates.
Nissan says 20 jobs at the Sunderland factory are not at risk, although 183 roles had been promised.
An investigation into what caused the blaze is under way.
The Sunderland car maker says it deducted millions from its accounts but will still launch new cars.
A new train connection, car building and a felled Christmas tree make the headlines.
Business Secretary Peter Kyle says "Nissan's investment is a major commitment to the North East".
A total of 30 Nissans have been stolen since the start of August, South Yorkshire Police say.
The trial is the latest chapter of what has become known as the "dieselgate" scandal.
