Nissan, Honda, Mitsubishi end collaboration talks
Japanese automakers Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., Honda Motor Co., Ltd., and Mitsubishi Motors Corporation have officially terminated their memorandum of understanding (MoU) regarding a potential tripartite collaboration.
The decision follows the cancellation of a separate MoU between Nissan and Honda, signed on 23 December 2024, which explored the possibility of a business integration between the two automakers. Since signing the MoU, the management teams of Nissan and Honda, including the chief executive officers, have engaged in discussions and assessed the broader market environment, the objectives of the business integration, and the management strategies and structures post-integration. Furthermore, recognising the significance of the business integration, both companies have carefully consulted with various stakeholders.
During these discussions, a range of options regarding the structure of the business integration was considered. Honda proposed altering the structure from the initial plan outlined in the MoU, which involved establishing a joint holding company—where Honda would appoint the majority of directors and the chief executive officer based on a joint share transfer—to a structure in which Honda would become the parent company and Nissan the subsidiary through a share exchange.
As a result of these discussions, both companies concluded that, in order to prioritise swift decision-making and the implementation of management measures in an increasingly volatile market environment as the industry moves towards electrification, it would be most appropriate to discontinue discussions and terminate the MoU.
Despite ending talks on a joint structure, the three companies will continue working together under a strategic partnership, focusing on electrification and intelligent vehicle technology. This partnership, initially outlined in an MoU signed on 1 August 2024, aims to develop innovative solutions while maintaining individual corporate strategies.
A spokesperson from Nissan commented that while the formal integration discussions have ended, the companies remain committed to exploring areas of technological collaboration and industry innovation in the evolving automotive landscape.
This decision reflects the broader industry shift towards strategic alliances rather than full-scale mergers, as automakers navigate the transition to electric and autonomous mobility.
For more details, visit Nissan Global, Honda Global, or Mitsubishi Motors.
