Nissan and Honda join forces on EVs
Japanese auto giants aim to form partnership to share future electric cars and intelligent mobility techJapanese car-makers Nissan and Honda have signed a memorandum of understanding to explore a strategic partnership in the fields of vehicle electrification and intelligent mobility.
The scope of the feasibility study includes automotive software platforms, core components related to EVs and “complementary products” that could fast-track the global rollout of electric cars from the two auto giants, both of which are well behind the leading brands in the Australian market.
“It is important to prepare for the increasing pace of transformation in mobility in the mid-to-long-term, and it is significant that we have reached this agreement based on a mutual understanding that Honda and Nissan face common challenges,” said Nissan CEO Makoto Uchida.
“We look forward to further discussions and aim to find win-wins for sustainable growth.”
Some of Nissan’s upcoming projects include battery-electric successors to the Juke and QASHQAI SUVs as well as a new-generation LEAF hatchback, with all three set to share platform and powertrains and roll down the same production line in the UK.
In Australia, Nissan has also hit hurdles with the long-awaited Nissan Ariya mid-size SUV, while Honda Australia has no plans to offer an EV here until at least 2028.
Honda recently ended its proposed venture to build affordable EVs with General Motors, throwing into doubt plans to launch 30 new EVs by 2030.
However, Honda has subsequently shown a couple of key new vehicles – the Afeela EV developed in conjunction with tech giant Sony, and the 0 Series Saloon concept.
An electric Prelude sports car has also been previewed, which could also form the basis of a reborn (electric) Nissan 200SX.
“In this period of once-in-a-century transformation in the automotive industry, we will examine the potential for partnership between Nissan and Honda,” Honda president and director Toshihiro Mibe said.
“Our study criteria will be whether the synergy of the technologies and knowledge that our companies have cultivated will enable us to become industry leaders by creating new value for the automotive industry.”
Related: Radical new all-electric Nissan JUKE, QASHQAI and LEAF locked-in
Related: Honda’s first EV at least five years away for Australia
Related: Honda promises 30 new EVs by 2030 – including a ute and supercars
For everything you auto know about EVs, listen to carsales' Watts Under the Bonnet: the electric car podcast
Join the conversation at our Facebook page
Or email us at editor@carsales.com.au
Or email us at editor@carsales.com.au
Tags
Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
