Distancing from Renault, Nissan confirms first step towards BEV alliance with Honda

Nissan and Honda announced today that they have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to begin a feasibility study of a strategic partnership in vehicle electrification and intelligence.

As an extension to the topic of connected and electrified vehicles, the goal of achieving zero-traffic accident fatalities were also mentioned.

The joint statement by Honda and Nissan said:

“The two companies have reached the understanding based on the belief that it is necessary to combine their strengths and explore the possibility of future collaboration.

“The scope of the feasibility study includes automotive software platforms, core components related to EVs, and complementary products.”

Makoto Uchida, president and CEO, said: “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. We look forward to further discussions and aim to find win-wins for sustainable growth.”

Toshihiro Mibe, Honda director, president and representative executive officer, said: “In this period of once-in-a-century transformation in the automotive industry, we will examine the potential for partnership between Nissan and Honda. 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.”

Nissan is still part of the Renault Nissan Mitsubishi Motors Alliance but the Japanese carmaker has been distancing itself from its Renault partner post-Carlos Ghosn’s sudden departure.

Renault working on its own battery EV (BEV) project under its Ampere subsidiary.

Honda is the only major Japanese carmaker without a partner in BEV development. Honda's BEV partnerships with GAC and Dongfeng are limited only to China. Subaru, Suzuki, and Mazda have ties with Toyota. Mitsubishi Motors is 34% owned by Nissan.

Honda has announced a new range of BEV-only model line-up, the 0 (Zero) series, will be launched in 2026, starting from North America, then to Japan, Asia, Europe, Africa and the Middle East and South America.

By 2040, Honda wants 100% of its global sales to come either from BEVs or FCEVs.