Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. and Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced today a landmark joint research agreement focused on the development of fundamental technologies for next-generation software-defined vehicles (SDVs). This collaboration stems from a memorandum of understanding (MOU), signaling the commencement of discussions on a strategic partnership aimed at advancing intelligence and electrification in the automotive industry.
Building on this foundation, the two companies have also signed a new MOU to deepen their strategic partnership. This agreement encompasses a broad scope of collaboration to accelerate efforts towards achieving a carbon-neutral and traffic-accident-free society. By pooling their resources and expertise, Nissan and Honda aim to drive innovation in electric vehicles (EVs) and SDVs, focusing on areas such as autonomous driving, connectivity, and artificial intelligence (AI).
Joint Research on SDV Platform
Central to this collaboration is the development of a next-generation SDV platform. Nissan and Honda have embarked on joint research to create fundamental technologies for this platform, with the goal of completing basic research within a year. Based on the research outcomes, the companies will evaluate the potential for mass production development.
Key Areas of Cooperation
- Batteries: Recognizing the critical role of batteries in EVs, Nissan and Honda will explore short-term and long-term cooperation in battery technology. This includes sharing specifications and mutual supply to offer a range of battery options, from high-output to cost-effective models. They have agreed to standardize battery cell module specifications for EVs, aiming to make these batteries interchangeable between both companies’ vehicles. Additionally, they will study the supply of lithium-ion batteries from L-H Battery Company, Inc., a Honda-LG Energy Solution joint venture, to Nissan in North America post-2028.
- e-Axles: The companies have agreed to standardize the specifications of their e-Axles for next-generation EVs. The initial step involves sharing motors and inverters, the core components of e-Axles.
- Mutual Vehicle Complementation: Nissan and Honda will consider supplementing each other’s vehicle models globally from a short-term to long-term perspective. They have reached a basic agreement on the models and regions for mutual complementation, including both internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and EVs.
- Energy Services and Resource Circulation in Japan: The companies will explore potential cooperation in energy services and resource circulation, focusing on areas such as charging infrastructure, energy equipment, and battery utilization for energy services in Japan.
Comments from Leadership
Makoto Uchida, President and CEO of Nissan, emphasized the significance of the partnership. “This collaboration marks a significant step forward in our shared vision for the future of mobility. By combining our strengths, we can create greater value and develop innovative products and services that meet the evolving needs of our customers.”
Toshihiro Mibe, President and CEO of Honda, highlighted the transformative potential of the alliance. “The rapid pace of technological innovation in the automotive industry requires collaboration. By joining forces with Nissan, we can address the challenges of electrification and intelligence more effectively and lead the industry towards a sustainable future.”
The newly signed MOU aims to accelerate the realization of this strategic partnership, with both companies committed to studying ways to create further synergies and swiftly implement specific measures.
