Honda and Nissan Join Forces: Ground breaking Tech Collaboration Set to Revolutionise the Auto Industry!
17 September 2024

Honda and Nissan Join Forces: Ground breaking Tech Collaboration Set to Revolutionise the Auto Industry!

Japan's Nissan Motor Co and Honda Motor Co have jointly announced their agreement to conduct collaborative research focused on fundamental technologies for next-generation software-defined vehicles (SDVs).

This partnership is grounded in a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that initiates discussions on a strategic alliance aimed at advancing intelligence and electrification. Both companies have signed the MOU to strengthen the framework of their strategic collaboration.

Engaging in discussions and deliberations aimed at collaboration across different sectors to expedite the achievement of a carbon-neutral and traffic-accident-free society. Both Honda and Nissan are actively promoting research, development, and investment in various technologies to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles, particularly Sustainable Development Vehicles (SDVs).

The software industry captivates both companies, particularly in the realms of autonomous driving, connectivity, and artificial intelligence. These aspects will significantly influence the future value of vehicles and create competitive advantages. This sector is characterised by rapid technological innovation, where synergies can be easily achieved by merging the resources of both companies, including technological expertise and human capital.

The opportunity to generate new value through co-creation has led Honda and Nissan to establish a joint research agreement focused on fundamental technologies for the next-generation SDV platform. This recently signed MOU seeks to enhance the strategic partnership by outlining more specific areas of cooperation and expediting the realisation of the partnership's goals.

So, what are Honda and Nissan exploring concerning the next-generation SDV platform?

Collaborative Research Agreement on Core Technologies for the Next-Generation SDV Platform

Nissan and Honda plan to finish their foundational research within about a year. Based on the findings, they will evaluate the potential for developing mass production.

Key Focus Areas for Collaboration in the MOU to Strengthen the Strategic Partnership

Batteries:

Batteries are essential for electric vehicles, and the two companies will explore a cooperative framework that includes a long-term outlook, such as sharing specifications and mutual supply agreements. By combining their technologies and resources in this sector, both firms can provide a broader array of battery options and potentially lower costs through diversified investments, ultimately benefiting from economies of scale.

Additionally, Honda and Nissan will conduct a thorough analysis of the supply of lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles from L-H Battery Company, a joint venture between Honda and LG Energy Solution, which will include Nissan starting in 2028.

e-Axles:

Both companies have come to a foundational agreement to standardise the specifications of their e-Axles, which can be utilised in the next generation of electric vehicles for both parties in the long run. The initial step in this collaboration is to share the motors and inverters, which are essential components of the e-Axle.
Collaborative Vehicle Enhancement

With the intention of selling models worldwide, Nissan and Honda are contemplating the addition of new models in the long run. In the short term, however, both companies have come to a preliminary agreement regarding which models and regions each will support. They have also established a framework for a product review system that will be utilised collaboratively by both organisations.

Energy services and resource circulation in Japan

An additional area of mutual interest is the collaboration in energy services and resource circulation in Japan. This will encompass charging solutions, energy equipment, battery-utilizing services, and charging facilities.