Honda and Nissan are in merger talks

Honda and Nissan are discussing a possible merger, bringing together two Japanese automaking titans that have recently fallen on hard times.

Honda and Nissan are discussing a possible merger, potentially bringing together two Japanese automaking titans that have recently fallen on hard times. The companies said in statement that they have been in talks, but they offered no details or timeframe for when a deal – if one should develop – may be completed. It’s also not clear what shape the possible joint-venture could take. Nikkei first reported the news of a potential tie-up Tuesday. “As announced in March, Honda and Nissan are exploring various possibilities for future collaboration, leveraging each other’s strengths,” the companies said in a statement Tuesday. “If there are any updates, we will inform our stakeholders at the appropriate time.” In March, Honda and Nissan announced that they would partner on electric vehicles and in August said they would collaborate on battery technology. But they could benefit from deepening their ties as both have faced challenges this year. Both companies, like many non-Chinese automakers, have struggled in the once-promising China market, the world’s largest market for cars. Chinese consumers had flocked to foreign brands but have largely shifted to domestic brands, which have better perceived value in the country. China’s government has also provided incentives to help speed up customer adoption of electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids. Although both companies offer EVs and plug-ins – Nissan, in particular, was a pioneer in EV technology – Chinese brands like BYD have eclipsed their technology and are priced more cheaply.