May 20 2025 – Rumors have surfaced indicating that a senior executive from Toyota Motor Corporation reached out to Nissan Motor Co. to explore potential collaborative frameworks, though the latter has declined to comment on the matter. Toyota, in response, confirmed it is reviewing the reports but has yet to issue an official statement.
As the world’s largest automaker by global sales for the fifth consecutive year, Toyota has already secured stakes in several Japanese automotive firms, including a 20% holding in Subaru, 5.1% in Mazda, 4.9% in Suzuki, and 5.9% in Isuzu.
The recent signing of a memorandum of understanding between Nissan and Honda, followed by a joint press conference, drew criticism from Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda. He expressed disappointment that the agreement lacked clear product-specific strategies, instead emphasizing vague terms like “business consolidation” and “synergies.”
In an apparent bid to address strategic gaps, Nissan announced plans to introduce new models across global markets and accelerate time-to-market through rebadging collaborations with alliance partners Renault and Mitsubishi. The automaker also deepened ties with China’s Dongfeng Motor Group, highlighted by the launch of products such as the all-electric N7 sedan.
Nissan CEO Ivan Espinosa reiterated the company’s openness to partnerships but stressed that internal restructuring remains its top priority. The recently unveiled “Re:Nissan” overhaul includes cost-cutting measures such as eliminating 20,000 jobs, closing seven manufacturing plants, and slashing R&D budgets. Additionally, Nissan aims to reduce parts complexity by 70%, phase out six vehicle platforms, and continue investing in its luxury Infiniti brand.
Espinosa attributed Nissan’s struggles to strategic missteps dating back to 2015, when former Chairman Carlos Ghosn pursued aggressive expansion plans targeting 8 million annual sales. Instead, Nissan reported just 3.3 million deliveries in fiscal 2024.
Ghosn, for his part, has accused Nissan of “desperation” and alleged Honda attempted a “stealth takeover” during earlier merger talks. While discussions about a full merger have ceased, both companies are collaborating on advanced technologies, including electric and autonomous vehicle development.
