December 18, 2024 – Following a Bloomberg report earlier today, Honda’s Executive Vice President, Shinji Aoyama, responded to rumors of a potential merger between Honda and Nissan. Aoyama stated that Honda is exploring several options, including a full merger, capital collaboration, or the establishment of a holding company.
According to informed sources, the two automotive giants are currently engaged in preliminary merger talks. However, these discussions are still in their infancy, and it remains uncertain whether a concrete agreement will be reached. One of the scenarios under consideration involves the creation of a new holding company, which would serve as the operational platform for the combined entity. Additionally, there is speculation about the possibility of incorporating Mitsubishi Motors into this arrangement.
Although Honda and Nissan have not explicitly confirmed the merger negotiations, both companies have issued statements reiterating their commitment to continued collaboration. The statements read, “We will provide updates to relevant parties at the appropriate time.”
Reports indicate that this potential merger could effectively divide the Japanese automotive industry into two camps: one consisting of Honda, Nissan, and potentially Mitsubishi, and the other dominated by Toyota. This move is seen as a strategy to enhance their competitiveness in the global market, amidst a gradual decrease in long-term partnerships with other automakers. Nissan has already reduced its collaboration with French automaker Renault, while Honda is gradually scaling back its partnership with General Motors.
Earlier today, reports emerged suggesting that the two companies are planning to sign a memorandum of understanding to discuss the possibility of shared ownership within the new holding company. One of the options being considered is the establishment of this new holding company, which would serve as the operational base for the merged entity, potentially including Mitsubishi Motors.
