Nissan and Honda end merger talks, continue EV collaboration

Nissan Motor Co. (7201.T) and Honda Motor Co. (7267.T) have formally ended discussions on a potential merger, a deal that would have created a $60 billion automotive giant. Despite this decision, both automakers confirmed they will continue to collaborate on electric vehicle (EV) technology.

The merger, which was expected to position the combined entity as the world's fourth-largest car manufacturer by sales - trailing Toyota Volkswagen, and Hyundai - fell apart due to disagreements on corporate structure. Sources indicate that Honda proposed Nissan operate as a subsidiary, a condition that complicated negotiations and ultimately led Nissan to withdraw.

The discussions, initiated late last year, originally included Mitsubishi Motors, a junior partner in the potential alliance. However, sources later suggested that Mitsubishi was unlikely to participate in a full-scale merger.

Strategic Partnership for an EV Future

While the merger is off the table, Nissan, Honda, and Mitsubishi confirmed their commitment to a strategic partnership focused on intelligence and electrification. Both Nissan and Honda have faced significant challenges in adapting to the rapidly evolving EV market, particularly in China, where companies such as BYD have gained dominance.

In the U.S., another key market for both companies, they are also confronting potential tariffs that could further impact their competitiveness. Nissan has already begun a restructuring effort, which includes a 9,000-job reduction and a 20% cut in global production capacity. However, details on which locations will be affected remain undisclosed.

Nissan Eyes Alternative Partnerships

As Nissan reorients its strategic focus, it has begun exploring new partnerships. Taiwanese electronics giant Foxconn has emerged as a potential collaborator. Last week, sources revealed that Foxconn is considering taking a stake in Nissan, though Foxconn Chairman Young Liu stated that the company's primary interest lies in cooperation rather than ownership.

Market Reactions and Future Outlook

Investor sentiment has fluctuated following the announcement. Nissan’s stock soared by over 60% when merger discussions were first reported on December 17 but has since settled at a 21% gain. Honda saw a similar surge, with an initial 26% increase now reduced to an 11% gain.

Nissan has struggled more than its competitors in adapting to the EV transition, exacerbated by the fallout from the 2018 arrest and removal of former chairman Carlos Ghosn. The company's market capitalization now stands at nearly one-fifth that of Honda’s, which is valued at approximately 7.5 trillion yen ($48.6 billion). A decade ago, both companies were valued at around 4.6 trillion yen.

As the automotive industry continues its rapid shift towards electrification and digitalization, Nissan and Honda’s decision to end their merger talks marks a pivotal moment. While the deal’s collapse signals ongoing structural and strategic differences, the continued EV collaboration could still provide a pathway for both automakers to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving market.

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