Nissan Motor India | Nissan and Honda agree to jointly research fundamental technologies for next-generation SDV platforms.
Tokyo, Japan, August 8, 2024: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. and Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced a joint research initiative focused on developing fundamental technologies for platforms of next-generation software-defined vehicles (SDVs). This collaboration builds on the memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed on March 15, where both companies began discussions on a strategic partnership in the era of intelligence and electrification.
The companies have also signed a new MOU aimed at deepening their strategic partnership and exploring broader areas of cooperation. Nissan and Honda are engaged in detailed discussions to collaborate in various fields, with a focus on accelerating efforts toward a carbon-neutral and accident-free society. They are investing in research and development, particularly in the areas of electric vehicles (EVs) and SDVs, to drive advancements in intelligence and electrification.
Nissan and Honda recognize that the software domain—encompassing autonomous driving, connectivity, and AI—will be crucial in determining the future value of vehicles and a key area of competition. The rapid technological innovation in this field presents opportunities for synergy through the combined expertise and resources of both companies.
In line with this shared vision, the two automakers have entered into a joint research agreement to explore fundamental technologies for the next-generation SDV platform, with the goal of potentially co-creating new value.
The newly signed MOU focuses on defining specific areas of cooperation and accelerating the strategic partnership. Moving forward, Nissan and Honda will continue to explore ways to create further synergies and implement concrete measures swiftly.
Next-Generation SDV Platform
- Joint Research Agreement:
- Nissan and Honda have commenced joint research on the fundamental technologies for the next-generation SDV platform, which is crucial for advancements in intelligence.
- The companies aim to complete basic research within a year and will consider mass production development based on the results.
Major Areas of Cooperation in the MOU
- Batteries:
- Batteries are essential for EVs, and the companies will explore cooperation from both short-term and long-term perspectives, including shared specifications and mutual supply.
- A basic agreement has been reached to standardize battery cell module specifications for EVs from both companies, with plans to supply lithium-ion batteries from Honda and LG Energy Solution’s joint venture to Nissan in North America after 2028.
- e-Axles:
- The companies have agreed to standardize their e-Axle specifications over the medium to long term for use in next-generation EVs.
- The initial focus will be on sharing motors and inverters, the core components of the e-Axle.
- Mutual Vehicle Complementation:
- Nissan and Honda will consider supplementing each other’s vehicle models from a short-term to long-term perspective, with a basic agreement on models, regions, and a joint product review system.
- Both ICE and EVs are being considered for mutual complementation.
- Energy Services and Resource Circulation in Japan:
- The companies will explore cooperation in energy services and resource circulation in Japan, including charging, energy equipment, and battery utilization for energy services.