Nissan moves independently on EV and software strategies amid scaled-back alliance with Renault
Nissan is developing growth plans in areas such as software and electric vehicles independently from Renault, as both automakers work to finalize a more limited alliance, according to seven sources familiar with the matter.
Japan’s third-largest automaker by sales is reportedly seeking a partner outside the automotive industry to develop software that connects vehicles to the internet, said two sources involved in the discussions. This would address a key weakness for Nissan as it strives to make its cars "smarter and more connected," one source said.
Nissan is also crafting its own electric vehicle strategy tailored for the North American and Asian markets, according to the sources.
This week, Nissan’s board of directors met to discuss a restructuring that will see Renault reduce its 43% stake in Nissan to 15%, aligning it with Nissan’s own stake in the French automaker. This change will grant reciprocal voting rights within the alliance.
Under the new alliance terms, expected to be finalized by mid-year, Nissan will also invest in Ampere, Renault’s new EV division.
The long-standing imbalance in the partnership had frustrated Nissan executives, who complained that Renault wasn’t contributing its fair share toward innovation and development. Nissan’s latest strategy reflects an internal belief that the 23-year-old alliance has already weathered most of its major challenges, the sources said.
While Nissan benefits from shared parts procurement with Renault, the Japanese automaker has no plans to provide engineering support to Ampere, according to two of the sources.
Likewise, Nissan has no intention of supplying its e-Power hybrid technology to Renault’s joint venture with China’s Geely and Saudi Aramco, which focuses on gasoline engines.
This "go-it-alone" strategy is shaping a long-term roadmap for Nissan, expected to be announced by year-end, with a focus on operational performance, electrification, and software that enables connected car and autonomous driving features, one source said.
"Even if Renault gets something from Nissan, the benefits don’t flow the other way easily," said a second source familiar with Nissan’s position. "The constraints from Renault are gone, and now we can move freely."
In a joint statement to Reuters, Nissan and Renault said they are working toward final terms that will make their alliance more competitive. They also noted ongoing collaboration on previously announced projects in India and Latin America.
Source: Forbes
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