Honda and Nissan announced earlier this week that they have signed a memorandum of understanding to begin discussions about merging through the creation of a joint holding company.
The operation, which may also include Mitsubishi, could establish a robust partnership with significant potential for the future. While the automobile business – being the primary driver of this potential merger – is the common ground between Honda and Nissan, the plan could extend to include motorcycles.
In a joint statement, the companies explained that with this move ‘can aim to further contribute to the development of Japan’s industrial base as a «leading global mobility company» by integrating Nissan and Honda’s four-wheel-vehicle and Honda’s motorcycle and power products businesses, enabling the brands of both companies to become more attractive and to deliver more attractive and innovative products and services to customers worldwide’.
As is well known, Honda is one of the world’s leading motorcycle manufacturers, generating substantial revenue from this segment. Nissan, on the other hand, does not produce two-wheeled vehicles. How motorcycles will benefit from this partnership remains unclear—particularly since the possible merger is a long process, with the next step being a definitive agreement expected in January.