Nissan and Honda unite to join global software-defined EV race, play catch up with Tesla

Nissan and Honda building a software-defined EV? The Japanese automakers revealed a new partnership Thursday as they look to keep pace with Tesla and others leading the SDV movement.

Nissan and Honda deepen EV alliance with SDVs

After confirming plans to partner up in March, Nissan and Honda are deepening their alliance. The Japanese automakers announced a new agreement to design and develop next-gen software-defined EVs.

Nissan and Honda will work together to promote EV adoption with a focus on software-defined vehicles (SDVs).

Like many rivals, the two believe that software (including autonomous driving, connectivity, and AI) will “determine the value of vehicles in the future.” Nissan and Honda view the new tech as a “source of competitiveness.”

Nissan and Honda plan to design and develop tech to power next-gen SDV platforms. Over the next year, the two plan to complete basic research.

Based on the results, they will “consider the possibility of mass production development.” Nissan and Honda will also develop battery tech and e-Axles to power new global vehicles.

In a separate press release, Mitsubishi announced it was joining the new alliance. “Mitsubishi Motors has unique technologies and expertise and has been collaborating with Nissan as a partner,” Nissan’s CEO Makoto Uchida said.

Mitsubishi’s CEO Takao Kato explained, “Collaboration with partners is essential in today’s auto industry,” with EVs and other tech rapidly developing.