Nissan Motor on Tuesday said it would sell 13% of Nissan Diesel to Volvo AB, according to The Associated Press (AP).


Japan’s second-largest automaker is the top shareholder of Nissan Diesel, with a roughly 19% stake in the truck maker, the nation’s fourth-largest, the report noted.


Volvo has an option to buy an additional 6% stake, Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn said at a press conference held in Japan on a national public holiday.


The news agency said there had been speculation that the automaker wanted to sell Nissan Diesel shares as it sees little benefit in having a truck company, whose earnings tend to fluctuate dramatically in its group.


“Today it’s time to envision a new role for Nissan Motors and a new partner for Nissan Diesel,” Ghosn told the conference, adding: “Volvo is a very natural pick.”

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

In a statement cited by The Associated Press, Volvo said it and Nissan Motor have also agreed to review areas of cooperation, together with Dongfeng Motor in commercial vehicles in China – Nissan Motor owns 50% of Dongfeng Motor.


AP noted that Renault holds a 44% stake in Nissan and about 20% of Volvo’s stock, and that Renault sold its truck division to Volvo in 2001.


Last month, Nissan Motor announced it would build light trucks for sale by Renault in Europe.