Mitsubishi Motors, part of the Nissan Motor alliance, is reportedly reconsidering its involvement in the proposed merger between Nissan and Honda Motor.
The potential merger, announced last year, could form the world’s third-largest auto group with an annual production of 7.4 million vehicles.
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Three sources familiar with the matter told Reuters that Mitsubishi Motors is anticipated to make a decision on its participation by this month.
In response to media speculation, Mitsubishi Motors clarified that while it is evaluating various options regarding the proposed business integration framework with Honda and Nissan, its future course remains undecided.
The company emphasised that such reports were not based on any official announcement from Mitsubishi.
According to the Yomiuri newspaper, Mitsubishi Motors’ hesitance stems from concerns over its limited influence within the management of the proposed joint holding company, given its smaller size compared to Nissan and Honda.
This information aligns with Mitsubishi Motors’ statement about considering its strategic direction.
Nissan and Honda spokespeople, when queried about the Yomiuri report, deferred to Mitsubishi Motors’ statement and did not provide additional comments.
The two companies have set a timeline for their discussions, aiming to conclude by June 2025 and establish a holding company by August 2026, which would result in the delisting of both companies’ shares.
For the time being, Mitsubishi Motors intends to maintain its current corporate structure and concentrate on growing its market share in Southeast Asia, as reported by Yomiuri.
