A report in the Financial Times suggests that a Japanese group – including a former Japanese prime minister – is drawing up a plan for Tesla to invest in Nissan. Nissan is currently seeking a partner or strategic investor anchor after the recent collapse of merger discussions with Honda.

The report says the proposal is being led by former Tesla board member Hiromichi Mizuno and is being supported by ex-premier Yoshihide Suga and his former aide Hiroto Izumi.

The report says that under the plan, Tesla would become a strategic investor and gain the use of Nissan's plants in the US. Tesla is reportedly keen to boost US production in response to President Trump’s import tariff threats.

Nissan is said to be open to working with new partners following the collapse of the merger plan with Honda. Taiwan's Hon Hai (Foxconn) was recently seen as a strong possibility. According to the FT, some Nissan board members have suggested Tesla and Apple as ideal strategic investors.