Mitsubishi is thought to be concerned about its management freedom, as the future of Nissan’s management restructuring is not clear.

Japan's Mitsubishi Motors, a junior partner of Nissan Motor, is considering not joining a planned business merger between Nissan and Honda Motor, sources told Reuters on Friday. Mitsubishi Motors plans to remain listed while continuing its cooperative relationship with both companies,

In December 2024, reports emerged that two of Japan's automotive juggernauts are looking to form a merger akin to the automotive equivalent of a 'dream team.' On Dec. 23, the leaders of Japanese automakers Nissan (NSANY) and Honda (HMC) announced that they intend to merge under a holding company in an effort to stay competitive against its rivals in a world shifting towards electric vehicle adoption.

Sources revealed on Friday that Mitsubishi Motors, a junior partner of Nissan and Honda, is considering not joining a planned merger between the two Japanese automakers. While Mitsubishi will maintain its cooperative ties with both companies, it plans to remain independent and listed, according to insiders who spoke on condition of anonymity.

Rather than joining a complete merger with Honda and Nissan, Mitsubishi could work with them while staying independently listed.

The problem is there is no likely outcome that would leave both companies and their employees better off than they are today.

Honda and Nissan's $58bn merger aims to compete with China's EV dominance, but risks include cultural clashes, overlapping markets, and uncertain innovation outcomes.

While Honda does have the Prologue, that vehicle was part of a $5 billion joint venture with GM that only lasted through the development of two vehicles. The Prologue has been a surprise EV hit, selling over 33,000 in 2024 and outselling the larger gas-powered Honda Passport.

The mooted Honda Nissan merger and the fallout from leadership change at Stellantis suggests the auto industry must brace for turmoil, where size is a survival necessity.

Mitsubishi Motors Corp. is considering not joining the planned merger between Nissan Motor Co. and Honda Motor Co. and instead focusi

Honda and Nissan announced merger plans in December 2024, and the process has been progressing as per schedule. The merger will also include Mitsubishi, and both companies aim to reach a definitive agreement by June 2025.