Nissan and Mitsubishi have confirmed their partnership to build electric vehicles that are in line with the US market. They aim to cut down the development costs and at the same time fill the growing demand for electric vehicles. This is a smart move by both automakers who aim to diversify their product portfolio in the electric vehicle market.
In a strategic partnership, Nissan is planning to use Mitsubishi's plug-in hybrid technology for its first plug-in hybrid model in the U.S. Meanwhile, Mitsubishi is looking to leverage Nissan's EV technology for its debut EV in the country, most likely based on the Ariya crossover. Additionally, the partnership will include the shared engineering of a 1-ton electric pickup truck with a possible result being the production of two different models. This partnership speaks to a common stance to increase the electric vehicle choice range which in turn will bring up creative solutions in the dynamically changing automotive industry.
The launching of vehicles is around the corner, with Nissan planning to reveal 30 new models by fiscal year 2026, with 16 of them being electric. While specific timelines remain undisclosed, rumors are already circulating about the collaborative efforts between Nissan and Mitsubishi that will be out in the next two years. However, something that is worth mentioning is that the company is developing an electric pickup truck, which will be released between 2027 and 2031. This model could replace the Nissan Frontier and is a step toward the electrification of both companies' portfolios which is in line with the industry trends and emission reduction goals.
It is expected that the electric pickup will be manufactured in Mexico which is a move to avoid import tariffs and the possibility of a plug-in hybrid version. These vehicles are scheduled to be distributed in both the United States and Latin America which reflects an attempt to expand the markets and to bypass the financial problems that result from tariffs.
The Nissan and Mitsubishi cooperation involves both the positive and negative aspects. It remains to be seen whether this collaboration will result in vehicles being badge-engineered or distinct models being created by each company. This is considered a strategic move to meet fleet emission goals as well as capitalize on the ever-growing interest in electric vehicles. Nevertheless, a detailed examination of the consequences both for the companies and the automotive industry in general will be made only after further details come out. The essence of collaboration must be clearly explained so that the collaborators can have the capacity to foresee its outcomes and to deal with any uncertainties that may arise from the partnership.
