Tokyo: Nissan and Honda have agreed to jointly develop software and key electronic components for future vehicles, expanding their collaboration as the automotive industry increasingly shifts towards software-driven technologies.Under the agreement, the two Japanese automakers will share standardised components for core electronic control units (ECUs) and jointly develop software for vehicles scheduled for launch in fiscal 2029.The partnership builds on discussions that began in 2024 on cooperation in electric vehicles and automotive intelligence technologies.The agreement focuses on software-defined vehicles, whose functions and features can be updated and controlled through software rather than relying primarily on hardware systems.Industry competition has intensified as automakers invest heavily in technologies such as automated driving, electrification and connected vehicle systems. Manufacturers are increasingly seeking partnerships to reduce development costs, accelerate innovation and achieve greater economies of scale.European automotive groups, including Volkswagen, BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Stellantis, have also pursued software collaborations to share operating systems and development costs.Both Nissan and Honda said the partnership would support efforts to strengthen competitiveness through faster development cycles and more efficient investment.The two companies added that they will continue exploring opportunities for cooperation in other areas, including zero-emission technologies and initiatives aimed at reducing traffic fatalities.Nissan, based in Yokohama, produces vehicles including the Leaf electric car and Infiniti luxury models, while Honda's lineup includes the Accord, Civic and Odyssey.
