Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi is redefining the contours of its alliance

This is a new step in the tortured life of the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance. At least the expression of the desire to assure the sustainability of this strengthened partnership, born in 1999, but weakened especially from 2018 by the Carlos Ghosn affair: the arrest of the aggressive boss in Japan and then his guilt and his escape.

Yes, the three partners fully intend to continue working together. But there is no more synergy for synergy’s sake. The partners are now working “in the logic of the project”, when the interests of the parties justify it, as stated on Wednesday, December 5, during a press conference in Boulogne-Billancourt (Hauts-de-Seine) Jean-Dominique Sénard, head of the Union .

Ampere en bourse en 2024 ?

The best example is undoubtedly that of Ampere: Nissan and Mitsubishi confirm their interest in participating respectively for 600 million euros and 200 million euros in the new Renault organization, dedicated to electric mobility. Its IPO could take place next year, when and if the market conditions are right, as explained by Luca de Meo, the boss of the diamond brand.

Ampere will make a new compact car in Europe. Mitsubishi will also entrust this design to the development and production, in Europe, of the future electric C-segment SUV.

On Nissan’s side, CEO Makoto Uchida justified his intention to be “strategic investor” in Ampere. This includes benefiting from innovations in software and connectivity. “Standards vary from region to region and it is impossible to manufacture electric cars alone worldwide”he insisted.

Circular economy

The Japanese manufacturer also plans to be involved in Renault’s circular economy activities, called The Future is neutral (car repair, battery recycling, etc.). An entity that should also benefit from experience “of one or two major players in chemistry”sneered Renault boss Luca de Meo.

Nissan will also be a customer of Horse, Renault’s body dedicated to hot cars, which will supply gearboxes and engines. A stallion that will also be a Mitsubishi dealer.

The three partners will continue to join forces to conquer certain markets such as India. Proof that they are willing to cooperate to reduce costs: with a share of 60%, expected to grow, Renault, Nissan and Mitsubishi will build their cars from common platforms (chassis and other invisible parts).

A remarriage that looks like a divorce

In February last year, the three manufacturers announced the rebalancing of the Alliance, with ownership of 15%, while Renault previously held 43.4% of Nissan’s capital. A new, less complicated, lighter, more functional union, which took effect on November 1, and which some may have interpreted as a form of divorce.