This merger could create the world’s third-largest automaker, with combined resources to dominate the EV market. Honda and Nissan hope to outpace rising Chinese brands like BYD and Nio.

Speculation about a potential Honda and Nissan merger began earlier this month, and the two companies confirmed the official start of talks Monday.

Facing extreme competitive pressure from the rise of Chinese EV makers, the Nos. 2 and 3 Japanese automakers turn to each other to build strength.

Japan’s second- and third-largest automakers hope the $50 billion deal would help them catch up with Tesla and China’s BYD in electric vehicles and advanced software.

Japanese automakers Honda and Nissan will attempt to merge and create the world’s third-largest automaker by sales as the industry undergoes dramatic changes in its transition away from fossil fuels

TWO days before Christmas, a triple car-company press conference was held for the global audience. Honda, Nissan, and — on the side — Mitsubishi went online to announce a move that was somewhat shocking but not entirely surprising.

BENGALURU: Honda and Nissan expect big benefits from their potential merger to create the world’s third-largest auto group but intense competition in the segment raises questions about whether they can make it work in time.

Japanese automakers Nissan and Honda have announced plans for a merger that would catapult them to a top position in an industry that's in flux as it transitions away from its reliance on fossil fuels.