Alliance between Renault, Nissan and Mitsubishi to invest US$ 25.7 billion in electric cars

The alliance of automakers Renault, Nissan and Mitsubishi will invest $25.7 billion in the development of new electric vehicles over the next five years, the companies announced in a statement.

According to the three groups, the goal is to make 35 new models of these vehicles available on the market by 2030.

“The three companies that make up the alliance have defined a common roadmap to 2030, sharing investments in future electrification and connectivity projects,” alliance president Jean-Dominique Senard said in a statement.

“Together, we are making a difference to a new, globally sustainable future,” he added.

The world’s leading automakers are increasingly prioritizing electric and hybrid vehicles as concerns about climate change mount.

Today, almost 10% of car sales in Europe are electric vehicles, but in the United States this figure is only 2%.

So far, alliance members have invested a total of more than US$11 billion (R$59.18) in electrification.

common platforms

To achieve its objectives, the alliance will reinforce the use of five common platforms, that is, the basic structure of the different models. In this sense, it is intended that, by 2026, 80% of the 90 models will be manufactured on these platforms. Today, it’s 60%.

“This will allow each company to focus more on the needs of its customers, its reference models and its main markets, while extending innovations to the entire alliance at a lower cost,” explains the statement.

Nissan chairman Makoto Uchida said that while models from different manufacturers will be built on common platforms, there will continue to be “smart differentiation” to ensure the “distinction” of each brand.

Of the 35 new electric models announced for 2030, 90% will be produced on these five common platforms of common alliances around the world.

Two years ago, the alliance announced the launch of a new collaboration scheme, with a “reference” manufacturer for each geographic area and for each technology area. With this, it is expected to take better advantage of each one’s strengths.

This system will be further reinforced: Japan’s Nissan will lead the development of its innovative solid-state battery technology “for the benefit of all Alliance members”.

Renault “will lead the development of a common electrical and electronic architecture”, details the statement.

And Mitsubishi Motors will look to launch two of its new vehicles in Europe, including its new ASX SUV, which will be based on Renault models.

Nissan has been hit by a series of problems in recent years, from weak demand, even before the Covid-19 pandemic, to the aftermath of the arrest and subsequent escape of its then CEO, Carlos Ghosn.

But “this crisis is over”, and the alliance is today “stronger than ever”, with “solid foundations” and “flexible cooperation”, insisted Senard.