Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. and Honda Motor Co., Ltd. have entered into a joint development agreement to standardize multiple electronic control units (ECUs) for next-generation software-defined vehicles (SDVs). This collaboration will include the in-vehicle operating system, key middleware components, and vehicle control software running on these ECUs. The companies plan to integrate the jointly developed ECUs and software into their next-generation SDVs starting in fiscal year 2029.
The strategic partnership aims to accelerate progress toward carbon neutrality and enhance vehicle safety, with a focus on zero traffic fatalities. By collaborating in the software domain, Nissan and Honda seek to strengthen their competitiveness in the rapidly evolving field of vehicle intelligence and electrification. The partnership underscores the importance of improving research and development speed and investment efficiency.
The agreement involves establishing common specifications for multiple core ECUs within the electrical and electronic (E/E) architecture of next-generation SDVs. This includes high-performance main ECUs, referred to as high-performance computers, and zone ECUs that manage various vehicle areas. By standardizing these technologies, Nissan and Honda aim to leverage their combined engineering expertise to improve efficiency, accelerate innovation, and reduce development costs through economies of scale.
Going forward, both companies will continue to explore opportunities to create new value and deepen their collaboration. The goal is to bring tangible benefits to customers and society by building on their respective strengths and enhancing their competitive edge in the automotive industry.