Honda and Nissan Agree to Jointly Develop Vehicle Operating System

Sep 01, 2026 | News On Japan

TOKYO - Honda and Nissan Motor have agreed to jointly develop an operating system and onboard computers for next-generation vehicles, aiming to introduce the technology in new models from fiscal 2029 as they seek to compete with U.S. and Chinese automakers.

Competition among automakers to develop operating systems for software-defined vehicles is intensifying as the industry moves toward cars whose functions and performance can be upgraded through software updates in much the same way as smartphones.

Honda and Nissan announced on September 1 that they will jointly develop the core software, or operating system, as well as computers installed in vehicles.

The companies aim to equip new vehicles with the jointly developed technology from fiscal 2029 onward.

Mitsubishi Motors, in which Nissan holds a stake, is also considering joining the collaboration in the future.

Honda and Nissan had continued to explore cooperation in specific areas even after ending talks on a possible management integration.

By sharing development of automotive software, which requires substantial investment, the companies aim to reduce costs and strengthen their ability to compete with U.S. and Chinese manufacturers that have taken the lead in the field.

Source: TBS

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