Nissan and Fisker in Advanced Discussions for Investment
On March 1, Reuters reported that Nissan (7201.T) is in advanced discussions to invest in electric vehicle manufacturer Fisker (FSR.N). The potential deal could offer Nissan access to Fisker’s electric pickup truck, providing a lifeline for the struggling startup. While the talks are ongoing and not finalized, sources familiar with the matter suggested that the deal could be concluded this month.
According to the sources, the discussed terms include Nissan investing over $400 million in Fisker’s truck platform. As part of the arrangement, Nissan would build Fisker’s planned Alaska pickup starting in 2026 at one of its U.S. assembly plants. Simultaneously, Nissan would develop its own electric pickup using the same platform. Nissan currently operates U.S. assembly plants in Mississippi and Tennessee.
Fisker recently announced uncertainties about its continued operations and disclosed plans to reduce its workforce by 15%. In the same announcement, the company hinted at ongoing talks with a major automaker for a potential investment and joint development partnership but did not reveal the automaker’s identity. Fisker’s spokesperson declined to comment on speculation, and Nissan officials were not immediately available for comment.
Before the Reuters report, Fisker’s shares had experienced a 45% decline, but this news prompted a rebound, with losses narrowing to about 25%. The company’s market capitalization stood at over $295 million.
The sources indicated that the term sheet for the potential deal is ready, and the transaction is undergoing due diligence. For Nissan, a collaboration with Fisker could represent an entry into the expanding U.S. electric pickup market, providing a strategic move in the competitive electric vehicle landscape.
Nissan, a pioneer in electric vehicles with the introduction of the fully battery-powered Leaf hatchback in 2010, has faced challenges in the evolving market. The potential partnership with Fisker may present an opportunity for Nissan to revitalize its electric vehicle strategy and compete more effectively, particularly in the lucrative U.S. electric pickup segment.
These discussions between Nissan and Fisker come against the backdrop of Nissan’s redefined relationship with its long-time alliance partner, Renault (RENA.PA). Last year, Nissan and Renault finalized terms for a restructured alliance, including a goal of achieving cross-shareholdings of 15%, signaling changes within the alliance after months of negotiations.
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