Exclusive Insights on Nissan, Fisker Advanced Investment Talks
On March 1, Reuters reported that Nissan (7201.T) is engaged in advanced discussions to invest in electric vehicle manufacturer Fisker (FSR.N), potentially providing a lifeline for the struggling startup and granting Nissan access to Fisker’s electric pickup truck. While the negotiations are ongoing and not yet finalized, sources familiar with the matter suggest that the deal could be completed by the end of this month.
Sources reveal that the discussed terms involve Nissan making an investment exceeding $400 million in Fisker’s truck platform. Under the arrangement, Nissan would take on the production of Fisker’s planned Alaska pickup, commencing in 2026 at one of its U.S. assembly plants. Concurrently, Nissan would develop its own electric pickup utilizing the same platform. Nissan currently operates assembly plants in Mississippi and Tennessee.
Fisker recently announced uncertainties regarding its ongoing operations, concurrently revealing 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, refraining from disclosing the identity of the automaker. 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. However, this news prompted a rebound, with losses narrowing to about 25%, resulting in the company’s market capitalization standing at over $295 million.
Sources suggest that the term sheet for the potential deal is prepared, and the transaction is currently undergoing due diligence. For Nissan, collaboration with Fisker could signify an entry into the expanding U.S. electric pickup market, presenting 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 offers Nissan an opportunity to rejuvenate its electric vehicle strategy and enhance competitiveness, especially in the lucrative U.S. electric pickup segment.
These discussions between Nissan and Fisker occur amid Nissan’s redefined relationship with its long-time alliance partner, Renault (RENA.PA). In the previous year, Nissan and Renault finalized terms for a restructured alliance, outlining goals such as achieving cross-shareholdings of 15%, signaling substantial changes within the alliance following months of negotiations.
