Nissan, Mitsubishi to explore next-gen mobility, energy services involving EVs

Japanese companies Nissan and Mitsubishi Corporation (MC) have signed a MoU to explore a new joint initiative in next-generation mobility and energy-related services utilizing electric vehicles (EVs) to "contribute to solving regional societal issues and to creating vibrant future communities".

It is likely that the companies are to explore an integrated transportation and energy management business models involving renewable energy, artificial intelligence (AI), energy storage and smart energy management. 

Japan as a country has been addressing issues such as driver shortages due to a declining population, and difficulties maintaining public transportation services due to decreasing numbers of users. 

Further, regional societal issues such as increase in people facing transportation barriers, a decrease in essential services, weakened community ties, and the need for disaster preparedness are becoming more prominent, the companies claim. 

Along with various initiatives that the companies are already carrying out on these issues, Nissan and Mitsubishi recognize the need to construct new technologies and service models to solve these region-specific challenges and revitalize communities. 

The latest MoU is to co-create such sustainable business models, by jointly commercializing next-generation mobility services and energy-related services involving EVs, leveraging their respective expertise and knowledge, starting with the Japanese market.

"Through exciting vehicles and technologies, Nissan is building a smart ecosystem that expands both the possibilities of mobility for people and the potential of society", said Makoto Uchida, Nissan president and CEO.

"We want to help solve regional issues and create future-centered cities through new mobility services and energy management. MC shares our motivation, and together we will study a robust and sustainable business model", he added.

Katsuya Nakanishi, Mitsubishi Corporation president and CEO commented, "As the mobility sector undergoes significant transformation due to technological innovation and decarbonization, MC, through its EX-DX integrated approach outlined in its mid-term management strategy, MC Shared Value 2024, aims to work with Nissan to explore the creation of sustainable business models that address Japan's societal challenges."