In the ever changing landscape of the automotive industry, there appears to be efforts to bring more competitors together.  The Financial Times is reporting Renault is interested in merging with Nissan, and then buying Fiat Chrysler Automobiles.  The French and Japanese automakers already have a working relationship in the Renault, Nissan and Mitsubishi Alliance.  Renault has had a 20-year partnership with Nissan, and now includes   Mitsubishi Motors.  The groundwork for these moves appears to have been in the works for quite some time.  Automotive News is reporting former chairman Carlos Ghosn was hoping to merge Renault and Nissan.  Since Ghosn’s arrest, they have announced a new Alliance operating board.  Renault Chairman Jean-Dominique Senard will act as Chairman of the new board, which will include the CEOs of Nissan, Renault, and Mitsubishi Motors.  The board will oversee the operations of the three companies to improve collaboration.

During the Geneva International Motor Show just a few weeks ago, Reuters quoted FCA’s Chief Executive Officer Mike Manley as saying, “We have a strong independent future, but if there is a partnership, a relationship or a merger which strengthens that future I will look at that”.  Although it appears luxury brand Maserati would not be up for discussion.

For now, it seems no one from any of the companies is officially commenting.