Japanese automakers Honda and Nissan have separately partnered with US artificial intelligence startup Applied Intuition to develop core software for next-generation vehicles, according to a report by Gasgoo, citing Nikkei. The collaborations, announced on October 6, focus on software-defined vehicles (SDVs), which rely on continuous software updates to enhance vehicle functions over time.
Both Japanese carmakers will adopt Applied Intuition's onboard operating system (OS) and software development tools. In an SDV, the operating system serves as the foundational layer, providing a runtime environment for functions such as vehicle control and driver assistance. AI tools are expected to accelerate the software development process.
Shared OS, distinct brands
In August, Honda and Nissan announced plans to unify their vehicle operating systems. While the shared OS will be largely identical, each company's system will retain some differentiated designs to preserve brand identity. The new partnerships with Applied Intuition are separate, allowing each automaker to access tailored technology and improve development efficiency without compromising their unique characteristics.
Applied Intuition, which regards Japan as its second-largest market after the US, plans to expand its business there, leveraging the country's many automakers and deepening collaboration with local firms. The startup has previously worked with both Honda and Nissan, and its recent partnerships include a deal with Isuzu in August 2024 to advance commercial vehicle automation, and an agreement with construction machinery maker Komatsu in September 2025 to equip mining equipment with vehicle-level functions.
Broader context
The move highlights the growing importance of software in the automotive industry, as traditional carmakers seek external expertise to compete with tech-savvy rivals. For Honda and Nissan, which have faced challenges in the EV transition, partnering with an AI specialist could help streamline development and reduce costs. The collaborations also underscore the trend of automakers adopting shared platforms while maintaining brand differentiation, a strategy seen elsewhere in the industry.
According to Gasgoo, the partnerships are part of a broader effort by Japanese automakers to catch up in the software-defined vehicle race, where competitors like Tesla and Chinese brands have taken the lead. By leveraging Applied Intuition's tools, Honda and Nissan aim to accelerate their software development cycles and bring more advanced features to market.
