Good morning! It’s Thursday, January 9, 2025, and this is The Morning Shift, your daily roundup of the top automotive headlines from around the world, in one place. Here are the important stories you need to know.

Honda and Nissan expect big benefits from their potential merger to create the world's third-largest auto group but intense competition in the segment raises questions about whether they can make it work in time. The Japanese automakers said they had agreed to begin formal talks on a merger, aiming to finalize the deal by August 2026.

Honda may soon get its first opportunity to make a true full-size SUV and pickup truck, according to AutomotiveNews. After speaking with Honda Motor Co.'s executive vice president, Noriya Kaihara, the outlet learned that the merger between Honda and Nissan could give Honda access to Nissan's experience and knowledge in producing full-size body-on-frame trucks.

Mitsubishi, which has long been allied with Nissan, will decide by the end of January 2025 whether to join the venture, potentially increasing the total merger value to $58 billion. If all parties agree to merge,

Honda and Nissan’s merger risks failure due to cultural clashes and misalignment. Find out why HMC and NSANY stocks are uncertain investments.