Nissan’s biggest shareholder Renault said open to Honda talks

Renault SA is open to Nissan Motor Co. pursues merger negotiations with Honda Motor Co. as the French automaker seeks a way to insulate itself from the crisis plaguing its longtime alliance partner, according to people familiar with the situation.

Renault is keen for the Japanese company to find ways to become stronger as it is unwilling to inject money into Nissan itself, said the people, who asked not to be identified discussing internal matters. With one 36% ownership shareRenault remains Nissan’s largest shareholder and approval will be key to any deal, the people said.