The French and Japanese automakers said this month they were in talks about the future of their alliance, including Nissan potentially investing in an electric vehicle business being spun out of Renault. With Nissan holding only 15% of Renault - and without voting rights - French dominance of the alliance has long been a point of contention. Renault wants Nissan to invest in its electric vehicle unit, while Nissan wants Renault to cut its stake to 15%, Reuters previously reported. Given its investment needs, Renault is the more eager of the two to reach a deal, said a person familiar with negotiations. Alliance junior partner Mitsubishi Motors Corp (7211.T) will likely invest a few percent in the new Renault unit to retain its alliance relationship, said another person familiar with the matter.

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