Japanese automakers Honda and Nissan will attempt to merge and create the world’s third-largest automaker by sales as the industry undergoes dramatic changes in its transition away from fossil fuels.

Japan's Honda and Nissan said Monday they had embarked on formal merger talks that would create the third-largest car manufacturer globally with sales of as much as $191.4 billion and more than $19 billion profit.

Under the proposed plan, Mitsubishi has until the end of January 2025 to decide whether or not to be part of the cooperation between Nissan and Honda. Given Mitsubishi’s close ties to Nissan, it could also gain technological and pricing advantages by joining this alliance.