Daimler Truck and Toyota Motor Corporation have finalized the merger of their commercial vehicle subsidiaries—Mitsubishi Fuso and Hino Motors—under a new holding company named Archion Corporation, set to launch operations on April 1, 2026.
In a landmark move that reshapes the landscape of Japan’s commercial vehicle industry, Daimler Truck and Toyota Motor Corporation have announced the formation of Archion Corporation, a new holding company that will integrate Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation and Hino Motors. This strategic alliance aims to consolidate resources, streamline operations, and accelerate the development of climate-neutral mobility solutions.
A Historic Merger with Global Implications
The final agreement, signed on June 10, 2025, marks the culmination of years of collaboration and negotiation between two of the world’s leading automotive giants. By merging Mitsubishi Fuso and Hino Motors, Daimler Truck and Toyota are creating a powerhouse with over 40,000 employees, poised to lead innovation in the Asia-Pacific commercial vehicle sector.
Archion Corporation will be headquartered in Tokyo’s Shinagawa Ward, with both Daimler Truck and Toyota each holding a 25% stake. The remaining shares will be distributed among other stakeholders, with plans for a future listing on the Tokyo Stock Exchange Prime Market.
Why Archion?
The name “Archion” symbolizes the bridge between two legacies—Fuso and Hino—and their shared vision for the future. It reflects the companies’ commitment to building a robust, unified platform that supports sustainable growth, technological advancement, and operational efficiency.
Under the Archion brand, Mitsubishi Fuso and Hino will combine their research and development, procurement, production, and logistics operations. This integration is expected to reduce costs, eliminate redundancies, and foster innovation in areas such as electrification, hydrogen fuel cells, and autonomous driving technologies.
Leadership and Structure
Archion’s leadership team brings together seasoned executives from both companies:
- Karl Deppen, President and CEO of Mitsubishi Fuso, will serve as Representative Director and CEO of Archion.
- Satoshi Ogiso, CEO of Hino Motors, will take on the role of Executive Director and CTO.
- Hetal Laligi, CFO of Mitsubishi Fuso, will become CFO and Representative Director of Archion.
This diverse leadership structure ensures balanced representation and leverages the strengths of both parent companies.
Manufacturing Footprint Optimization
As part of the merger, Daimler Truck announced plans to sell its Nakatsu plant in Japan and consolidate Mitsubishi Fuso’s operations at the Kawasaki facility. Similarly, Hino Motors’ Hamura plant will be transferred to Toyota. These changes will reduce the combined manufacturing footprint from five sites to three by the end of 2028, enhancing efficiency without job losses.
This consolidation reflects Archion’s commitment to lean operations and sustainable manufacturing practices.
Strategic Goals and Vision
Archion Corporation’s primary goal is to become a leader in climate-neutral commercial vehicles. By pooling resources and expertise, the company aims to accelerate the development of battery-electric, hydrogen-powered, and autonomous trucks and buses.
The merger also supports Japan’s broader goals for carbon neutrality and smart mobility. With access to Daimler’s global network and Toyota’s advanced technologies, Archion is uniquely positioned to drive innovation and set new standards in the industry.
Challenges and Opportunities
While the merger presents significant opportunities, it also comes with challenges. Integrating two distinct corporate cultures, aligning product strategies, and navigating regulatory landscapes will require careful planning and execution.
However, the potential rewards are substantial. Archion can leverage economies of scale, expand its global reach, and respond more effectively to shifting market demands. It also provides a platform for joint ventures, strategic partnerships, and collaborative research initiatives.
Final Thoughts
The creation of Archion Corporation marks a turning point for Mitsubishi Fuso and Hino Motors—and for the commercial vehicle industry at large. By uniting under a single banner, Daimler Truck and Toyota are not just merging companies; they’re merging visions.
As Archion prepares to launch in 2026, the industry will be watching closely. If successful, this alliance could serve as a blueprint for future collaborations, proving that legacy brands can evolve, adapt, and thrive in a rapidly changing world.