Suzuki Motor Corporation is to supply around 3,000 all-new mini-vehicles a month to Nissan Motor Company from 2002.

The deal, signed for the Japanese market but which could be expanded abroad, is expected to widen Nissan's customer base and help Suzuki to increase production volume and efficiency.

Carlos Ghosn, Nissan Motor president, said: “To grow, we must profitably compete in every segment, and we have taken this decision after careful market and profitability analysis.

“I am confident of the success of this joint project.”