Renault could possibly reduce its stake in Nissan, with the two firms in talks over the French company’s plan to split its electric-car and combustion-engine assets.

Executives from the two firms have reportedly been discussing the future of the pair’s 20-year long collaboration since February, and on Monday the companies confirmed that they are holding talks over their partnership, although they did not provide details.

The automakers issued a statement saying they were engaged in “trustful discussions” around several initiatives aimed at strengthening the alliance, which also includes Mitsubishi. The statement also said that Nissan was considering investing in Renault’s future electric vehicle unit.

“The companies continue to drive structural improvements to ensure sustainable Alliance operations and governance. Any further communication will be done in due course by the Alliance members,” the two companies said.

Sources close to the talks say that Nissan wants Renault to reduce its stake from the current 43% to 15%, bringing it level with Nissan’s share in in the French company.

Renault plans to split into two parts, possibly as early as next year, with an entity dedicated to EVs and software based in France and another based outside the country focusing on internal combustion and hybrid powertrains. Both entities would employ about 10,000 staff.

Geely Involvement a Potential Sticking Point

Renault is keen for Nissan to play a role in its EV business, but one major sticking point for the Japanese manufacturer is the potential involvement of China’s Geely.

Geely, which bought a stake in Renault Korea earlier this year, are in discussions with Renault over a forming a new entity via Aurobay, its existing joint venture with Volvo. Nissan are understood to be pushing against the move due to concerns about giving a Chinese company access to technology.

Renault CEO Luca De Meo is due to present a strategy update on November 8th, and it is understood that all parties are hopeful of an agreement having been reached before that date.