- The introduction of this new platform might lead to crossover models and a pickup truck designed for outdoor adventures.
- Nissan plans to incorporate advanced electric motors and battery packs into their upcoming electric vehicles.
- Nissan and Infiniti are set to introduce new crossover models based on this platform.
Nissan is plotting its return as a serious contender in the EV space, this time with a new electric vehicle platform aimed at supporting a broader lineup. The architecture could underpin up to five new models, including crossovers, sedans, and possibly even a lightweight pickup truck. In news likely to please American buyers—especially in light of Trump’s sweeping tariffs on imports—all of them will be built in the United States.
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The head of Nissan’s product strategy for North America, Ponz Pandikuthira, states that the updated platform will concentrate on smaller vehicle categories as well as related markets, establishing a foundation for greater efficiency and accessibility. EVs It's built to house the company’s upcoming electric motors and will utilize cheaper lithium-ion battery packs, offering quicker charging times than those presently provided by Nissan.
Pandikuthira stated that the platform's adaptability along with Nissan’s production capabilities in the U.S. create possibilities for collaboration with another automaker, which could reduce manufacturing expenses. Auto News This partnership might enable Nissan and a possible collaborator to split research and development expenses and expand production more efficiently.
Crossovers Take Priority
The Japanese firm originally intended to introduce two electric sedans based on this new platform as replacements for the Maxima. Altima However, because of shifts in market demand, it has altered its strategy, and the platform will now launch integrated into the innards of these two vehicles. crossovers Pandikuthira informed Autonews that at least one of these models from Nissan and Infiniti was set for release in 2028, with market demands determining whether the Nissan version or the Infiniti variant would be introduced initially.
The C-segment within the crossover market is the perfect entry point for us," Pandikuthira stated. "It's also where we excel as a brand.
Both vehicles will be put together at Nissan’s facility in Canton, Mississippi. The crossover under the Nissan brand is expected to feature a "robust" design with resemblances to the Xterra crossover while the Infiniti will opt for a more sophisticated design approach.
Is There Going to Be an Electric Pickup Truck?
Discussions include plans for an all-electric compact pickup truck. Although the initiative has not received final approval, Nissan is exploring options such as using a unibody design with potential release slated for approximately 2030. This model aims at appealing to consumers who seek practicality along with environmental responsibility in their vehicle choices, according to Pandikuthira.
There's an increasing market for individuals seeking an adventurous vehicle who also prioritize environmental responsibility and prefer not using a V-8 engine in nature," he stated. "Are there likely 100,000 such buyers ready for a Nissan electric truck? Unlikely. However, this demographic might expand over time, which we're closely monitoring.
Electric Vehicle Sedans Remain Uncertain
Regarding the other cars slated for this platform, Nissan expresses more uncertainty. The firm admits that its approach to electric sedans is still unclear. Introducing a budget-friendly model might be challenging, and luxury sedans do not fit well with Nissan’s primary market identity.
Pandikuthira acknowledged, "Luxury sedans aren't our focus." He further explained, "Once electric sedans priced over $45,000 come into play... you're no longer targeting the main sedan consumer base."
Given the lower-than-expected demand for electric sedans, Nissan might extend the production run of the current Altima until the end of 2027. This decision comes despite plans to discontinue the model this year as initially planned.
