History may be repeating itself for Nissan as it goes through another period of financial problems like in the late 1990s. But as the saying goes, ‘the show must go on’ and while the automaker has been making deep cuts and major adjustments in its business operations, it is still presenting an optimistic outlook with the confidence that it will be able to resolve its problems.
Now that it has chosen a new CEO, Ivan Espinosa, to take the company forward, it is showing that in spite of all the bad happenings, product development has continued. There are new and refreshed models, along with next-generation technologies, set to debut during coming 2 years.
These new products will play a crucial role in elevating the company’s performance, boosting customer loyalty, attracting new buyers, increasing profitability, and promoting sustainable growth.
Beginning of an exciting journey
“Over the next 2 years, we are excited to roll out an impressive lineup that will redefine the road! This includes the reimagined Nissan LEAF, and a daring new Micra EV. But that’s not all – we’re refreshing our range of SUVs to elevate the driving experience, and our next-generation e-POWER promises new levels of refinement and efficiency. We are committed to investing in products that embody the very best of Nissan. To our passionate fans and loyal owners around the world, I can assure you, this is just the beginning of an exciting journey ahead,” said Espinosa in his position as Nissan’s Chief Planning Officer (he will assume to CEO position on April 1).
“Our redefined market approach and tailored product strategy is designed to better meet customer needs and drive top-line growth. Through powertrain diversification and new models, we will provide a broader range of options that cater to diverse customer preferences, further distinguishing Nissan and INFINITI brands,” added Guillaume Cartier, Chief Performance Officer.
All-new LEAF
The LEAF, which was a pioneering EV when it was launched in 2010, goes into its third generation with substantial improvements in aerodynamics and more advanced EV architecture. It sits on Nissan’s modular CMF-EV platform with the company’s own new 3-in-1 EV powertrain said to deliver significant range improvements over the previous generation.
For the North American market, a NACS charging port is also integrated – the first time for a Nissan EV – enabling access to the Tesla Supercharger network.
Next-generation e-POWER
Nissan hybrid electric powertrain called e-POWER offers customers an alternative to battery electric vehicles with the best of both worlds (BEV and hybrid). After 2 generations, the improved third generation will have notable improvements in efficiency. It is targeted to provide up to 15% enhancement in economy at high speeds compared to the current system. It will also deliver lower emissions and enhanced refinement through reduced noise and vibration.
Central to the advancement is the adoption of a new, 1.5-litre petrol engine designed exclusively for use with the e-POWER system (it cannot be used on its own). Additionally, the new 5-in-1 system shares core components with Nissan’s latest EV powertrain so it is very advanced.
New models
More than 10 new or refreshed models will be launched in different regions. North America will be the first to get the new LEAF. For the Oceania region, which Malaysia is in, the automaker says that a pair of EVs, 1-ton pick-up truck, all-new Patrol and third-generation e-Power will be introduced in coming years.
Click here to know more about Nissan models available in Malaysia.