Nissan Motor has unveiled four new electric vehicle (EV) models at Auto China Show in Beijing, highlighting its commitment to the Chinese market despite intense competition and a price war that has sent its sales tumbling over the past three years. “Consumer needs in China’s car industry have gone through rapid changes in recent years, and domestic players have shifted the competition landscape,” said Nissan CEO Makoto Uchida at the show. “We need to react rapidly to stay competitive.” Nissan plans to roll out eight new models for the local market by 2026 through its joint venture with Dongfeng Motor, aiming to grow its sales in China to more than the 1 million mark by then. The company also announced plans to start exporting vehicles produced in China from next year, including 100,000 units in the initial phase. Nissan unveiled two electric concept cars and two hybrids at the motor show, and vowed to update 73% of its product line-up by 2026 with more EV and hybrid cars. The company also signed a memorandum of understanding with Chinese search-engine operator Baidu to explore a strategic partnership in artificial intelligence (AI) and self-driving cars, allowing Nissan to apply Baidu’s generative AI technologies to its cars in China. Nissan’s upbeat assessment comes amid a Nikkei report that the company is considering cutting 30% of its annual production capacity in China due to intensifying rivalry with Chinese producers such as BYD. Nissan currently produces about 1.6 million units in China.
Nissan Unveils New EVs and Outlines Expansion Plans in China
