Nissan’s Plans for the US Market
The company Nissan is confident in sales growth in the United States next year thanks to new models and increased focus on hybrid powertrains. This is happening against the backdrop of decreasing demand for electric vehicles.
Strategy After Changes
The Japanese brand experienced a turbulent year after the failure of a potential merger with Honda, although new reports indicate that the parties are again negotiating cooperation in the US. Following this, Nissan launched an ambitious cost-cutting program, including the closure of several plants. According to CEO Ivan Espinosa, the company is now prioritizing products and technologies.
New Performance Launches
Next year, the e-Power Rogue hybrid will debut in the US, putting Nissan in direct competition with electrified models such as the Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Tucson, and Kia Sportage. Production of the Nissan Armada and Infiniti QX80 will also increase, and 2026 will be the first full year of sales for the updated Sentra.
One project under consideration is the creation of a compact Infiniti crossover based on the Nissan Rogue, which is planned to be assembled at the plant in Smyrna, Tennessee, to fill the gap after the discontinuation of the QX50.
We must see offerings in the C-segment, D-segment, and probably in the B-segment. We see hybridization accelerating very quickly
We are considering what is best in the D-segment. Of course, there is towing, there are many other things. Therefore, power is important. It is possible to make, for example, a V6 hybrid
Although Espinosa did not reveal more details about the potential V6 system, previous signs indicate that it will differ from the familiar e-Power system.
Sales Stabilization and Prospects
Nissan and Infiniti sold 924,008 vehicles in 2024, which is 2.8% more than in 2023, but significantly below the record of 1.6 million sales in 2017. Sales are expected to remain at the same level this year.
Next year we should be in a position of sales growth. The fact that we have these new product lines coming and will be fully represented next year will definitely help
The company’s leader did not provide an estimate of the expected sales volume, probably not wanting to create unrealistic expectations. Interestingly, he noted that the firm does not want to “grow for the sake of volume.”
Impact of Tariffs on Nissan’s Plans
The Trump administration’s tariffs came at the worst possible time for Nissan. The company planned to reduce shifts at its plant in Smyrna, Tennessee, but instead will increase production at this site with new versions of the Rogue.
It won’t make much sense to stop a plant in the US when there are tariffs. What might have been perceived as a problem 18 months ago is now our strength due to our presence and capabilities. This is a good position
The refocusing on hybrid technologies reflects a broader trend in the automotive industry, where many manufacturers are adjusting their strategies in response to changing demand. The increase in production in the US, despite tariff challenges, demonstrates the company’s flexibility in adapting to political and economic realities. The success of these initiatives will largely depend on how well the new models meet consumer expectations in key market segments.