Merry Christmas!

 

All of us at Ancira Nissan join in sending you best wishes for the holiday and the new year!

Detroit Bound 2013 Nissan Pathfinder Teased

 

"Another teaser image rolls of the company’s table and hits the interwebs today. The Japanese automotive multinational Nissan has released a teaser shot of its very new seven-seater model, the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder.

Offering a preview of Nissan’s next generation production SUV, the 2013 Pathfinder, according to the company will club together its predecessors’ traditional SUV hallmarks with a new platform and “dramatic new aerodynamic body.” With sophisticated and intelligent technology, comfortable seating for seven and ample cargo room, the 4-wheel drive Pathfinder Concept features an impressive curvaceous body and sleek lines.

The car will make its first public debut at the 2012 North American International Auto Show in January. Nissan confirms that 2013 Pathfinder will go on sale next fall." [Continue reading...]

FedEx Trials Nissan Pure-Electric Van in London

 

"Nissan has supplied FedEx a pure electric NV200 van for a two-month trial in London. The idea is to see whether the prototype EV can handle the mean streets of the capital. It’s part of a larger global FedEx trial involving 43 pure-electric vehicles operating in Paris, New York, Los Angeles, Chicago and Memphis.

Earlier this year, the Japan Post Service ran an NV200 EV on routine delivery and collection duties in Japan, and New York City will be testing six electric versions of the NV200, which the city chose as its new yellow cab, with a view to introducing them in 2017.

The NV200 uses the same powertrain and battery deployed in the Nissan LEAF five-door hatchback pure-electric. We’re guessing that the van – especially when loaded for business – will be considerably heavier than the LEAF, so performance and range aren’t likely to match the car’s.

Central London’s heavily congested streets, where poor air quality is an issue, are viewed as an ideal challenge for the NV200 EV – the van will be at its most efficient in stop/start traffic with its regenerative braking scoring back energy that would otherwise be lost." [Continue reading...]

Nissan Bonds to Fund Upgrades in Smyrna

"The Rutherford County Industrial Development Board approved the issuance of $35.7 million in bonds Wednesday to finance Nissan's auto factory upgrades.


This is the 18th time Nissan has requested bonds since it established its arrangement in 1982 with the IDB, which leases the factory to the Japanese automaker in exchange for the company paying property taxes at a reduced rate.


"It's been a long and productive relationship," said Steve Miller, a Nissan tax manager who works at the company's American headquarters in Franklin.


Nissan every year or two needs to request bonds to reflect the company's investments to update the factory, Miller said.


"The Smyrna plant is a dynamic operation," said Miller, who is a 25-year Murfreesboro resident who previously worked at the local factory before Nissan moved its headquarters to Tennessee in 2005. "We are constantly changing operations."


In 2012, Nissan will be adjusting its assembly line operation in Smyrna to add the Infiniti JX in February. By December, the company will launch production of the Leaf electric car, and a new Nissan battery factory at the Smyrna campus will produce what's needed to operate the Leaf. The battery factory is about built, and the company will be adding the needed equipment to make the batteries, Miller said.


The latest models of the Pathfinder and Altima will continue coming off the line as well, Miller said.


By 2013, the Smyrna factory will start producing the Rogue, which is a cross between an SUV and a sedan.


While adding new lines here, Nissan plans to relocate production of the Xterra SUV and Frontier pick up trucks to the factory in Canton, Miss.


Miller said Nissan and its contractors are doing a lot of hiring to get ready to produce new cars and batteries.


"Things look good," Miller said. "We're proud to be part of the local community."


Miller said Nissan has a global presence, such as plans to manufacture the Leaf in Japan, Spain and Smyrna." [Continue reading...]

Nissan Unveils Technology Enabling Electric Leaf Car to Power Family Home

 

"It sounds far-fetched but your car could be making your toast for you in a few years. And boiling your kettle. And doing your washing. Nissan has just unveiled new technology that it thinks will revolutionize the way we power our homes, our cars and our lives. 

It has developed a system in which its new electric car, the Leaf, can be plugged into a house to provide it with another source of energy. The company’s Smart Home Charging technology is designed to encourage consumers to move away from using electricity provided by the main grid and use their car for more than just motoring. 

At the heart of this energy drive is the Nissan Leaf (Leading, Environmentally friendly, Affordable, Family car). In a recent demonstration at the Tokyo Motor Show, Nissan showed how the car can power a home by being connected to a power control system box (PCS) that is hooked up to the property. 

In the demonstration, the Leaf was powering a specially-designed Smart House but Nissan is confident the technology could be used with existing homes. The power control system box will go on sale at the end of March next year in Japan, where more than 8,000 Leafs have been sold since the car launched in December 2010. The box will cost more than £4,000. 

According to Nissan, the Leaf’s 24kW per hour battery is enough to power a home’s lights, fan, television, fridge and other appliances for two days.

In an ideal world, the technology would operate in a smart home fitted with solar panels and fuel cells, thus free from the electrical grid. 

However, until those types of homes are the norm, it could still be used to reduce a household’s electricity bills. The car would be charged at night through the electrical grid but homeowners might use the vehicle’s battery to power certain appliances and devices during peak times to save money. It could also be used to power the home during blackouts. 

Energy expert Alastair Ramsay is the sustainable development manager at Legrand, which specialises in electrical installation. He described how it might work." [Continue reading...]

Happy Birthday to the Nissan LEAF

Nissan Pathfinder Prepares to Cross Over

 

"If automakers have learned anything from the 2011 Ford Explorer, it's that changing a popular SUV nameplate to a crossover platform won't necessarily hurt the vehicle's image (or sales numbers). Nissan is hoping to capture that same sort of magic with its Pathfinder – judging by these spy shots, the traditionally body-on-frame SUV stalwart appears to be crossing over for its next generation.

The next-gen Pathfinder will likely be based on Nissan's FF-L platform that currently underpins vehicles like the Murano crossover and Quest minivan. Our best guess is that this Pathfinder, which will still remain a seven-passenger vehicle, could share many of its bits with the recently revealed Infiniti JX. Either way, whatever Nissan has planned for the new Pathfinder will surely be better than the aging, Titan-based model that's currently on sale." [Continue reading...]

Nissan Expands Leaf Availability into New U.S. Markets

 

"Days before the one-year anniversary of the world’s first Nissan LEAF delivery on Dec. 11, Nissan North America Inc. (NNA) expands availability of the all-electric LEAF into new U.S. markets. After one year and 20,000 global deliveries, the Nissan LEAF remains the world’s first and only all-electric car for the mass market. 

Today, Nissan has re-opened reservations and has begun taking orders from the general public for the 2012 Nissan LEAF in Delaware, Indiana, Louisiana, Nevada, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island. Deliveries of the LEAF, enriched for the 2012 model year with additional standard equipment including quick charging and cold-weather features, will take place in these key markets beginning in spring 2012. 

“Nissan LEAFs have been on the U.S. roads for one year now, and thousands of drivers have become living proof that a 100-percent electric, zero-emissions vehicle fulfills the daily needs of drivers from all walks of life,” said Brian Carolin, senior vice president, Sales and Marketing, NNA. “We are seeing already-strong interest in the LEAF continue to grow across the country. This market expansion brings us one step closer to true, nationwide availability.”

With this new wave of availability, Nissan LEAF is now available for order in 30 states, including Washington, D.C. Nationwide, 50-state ordering will be available by March 2012." [Continue reading...]

Nissan Now Offering Ready-to-Race 370Z

 

"Nissan’s iconic “Z” cars boast a long and storied tradition of motorsports success, but this year, the plot thickens—and the Z quickens: The automaker is now selling the 370Z NISMO RC, designed specifically for racing. The new racer is configured to meet FIA GT4 and World Challenge GTS class specs right out of the box, and can be adapted to compete in the GS class of the Grand Am Continental Tire Challenge. (Note: NISMO is Nissan’s racing and performance division, and gets its name from an abbreviation of Nissan Motorsport International Limited.) 

The 370Z NISMO RC is based on the entirely street-legal 370Z—itself no slouch in the performance department—but has been reinvented specifically for track-only competition. As a result, it now boasts an FIA-compliant roll cage, onboard fire extinguisher, Recaro racing seat, Sparco competition steering wheel, carbon-fiber switch panel, and a full complement of NISMO enhancements, including a specially tuned ECM and race-ready high-capacity clutch, flywheel, engine oil, and transmission and differential coolers, as well as a wide range of hose and connector upgrades. The 370Z NISMO RC also went on a significant diet to get into racing condition, with Nissan experts slicing more than 350 lbs. off the curb weight of the highest-preforming production Z." [Continue reading...]

Nissan Introduces Low-cost EV Quick Charger

 

"To provide a low-cost, high-quality charging solution for faster EV “refills,” Nissan and Sumitomo are collaborating to launch a new EV quick charger for the U.S. market. And not only will the innovative quick charger cost about one third the price of traditional units, but it also will be able to support all plug-in vehicles capable of quick charging on the increasingly-used CHAdeMO standard—including the Nissan LEAF. The only 100 percent electric car designed for the mass market, the LEAF can be refilled from a fully depleted state to an 80 percent charge in less than 30 minutes using this new charger.

The Nissan/Sumitomo charging system was designed primarily for fleet and commercial applications—including public charging points, rental fleets, corporate and educational campuses, and even shopping malls—and it will be available in two different configurations: One specifically for outdoor use, one for indoor locations.

Other fast facts about the quick charger:" [Continue reading...]

Happy Thanksgiving!

 

From our family to yours, we would like to wish you a very happy Thanksgiving! Be safe and enjoy the turkey!

The Best Roast Turkey Recipe For Thanksgiving

Nissan Rolling Out Spiffed-Up Dood Trucks

 

“Nissan approached us with this sponsored vehicle, and we think it’s a fantastic idea,” said Michelle Grant, CEO of the Grilled Cheese Truck. “Right now we use the standard taco truck. With a more compact vehicle, we’ll be able to reach new spaces.”

CoolHaus, which currently uses refurbished postal trucks, echoed these thoughts.

“It’s definitely smaller – lower height, shorter, more compact,” said CoolHaus CEO Natasha Case, “and in the food truck industry, this space compression really helps being able to park and participate in smaller venues. Say a venue has space for 10 trucks plus a half, we can now be that half.”

With a larger manufacturer now offering vans, Case noted the benefits of having a new vehicle with better power and mileage. “Also, if you have a problem, it means you can now take it to the dealer.” 

The Nissan NV, released in the U.S. this summer, is its first commercial vehicle in the U.S. market. The three models (NV1500, 2500 and 3500) offer a standard or high-top roof and a V-6 or V-8 engine. Features include chrome bumpers, cargo area worklights, eight-way power driver’s seat, Bluetooth system and upgraded audio systems. Base prices range from $24,950 for a standard-roof NV1500 to $30,150 for a high-roof NV3500 

“It’s a unique product for us,” said Mark Perry, Nissan’s director of product planning. “This is really all about innovation, to have a little fun, because there’s been really nothing for this industry.”

Perry noted that in this category, contractors have had a few choices, like GM, Ford, Dodge: “All well-established,” he said, “but older technology.”

The NV also provides an outfitting service—building and installing up to 60 square feet of graphics, designed by the buyer, on the vehicle. [Continue reading...]

Nissan Juke-R Engine Bark

Nissan Adds Passenger Van to NV Lineup

 

"After successfully expanding its “Innovation for All” strategy last year to include cargo vans—with the introduction of the Nissan NV family—Nissan will soon be offering a similar approach—and similar vehicles—for drivers who need to haul people: The 2013 Nissan NV3500 HD, with the ability to carry up to 12 passengers in four rows of seating, will go on sale for commercial and retail customers in the spring of 2012.

“Just as we did prior to shaking up the commercial van category with the highly innovative Nissan NV, we first did our homework in the full-size van segment by studying the real-world needs, wants and desires of both families and fleet operators,” said Joe Castelli, vice president, Commercial Vehicles and Fleet, Nissan North America, Inc. “As a result, we’re delivering a vehicle that offers everything owners are looking for—enhanced usability, driver and passenger comfort, flexible storage, dependability, durability and an affordable cost of ownership. Then we’ve topped it all off with signature Nissan style, performance and value.”

In addition to rugged body-on-frame construction and the most flexible seating configurations in the segment, the Nissan NV3500 HD will deliver: [Continue reading...]"

2013 Nissan GT-R: Godzilla Adds More Firepower

  

"Nissan is again showing off its commitment to continuous improvement with its flagship sports car—especially when it comes to continuously improving the Nissan GT-R’s power output.

Consider: For the 2011 model year, Nissan’s supercar was able to squeeze 485 hp and 448 lb.-ft. from its technologically advanced twin-turbo V6. But just one year later, the automaker’s engineers were able to find even more power lurking inside that engine and tuned up the 2012 GT-R for 530 hp and 448 lb.-ft. of torque. And they’ve done it again for the 2013 model, which will be capable of a pavement-pulverizing 545 horse and 463 lb.-ft. of twist.

This time around, the upgrades come primarily via refinements to the GT-R’s engine breathing, resulting in enhanced intake and exhaust-emissions efficiency, reduced air-flow resistance, and improved engine control. Then, to ensure the car maintains its reputation for all-around performance—witness its record-setting exploits on the Nürburgring—Nissan also retuned the GT-R’s suspension and improved its shift feel.

The automaker fine-tuned the GT-R lineup as well, introducing a handmade dry-carbon rear spoiler for the Black Edition, adding a standard rear-view monitor to all models and debuting a new, blue lighting treatment for the inside of the tach ring. The latter now matches the look of the shift-position indicator light, subtly adding to the sophisticated appearance of the GT-R’s cabin." [Continue reading...]

Nissan Innovation - Around View Monitor

Ryan Hall Joins Nissan At ING New York City Marathon 2011

 

"Olympic Marathoner Ryan Hall will help runners take performance to the next level at the ING New York City Marathon 2011 as part of the Innovation for Endurance program with Rodale, Inc and Nissan North America. As official automotive partner for the second year, Nissan will provide the official vehicles on the course and display vehicles throughout the event. The new 100% electric Nissan LEAF will be pace vehicle for the marathon on Sunday, November 6.

Hall will have prominent involvement in the New York City Marathon but won’t compete. In addition to training videos and running tips, he’ll greet runners at the Innovation for Endurance display at the ING New York City Marathon Health and Fitness Expo at the Jacob Javits Convention Center on November 4 from 1-2pm, and on November 5 from 12-1pm.

In addition to being the marathon pace car, the Nissan LEAF will be on a “Breathe Easy Tour” of New York City from October 24- Nov.5, making stops at various high-traffic locations including Times Square, Battery Park, and the New York City Marathon finish line. At each stop consumers can enter a sweepstakes to win a new LEAF." [Continue reading...]

New Nissan GT-R 2012

Nissan JUKE-R - Gearbox and Drivetrain

Nissan's Taxi of Tomorrow

Happy Halloween!

 

We would like to wish everyone a very Happy Halloween! Be safe and try not to eat too much candy!

Nissan Eyes 1.5 Million E-Cars by 2016

"Japanese auto giant Nissan is aiming to sell 1.5 million electric vehicles around the world by 2016, the company said this week, as it looks to capitalize on growing demand for green products.

Japan's second-largest automaker behind Toyota said it wants to be the world's largest player in so-called "zero-emission vehicles," including a new fuelcell electric vehicle developed with Daimler.

The company, which is 43.8 per cent owned by French partner Renault, has sold 15,000 Leaf electric cars, the only model it produces, but plans to add seven models across the group.

"More consumers are demanding products in line with their values, including cars and trucks with a lower carbon footprint. At the same time, we are using technology to make our factories greener and more efficient," said Nissan president and chief executive officer Carlos Ghosn.

"Nissan wants to be part of the solution toward a sustainable society - for the sake of the planet and as a significant competitive advantage and a strategic differentiator in the global manufacturing sector."

In addition to the target of 1.5 million electric vehicles, the company said it is also aiming for an average 35 per cent improvement in fuel economy on 2005 figures for vehicles sold in Japan, China, Europe and the U.S.

Last month, Nissan said it was teaming up with U.S.-based General Electric to explore ways to promote the use of electric vehicles.

Japanese firms were hit hard by power and chronic parts supply shortages in the wake of March's earthquake and tsunami, with the likes of Nissan, Toyota and Honda having to sharply reduce production and shut plants due to a lack of crucial components." [Continue reading...]

Nissan JUKE-R - The Engine

Nissan Announces Latest Hybrid, CVT Advances

 

"In addition to selling the only mass-market all-electric no-emissions vehicle in the world – the LEAF – Nissan is continuing its efforts to bring innovation to all with notable tech enhancements to its vehicles powered by internal-combustion engines. This includes recently unveiling two next-generation powertrain systems that will help U.S. drivers achieve higher levels of fuel efficiency beginning in 2012.

The automaker’s all-new XTRONIC continuously variable transmission (CVT), designed specifically for engines with 2.0 to 3.5 liters of displacement, is set to reach North American products starting next year. The advanced transmission builds on Nissan’s longtime industry leadership role in CVT technology with:

• Ratio coverage of a full 7.0 – the widest of any CVT in the world for the aforementioned engine sizes – providing enhanced drivability
• 40 percent less friction for further fuel-economy gains
• The latest version of Nissan’s Adaptive Shift Control, which adapts a vehicle’s shifting patterns to better match different driving styles and road conditions

Thanks to upgrades like these, the new transmission is expected to significantly reduce unwanted powertrain noise and help eliminate over-revving, while also reducing fuel consumption by up to 10 percent – and more when mated to the automaker’s affordable new hybrid propulsion setup. It’s a system that integrates a compact lithium-ion battery, two separate clutches, a leading-edge electric motor and a 2.5-liter supercharged engine, all in a streamlined package that affords the same power as a 3.5-liter V6, but with much better fuel economy." [Continue reading...]

Nissan Announces U.S. Pricing for 2012 Quest

"Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today announced U.S. pricing for the 2012 Nissan Quest minivan, which is on sale now at Nissan dealers nationwide. The innovation-packed Nissan Quest is offered in four well-equipped models: S, SV, SL and LE. Each comes with a standard 260-horsepower 3.5-liter 24-valve DOHC V6 engine and Nissan’s advanced Xtronic CVT™ transmission. Key available features include one-touch power sliding doors, fold-flat 2nd and 3rd row seats, Advanced Climate Control System, and standard permanent hidden storage. Enhancements for the 2012 model year include standard XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately) on Quest SV and SL models, and one new exterior color – Super Black.

Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices* (MSRP) for the 2012 Nissan Quest include: [Continue reading...]

Quest 3.5 S	$27,750 USD
Quest 3.5 SV	$31,050 USD
Quest 3.5 SL	$34,500 USD
Quest 3.5 LE	$41,350 USD

Nissan, GE Partner to Speed Use of Electric Vehicles

 

"To help make it even easier for U.S. customers to choose transportation solutions like the all-electric Nissan LEAF, Nissan and GE have recently signed a two-year research agreement aimed directly at developing a robust and reliable EV-charging infrastructure. As a reminder, the LEAF, which is available in an increased number of markets for the 2012 model year, is certified by the EPA to deliver up to 73 miles of driving on electricity alone, at the equivalent of 106 mpg city/92 mpg highway/97 mpg combined.

“As the U.S. and world move toward electric vehicles, the automotive sector is forming new industry connections that extend well beyond the traditional OEM space,” said Mark Little, senior vice president and director, GE Global Research. “One of the biggest connections being made is with companies that generate and provide electricity. As a major provider of power generation equipment and energy services, GE is in a great position to help the automotive industry bring millions of electric vehicles onto the grid.”

The collaboration will be extensive and far ranging, with the two companies working on a number of different initiatives. These will include research into how best to incorporate EV-charging functionality into a home’s or building’s electrical equipment, as well as ways to optimize the nation’s power grid to meet increased EV demand." [Continue reading...]

Nissan Leaf Goes Racing

 "The electrification of the car will be a long process and the development seems fragmented and confusing. Yet with governments keen to support the advancement of zero emissions transport, it’s already a hotly contested battleground. The prize? The general buying public’s hearts, minds and money. From tiny but fast-moving specialists to the industry’s giants, everyone wants a piece of this brave, clean and potentially lucrative new world.

Nissan is at the movement’s very forefront and already sells a full EV model, the worthy but deeply unsexy Leaf, which retails at an eye-popping £30,990. It has a range of 110 miles, offers decent acceleration and a 90mph top speed. It’s seen some success but those numbers are unlikely to win over the average car buyer, who equates electric cars with range anxiety and tedious recharging.

So it’s no surprise that Nissan is desperate to make strides in battery technology and to drive down the price of EVs. How best to achieve that? It seems that, just like the good old days of internal combustion, motorsport still improves the breed…

This monstrous looking racecar is the Leaf re-imagined and reconfigured by Nismo, Nissan’s passionate and meticulous racing arm. Nissan hopes to run a one-make race series for the Leaf Nismo RC in the US and Japan." [Continue reading...]

Nissan Develops 10-Minute-Rechargeable Battery

"A new battery technology from Japanese automaker Nissan may soon speed up the charging time for electric vehicles from eight hours to as little as 10 minutes.

Researchers at Japan’s Kansai University and Nissan modified a capacitor to let it hold more power, according to an article on Paul Tan's Automotive News.

But the article said the researchers do not appear satisfied, planning to bring down the charge time further to three minutes or less.

The article noted that present lithium-ion batteries can take up to eight hours to recharge fully.

In the project, the researchers used a composite from tungsten oxide and vanadium oxide instead of the usual carbon for the capacitor’s electrode.

The article added the modified capacitor also held nearly the same storage capacity and voltage as lithium-ion batteries.

However, it added it may take about 10 years before the technology can be commercialized.

Still, this may help cut production costs for electric cars and make them more popular for drivers in a hurry.

Meanwhile, Nissan also unveiled what may be the world’s first ultra high tensile strength steel to be rated at 1.2 gigapascals (GPa)." [Continue reading...]

Nissan Builds First-Ever Super Crossover

 

"The Nissan Juke has already injected a bit of excitement into the compact crossover segment. However, a new Juke-based concept is ready to infuse a healthy dose of performance into the otherwise demure segment.

Referred to as the first “super crossover,” Nissan says the all-new Juke-R Concept combines a Juke with Nissan’s flagship supercar, the GT-R.

Currently under development, the new Juke-R is a far cry from the stock Juke. It features flared wheel arches, revised front and rear bumpers plus a unique split rear wing. Powering this concept is the same powerplant found under the hood of the GT-R, a 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6 engine. It’s even being outfitted with a modified GT-R 4WD driveline and prop shaft, as well as 20-inch RAYS forged alloy rims." [Continue reading...]

Nissan Expands Partnership With Habitat for Humanity International

  

"Today Nissan Americas announced a significant expansion of its longstanding partnership with Habitat for Humanity International with a $2.5 million donation. Nissan’s vision is to invite all its stakeholders to participate in the partnership with Habitat for Humanity. Point-of-sale materials in dealerships and communications to consumers will convey information about Habitat activities. Consumers who visit the Nissanusa.com website can click through to Habitat’s site to make a donation or find volunteer opportunities across the country.

“Our relationship with Habitat will lead to new opportunities for Nissan owners and our dealer partners to get involved in future Habitat builds,” said Bill Krueger, vice chairman, Nissan Americas. “Both Nissan and Habitat are committed to sustainability, so it’s fitting that our dollars will also support sustainable construction practices in Habitat affiliates nationwide. Nissan cares about the environment and about giving back to the communities where our customers, dealers and employees live and work. Collaborating with Habitat allows us to carry out these priorities in a tangible, meaningful way.”

Nissan is funding grants and providing Nissan vehicles to 10 Habitat affiliates that make commitments to sustainable construction practices. Habitat will use a portion of Nissan’s donation to conduct sustainability “summits” for affiliates and their local communities. Nissan funding will also support the annual Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Work Project in Haiti in November 2011.

“Nissan’s financial support enables us to help more families improve their living conditions in ways they can afford,” said Jonathan Reckford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity International, “We are extremely grateful to have a partner like Nissan that shares our commitment to building sustainable communities. This is an exciting opportunity for our affiliates and for our recovery work in Haiti.”

Throughout this partnership Nissan and Habitat for Humanity will share a common goal: to build affordable, sustainable homes in partnership with families in need of decent housing. Nissan-sponsored Habitat homes will be equipped with many “green living” features, including low-flowing plumbing fixtures, programmable thermostats, energy-efficient fluorescent lighting, high-performance windows and ENERGY STAR® appliances. These eco-friendly amenities align with Nissan’s Green Program, which supports efforts to reduce the company’s impact on the environment." [Continue reading...]

Nissan to Build Factory in Brazil

"Nissan Motor Co. plans to spend $1.5 billion to build a new factory in Brazil and develop new vehicles as part of its plan to become the leading Asian auto brand in the country.

The plant, to be built in Resende in the state of Rio de Janeiro, will open in the first half of 2014 and will be able to build 200,000 vehicles per year. About 2,000 people will work at the plant, and Nissan estimates that at least 2,000 more will be hired by parts supply companies.

Brazil is the world's fourth-largest auto market by sales volume. Nissan wants to capture at least 5 percent of the market by 2016, the company said in a statement. Nissan currently has a 1.7 percent market share in Brazil.

The new plant will build models off Nissan's subcompact architecture such as the Nissan March and Versa subcompacts.

Nissan already builds the Livina, Grand Livina, X-Gear and Frontier models at a Brazilian plant run by its partner, French automaker Renault." 

Reblogged from [BusinessWeek.com]

Chicago To Become The Nissan LEAF’s Kind Of Town

 

"Driven by a combination of high consumer demand and extensive support for building an EV-friendly infrastructure, Nissan recently announced it would pull ahead the Chicago-area launch of its all-electric LEAF and introduce the vehicle in the Windy City this fall.

“Governor [Pat] Quinn, Mayor [Rahm] Emmanuel and other visionary Chicago-area leaders have paved the way for mass-market adoption of electric cars in their community,” said Scott Becker, senior vice president, Administration and Finance, Nissan Americas. “Chicagoland consumers want a transportation solution that uses no gas and produces no emissions, and the introduction of the Nissan LEAF to Illinois makes that a reality.”

It’s the culmination of efforts that kicked off in earnest earlier this year, when work began on creating a cutting-edge EV infrastructure for the area, backed a$1 million Clean Cities Grant and a matching $1 million investment from the state of Illinois. The goal is to create a robust network of some 280 charging outlets in the Chicagoland area, including 73 quick-charge stations and 207 Level 2 stations, by the end of the year. In addition, the State of Illinois offers up to $4,000 in rebates for the purchase of EVs, and that’s on top of the federal government’s $7,500 tax credit." [Continue reading...]

2012 Nissan Leaf Ready To Branch Out To New Markets

  

After successfully launching the first mass-market all-electric vehicle in the U.S.—the Nissan Leaf—in select U.S. locations for the 2011 model year, the automaker has now begun rolling out the 2012 model to the rest of the country, starting in the Southeast.

Customers who had previously reserved Leaf’s in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and Washington, D.C., have already begun placing their orders, and they will be joined by Leaf reservers from Connecticut, Colorado, Massachusetts, New Jersey and New York beginning this fall. Then, by the end of the year, the ordering process will expand to Delaware, Indiana, Louisiana, Nevada, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Rhode Island.

And notably, the new 2012 model brings new standard content aimed at further enhancing the Leaf’s transformative electric-driving experience. [Continue reading...]

Nissan Promotes Sustainability With Urban Green Lab

 

"This week Nissan announced it would donate up to $375,000 to support Nashville’s first community center for sustainability. By partnering with Urban Green Lab, Nissan will help the non-profit construct a state-of-the art green building and learning complex.

Urban Green Lab will break ground on the new community center in 2012. The complex will be the one of the first platinum-certified LEED buildings built in Tennessee, and it will showcase green design, interactive displays and a working community garden." [Continue reading...]

Executive Vice President Colin Dodge Interview with the Global Media Center

Nissan Canada Delivers First 100% Electric Nissan Leaf to Canadian Consumer

 

"Today Nissan Canada made history when it delivered the first all-electric Nissan LEAF to a Canadian consumer at an event in Ottawa. Ricardo Borba, an Ottawa resident and the first person in Canada to place a Nissan LEAF order, received the keys to his black Nissan LEAF SL from Allen Childs, President of Nissan Canada. Hunt Club Nissan in Ottawa hosted the event and is also hosting the Ottawa stop of Nissan’s cross-Canada Drive Electric Tour.

“This is a significant milestone in the movement that brings sustainable mobility within our grasp and at Nissan we’re excited to be leading the way by bringing the world’s first all-electric car to the mass market, which was also recognized as the 2011 World Car of the Year,” said Allen Childs, President of Nissan Canada, Inc. “Today we made history by handing over the keys to Mr. Borba, the first Canadian consumer to purchase a Nissan LEAF. This represents the freedom to choose a car that has no tailpipe, produces no emissions and will never have to visit a gas station.”

Borba, a 44-year old electric engineer and software developer with IBM currently lives in Ottawa, Ontario with his wife and son. His new Nissan LEAF will be the family’s primary car providing ample range for their day-to-day commutes.

“My family and I were starting to look for a new car last year when the Deepwater Horizon oil spill occurred and prompted us to think about alternatives to gas-powered vehicles,” said Borba. “We considered several options and the Nissan LEAF was the one that best fits our needs. It’s all-electric and looks and drives just like a regular car with five seats, ample cargo space and loaded with high-tech features. It’s smooth, quiet and has incredible acceleration. In other words, it’s fun to drive!” [Continue Reading...]

Nissan Launches "My Versa Road Trip" Social Media Program for All-New 2012 Nissan Versan Sedan

"Complementing the success of the current “Most _____ per dollar” campaign, Nissan is amplifying marketing support for the all-new 2012 Nissan Versa sedan with an interactive social media promotion. The Versa Sedan, on sale now at Nissan dealers nationwide, offers the most legroom, headroom, trunk room and technology per dollar than any other car in America, making it a facilitator of great experiences. This three-phased campaign will demonstrate the Versa’s key innovations while engaging social-savvy audiences.

MyVersaRoadTrip.com
Live this week, Nissan launched a Facebook Connect enabled website MyVersaRoadTrip.com, where users create their own trips by selecting routes, picking their soundtrack and inviting three Facebook friends to come along. Entrants then submit their trip, telling Nissan why their online journey should be made into a real one and share it with their social networks, now through October 19, 2011.

“While highly social, target Versa buyers in their mid-to-late twenties often are juggling new time commitments and financial priorities,” said Jon Brancheau, vice president, Marketing, Nissan North America, Inc. “This makes staying connected with friends easier online, so the ‘My Versa Road Trip’ campaign gives them opportunity to engage online for potential chance to reconnect in person offline.”

Six winners will be selected and announced November 14 to receive a 2012 Versa Sedan and take the 4 Day\3 night road trip they submitted with their friends. Along the journey, the winners will submit updates, tweets, images and other content from the road so users can follow their trip online.

For additional content, all Versas will be outfitted with stop-motion cameras inside and out. When the trips conclude, the footage will be used to create mini road-trip movies to be shared in an online film festival in January 2012. The community will judge the films, giving them a chance to win prizes as well. " 

Source:[Nissan News]

Nissan Announces European Sales for August 2011

Today Nissan announced a 25% year-on-year increase in European sales from August 2010.

A strong August, in which Nissan sold 40,569 units, continued Nissan's run of out-selling 2010 in every month to date. Most models posted year-on-year sales increases contributing to a 3.6% European market share.

Locally-produced models continue to drive this demand, including the Qashqai crossover and Note mini-MPV - both manufactured in Sunderland, UK - and the Barcelona-built Navara pickup and NV200 small van.

Russia - Nissan's largest European market - is continuing to play a key role. August sales reached 11,289 units in a market where Nissan remains the top-selling Japanese brand.

Guillaume Cartier, Nissan's Vice President for Sales Operations, Europe commented: "August is traditionally a month when sales slow down but Nissan's strong product line-up continues to bring customers into the showrooms and our order banks continue to grow.

The success of the Nissan crossover line up with Murano, Qashqai and Juke is driving our performance across the region and we are also looking forward to the launch of the Micra DIG-S later this month." 


Source:[Nissan News]

Nissan To Launch Reality TV Show

Nissan Develops New Quick Charger for Electric Vehicles

"Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. today revealed its new quick charger to the public and announced plans for this proprietary technology to go on sale in November 2011 at Nissan parts companies throughout Japan.

The newly-developed quick charging unit retains the high performance of the current quick charger manufactured by Nissan, which is now on sale with a suggested retail price of 1.47 million yen (including tax), but is nearly half the size (by volume). The new charger unit's smaller size will take up less space and enable easier installation. When it goes on sale, the new standard specification quick charger unit will be highly competitive and great value to customers because it will cost significantly less than one million yen, while the base specification unit will cost only below one half the price of the current unit.

Nissan aims to sell 5,000 of the new quick chargers by the end of fiscal year 2015 (March 2016) to contribute to the ongoing development of the EV quick charging infrastructure in Japan. The company plans to install the new charging units at an increasing number of its dealerships nationwide and introduce the new units at local government facilities and in locations that draw large numbers of customers in regions throughout Japan. Nissan is also proactively seeking partner companies for sales as part of its efforts to assure customers of a comfortable and convenient electric vehicle driving experience. Preparations are also underway for future sales of the new quick charger in the US and in European markets." 

Source:[Nissan News]

Nissan Insider LEAF Walkaround

Nissan Announces Prices For The 2012 Rogue

 

The Nissan Rogue will be getting a number of updates for the 2012 model year as well as new pricing to reflect those changes.

A new Special Edition Package will now be available on the 2012 Nissan Rogue, which is bundles an assortment of popular features for budget-conscious buyers, including 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, AM/FM/CD audio system with 4.3-inch color display and USB connectivity, XM Satellite Radio, and RearView Monitor. This new package is priced at $1,200, a $1,000 savings over the cost of items if purchased separately.

Other enhancements for 2012 include the availability of the Around View Monitor. This is the first non-luxury vehicle in the U.S. to receive this innovative technology, which utilizes four separate cameras to create a virtual 360° overhead view of the Rogue and its surroundings when parking. For anyone regularly parking in tight spaces or parallel parking, the Around View Monitor makes the task even easier.[Continue reading...]

All New 2012 Nissan Versa Debuts as Sub-Compact Segment Sales Leader in August

 

The results are in. After the first month of availability of the all-new 2012 Nissan Versa Sedan, the best-selling subcompact in America outsold all other sub-compacts, extending its dramatic year-to-date lead in the hotly contested and growing small car segment. Versa sales in August of 8,566 units bested all competitors, including Chevrolet Aveo, Ford Fiesta, Honda Fit, Hyundai Accent, Mazda 2 and Toyota Yaris. 

“We launched the new Versa Sedan from a position of strength, with Versa holding a substantial lead in sub-compact sales for the 2011 calendar year, and August sales up 14.9% over the previous year,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. “It’s encouraging to see the tremendous dealer and consumer response to the all-new Versa Sedan design, keeping Versa’s momentum going in this highly competitive market segment.”[Continue reading...]

Tips for the Ultimate Labor Day Barbecue

Happy Labor Day Weekend!

 

We would like to wish all of you a very happy and safe Labor Day Weekend!

Nissan Announces U.S. Pricing For 2012 Armada and Titan

For 2012, the stylish, powerful and roomy Nissan Armada is again offered in three well-equipped models: Armada SV, Armada SL and Armada Platinum. Each is offered in a choice of 2-wheel or 4-wheel drive and come equipped with a standard 317-horsepower 5.6-liter Endurance V8 engine and 5-speed automatic transmission. A fresh new exterior color, Brilliant Silver, is added for the new model year, along with select interior equipment enhancements.

Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices* (MSRP) for the 2012 Nissan Armada include:

Model/Transmission
Armada 4x2 SV 5AT	$38,490 USD
Armada 4x2 SL 5AT	$43,940 USD
Armada 4x2 Platinum 5AT	$51,050 USD
Armada 4x4 SV 5AT	$44,090 USD
Armada 4x4 SL 5AT	$46,840 USD
Armada 4x4 Platinum 5AT	$53,950 USD

The powerful, full-size 2012 Nissan Titan is offered in King Cab and Crew Cab body styles with a choice of 4x4 and 4x2 drive configurations, along with two wheelbases and three bed lengths. It features a 5.6-liter DOHC Endurance V8 rated at 317 horsepower and 385 lb-ft torque, standard 5-speed automatic transmission and a maximum towing capacity of up to 9,500 pounds for King Cab and 9,400 pounds for Crew Cab (when properly equipped). For 2012, the Titan is offered in S, SV, PRO-4X and SL trim levels, along with a range of special equipment packages including an all-new SV Sport Appearance Package.

Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices* (MSRP) for the 2012 Nissan Titan King Cab include:

Model/Wheelbase
Titan S King Cab 4x2 SWB	$27,410 USD
Titan SV King Cab 4x2 SWB	$29,410 USD
Titan S King Cab 4x4 SWB	$30,260 USD
Titan SV King Cab 4x4 SWB	$32,260 USD
Titan PRO-4X King Cab 4x4 SWB	$35,140 USD

Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices* (MSRP) for the 2012 Nissan Titan Crew Cab include:

Model/Wheelbase
Titan S Crew Cab 4x2 SWB	$29,960 USD
Titan SV Crew Cab 4x2 SWB	$31,610 USD
Titan SV Crew Cab 4x2 LWB	$32,060 USD
Titan SL Crew Cab 4x2 SWB	$37,510 USD
Titan S Crew Cab 4x4 SWB	$32,810 USD
Titan SV Crew Cab 4x2 SWB	$34,460 USD
Titan SV Crew Cab 4x4 LWB	$34,940 USD
Titan PRO-4X Crew Cab 4x4 SWB	$37,340 USD
Titan SL Crew Cab 4x4 SWB	$40,210 USD