In a bold strategic shift, Japanese automaker Nissan is working to overcome its global challenges by expanding its footprint in international markets. One of its most significant upcoming moves is a new plan to begin exporting electric vehicles from its factories in China to regions including Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and beyond, starting in 2026.
This direction marks a major change in how Nissan is responding to market pressures as part of a larger effort to restructure its global operations. The company is now focusing on leveraging its existing strengths, particularly its expansive after sales service network across various countries, to build a stronger presence in overseas markets.
Nissan N7 EV: A New Electric Chapter Begins in China
Nissan is preparing to export the N7, its first fully electric mid size sedan developed entirely through its joint venture with a Chinese partner. First launched in China this past April, the N7 quickly captured attention by reaching 10,000 orders in record time, marking the fastest launch for a co-developed model in the EV segment.
The N7 is manufactured at Nissan’s Guangzhou plant in Guangdong Province and starts at 119,900 yuan, or approximately 16,450 USD (61,391 AED). It stands out with its advanced software system that integrates AI technologies developed by Chinese tech firms, offering a seamless, intelligent driving experience through high level digital interaction between the system and passengers.
However, Nissan’s plan to export the N7 to international markets comes with a challenge. Some countries impose regulatory restrictions on Chinese made AI technologies. To overcome this, Nissan has invested in IAT, a Chinese automotive software developer, to create export specific software versions that align with the technical and legal requirements of global markets.
Strategic Alliance Boosts Nissan’s Export Ambitions Amid Major Recovery Plan
On June 25, Chinese automaker Dongfeng Motor announced the formation of a new joint venture with NCIC, Nissan’s fully owned subsidiary, to oversee vehicle exports to international markets. The joint venture is backed by a registered capital of 1 billion yuan, approximately 140 million USD (512 million AED), with Dongfeng contributing 40 percent (400 million yuan) and Nissan holding the majority stake of 60 percent (600 million yuan).
Nissan aims to use the competitive pricing of its China made electric vehicles to attract buyers in overseas markets, especially in regions like the GCC where EV adoption is accelerating. The company also plans to expand its lineup of electric and plug-in hybrid models in China, including the launch of its first fully electric pickup truck before the end of this year.
These initiatives fall under a comprehensive recovery plan adopted by Nissan in response to ongoing struggles caused by delays in launching new models. In May, the Japanese automaker unveiled a restructuring strategy aimed at revitalizing its operations. The plan includes cutting approximately 20,000 jobs, reducing the number of factories worldwide from 17 to just 10, and rebuilding its supply chain to enhance operational efficiency. Central to this strategy is Nissan’s strong focus on electric vehicles, which it sees as the cornerstone for reclaiming its competitive position in the global market.
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