Nissan’s CEO has reportedly tasked himself with tidying up his wardrobe in a bid to align with his partner’s expectations. As the venerable 90-year-old automaker embarks on a new era of transformation. Nissan is poised to unveil a comprehensive electric vehicle (EV) strategy as part of a mid-term refresh aimed at addressing concerns surrounding its electrification efforts.
As Nissan’s CEO, Makoto Uchida, grapples with declining gross sales, he is seeking counsel from an unlikely source: his wife. To remain competitive in today’s rapidly evolving market, Japan’s corporate leaders must now reimagine and revitalize their companies.
Uchida’s spouse jokingly remarked that his wardrobe has been stuck in the past, with his outfits now as outdated as Nissan’s former car lineup. Her husband noted that the property might be utilized more effectively.
Nissan’s CEO revealed to his spouse during a recent interview that he genuinely values individuality, stating “I like them” and acknowledging that it’s also essential for the company. The inclination is often to cling to all vestiges of antiquated heritage.
Since its pioneering days with the 2010 launch of the LEAF, the Japanese automaker’s reputation for being at the forefront of electric vehicles (EVs) has taken a hit as the industry shifts towards electrification.
Will these outdated garments ultimately meet your needs or enhance your appearance in the long run? No manner.”
“Outdated methodologies cannot be carried forward indefinitely; we must adapt and evolve to ensure a successful future,” said Nissan’s CEO straightforwardly. Can we reposition our company as a sustainability pioneer by integrating eco-friendly practices that enable us to outcompete the nimble newcomers?
Electric vehicle (EV) pioneers such as Tesla and BYD are pioneering innovative designs in crucial market sectors as the demand for eco-friendly transportation accelerates.
Nissan plans to unveil a fresh electric vehicle strategy as its overall gross sales decline.
By the end of March, Uchida aims to unveil a novel midterm approach. The newly unveiled plan outlines Nissan’s strategic direction for the next three years and beyond.
Accordingly, Nissan’s strategy involves becoming even more proactive in its electric vehicle (EV) offerings, aiming to rival affordable options from Chinese manufacturers while enhancing community sustainability.
Nissan’s global electric vehicle (EV) sales declined to 127,953 units through November last year, a slight drop from the 128,194 recorded in 2022.
Compared, Tesla delivered 1.81 million electric vehicles in the previous year, representing a 38 percent increase from 2022. Manufacturing was additionally up 35%.
By virtue of its unprecedented pace, BYD can roll out a completely new vehicle from inception to completion within an astonishingly short timeframe of just 18 months. Automakers typically require around four years to complete their testing and certification processes. The company constructs nearly every component internally. The entire suite of components on the BYD-manufactured Dolphin electric hatchback, with the exception of tires and windows, is sourced entirely from BYD itself.
Uchida suggests that to drive future growth, the company must become more competitive in its operations. He proposes enhancing collaboration with suppliers as a key strategy to achieve this goal.
Nissan began rolling out its Ariya electric SUV to Japanese customers in May 2022, with a U.S. launch following later that autumn.
Nissan sold approximately 13,464 Ariya electric vehicles in the United States market last year. Despite being a decade old, the LEAF’s gross sales continue to decline. In 2023, Nissan sold 7,152 LEAF electric vehicles in the United States, a decline from the more than 12,000 units delivered in 2022 and the approximately 14,000 units sold in 2021.
Nissan’s CEO emphasized the company’s commitment to the affordable segment, while seeking a more sustainable balance.
Electrek’s Take
Despite a 23% surge in overall US gross sales last year, Nissan remains below its 2019 threshold of one million units sold.
Nissan intends to unveil a fresh LEAF model later this year, staying ahead of the curve. The next-generation Nissan LEAF is designed to resemble a crossover coupe SUV, aiming to gain an edge in the competitive market. According to sources close to Nissan, the upcoming subcompact crossover is expected to closely resemble the Ariya in terms of design, earning it the nickname “mini-Ariya.”
Nissan aims to roll out a fleet of 19 new electric vehicles (EVs) by 2030, although this target may be revised in light of its newly unveiled EV strategy. As Ariya production finally gains momentum, Nissan aims to add another model to bolster its electric SUV lineup at the earliest opportunity.
If Nissan successfully launches its next-generation electric vehicle at a competitive price point, it could help generate significant momentum in the market. Nissan is often regarded as a low-cost car manufacturer. Will inevitably lag further behind rivals like Hyundai, Kia, Volvo, and numerous other manufacturers?
