Nissan's Research and Development chief, Mitsuhiko Yamashita told Reuters the company has not yet made a final decision regarding the implementation of a small and mid-sized vehicle, but considers the move necessary, as consumers want fuel-efficient, long range vehicles.
The shift in strategy for Nissan may come as a result of the wild success hybrids have all over the world, but especially in Japan. Set until now on becoming the leader of the future EV segment of the market, Nissan sees itself left behind by rivals Toyota and Honda. So far, Nissan only has plans for the introduction of a low volume, high end hybrid.
Until a decision is made, Nissan continues its electric vehicle planning. Earlier today, the manufacturer released some details of their newest EV platform, based on Tiida. The new platform is comprised of a rigid body, high-performance motor and compact lithium-ion battery with high power output and energy capacity. The car's powerplant develops 80 kW and 280 Nm of torque.
As for its wider strategy, the Renault Nissan alliance will build two battery manufacturing plants in the United Kingdom and Portugal. In the US, the manufacturer will build an electric vehicle assembly plant in Smyma, Tennessee, the same place where Nissan America is based.
For August 2, Nissan announced the unveiling of three EV models, developed under its "Zero Emissions" program.
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