Nissan Motor is in discussions with Ford Motor and Stellantis about jointly developing an electrified version of its Rogue SUV, as the Japanese automaker seeks new partners following the collapse of its earlier tie-up with Honda, two people familiar with the matter told Automotive News.
The talks reportedly center on a hybrid Rogue using Nissan’s third-generation e-POWER system, a technology that combines a small gasoline engine to charge the battery with an electric motor to drive the vehicle. The system, introduced earlier this year, is said to deliver 15% better highway fuel efficiency and lower emissions than its predecessor while offering quieter operation.
See also: Nissan to Launch Lower-Priced LEAF B5 in Japan to Counter BYD and Hyundai
While the potential collaboration could include the development of future electric vehicles, one source emphasized that “it’s not a quid pro quo,” suggesting that the deal could focus solely on hybrid models.
Nissan spokesperson Brian Brockman confirmed that the automaker is evaluating options to expand its vehicle and powertrain production capacity in the United States. “We are exploring options to expand local vehicle and powertrain production in the U.S. to meet growing demand for hybrid models,” Brockman said. “At this time, we have no agreements in place regarding production at our U.S. plants.”
See also: Nissan Considers Launching Performance-Oriented LEAF NISMO Based on Upgraded 2026 Model
The new Rogue hybrid is expected to debut in late 2026 and will likely be assembled at Nissan’s Smyrna, Tennessee plant, where the company produces several of its best-selling vehicles. The move comes as Nissan attempts to reinvigorate U.S. sales and compete more effectively in the fast-growing hybrid segment.
Meanwhile, Nissan is preparing to launch the 2026 LEAF, which it claims has “the lowest starting MSRP of any new EV currently on sale in the U.S.” at $29,990. The company will discontinue the Ariya electric SUV for the 2026 model year as it reallocates resources toward the new LEAF and upcoming hybrid lineup.
