Nissan has announced a ¥10 billion (approximately $1.38 billion) investment into its operations in China by 2026, underscoring its commitment to the Chinese market as a hub for electric vehicle (EV) development. The announcement was made during the Shanghai Auto Show, where the company also debuted two new vehicles: the all-electric N7 sedan and its first plug-in hybrid pickup, the Frontier Pro PHEV.
“With China moving so fast, we want to stay and we want to compete,” said Stephen Ma, head of Nissan’s China operations. “We can successfully thrive and compete here and so China has become a very good market for us to pilot many things.” The funds will support the development of 10 new vehicles in China, all of which are intended for export.
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The N7 electric sedan is a joint effort with Chinese partner Dongfeng and is built on the Dongfeng 007 platform, including its powertrain and wheelbase, though interior and exterior styling are attributed to Nissan. The N7 is offered in two configurations: one with a 58 kWh LFP battery offering up to 510 km of range, and a larger 73 kWh version rated for up to 635 km. Both versions support fast charging and semi-autonomous driver assistance. Pricing ranges from 160,000 to 180,000 yuan ($22,100–$24,900), with sales set to begin later this month.
The Frontier Pro plug-in hybrid pickup truck, meanwhile, marks Nissan’s first electrified entry into the segment. Designed for the Chinese market, the five-seater combines a 1.5L internal combustion engine with a transmission-mounted electric motor delivering 300 kW of power. The vehicle offers up to 135 km of battery-only range, all-wheel drive, and V2L (vehicle-to-load) capability. It is expected to launch in China by the end of 2025 before entering international markets.
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The investment and vehicle debuts come amid a broader restructuring effort at Nissan, which in late 2024 announced 9,000 job cuts and a 20% reduction in output capacity. The automaker also appointed Ivan Espinosa as CEO in March, following a failed merger with Honda.
