The Nissan NV truck is offered in three well-equipped models including NV1500, NV2500 HD, NV3500 HD. All are available with either a 4.0-liter V6 or 5.6-liter V8.

Nissan’s NV vans, the company’s first entry into the commercial vehicle segment in North America, will be taken a step further at the 2011 LA Auto Show. The company has teamed up with The Grilled Cheese Truck and Coolhaus Truck  to combine their takes on two food classics with a pair of custom-outfitted Nissan NV vans.

The two vans will be put to work on the streets of LA and inside the  Convention Center’s West Hall where they will be providing sandwiches (cheese and ice cream respectively) to media attending the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show.

The Nissan NV food truck concepts come with custom fold-out serving windows, work counters and full exterior graphics.

“Since its introduction last spring, the Nissan NV van is proving itself in a wide range of commercial uses, from construction to delivery services, in both Standard Roof and High Roof body styles,” said Joe Castelli, vice president, Commercial Vehicles and Fleet, Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA). “The Nissan NV High Roof model is especially adaptable for food truck and catering use thanks to its 76.9-inch tall interior, which provides the flexibility for the mobile chefs to comfortably move around inside while creating their gastronomical delights.”

The Nissan NV truck is offered in three well-equipped models including NV1500, NV2500 HD, NV3500 HD. All are available with either a 4.0-liter V6 or 5.6-liter V8.

Source: egmCarTech

Nissan announced today that its 2012 Rogue is one of the very first vehicles in its class to offer a Around View Monitor that helps drivers maneuver into parking spaces with more ease Available as a part of the optional Rogue SL Package, the crossovers is the first non-luxury vehicle in the U.S. to offer the Around View Monitor feature.

“More driver’s license tests have probably been failed due to the applicant’s inability to parallel park than any other task,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. “It’s anxiety provoking at best, and risks damage to a vehicle and surrounding property at its worst. Around View Monitor now comes to Rogue drivers’ rescue.”

Like in the Infiniti luxury vehicles, the 2012 Nissan Rogue‘s Around View Monitor use four small superwide-angle cameras – mounted on the front, side mirrors and rear of the vehicle – to provide a virtual 360° view of objects around the vehicle, helping the driver maneuver it in tight spots. The system converts image data taken by the four cameras to create and display the virtual image of the vehicle from above – it’s one of the coolest features we’ve come across in Infinitis and BMWs.

Video of “Around View Mirror” in action.

Source: egmCarTech

2013 Nissan GT-R

Back when the Nissan GT-R was first unveiled in late 2007, chief engineer Kazutoshi Mizuno said that not only had he built an “everyday supercar” that could jump to 60mph in 3.5 seconds and circle the Nurburgring in 7 minutes 38 seconds, but that he would continue to develop the car and announce new revisions every year. Well, Mizuno-san has been hard at work to make the latest version of Godzilla — though called a 2012 in Japan, it will be called a 2013 once it hits our shores early next year — even better. Not only did it reach 60 mph in 2.7 seconds in Nissan’s testing, but it made the sprint through the quarter mile in 10.8 seconds, a full 0.4 seconds faster than 2012 model tested in February, using 100 RON octane gas (96 octane using the U.S.’ AKI ratings).

How is the the 2013 Nissan GT-R so quick? Partially thanks to the addition of even more power. The engine now generates 545 horsepower and 463 lb-ft of torque — both going up by 15 from the 2012’s 530 and 448 — and produces beefier top end torque response right up to the 7000rpm redline. The 2013 revision also incorporates more efficient cooling ducts for the front brakes, slip-resistant seats, and a Track-Pack option that shaves over 200 pound in weight. Mizuno also stressed that his car generates these neck-snapping numbers by using an even leaner mixture of fuel than before.

The right-hand drive version sold in Japan also employs a world-first asymmetrical suspension system that uses a higher spring rate on the front left wheel and a slightly softer spring rate on the rear right wheel to counteract the extra weight (from the transfer case and propeller shaft) carried on the right hand side of the right-hand drive version. It allows the GT-R to corner flatter at the limit and maintain maximum grip. The US-spec left-hand drive version does not need this technology.

What of ‘Ring times? “While we were not able to get our hot lap in at the Nurburgring with our latest GT-R update, we will try again next spring and are more than confident that we will break the 7 minute 20 second barrier,” said Mizuno.

We can’t wait to see how well this latest and greatest GT-R does on the famous German circuit, but more importantly, we can’t wait to test one ourselves and see what it can do using California’s 91 ‘premium’ octane.

The Nissan LEAF an acronym for Leading, Environmentally Friendly, Affordable, Family Car has finally made its appearance in public. Nissan decided to first launch the car in Hawaii due to Hawaii’s strong commitment to clean energy. Starting in early 2011, Leafs willing be whizzing around Hawaii’s streets.

“Nissan invited almost 500 people to experience the Leaf at the company’s Oppama test track in an exclusive preview from June 11-19, 2010.

Media, Nissan shareholders, government officials, analysts and some of the first customers to place reservations for Nissan LEAF got the chance to experience the benefits of this practical, affordable and fun to drive all-electric car when they got behind the wheel.

Since the 100% electric, zero-emission concept vehicle was unveiled last August at the grand opening of the new Nissan Global Headquarters, the company has been continually refining Nissan LEAF for the October start of production.”

One of Nissan’s most difficult challenges is accommodating to the Leaf’s silence. Due to the the Leaf’s lack of noise it is difficult for pedestrians to hear the vehicle coming. In order to compensate for this, Nissan developed an ”Approaching Vehicle Sound for Pedestrians” system.

“The system makes it easy for those outside to hear the vehicle approaching, but the sounds do not distract the driver and passengers inside. Thus, the needs of pedestrian safety, as well as driver and passenger comfort, are met. The sound system is the first of its type to be introduced by an automaker.

Nissan believes the 100 percent electric Nissan LEAF has the potential to be the  beginning of a new approach to personal transportation. No tailpipe emissions from this global vehicle mean no CO2 or other gases released into the atmosphere.”

The Nissan Leaf is just the start to a “zero-emission” environment.

Sources: Nissan- How It Works Nissan- News

Images of the next generation Nissan Micra have plopped onto the interwebs, and they have brought with them a revelation we are a little ashamed to have come to so late. First, let us say that we really, really dig the Nissan Micra as it is. Sure, we delight most in its hardcore version, but even the gutless four-door variants have that design going for them: the Micra is wonderfully visually compelling.The revelation is this: when it comes to Nissan, the phrase “This car is coming to the U.S.” looks to actually mean “a bloated kind of melty looking version of this car is coming to the U.S.” We saw it first with the Cube, and the same sort of globular travesty has apparently been perpetrated on the Micra. Forget the oh-so-sexy sketch from a month ago. If this is the car we’re getting, look for the Micra with its thumb stuck its thumb in its grille and puffed-out cheeks.

When the new Micra bows as a 2011 model, it will reportedly be built in four-door, five-door, and MPV flavors, all of which will supposedly be powered by a three-cylinder engine. What isn’t clear, however, is which Micra bodystyles we’ll see in America.

Source Autoblog

In response to new eco rules in Thailand, Nissan is designing a new B-segment compact to be available in over 150 countries. As reported by Autoblog:

Nissan has just sent out the first sketch of its next-generation B-segment compact. The new car will be available globally starting next March in Thailand and then spreading to over 150 countries. The new car is expected to replace the Micra in Europe and elsewhere.

In Thailand, the new model will be the first to qualify on local “Eco-Car” rules. Nissan hasn’t made any announcements about bringing the little car to the U.S., but if it did, it would slot in below the already inexpensive Versa (which is itself uncomfortably close to the Sentra in size and utility). It’s also possible we might see an announcement about U.S. availability during the upcoming auto show season, but we wouldn’t hold our breath. In any case, you can check out high-res versions of the renderings in our gallery below, and an ultra-brief press release after the jump.

Source Autoblog

There’s no safe way to say it: this blogger just doesn’t like the 2010 Nissan 370Z very much. Sure, it’s a fine sporty car that goes about its business quickly and competently, but it just leaves me cold.

Yes, it can hit 60 mph in 5 seconds, hold 0.99 g on a skid pad and get around a track faster than a Porsche Cayman, but it doesn’t rocket to 60 mph in 5 seconds like Wile E. Coyote shot from a greased Acme canon. Nor does it tenaciously hold 0.99 g like a baby possum gripping onto mama during a lightning storm. And yeah, you guessed it, I’d much rather get there a second or two late in the mid-engined Porsche. Or, more appropriately, a 2010 Mustang GT. Long story short, the 370Z is a little dull.

I’m not just saying all this to be contrary or cute. I’ve personally logged over 1,500 miles in a couple different 370Zs and, to be honest, the experience wasn’t much different than the more than 1,500 miles I’ve traveled in various Infiniti G37s. Not that there’s anything wrong with the Infiniti, but the Z should be a sports car, not a luxury tourer. That’s why it was such a breath of fresh air – both literal and otherwise – when we got our hands on the 370Z Roadster. It was like going from black and white to color. Finally, the new Z was fun, engaging – thrilling even. Trouble was, we knew the Nismo was coming and had that stuffy roof. Yeah, we’d go fast for a week, but I feared being ultimately underwhelmed. Well guess what? Not so with Nismo.

Source Autoblog

Nissan’s CEO Carlos Ghosn today unveiled the Japanese automaker’s new zero-emission electric-car – the Nissan LEAF. The model is scheduled to be launched in late 2010 in Japan, United States and Europe.

The medium-sized hatchback, which comfortably seats five adults, is powered by lithium ion cells that power the 80 kW (107-hp) electric motor with a peak torque of 208 lb-ft. On a full-charge, the Nissan LEAF allows for a driving range of 100 miles with a top speed of 87 mph.

Charging time takes approximately 8 hours on a standard 200V outlet. However, buyers can opt for the DC 50kW quick-charger, which recharges the battery up to 80 percent in under 30 minutes.

Nissan expects production capacity to reach 200,000 units a year by 2012.  The first couple of units will be produced at the company’s Oppama, Japan, with additional capacity planned for Smyrna, Tennessee. The lithium-ion batteries, which cost around $10,000 per vehicle, will be produced in Zama, Japan, with additional capacity planned for the U.S., UK and Portugal. Pricing for the vehicle is expected to come in around $30,000 for the U.S. market.

Nissan said that it wants to mass market its electric vehicles globally by 2012.

Press Release

NISSAN UNVEILS “LEAF” – THE WORLD’S FIRST ELECTRIC CAR DESIGNED FOR AFFORDABILITY AND REAL-WORLD REQUIREMENTS
Event ushers in a new era for Nissan and a new era for mobility

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. Today unveiled Nissan LEAF, the world’s first affordable, zero-emission car. Designed specifically for a lithium-ion battery-powered chassis, Nissan LEAF is a medium-size hatchback that comfortably seats five adults and has a range of more than 160km (100 miles) to satisfy real-world consumer requirements.

NISSAN LEAF
Slated for launch in late 2010 in Japan, the United States, and Europe, Nissan LEAF ushers in a new era of mobility – the zero-emission era. The car is the embodiment of Nissan’s radical, transformative vision for the future and the culmination of decades of investment and research.

“Nissan LEAF is a tremendous accomplishment – one in which all Nissan employees can take great pride,” said Nissan President and CEO Carlos Ghosn. “We have been working tirelessly to make this day a reality – the unveiling of a real-world car that has zero – not simply reduced – emissions. It’s the first step in what is sure to be an exciting journey – for people all over the world, for Nissan and for the industry.”

Key characteristics of the LEAF include:

1. Zero-emission power train and platform
2. Affordable pricing
3. Distinctive design
4. Real-world range autonomy – 160km (100 miles)
5. Connected Mobility: Advanced intelligent transportation (IT) system

The “LEAF” name is a significant statement about the car itself. Just as leaves purify the air in nature, so Nissan LEAF purifies mobility by taking emissions out of the driving experience. Pricing details will be announced closer to start of sales in late 2010; however, the company expects the car to be competitively priced in the range of a well-equipped C-segment vehicle. Additionally, Nissan LEAF is expected to qualify for an array of significant local, regional and national tax breaks and incentives in markets around the world. As an added benefit, because the vehicle has less mechanical complexity than a traditional gasoline-powered car, Nissan LEAF is designed to be friendly to the wallet as well as to the environment.

ZERO-EMISSION MOBILITY
Nissan LEAF is powered by laminated compact lithium-ion batteries, which generate power output of over 90kW, while its electric motor delivers 80kW/280Nm. This ensures a highly responsive, fun-to-drive experience that is in keeping with what consumers have come to expect from traditional, gasoline-powered automobiles.

Unlike internal-combustion engine (ICE) equipped vehicles, Nissan LEAF’s power train has no tail pipe, and thus no emission of CO2 or other greenhouse gases. A combination of Nissan LEAF’s regenerative braking system and innovative lithium-ion battery packs enables the car to deliver a driving range of more than 160km (100 miles) on one full charge*. (*US LA4 mode)

Extensive consumer research demonstrates that this range satisfies the daily driving requirements of more than 70% of the world’s consumers who drive cars.

And, Nissan’s approach makes charging easy and convenient. Nissan LEAF can be charged up to 80% of its full capacity in just under 30 minutes with a quick charger. Charging at home through a 200V outlet is estimated to take approximately eight hours – ample time to enable an overnight refresh for consumer and car alike.

REAL-WORLD CAR
The engineers and designers behind Nissan LEAF worked to create a competitively priced real-world car that would enable Nissan to lead mobility into the zero-emission era. To ensure comfort, spaciousness and cargo capacity, Nissan LEAF employs a completely new chassis and body layout.

“Our car had to be the world’s first, medium-size, practical EV that motorists could afford and would want to use every day. And that’s what we’ve created. The styling will identify not only Nissan LEAF but also the owner as a participant in the new era of zero-emission mobility,” said Masato INOUE, Product Chief Designer.

DISTINCTIVE DESIGN
Even the smallest details can yield tremendous effect.

Nissan LEAF’s frontal styling is characterized by a sharp, upright V-shaped design featuring long, up-slanting light-emitting diode (LED) headlights that employ a blue internal reflective design that announces, “This car is special.” But the headlights do more than make a statement. They are also designed to cleverly split and redirect airflow away from the door mirrors, thus reducing wind noise and drag. And, the headlights provide yet one more benefit in that they consume just 10 percent of the electricity of conventional lamps, which helps Nissan LEAF to achieve its world-class range autonomy.

Through bright trim colors inside, Nissan LEAF creates a pleasing and stylish cabin environment. An environmentally friendly “blue earth” color theme originates from the Aqua Globe body color of Nissan LEAF’s introductory model. This theme is carried into the interior through blue dashboard highlights and instrument illumination.

CONNECTED MOBILITY IT SYSTEM
Nissan LEAF employs an exclusive advanced IT system. Connected to a global data center, the system can provide support, information, and entertainment for drivers 24 hours a day.

The dash-mounted monitor displays Nissan LEAF’s remaining power – or “reachable area” – in addition to showing a selection of nearby charging stations.

Another state-of-the-art feature is the ability to use mobile phones to turn on air-conditioning and set charging functions – even when Nissan LEAF is powered down. An on-board remote-controlled timer can also be pre-programmed to recharge batteries.

“The IT system is a critical advantage,” says Tooru ABE, Chief Product Specialist. “We wanted this vehicle to be a partner for the driver and an enhancement for the passengers. We also wanted this vehicle to help create a zero-emission community, and these IT features will help make that possible.”

HOLISTIC APPROACH TO ZERO-EMISSION MOBILITY AND ECO-FRIENDLY INNOVATION
Nissan LEAF is a critical first step in establishing the era of zero-emission mobility; however, Nissan recognizes that internal-combustion engine (ICE) technologies will play a vital role in global transportation for decades to come. Because of this, Nissan is implementing its zero-emission vision through a holistic approach, which provides consumers a comprehensive range of eco-friendly technologies from which to choose.

For some consumers, Nissan LEAF will be the perfect match, and the only car they will ever need. For others, Nissan LEAF will be a logical addition to the family fleet – the optimal choice for the daily commute, for example.

While zero-emission is the ultimate goal, the company is committed to ongoing innovation in eco-friendly technologies that increase efficiency and reduce emissions. As a result, Nissan offers a comprehensive suite of automotive technologies, including CVT, Idle Stop, HEV, Clean Diesel, and ongoing research and investment in FCV technology.

WORLDWIDE PARTNERS
Zero-emission mobility programs under the banner of the Renault-Nissan Alliance include partnerships with countries such as the UK and Portugal, local governments in the Japan and the USA, and other sectors, for a total of nearly 30 partnerships worldwide.

In these partnerships major efforts focus on three areas:

1. Development of a comprehensive charging infrastructure through public and private investment,
2. Incentives and subsidies from local, regional, and national governments, and
3. Public education on the individual and societal benefits of zero-emissions mobility.

ZERO-EMISSION VEHICLE PRODUCTION
Nissan LEAF is the first in the company’s forthcoming line of EVs and is a major milestone in the realization of the Renault-Nissan Alliance’s vision for zero-emission mobility. The first of Nissan’s EV’s will be manufactured at Oppama, Japan, with additional capacity planned for Smyrna, Tennessee, USA. Meanwhile, lithium-ion batteries are being produced in Zama, Japan, with additional capacity planned for the USA, the UK and Portugal, and other sites for investment are under study around the world.

ABOUT NISSAN MOTOR CO., LTD.
Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. is a global automotive company with vehicle sales of 3.411 million in 2008. Nissan is present in all major auto markets worldwide, selling a comprehensive range of cars, pickup trucks, SUVs, and light commerical vehicles.

NISSAN BLUE CITIZENSHIP
Nissan is committed to making a better world through its commitment to corporate social responsibility. This includes programs that focus on technological innovations that focus on people and care for the planet. Our vision for zero-emission mobility is an outgrowth of our CSR approach, which we call Blue Citizenship. Together, we are working with our Alliance partner, Renault, to make a better world through zero-emission mobility.

For more information, please visit the Nissan Zero-Emission website:
http://www.nissan-zeroemission.com

Source Egmcartech

It’d be very difficult to improve on the Nissan GT-R, but taking a look at the number of R35s around at the Tokyo Auto Salon, Japan’s tuners are making a serious attempt.

One GT-R that caught our attention comes from the aftermarket firm Blitz, which ditched Godzilla’s all-wheel-drive system and fitted a manual gearbox in an attempt to make the GT-R a credible contender in Japan’s D1 drift series.

With the complex ATESSA-ETS setup and rear-to-front drivetrain removed, Blitz has created the first rear-wheel-drive GT-R and addressed one of the main complaints about the R35 – it’s weight. While the stock seats remain (Blitz plans to fit a set of Bride buckets later on), it’s nixed the air-conditioning and a number of other components, along with replacing several interior panels and the hood with carbon fiber pieces. A Hollinger sequential unit replaces the dual-clutch gearbox and a NISMO GT R34 LSD resides in the rear. The twin-turbo’d 3.8-liter V6 remains unchanged, but the exhaust has been swapped in favor of a Blitz cat-back.

In addition to a set of gauges to keep tabs on boost, oil temperature and oil pressure, Blitz fitted its own ZRR dampers at all four corners, along with a set of BRW09MAG forged magnesium wheels, sized 20×9.5-inches (+38) up front and 20×10-inches (+18) in the rear. Each is shod in super sticky Dunlop SP Sport DSST Ctt (we think 600s) rubber, with 255/40s on the front and 285/35 out back.

The Blitz GT-R is still under development, so it won’t be campaigning in D1 until 2010. Not that it matters, we’re just enamored by the sight of an R35 with a clutch pedal.

Source Autoblog

Having pulled out of the 2009 Detroit Auto Show, Nissan unveiled a new concept in Detroit, the new NV2500.

• The largest concept vehicle Nissan has ever produced.

• Nissan will enter North American commercial vehicle market in 2010.
•  NV2500 Concept provides preview to the future CV.

Since Nissan pulled out of the 2009 Detroit Auto Show, it unveiled its new NV2500 Concept in Motor City today -it was originally scheduled to debut in Detroit next month. Nissan says that the new NV2500 Concept is a new take on commercial vehicles and is one of the largest concepts it has ever produced featuring a 3-Zone interior and a range of flexible utility and storage solutions.

Nissan says that the NV2500 Concept provides a preview to Nissan’s entry to the CV market in North America – which it plans to enter in 2010. Nissan’s CV lineup in North America will feature three new products in three years along with products from its global stable. Nissan said it is investing a total of $118 million at its Canton, Miss. plant to manufacture CVs.

The new Nissan NV2500 Concept features a “wall-less” mobile office/workspace design which includes a computer workstation, fold-down conference table, storage compartments, cargo/tool tie-downs, six feet of interior height and a side panel that opens out to create a outside standing workshop table.

Source eGMCarTech

Japanese media has released stories about the release of the new Nissan Cube, complete with photos. The JDM Cubes are revealed in three U.S.-bodywork photos.

Here it is. It’s “tomorrow” in Japan, and Nissan has unleashed the motherlode of new Nissan Cube photos – including three showing the U.S.-Spec version that’ll be rolled out at the LA Auto Show tomorrow.

There’s no accompanying press release at the moment, but the Japanese media is running their stories as we speak. JDM Cubes are equipped with a 107-hp/109 lb-ft 1.5L four-cylinder mated to a CVT transmission. Front- and four-wheel-drive versions are available. We’ll get a different engine with more power that should deliver fuel economy in the Versa neighborhood. More on that tomorrow from our team in LA.

The three shots of the U.S.-market bodywork show, as expected, the reverse of the JDM car. Kudos to Nissan for doing a second body for left-hand drive markets. Inside, the simple appointments of the current Cube are updated with better shapes and, hopefully, a bigger, more upscale mix of materials. The bench seat returns in the JDM car, and there’s no reason to believe we won’t see it here as well. A water-droplet theme introduced in that silly teaser video we showed you last week is present in the cupholders and also available as ceiling trim inside the passenger compartment. Check out the galleries below for photos of just about everything, including the Japan-specific Lifecare (disabled access) and Autech Rider versions.

Come back tomorrow, when the gang in LA will deliver live coverage of the U.S. car’s debut. We liked the JDM version, and we’re really looking forward to trying out the Cube again now that it’s been engineered for our market’s needs.

Source Autoblog

Released ahead of the Nissan 370Z’s official LA Auto Show debut in November 2008, here are the world’s first pictures. These three photographs reveal the new look of Nissan’s latest Z car. More pictures and the full technical details of the 370Z will be released on Wednesday 19 November, so come back to Car411.com then as we report from the LA show.

Source: carmagazine.co.uk

The new Nissan clean diesel X-TRAIL “20GT” will go on sale September 18 at worldwide Nissan dealers. Nissan Motor Co. Ltd. announced the launch as meeting Japan’s stringent “Post New Long-term Regulations” – the first vehicle in the world to do so.

In addition to complying with Japan’s stringent “Post New Long-term Regulations” emission standards which stresses high environmental performance, the new M9R clean diesel engine also achieves high levels of driving performance demanded by X-TRAIL owners.

The 2.0-liter M9R engine has the power equivalency of a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine, generating maximum power of 127kW(173PS)/3750rpm and maximum torque of 360N・m(36.7kgf・m)/2000rpm. The engine provides high torque at low rpm and delivers ample performance in any driving situation. At the same time, the environmentally–friendly and fuel-efficient M9R engine emits far lower CO2 than a comparable 3.5-liter gasoline V6 engine, achieving excellent emissions performance. The engine design also emphasizes smooth, quiet operation, eliminating unpleasant noise and vibration associated with current diesel powerplants.

New technologies utilized in the M9R engine which reduce emissions, noise and vibrations include:
Emissions Reduction Measures

• Common rail system
• EGR cooler
• Diesel particulate filter (DPF)
• Lean NOx Trap catalysts (LNT)
• Double swirl port

Noise and Vibration Reduction Measures

• Piezo injector
• Balancer shaft
• Highly Rigid Chassis
• Highly Rigid Engine Mount Brackets
• Sound insulation glass

Cutting-edge technologies, Robotic Agent, and user-friendly innovations are embodied by the environmental friendly electric urban commuter creating a new car-driver relationship.
The original Nissan Pivo, an innovative three-seat, electric-powered commuter car with a cabin capable of rotating 360 degrees, was a surprise sensation at the 2005 Tokyo Motor Show. Two years later, the futurists at Nissan’s Advanced Vehicle Engineering Department return with Pivo 2 – a refreshing reminder to the BMW Isetta 300.

2009 – Nissan Pivo 2  vs  1957 – BMW Isetta 300

Nissan has announced that it will stop producing the Quest minivan, Armada full-size SUV and its Infiniti sibling the QX56 when the Mississippi factory they’re made in switches to building commercial vehicles in early 2010.

The company has not said if it will build future versions of the slow-sellers. The only word from Nissan is that final decisions have not been made, but there is the “intention” to build them.

“When we get to the end of each vehicle’s cycle, we look at the market,” a spokesperson said. Sounds to us like company speak that Nissan will not build new versions of the three. If it actually announced that fact today, though, it could impact sales of the 2009 models that will still be built and sold on new-car lots.

All three vehicles were either aging in their segment or poor performers, so seeing them go probably won’t hurt Nissan, which has seen better success with new smaller offerings like the Versa and the Rogue compact SUV.

It only took 48 hours for nearly 700 Brits to throw down pre-ordered deposits amount to about $7,000 (£3,500) to be first in line for Nissan’s highly anticipated GT-R and the demand for the latest Japanese supercar doesn’t seem to be diminishing. Customers in the UK don’t seem to be deterred by the GT-R’s base sales price of £52,900 (about $105,000), or the fact they won’t see delivery until March 2009. After our “First Drive” in the GT-R, you won’t see us ridiculing frenzied buyers…

Gallery: First Drive: 2009 Nissan GT-R
[Source: Nissan UK]

The $70,000 Nissan GT-R received favorable reviews from Car & Driver. The GT-R was reported as being comfortable and fast, even if it is quite as heavy as it looks.

Scorching fast. That’s the word from Car & Driver on a Nissan GT-R they were allowed to instrument up and abuse for a few hours. 11.5 in the quarter mile and a 3.3 second run to 60 mph are incredible numbers from any car, but this one only costs $70,000. That price tag would be preposterous for a Sentra, but it’s a bargain for the ability to annihilate virtually anything short of a Hayabusa. There’s been some debate about the three little words “engineering test mule,” but scuttlebutt has it that the only thing Nissan was testing on the car were tires and suspension calibrations. From the report, it sounds like they got the ride dialed in, too – in comfort mode, you can reportedly thwack across expansion joints without bouncing your coiffe off the headliner. The biggest complaints? Weight (though apparently the car doesn’t feel as ponderous from behind the wheel), and the interior design. The materials are said to be good, but haphazard is the order of the day for the dash layout. Oh darn, it won’t come with the gorgeous cabin of a Ferrari 599 — we suppose they need something to feel superior about as they watch the chunky arse of the GT-R rocket toward the horizon. A $70,000 supercar? We’ll take it.

[Source: nagtroc.org]

The Nissan Denki Cube is coming to the United States and the electric vehicles will be released by 2010 with commercial vehicles being released by 2012.

As reported by Matt Hardigree:

The Nissan Denki Cube Concept is something you’ve probably already seen. In fact, you probably saw it this morning when we caught the electric Nissan Cube sunning itself in advance of its press conference. What did we learn at the press conference? Fleet-use electric vehicles by 2010 and commercial vehicles by 2012. The big news is that the LA Auto Show this fall will see the introduction of the next generation Cube for the North American market.

Nissan’s “Denki Cube” Electric Vehicle Concept Brings Distinctive Spirit Into Play in New York Auto Show Debut

New York City is about to get a lesson in what happens when geography meets geometry – specifically, when the world, which is round, meets the Nissan Cube, which is essentially square. The occasion is the world debut of the Nissan Denki (Japanese for “electric”) Cube Concept at the 2008 New York International Auto Show.

The lithium-ion battery-powered Denki Cube electric vehicle concept, which will be on public display at the Nissan exhibit at Jacob Javits Convention Center from March 21 through March 30, was created to draw attention to Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.’s (NML) global environmental efforts. It also serves as a preview of Nissan’s future small car strategy for the North American market, which includes plans to sell a redesigned gasoline-powered, next-generation Cube at Nissan dealers in the United States and Canada beginning in 2009.

“The Denki Cube Concept is a fun way to expose American buyers to one of Nissan’s most popular home market cars at a time when fuel economy and packaging efficiency are on a lot of people’s minds,” said Al Castignetti, senior vice president, sales and marketing, Nissan North America, Inc. “Like the production Cube on which it is based, the Denki Cube Concept is boxy yet charming, fashionable and functional, and completely tuned in to today’s needs for enjoyable efficiency.”

About the Denki Cube Concept
In creating the Denki Cube Concept, the designers started with a well-defined canvas, the current-generation Nissan Cube. The iconic Cube has always been the antithesis of traditional automotive style – square, minimalist, asymmetrical and humble – yet also warm, relaxing, practical and undeniably charming. To this solid foundation, the Denki Cube adds a new EV powertrain and unique exterior and interior treatments.

The Denki Cube Concept’s exterior features fresh front and rear styling treatments, including a new “electric themed” front grille design with an AC power charging port, a radical “lightning” headlight design and new bumpers and turn signal lamps. In the rear, the signature Cube asymmetrical rear quarter area (with wraparound glass on one side) has been enhanced by a new bumper with hidden taillights. The roof sheet metal has been replaced with a full fixed glass panel that enhances the interior’s sense of wide-open space. The Denki Cube Concept exterior also features new door mirrors and unique 16-inch wheel covers. The finishing touch is provided by a special white pearl paint and graphics.

Inside, the Denki Cube Concept reflects the designers’ intention of creating a relaxing, moving social hub, like a favorite room in an owner’s house. Though the production Cube offers three rows of seating, the Denki Cube Concept offers only two rows and the wheelbase has been stretched 9.4 inches in order to better accommodate the lithium-ion battery cells. The newly designed front and second row seats are joined by a revised instrument panel with an IP-mounted shift button, a special steering wheel design and new door panel and cargo area trim.

The biggest transformation from production Cube to Denki Cube Concept is one that isn’t visible – the replacement of the standard 1.3-liter inline 4-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor and laminated lithium-ion batteries located under the floor and seats. The laminated structure and unique material technology offer more power, energy and battery stability, as well as compact size and packaging flexibility, versus conventional cylindrical batteries.

Nissan’s compact lithium-ion battery technology, one of the company’s traditional strengths, provides batteries with twice as much energy compared with a conventional cylindrical battery of the same type and safer operation due to the use of chemically stable spine-structured manganese for the electrode material. In order to better leverage Nissan’s lithium-ion battery capabilities, a new company, Automotive Energy Supply Corp. (AESC), was jointly established with NEC Corp. and NEC Tokin Corp. – with the goal of dramatically enhancing future battery performance and reducing battery costs.

“Nissan first had an electric vehicle in the road in 1947 and has been field-testing lithium-ion batteries for more than ten years,” said Castignetti. “Our ongoing goal is to dramatically enhance future battery performance while reducing battery costs.”

About Nissan Green Program 2010
Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.’s (NML) mid-term environmental action plan, Nissan Green Program 2010 (NGP 2010), is designed to fulfill Nissan’s environmental philosophy of “symbiosis of people, vehicles and nature” and contribute to a sustainable mobile society. NGP 2010 is specifically focused on reducing CO2 emissions both from Nissan products as well as from day-to-day corporate activities.

Nissan is focused on three core areas related to the environment: reducing CO2 emissions; reducing exhaust emissions; and accelerating recycling efforts.

Highlights of Nissan Green Program 2010 include:

* Incorporating CO2 reduction as one of the key management performance indicators.
* Launch a “three-liter car” with a target of 2010; a gasoline-fueled car that runs 100 kilometers on three liters of fuel.
* Expand availability of Flexible Fuel Vehicles (FFV) within the next three years.
* Launch a Nissan electric vehicle early in the next decade.
* Develop an original Nissan hybrid vehicle targeted for launch in FY2010.
* Accelerate development of plug-in hybrid technology.
* By 2010, reduce CO2 emissions from global manufacturing plants by 7% (per unit) compared to 2005.

“The Nissan Green Program 2010 provides a transparent view of Nissan’s future commitments to all aspects of environmental management,” said Toshiyuki Shiga, Chief Operating Officer, NML. “Nissan Green Program 2010 has been designed to address immediate challenges as well as creating the foundation towards a long-term sustainable business model.”

[Source: Nissan]

Originally by Matt Hardigree from Jalopnik on March 21, 2008, 7:15am

Nissan unveils 2009 Maxima as a premium sports sedan with front-wheel drive slotted between an economy Altima and high-performance Infinity G35. Visually exciting, the new Maxima hopes to gain a new brand identity as dynamic and sporty.

As reported by Autoblog:

Ever since Nissan took the Altima upmarket in both size and prize, the Maxima has suffered from an identity crisis. In the Nissan/Infiniti lineup, this premium front-wheel-drive sports sedan suffered a middle-child syndrome while slotted between the less-expensive yet still capable Altima and the more aspirational rear-wheel-drive Infiniti G35 sports sedan. Nissan hopes to give the Maxima a new voice in its crowded lineup of large sedans with the new 2009 model that comes in your choice of a 3.5 S or 3.5 SV trim. Clearly, it packs a visual punch.

The new design is something Nissan calls “Liquid Motion”. It’s dynamic, for sure, with peaks and valleys among flowing lines and sharp creases that combine to form a muscular shape. See a little of the last-gen Nissan Skyline GT-R in that grille? We do, and that’s not a bad thing, though the new wraparound L-shaped headlamps may not go over well with everyone. Despite the large front and rear overhangs, Nissan actually shrunk the Maxima’s length and wheelbase while widening its track. Call the design what you want, but it’s not derivative and the expressive flanks make it truly look like a four-door sports car.

Gallery: 2009 Nissan Maxima – Live Reveal

Gallery: 2009 Nissan Maxima

Originally by John Neff from Autoblog on March 19, 2008, 4:13am

Click the Denki Cube for a high res galleryBy mid-2009.

Nissan announced this morning that the new Cube, now available in Japan, will be released in the United States. To show what is coming, Nissan presented Japan’s Denki Cube, a lithium ion battery-powered version that is hoped to be released within the next ten years.

As reported by Autoblog:

Nissan plans to cover the entire gamut of the automotive spectrum, ranging from the compact Cube to the supercar-fighting GT-R. That’s the word from Nissan this morning as they announced that the new Cube will come to the US market next year to fill the void left behind by the dearly departed first gen Scion xB. For now, Nissan is only showing off the current gen Cube that’s available in Japan along with the Denki Cube. The Denki is the lithium ion battery-powered version that Nissan is testing and hopes to bring to market early in the next decade. The batteries are a new laminated lithium type that are stashed under the floor and rear seats. Nissan has a joint venture with NEC to supply batteries for the new energy storage system.

Gallery: Nissan Denki Cube – Live Shots

Gallery: JDM Nissan Cube

[Source: Nissan]

Originally by Sam Abuelsamid from Autoblog on March 19, 2008, 7:22am