At the beginning of this year, Renault-Nissan unveiled an ambitious plan to expand its product portfolio in the Indian market. This strategic blueprint encompasses several new models, including the next-generation Renault Duster, a Nissan MPV based on the Triber platform, a 5-seater Nissan SUV derived from the Duster, and an A-segment electric car. Both brands are also gearing up to introduce entry-level electric vehicles (EVs) built on the CMF-A EV architecture, a modular platform designed by the alliance for electric vehicles, suitable for compact sedans and SUVs.
During the ongoing Tokyo Motor Show, Makoto Uchida, CEO of Nissan Motor Corporation, confirmed the development of a new “global affordable EV” that will also find its way to the Indian market. Uchida emphasized that the company is diligently working on an affordable A-segment EV for the future, showcasing its ambitious plans. Nissan recognizes the rapid progress made by Chinese automakers in the EV industry and aims to demonstrate its capabilities in the affordable EV market, leveraging its experience as pioneers in the field. The primary focus is on enhancing cost competitiveness with the ultimate goal of introducing an EV that appeals to a broader segment of buyers.
In a departure from conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) platforms, Nissan is exploring the idea of an all-electric platform. When asked about the possibility of a Magnite EV in the company’s lineup, Francois Bailly, Senior Vice President and Chief Planning Officer for the AMIEO region (Africa, Middle East, India, Europe, and Oceania), expressed a decisive approach, stating, “Our approach is either all-in or don’t enter. We have decided to go all-in for EVs, as we are confident in the strong growth potential of EVs in India.”
The company is currently in the process of evaluating the feasibility and potential for localizing the production of critical EV components. The primary objective of this effort is to ensure that the electric vehicles they manufacture remain cost-competitive and accessible to the Indian market. By localizing the production of cells and batteries, Nissan aims to reduce manufacturing costs, ultimately making electric vehicles more affordable and economically viable for consumers in India.
