Nissan Unveils AI-Driven Long-Term Strategy: Focus on Autonomous Driving, Electrification, and Streamlined Product Line

Nissan Motor recently unveiled its long-term vision titled "Integrating Mobility Intelligence into Everyday Life," clearly positioning artificial intelligence (AI) as the core driver of future growth and accelerating its "AI-Defined Vehicles" strategy. The company plans to increase the proportion of models equipped with its AI Drive technology to approximately 90% and streamline its current lineup of 56 models down to 45, aiming to enhance profitability and focus on high-growth segments. This strategy is built around four pillars: next-generation technology development, product portfolio optimization, strengthened global market strategies, and a transition toward a platform-based business model. Technologically, Nissan will prioritize AI-powered autonomous driving and pursue a diversified electrification pathway. The company plans to launch its next-generation large MPV, the Elgrand, in summer 2026, featuring an upgraded ProPilot system, and aims to deploy end-to-end autonomous driving technology by 2027. On electrification, Nissan will center its approach on the e-POWER hybrid system to reduce charging burdens for users, while also developing a hybrid system based on body-on-frame architecture to expand its plug-in hybrid and range-extended electric vehicle offerings. Its product strategy categorizes vehicles into four distinct types, each with unique positioning and development plans. In terms of business model transformation, Nissan will adopt a modular development system, targeting coverage of over 80% of its global sales through three major product families and increasing annual sales volume per model. Geographically, Japan, the United States, and China are designated as core lead markets: Japan will focus on technology validation and brand strengthening, the U.S. will serve as the primary engine for profitability and growth, and China will act as a global export hub. Nissan’s CEO emphasized the company’s unwavering commitment to customer experience, delivering safe, intuitive, and trustworthy products and technologies. The “Re:Nissan” business normalization plan is progressing as scheduled, with updates to be provided during the company’s earnings briefing in May, and further strategic details to be disclosed in the second half of the year.