Nissan's Electric Vehicle Return Might Feature an Unexpected Compact Pickup | Carscoops

      At least one of the upcoming electric vehicles will debut in 2028, but whether it will be a Nissan or an Infiniti model will depend on demand.

      The new platform has the potential to give rise to crossovers and an adventure-oriented pickup truck.

      Nissan plans to incorporate next-generation electric motors and battery packs into these new EV models.

      Both Nissan and Infiniti are set to introduce new crossovers based on this platform.

      Nissan aims to reestablish itself as a major player in the electric vehicle market with a fresh vehicle platform intended to enable a wider range of models. This architecture could support as many as five new vehicles, which might include crossovers, sedans, and potentially a lightweight pickup truck. In information likely to resonate with American consumers—especially in light of Trump’s significant import tariffs—all of these vehicles will be manufactured in the United States.

      Nissan’s product planning head for the Americas, Ponz Pandikuthira, stated that the new platform will concentrate on compact and related segments, setting the stage for more efficient and accessible electric vehicles. It is engineered to accommodate the company’s next-generation electric motors and will utilize more cost-effective lithium-ion battery packs, ensuring quicker charging times compared to the current offerings from Nissan.

      “The platform’s adaptability and Nissan’s manufacturing capability in the US create opportunities for collaboration with another OEM to reduce production costs,” Pandikuthira told Auto News. Such a partnership could enable both Nissan and a prospective collaborator to share development expenses and improve production scalability.

      Crossover Models are Priority

      Initially, Nissan intended to introduce two all-electric sedans on this new platform to succeed the Maxima and Altima. However, due to shifts in market demand, the plans have been altered, and the platform will now first support two crossovers from Nissan and Infiniti. Pandikuthira indicated to Autonews that at least one of these models is slated for a 2028 launch, with demand determining whether the Nissan or Infiniti model comes first.

      “The C-segment in the crossover market is the perfect launch point for us,” Pandikuthira stated. “As a brand, it’s also where we excel.”

      Both crossovers will be produced at Nissan’s facility in Canton, Mississippi. The Nissan crossover is expected to feature a “brawny” design reminiscent of the Xterra, while the Infiniti crossover will showcase a more sophisticated aesthetic.

      Talk of an Electric Pickup Truck

      There are also discussions around a compact electric pickup, though this project has not yet received official approval. Nissan is contemplating a unibody design with a possible market introduction around 2030, targeting a growing segment of consumers who want capable, environmentally friendly vehicles for outdoor adventures.

      “There’s an increasing number of consumers seeking adventure vehicles that are eco-friendly and prefer not to use a V-8 engine in the wilderness,” he noted. “While it’s uncertain if there are 100,000 potential buyers for a Nissan electric truck, this segment might expand, so we are monitoring it.”

      Electric Sedans Remain Uncertain

      Regarding the other vehicles planned for the platform, Nissan is less confident. The company acknowledges that its strategy for electric sedans is still in flux. Launching an affordable model may be challenging, and premium sedans do not align with Nissan’s central brand identity.

      “Premium sedans are not our focus,” Pandikuthira conceded. “If the starting price for [electric] sedans is $45,000 or higher, we’re no longer catering to the heart of the sedan market.”

      With demand for electric sedans currently low, Nissan may continue the production of the existing Altima until the end of 2027, despite plans to phase it out this year.