Nissan's Upcoming EV Platform May Result in Five Completely New Models

      Nissan

      Sign up for The Drive Daily

      Can Nissan restore consumer confidence and enhance profits with a new scalable architecture? The Japanese automaker appears to think so, as it has recently revealed plans for a completely new electric vehicle platform capable of supporting up to five models built in the U.S., including sedans and a small truck.

      As reported by Automotive News, these entirely new EVs will feature advanced electric powertrains that promise faster charging times and reduced battery costs. Initially, the launch of these new EVs was scheduled for 2026 to succeed the Altima and Maxima. However, like many others, Nissan has recognized that sedans are not the best avenue for profitability in the current automotive market.

      “Data indicated that introducing two sedans is not aligning with market demands, especially not at a price of over $45,000,” noted Nissan Americas product planning chief Ponz Pandikuthira. Fortunately, the new EV platform is built for adaptability.

      “The flexibility of the platform, combined with Nissan’s manufacturing capacity in the U.S., creates opportunities for partnerships with other OEMs to reduce production costs,” Pandikuthira added.

      The Leaf and companions appear poised for a major debut in 2026.

      Rather than focusing on sedans, Nissan will concentrate on popular crossovers. At a recent media event, the automaker showcased a variety of concepts that appeared to merge different vehicle segments.

      According to AN, the EV CUVs featured a longer wheelbase than the compact Rogue and had a spacious interior similar to that of a midsize Pathfinder. There were also hybrid designs that resembled a Pathfinder/Xterra combination. Additionally, Nissan is considering sedans that have a crossover appearance but maintain car-like performance.

      On the topic of the Pathfinder, with the Rogue set to receive a plug-in hybrid version later this year, the Murano, Pathfinder, and Infiniti QX60 and QX65 are all seen as strong candidates for hybrid variants. Although the Pathfinder was expected to transition to electric, it will likely be offered as a hybrid.

      There has also been speculation about a lightweight electric pickup designed for a lifestyle market. Nissan did present its Surf-Out truck concept at the end of 2021, but there has been no further information on that project since. AN states that if a small Nissan EV truck is produced, it could be launched by 2030, while a planned electrified Frontier may arrive even sooner.

      2021 Nissan Surf-Out concept.

      Regardless, it seems Nissan is committed to going fully electric, aiming to provide hybrid electric (HEV), plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV), and electric vehicle (EV) versions of its current lineup, along with new innovations. Additionally, the new EV platform will not be exclusive to the Nissan brand.

      Vehicles based on the new EV platform will be manufactured at Nissan’s plant in Canton, Mississippi, though none of these models are expected to be available shortly. The automaker indicated that at least one of the new crossovers should come to market by mid-2028, but did not specify which brand it would be under.

      Have a tip? Contact us at [email protected]