Saturday, February 25, 2012

Nissan and Habitat for Humanity kick off sustainable building grant program in Atlanta area

Kenya Bouie, a single mother of two, understands the concept of sweat equity. And, now her willingness to invest in others’, and in her own, future is paying off in a life-changing event.

Bouie will soon move into a new home in Jonesboro, Ga., that volunteers from Nissan are helping to build along with Habitat for Humanity. Bouie’s house will be certified to ENERGY STAR 3.0 requirements, recognized as an advanced level of energy efficiency.

The house is the first of 10 Habitat for Humanity homes that will be built around the U.S. as a result of a sustainable building grant from NISSAN.

Bouie first worked with Habitat for five months, helping to remodel other Habitat houses and improve neighborhoods, before building her own house. “I met a lot of people” she said, and realized I wasn’t the only one facing an uphill housing battle.“ At the same time, Bouie showed Habitat that she understood and appreciated what a unique opportunity she was being offered, “And, I learned what should be done in a home when something happens, how to fix it without having to spend a lot of money (to be) cost efficient, and it helps me be independent.”

The sustainable building program is part of an ongoing multi-million dollar partnership between NISSAN and Habitat. Since the partnership began in 2005, Nissan has donated 104 vehicles to support Habitat’s mission, and its employees have built more than 50 Habitat homes in communities where Nissan has corporate operations and manufacturing plants.

A few dozen NISSAN employees and local Nissan dealership employees put in their own sweat equity at the Jonesboro jobsite, directly investing in Kenya Bouie and the future of her two young girls. In a matter of days, the three-bedroom home will be ready for roofers and utility installers to follow.

Kenya Bouie will be moving out of an apartment complex in Clayton County, which she described as too crime-ridden to let her girls play outside. She hammered, lifted, laughed, and sweated along with the construction volunteers, and as the framing of her home quickly raised, Bouie expressed her gratitude over and over. She couldn’t stop smiling while she worked. “I’ll never forget what people are doing for me and my girls”, she said.

Nissan Offers Revised Packaging and U.S. Pricing for 2012 Quest

Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today announced revised U.S. pricing, content and option packages for select 2012 Nissan Quest minivan models, effective immediately. The changes include a $1,760 reduction – to $25,990 USD – for the well-equipped Quest 3.5 S. In addition, the DVD Entertainment System, with its class-leading 11-inch 16:9 DVD monitor, is added to the Quest 3.5 SL grade at no charge. Nissan is also offering a variety of lease and cash incentives on select Quest models (see dealer for details).

The realignment and packaging is designed to better meet customer demand for popular features and equipment, while maintaining all of Quest’s “innovation for family” technologies, utility and convenience. Also, in order to make the popular leather-appointed seating feature available to buyers at a lower trim level, an optional Leather Package will be offered for 3.5 SV grade for the first time, beginning with April production. These refinements to the 2012 Quest are a clear commitment from Nissan that offering outstanding value is paramount to consumers.

The innovation-packed 2012 Nissan Quest is available in four well-equipped models: S, SV, SL and LE. Each comes with a standard 260-horsepower 3.5-liter 24-valve DOHC V6 engine and Nissan’s advanced Xtronic CVT™ transmission. Key available features include one-touch power sliding doors, fold-flat 2nd and 3rd row seats, Advanced Climate Control System, and standard permanent hidden storage.

Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices* (MSRP) for the 2012 Nissan Quest include:

Quest 3.5 S$25,990 USD
Quest 3.5 SV$31,050 USD
Quest 3.5 SL$34,500 USD
Quest 3.5 LE$42,350 USD

About the 2012 Nissan Quest

From its bold styling with full surround glass to its extensive list of family friendly innovations, the 2012 Nissan Quest “gets” parenting better than any other minivan. Quest’s sophisticated, modern exterior combines fluid sculptural elements with a dynamic mass and crafted details to provide a fresh take on minivan design – helping create a look as if Quest was carved from one solid piece of sculptor’s stone. The 2012 Quest comes with standard Nissan Intelligent Key® and optional one-touch power sliding doors, which unlock and open the side door with the simple touch of a button. To assist entry further, the Quest’s 2nd row features a standard walk-in device for easier access to the 3rd row. A one-touch unlock/open power rear liftgate is standard on Quest SL and LE models.

The easy-to-use convenience also carries over into the interior design with the fold-flat 2nd and 3rd row seats. The 3rd row folds forward - unlike any other minivan, there is no stowing required. The permanent rear storage well is always available, and a flat cargo floor is achieved without removing any seats. Third row power return seatbacks are also available on Quest LE.

One of the most innovative technologies is the Quest LE’s standard Advanced Climate Control System (ACCS) with Plasmacluster™ air purifier and Grape Polyphenol Filter. The system works three ways to help reduce allergens and unwanted odors within the Quest cabin. Quest’s standard Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) includes a segment-first application of Nissan’s Easy Fill Tire Alert.

All 2012 Quest models feature a standard VQ-series 3.5-liter DOHC V6 rated at 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque, and an advanced Xtronic CVT™ transmission that provides a smooth driving experience. Fuel economy is estimated at 19 mpg City/24 mpg Highway. Quest also features 4-wheel independent suspension, 4-wheel disc brakes and vehicle-speed-sensitive power steering. As part of Nissan’s “Safety Shield” concept, Quest is designed to incorporate a number of advanced safety systems, including the Blind Spot Warning (BSW) system, which is standard on Quest LE. BSW helps alert the driver by illuminating an indicator light in the outside mirror if another vehicle is detected in the blind spot area. If the driver then engages the turn signal, the indicator flashes and an audible alert sounds.

Seven exterior colors are available, along with two interior colors in a choice of cloth (S and SV) or leather-appointed (SV – beginning April production, SL and LE) seating.

About Nissan North America
In North America, Nissan's operations include automotive styling, design, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. Nissan is dedicated to improving the environment under the Nissan Green Program 2010 and has been recognized as a 2010 and 2011 ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year by the U.S Environmental Protection Agency. More information about Nissan in North America and the complete line of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles can be found online at http://www.nissanusa.com/ and http://www.infiniti.com/.

About Nissan
Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., Japan's second largest Japanese automotive company by volume, is headquartered in Yokohama, Japan and is an integral pillar of the Renault-Nissan Alliance. Operating with more than 150,000 employees globally, Nissan provided customers with more than 4 million vehicles in 2010. With a strong commitment to developing exciting and innovative products for all, Nissan delivers a comprehensive range of fuel-efficient and low-emissions vehicles under the Nissan and Infiniti brands. A pioneer in zero emission mobility, Nissan made history with the introduction of the Nissan LEAF, the first affordable, mass-market, pure-electric vehicle and winner of numerous international accolades including the prestigious 2011 European Car of the Year award.

Nissan USA

Friday, February 24, 2012

Nissan Production, Sales, and Export Results for January 2012

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. today announced its production, sales and export figures for January 2012.

1. Production
Nissan's global production in January increased 3.7% year-on-year to 389,230 units, marking an all-time record for the month of January.

Production in Japan increased 17.4% year-on-year to 96,104 units, mainly due to increased exports of Rogue, Juke and Murano, and increased demand for Serena.

Production outside of Japan decreased 0.1% year-on-year to 293,126 units.

In the U.S., production increased 23.1% year-on-year to 53,217 units, mainly due to increased demand for Altima.

In Mexico, production increased 20.8% year-on-year to 62,100 units, due to increased demand for the new Versa and March.

In the U.K., production increased 14.1% year-on-year to 44,851 units, mainly due to increased demand for Juke and Qashqai.

In Spain, production increased 16.0% year-on-year to 13,805 units, mainly due to increased demand for Navara.

In China, production decreased 30.0% year-on-year to 75,223 units, due to a decrease in operating days because of the Chinese new year holidays.

Production in other regions increased 9.7% year-on-year to 43,930 units, mainly due to increased demand for the new Sunny in India and the new Almera in Thailand.

2. Sales
Global sales increased 6.2% year-on-year to 379,408 units, marking an all-time record for the month of January.

Including mini-vehicles, Nissan sold 52,977 units in Japan, up 29.5% year-on-year.

In Japan, vehicle registrations in January increased 35.7% year-on-year to 39,646 units, mainly due to increased demand for Serena.

Mini-vehicle sales in Japan increased 14.0% year-on-year to 13,331 units, marking an all-time record for the month of January, mainly due to increased demand for Moco.

Sales outside of Japan increased 3.2% year-on-year to 326,431 units, marking an all-time record for the month of January.

Sales in the U.S. increased 10.4% year-on-year to 79,313 units, due to strong sales of Versa, Altima and Rogue.

In Europe, sales increased 15.2% year-on-year to 55,098 units, due to favorable sales in Russia and increased demand for Juke.

In China, sales decreased 16.2% year-on-year to 94,745 units -- despite increased demand for Tiida, Sunny and Qashqai -- due to a decrease in operating days because of the Chinese new year holidays.

Sales in other regions increased 17.0% year-on-year to 73,267 units, mainly due to increased demand in Brazil and Thailand.

3. Japan Exports
Nissan's exports in January increased 19.3% year-on-year to 57,202 units.

Exports to North America increased 27.4% year-on-year to 34,538 units, mainly due to increased demand for Rogue and Murano.

Exports to Europe increased 17.3% year-on-year to 7,339 units, mainly due to increased demand for X-Trail.
Nissan USA

Monday, February 13, 2012

NISSAN SALES IN EUROPE JUMP 15% IN JANUARY

Today Nissan announced a 15% year-on-year rise in January sales to 55,098 units, supported by the sale of models manufactured in Europe.
In a flat market, Nissan increased its monthly share by 0.6% to 4.2% overall in January, with locally-produced models accounting for nearly 80% of sales.
The Sunderland-built Qashqai crossover continues to dominate the segment it helped create with sales of nearly 20,000 last month. While Juke, its smaller Sunderland stable-mate, achieved a 33% jump in year-on-year sales to rival Qashqai in some markets including the UK and Russia.
Nissan also produces the vast majority of its light commercial vehicles sold in Europe within the region at plants in Barcelona and Avila, Spain. This segment made a significant contribution to the monthly total with a 16% increase in overall sales compared to last year.
Nissan Vice President for Sales Operations in Europe, Guillaume Cartier, said: "Nissan is reaping the benefit of putting our customers' desires and expectations ahead of traditional thinking.
"In the crossover segment we identified an unmet need and produced Murano, Qashqai and Juke - one of our most successful model families ever. And we are also innovating across our range introducing new engines, new technologies and new ideas.
"This is the main reason we enjoyed a record 2011 in Europe, and it is extremely encouraging to see this level of sales success and momentum carrying over into 2012."
Russia is Nissan's largest single European market, and also where the company achieved its biggest monthly increase - from a 5.7% share in January 2011 to 7.4% in 2012.
Other top performing markets in January included France and the UK, both of which increased sales by 22% year-on-year. While market share in Italy climbed to 4%, and a 4.6% share was achieved in the Nordic region (comprising Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland and the Baltics).
Yesterday Nissan again underlined its commitment to continue bringing dynamic and segment-defining models to the market by releasing details of the INVITATION concept car.
This innovative compact hatchback will be unveiled at next month's Geneva Motor Show, and will inspire an all-new production model to be launched in Europe during 2013.

Nissan USA

Friday, February 10, 2012

Nissan NV200 Compact Cargo Van Offers Efficient Packaging with a Large Cargo Space Within a Small Footprint

The all-new Nissan NV200 Compact Cargo Van, which makes its North American debut at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show, is set to join the growing lineup of Nissan Commercial Vehicles in early 2013 at 300 Nissan Commercial Vehicle dealerships nationwide. The NV200 follows the full-size Nissan NV Cargo, introduced in spring 2011, and the recently announced full-size Nissan NV Passenger that goes on sale this spring. The Nissan NV200 provides a new entry point for current cargo van and small pickup buyers looking for a compact, efficient alternative to their larger, less fuel-efficient vehicles.

“There is an increasing need for a ‘right-sized’ van that optimizes cargo space while offering the best possible fuel economy and an affordable price – the exact sweet spots of the innovative new Nissan NV200,” said Joe Castelli, vice president, Nissan Commercial Vehicles and Fleet. “Businesses today, both large and small, are also looking for vehicles that represent their brands in the best light – smart, innovative, and professional. NV200 does that and much more.”

While new to North America, the Nissan NV200 compact van is already in use in more than 40 countries around the world, receiving acclaim from both users and media alike for its optimal functionality and smart design. It won the 2010 International Van of the Year award in Europe, the 2010 Commercial Delivery Van (CDV) of the Year in China, and the 2011 Universal Design Award from Universal Design GMbH, a German organization dedicated to promoting the convergence of design and the emerging importance of customer needs. NV200 has also established a presence as the strong segment leader in Japan with a wide-ranging lineup that includes a taxi version.

“Our global success provides a great foundation for the North American version, which we know will become an essential tool for business,” added Castelli.

High Volume in a Small Footprint, Exceptional Ease of Use

As the next “innovation for business,” NV200 offers a large cargo capacity of 123 cubic feet (estimated using SAE J1100 rev 2009) with a small exterior footprint. Unique for North America, the NV200 body has been extended 7.9 inches (200 mm) versus the models sold in other global markets. This longer body length offers additional cargo carrying capability for North American customers.

Measuring just 186.2 inches in overall length, on a 115.2-inch wheelbase, NV200 is highly maneuverable in traffic and negotiating city parking spaces. Yet it allows for a 1,500-pound (estimated) maximum payload. The cargo area dimension between the efficiently designed wheelhouses allows for loading standard U.S. 40x48-inch pallets. Added utility is provided by the standard integrated mounting points, which allow installation of racks and shelves without drilling into the sidewalls, and six available floor mounted cargo hooks in the cargo area.

NV200’s exterior design features a Nissan signature front grille, aerodynamic front end design, and functional cabin design. The large body side includes low-effort dual sliding side doors and large areas for business signage and graphics. In the rear, NV200 features tall 40/60 split opening doors with dual opening positions (90 and 180 degrees). The low floor height and tall interior cargo height aid easy loading and unloading. Other exterior features include halogen headlights, durable black front and rear bumpers, and outside mirrors with wide-angle spotter mirrors and available heated function.

“In many ways, choosing a new work van is like finding a new business partner. Beyond the basic necessities, it must instill trust that it can always get the job done – and that you are comfortable with for many years,” said Castelli. “In that regard, along with the innovative cargo area features, NV200’s interior is designed to offer comfort and convenience day in and day out.”

The driver-focused cockpit includes both comfort and functional features. The driver’s seat is 6-way adjustable with manual lumbar and armrest and is designed for durability with outboard vinyl wear patches. NV200 offers “Mobile Office” functionality with a center console featuring laptop/hanging file folder storage, pen/pencil tray, CD holder, and dual cupholders. Recessed storage areas are provided on the upper instrument panel for folders and documents. In addition the passenger seat folds down to serve as a worktop or extends the cargo space for hauling longer items.

Power windows with auto up/down are standard. A 12-volt power outlet on the instrument panel is standard, along with an available 12-volt power point in rear of center console. There is also a passenger-side underseat storage tray, drive computer, battery saver feature, AM/FM/CD with auxiliary input and two front door mounted speakers.

Available technology includes a Nissan Navigation System, Bluetooth® wireless communications, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately), RearView Monitor, and telematics pre-wiring (Nissan Fleet Tracker).

Standard safety features include the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS), roof-mounted curtain side impact supplemental air bags for front occupant head protection, front seat mounted driver and passenger side impact supplemental air bags, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Efficiency and Affordability

The 2013 Nissan NV200 is built on Nissan’s proven compact commercial platform and features an efficient 2.0-liter 16-valve DOHC 4-cylinder engine. The engine is matched with a responsive and efficient Xtronic CVT® transmission.

The suspension utilizes independent struts and stabilizer bar in front and a leaf spring design in the rear. Front disc/rear drum brakes with Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) are standard, along with electric power-assisted steering and 15-inch steel wheels mounted with 185/60R15 high-load all-season tires.

“The Nissan NV200 is designed as a durable work tool, with features such as the seating wear patches, low-effort sliding side doors and wide-opening rear doors,” adds Castelli. “And since we fully understand how vans like this are used in business, it’s also a very pleasant vehicle to drive and use as a mobile office.”

One other key element of NV200, built in from the earliest planning, is low total cost of ownership. The 2013 Nissan NV200 will have a competitive price, excellent fuel efficiency, and reduced upfitting costs (due to the standard integrated mounting points), all of which will provide business owners with a low total cost of ownership.

Two Well-Equipped Models

Two well-equipped models are available, Nissan NV200 S and Nissan NV200 SV in a choice of five exterior colors, matched with a gray cloth interior.

In addition to the long list of standard features on the NV200 S, the SV model adds power heated outside mirrors, power door locks with auto-locking feature, remote keyless entry with two key fobs, cruise control with steering wheel-mounted controls, rear cargo floor mat, additional 12V power point in the rear of the center console, six floor-mounted cargo hooks in the cargo area, and full wheel covers.

Several option packages will be available, including rear door glass; an Exterior Appearance Package with body-color bumpers, door handles and outside mirrors and chrome grille; Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System; and a Technology Package with Nissan Navigation System, RearView Monitor and XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately).

The new Nissan NV200 will be manufactured in Cuernavaca, Mexico and available through a select network of certified Nissan Commercial Vehicle dealers nationwide. 

Nissan USA

Wednesday, February 8, 2012

INVITATION Concept Previews Nissan's Next-Generation Compact Car in Europe

Dynamic new concept bursting with technical innovation introduces the company's next generation mainstream B-segment contender
  • INVITATION concept underlines Nissan's commitment to compact car segment
  • An inspiration for Nissan's forthcoming new offering in the compact hatchback segment in Europe, to join Micra and Juke
  • Concept combines dynamic design, packaging and well balanced performance to appeal to sophisticated European consumers
  • Technology includes advanced safety features as well as strong fuel economy and low emissions
Nissan has revealed the first details of a head-turning hatchback concept which previews the company's next generation compact car, a mainstream B-segment contender to be sold alongside the Micra city car and innovative JUKE B-segment crossover in Europe.

Called INVITATION, the dynamic concept - which will be unveiled at this year's Geneva International Motor Show (8-18 March) - shows some of the innovation and excitement promised for the new model, which is due to be launched in Europe from 2013.

Design dynamism

INVITATION is an energetic design, bringing fresh style, innovation and excitement to the mainstream market. The clean fluidity of the silhouette hints at its dynamic potential and showcases class-leading aerodynamics for enhanced efficiency.

The side of the car is dominated by a distinctive character line, known internally as the ‘Squash Line', which adds a powerful dynamism to its profile with distinctive sculpted front and rear wings giving INVITATION a confident stance.

Inside, a refreshingly open cabin combines practicality and modernity with impressive levels of quality and purposeful technology features.

François Bancon, Deputy Division General Manager of Product Strategy and Product Planning Division, said: "The name we have given to this concept is self-explanatory... the key benefit of this compact car is to be inviting.

"It is inviting thanks to its sensuous exterior design and generous and comfortable interior space, cleverly packaged within compact overall dimensions. It is Nissan's invitation to buyers in the compact hatchback segment."

Class-leading performance and efficiency
Combining advanced engine technology, Nissan's acclaimed lightweight platform and an aerodynamically efficient body mean INVITATION achieves class-leading levels of fuel efficiency and emissions. Nissan is aiming for an ultra-low CO2 emission target of under 100g/km for the best model and with all versions eligible to wear Nissan's Pure Drive badge.

At the same time, responsive agile handling will ensure that when it comes to driving dynamics, INVITATION will compete with the top performers in the segment.

Advanced safety technology

But INVITATION is more than just a great looking car that's fun and frugal to drive. The concept packs some of the most advanced technology ever seen in the B-segment, all of which is designed to ensure the car is as safe as possible.

Among the features is Nissan's advanced Around View Monitor (AVM) safety technology - seen for the first time on a B segment car - which makes reversing and parallel parking as stress-free as possible. In addition, INVITATION also incorporates Nissan Safety Shield Technologies, which interact with the driving environment keeping the driver aware of what is happening around the car.

Conclusion
INVITATION's combination of energetic exterior style, thoughtful interior, advanced safety features and class-leading emissions, fuel economy and dynamic performance demonstrates Nissan's commitment to offering innovation and excitement to all car buyers, no matter what type of car they are looking to buy.

About Nissan in Europe
Nissan has one of the most comprehensive European presences of any overseas manufacturer, employing more than 12,500 staff across locally-based design, research & development, manufacturing, logistics and sales & marketing operations. Last year Nissan plants in the UK, Spain and Russia produced a range of vehicles including mini-MPVs, award-winning crossovers, SUVs and commercial vehicles. Nissan now offers 24 diverse and innovative products for sale in Europe today, and is positioned to become the number one Japanese brand in Europe.

Nissan USA