Nissan Motor announced plans on Tuesday to streamline its global vehicle lineup and significantly expand the use of artificial intelligence (AI) driving technology, as part of a broader strategy to revive its business after years of instability.
The Japanese automaker said it will reduce its number of models to 45 from 56, exiting underperforming segments to focus on profitability and efficiency. Over the long term, Nissan aims to deploy AI-driven technology across 90% of its vehicle lineup.
Chief Executive Officer Ivan Espinosa said the company’s portfolio overhaul would be “anchored in profitability” and built around a leaner, stronger range of vehicles. He also unveiled plans for a hybrid version of the Rogue SUV—known as the X-Trail in Japan—and an electric version of the Juke model.
Nissan is targeting annual sales of 1 million vehicles each in the United States and China by the 2030 financial year, while aiming to grow domestic sales in Japan to 550,000 units.
The automaker also plans to expand its powertrain offerings and reinvest in growth areas. It will provide further updates on its restructuring progress when it releases full-year financial results next month.
Under Espinosa’s turnaround plan, Nissan is reducing its global manufacturing footprint and cutting its workforce by 15%. The move comes as the company seeks to strengthen its position against rivals such as Toyota Motor, Honda Motor and Suzuki Motor.
Espinosa said the company is now at a midpoint in its restructuring efforts and must sharpen its long-term strategy to regain competitiveness.
Nissan also outlined plans to boost exports from China, including shipping its N7 electric sedan to Latin America and ASEAN markets, and exporting its Frontier Pro pickup truck to the Middle East.
In the United States, the company aims to increase local production to 80% from around 60%, while also revitalizing its luxury brand, Infiniti, with new model launches.
In Japan, Nissan will introduce a new compact car series starting in the 2028 financial year. It also plans to equip its upcoming Elgrand minivan with end-to-end autonomous driving capabilities by the end of the 2027 financial year.
The company is partnering with Uber Technologies and British startup Wayve to develop robotaxis, with a pilot programme expected in Tokyo by late 2026.
Nissan shares were up 0.7% by midday trading, underperforming the broader Nikkei 225, which rose 2.4%.
The automaker is scheduled to release its full-year financial results on May 13. Earlier this year, it narrowed its projected annual loss and reported a surprise third-quarter profit, signaling early progress in its turnaround efforts.