Monday, July 18, 2011

Nissan Leaf production to start in Smyrna by late 2012

Filed under: , , ,

Nissan Smyrna battery plant

Bill Krueger, head of Nissan's manufacturing and supply chain management, tells Automotive News that the March 11 quake in Japan disrupted construction of the automaker's Nissan Leaf production complex in Smyrna, TN, but says there's no need to worry because his team is working 'round the clock to stick to the automaker's open-by-late-2012 timetable.

Says Krueger:
We're still targeting to launch on time. It's too early to give up on meeting our original timing. We have just shy of a year and a half to make it up. We had people over there training when the lights went out. Production didn't happen for a month. That drove the training curve back. We're looking at work-arounds to try to accelerate the schedule now.
This means that, if Nissan can get back on track, the first U.S.-built Leafs will roll down the assembly line in Smyrna, TN in late 2012. Nissan says up to 150,000 Leafs will be built at Smyrna annually.

Nissan Leaf production to start in Smyrna by late 2012 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 11 Jul 2011 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/11/nissan-leaf-production-to-start-in-smyrna-by-late-2012/

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

2012 Nissan Versa priced from $10,990

Filed under: , , ,

2012 Nissan Versa
2012 Nissan Versa - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 2012 model year marks the end of the sub-$10,000 new car here in the United States, but Nissan is still committed to offering a bargain price for shoppers looking for purely basic transportation. The 2012 Versa subcompact has officially been priced, and the base 1.6 S 5MT model will only set you back a cool $10,990. And unlike the sub-$10K Versa that came before it, the new 2012 model comes standard with both air conditioning and an AM/FM/CD/AUX stereo.

Of course, more lavishly appointed Versa models are available, starting with the 1.6 S CVT at $12,760, the 1.6 SV CVT at $14,560 and the 1.8 SL CVT at $15,560. Nissan offers a host of optional equipment throughout the Versa range, including Bluetooth, XM satellite radio, a touch-screen navigation system and USB input for iPod/MP3 devices. Hit the jump for Nissan's official release.

Continue reading 2012 Nissan Versa priced from $10,990

2012 Nissan Versa priced from $10,990 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 11 Jul 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments
http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/11/2012-nissan-versa-priced-from-10-990/

Wednesday, July 6, 2011

Nissan bringing back Datsun name for emerging markets?

Filed under: ,

DatsunWord on the web is that Nissan is mulling the notion of bringing back the Datsun name. According to The Truth About Cars, reports are emerging that the Japanese automaker will employ its old moniker in emerging markets for new, inexpensive models. Specifically, the cars are slated to cost no more than $5,000. That kind of coin likely won't fetch buyers much more than an engine and a couple of doors, but that's just fine by our reckoning. Unfortunately, the news means that American buyers won't be able to sink their teeth into a resurrected 510 anytime soon.

The reports haven't said exactly where the Datsun name will show up. In fact, the plan seems to still be awaiting the go-ahead from the suits at Nissan. Still, if approved, there's a chance that your next overseas rental will wear a Datsun badge on the hood.

Nissan bringing back Datsun name for emerging markets? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Jul 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments
http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/05/nissan-bringing-back-datsun-name-for-emerging-markets/

Thursday, June 16, 2011

Nissan discontinues Krom Cube and Rogue models for 2012

Filed under: , , ,

2011 Nissan Cube Krom
2011 Nissan Cube Krom - Click above for high-res image gallery

Nissan has confirmed to Autoblog that the Krom versions of its Cube hatchback and Rogue crossover will be discontinued for the 2012 model year. The Cube Krom, based off of the 1.8 S model, was introduced at the 2009 Chicago Auto Show, while the Rogue Krom joined the lineup later that year as a 2010 model. Both vehicles were set apart from their kin with unique front fascias featuring horizontal chrome bars, as well as dark chrome wheels.

"They sold just fine, but they were billed as limited editions," Nissan spokesperson John Schilling tells Autoblog. When asked about the possibility of the Krom nameplate being resurrected for future models, Schilling tells us that there's "nothing planned in the near future."

For 2012, the Cube will continue to be offered in 1.8, 1.8 S and 1.8 SL trims, while the Rogue will carry on in S and SV variants. The 2012 Cube will arrive at dealerships this winter, while the 2012 Rogue will be available starting this summer.

Nissan discontinues Krom Cube and Rogue models for 2012 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 Jun 2011 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments
http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/14/nissan-discontinues-krom-cube-and-rogue-models-for-2012/

Monday, June 13, 2011

Nissan Insider Murano CrossCabriolet Walkaround

Nissan Insider Dean Bowman gives an overview of the world's first and only all-wheel drive crossover convertible. The Murano CrossCabriolet combines open-air fun with room for four, a surprisingly roomy trunk, and the confidence of all-wheel drive.
Views:75
2ratings
Time:03:15More inAutos & Vehicles

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I7BkXZoE7Uw&feature=youtube_gdata

Thursday, June 2, 2011

Nissan Insider Leaf Walk Around

The Nissan Insider highlights some of Leaf's unique features that come with being an 100% electric car, as well as things like roominess, storage and high-tech conveniences that you'll appreciate in your everyday life.
Views:58
4ratings
Time:06:07More inAutos & Vehicles

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ASX-e1TyaU0&feature=youtube_gdata