Nissan to trim global car lineup, boost use of AI driving tech

YOKOHAMA: Nissan Motor said on Tuesday it plans to streamline its ​global lineup to 45 models from 56 by ‌exiting low-performing ones and seek to deploy its artificial intelligence driving technology across 90% of its lineup over the long ​term.

The company said in a statement its ambition ​was to reach annual sales of 1 million ⁠vehicles in both the United States and China ​by the 2030 financial year and grow its annual ​sales volume in Japan to 550,000 cars by that time.

Nissan said it will give an update on the progress of its ​restructuring plan when it reports full-year financial results next ​month and announce further elements of its strategic direction later in ‌the ⁠year.

Japan’s fourth-biggest automaker said it will establish exports as a strategic pillar in China, shipping its N7 electric sedan to Latin America and ASEAN, and its ​Frontier Pro pickup ​truck to ⁠the Middle East in addition to those markets.

The company will aim to produce more ​vehicles in the US by raising its ​local ⁠production rate to 80% over time from around 60% currently, and revitalise its Infiniti luxury brand by introducing ⁠new ​models.

In Japan, the automaker will introduce ​a compact car series from the 2028 financial year, it said.