Nissan

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. was established on December 26, 1933, under the name Jidosha-Seizo Kabushiki-Kaisha (Automobile Manufacturing Co., Ltd.). The company was originally founded in Yokohama, Japan, and in the following year it became part of the Nissan Group, transferring its automobile manufacturing activities to the new company, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. The company initially focused on the production of small trucks and cars and quickly expanded its product lineup and technological capabilities.

In January 1959, Nissan became the first Japanese automaker to establish a production facility outside Japan when it opened a plant in Taiwan under the name "Yulon Motor Co., Ltd." This marked the beginning of Nissan's international expansion, allowing the company to access new markets and reduce reliance on Japan-based production. The establishment of this plant was a crucial step in Nissan's global strategy, enabling it to compete more effectively in the global automotive industry by diversifying production locations.

On April 26, 1966, Nissan completed its merger with the Prince Motor Company. This merger enabled Nissan to enhance its engineering capabilities and diversify its vehicle offerings. Prince Motor Company was popular for its premium vehicles such as the Skyline, which Nissan continued to develop and eventually turned into a successful line of sports and luxury cars. The merger was significant for Nissan's growth and its ability to offer a wider range of products to meet consumer needs.

In 1983, Nissan reintroduced the Datsun nameplate in the United States, which had originally been phased out in the 1970s. The reintroduction of the Datsun brand was part of Nissan's strategy to better segment its market offerings and cater to different consumer preferences. The Datsun brand was known for producing affordable and reliable vehicles, and its return was aimed at capturing a larger share of the market by appealing to cost-conscious buyers.

On March 27, 1999, Nissan formed a groundbreaking alliance with the French automaker Renault. This strategic partnership was designed to allow both companies to leverage each other's strengths and improve competitiveness on a global scale. Nissan, which had been struggling financially, gained access to Renault's resources and expertise. In return, Renault took a stake in Nissan, leading to collaborative efforts in platform sharing, research, and development, which aided in the revival of Nissan's fortunes in the ensuing years.

December 11, 2010, marked the launch of the Nissan Leaf, one of the world's first mass-produced electric cars, in Japan and the United States. The introduction of the Leaf was a significant milestone in the automotive industry, as Nissan aimed to deliver zero-emission mobility to the masses. The Leaf was praised for its innovative design and environmental benefits, quickly becoming one of the best-selling electric cars globally. It demonstrated Nissan's commitment to sustainable vehicle technology and set the stage for future developments in green automobiles.

On September 6, 2017, Nissan announced ProPILOT, an advanced driver assistance system that represented a significant step towards autonomous driving. ProPILOT was designed to provide improved safety and convenience by assisting with steering, acceleration, and braking under certain driving conditions. The system was introduced on vehicles such as the Nissan Rogue and was part of Nissan's broader Intelligent Mobility vision, aimed at enhancing the overall driving experience while promoting safety and sustainability.

On November 19, 2018, Carlos Ghosn, the former Chairman of Nissan, was arrested in Tokyo over financial misconduct allegations. This scandal shook the automotive industry and led to a significant recalibration of the Nissan-Renault Alliance. Ghosn was accused of underreporting his income and misusing company assets. The arrest led to extensive legal battles and left a profound impact on Nissan's corporate governance and global operations. The case drew global attention and highlighted the challenges of corporate governance in large multinational firms.

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. launched its 'Nissan Ambition 2030' vision on January 27, 2022, outlining a comprehensive strategy to lead the industry in electrification and technology advancements. The company committed to offering 23 electrified models by 2030 and invested heavily in solid-state battery technology. This vision reflects Nissan's long-term commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable mobility solutions. The Ambition 2030 plan also includes technological innovations aimed at enhancing safety, connectivity, and environmental sustainability.

The Nissan Ariya, a new all-electric SUV, was officially launched on February 28, 2023. The Ariya represents Nissan's latest effort in pioneering electric mobility, offering a sleek design combined with Advanced Intelligent Mobility features. It is built on the new dedicated EV platform, offering robust performance, high-tech cabin experience, and a range suitable for urban and long-distance driving. The Ariya is part of Nissan's expanding electric vehicle lineup aimed at capturing a larger share of the growing EV market segment.