Nissan to Expand Nismo Line-up with Electrified Sports Cars

Introduction

Nissan is set to broaden its range of high-performance Nismo models available in the UK, including the reintroduction of sports cars and tuned versions of popular mainstream vehicles. The company plans to utilize electrification to offer these models in markets with strict emissions regulations.

Ariya Nismo Launch

Nissan recently announced that it will introduce the Ariya Nismo in Europe early next year. This electric SUV will serve as the performance flagship for the Nismo brand in the region. The Ariya Nismo will be the first Nismo model available in Europe since the GT-R Nismo was discontinued due to tightening emissions regulations.

Electrification Enables Sports Cars in the UK

The Z sports car has never been sold in the UK due to emissions regulations. However, Ivan Espinosa, Nissan’s global product strategy chief, confirmed that electrification will allow the company to bring such models to the UK. He stated, “The future interpretation of our really high-performance cars will likely be electrified, not only because of our brand direction but also because, geographically, regulations are pushing us in that direction.”

Expanding Nismo Line-up

Espinosa also hinted at the possibility of Nismo versions of key nameplates, stating that it would be a way to bring Nismo excitement to more customers. While he did not disclose which mainstream electric models would receive the Nismo treatment, he emphasized that any future Nismo models would prioritize performance.

Electrified GT-R

Nissan showcased the Hyper Force concept last year, hinting at an electrified future for the GT-R badge. Espinosa suggested that an electric GT-R would have an easier path to reach markets restricted by emissions regulations. He expressed Nissan’s desire to bring sports cars back to the UK, a market with many enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Nissan’s Nismo brand is set to expand its line-up with electrified sports cars and tuned versions of mainstream models. The introduction of the Ariya Nismo in Europe marks the brand’s return to the region, and Nissan plans to leverage electrification to overcome emissions regulations and offer sports cars in markets like the UK. The company aims to bring Nismo excitement to a wider customer base and is committed to prioritizing performance in future Nismo models.