Nissan and Mitsubishi are reportedly working on bringing electric and plug-in hybrid versions of the next-generation Nissan Frontier midsize pickup truck to the market. This collaboration between the two automakers could result in a new pickup truck with all-electric and plug-in hybrid powertrains to be manufactured in Mexico. In addition to this, Nissan is set to launch its first North American plug-in hybrid vehicle, utilizing a system engineered by Mitsubishi, and Mitsubishi will likely use Nissan’s EV technology for an upcoming electric model for the North American market.
### Collaborative Efforts in Electrification
Nissan and Mitsubishi have been corporate allies since 2016 and have already worked together on platforms for vehicles like the Nissan Rogue and the Mitsubishi Outlander. The two companies are now looking to enhance their collaboration in the field of electrified powertrains, indicating a shift towards a greener future in the automotive industry.
### Potential Pickup Truck Replacement
The new pickup truck being developed by Nissan and Mitsubishi is expected to replace the current-generation Nissan Frontier and may also result in Mitsubishi introducing its own version of the pickup for the U.S. market. Mitsubishi, which has not sold a pickup in the U.S. since the early 2000s, could benefit from this partnership by gaining access to Nissan’s expertise in electric and plug-in hybrid technologies.
### Alliance to 2030 Plan
Nissan, Mitsubishi, and Renault had released an “Alliance to 2030” plan over two years ago, aiming to capitalize on the EV platforms developed by the three automakers. This recent collaboration between Nissan and Mitsubishi aligns with their long-term strategy to leverage shared technologies and resources to drive innovation and sustainability in the industry.
### Electrification Trends in the U.S. Market
Nissan’s move towards introducing hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles in the U.S. market reflects the growing trend towards electrification among automakers. The decision to partner with Mitsubishi for these technologies indicates a strategic approach to offering a diverse range of electrified powertrains to cater to the evolving needs of consumers.
### Implications for the EV Market
The development of electric and plug-in hybrid versions of the next-generation Nissan Frontier could have significant implications for the EV market, particularly in the pickup truck segment. As more automakers join forces to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles, consumers can expect a wider selection of electric and plug-in hybrid options in the future.
In conclusion, the collaboration between Nissan and Mitsubishi to bring electric and plug-in hybrid versions of the next-generation Nissan Frontier to the market underscores the industry’s shift towards electrification. This partnership not only demonstrates a commitment to sustainable mobility but also reflects a strategic effort to leverage shared expertise and resources to drive innovation in the automotive sector. With the introduction of these electrified powertrains, Nissan and Mitsubishi are poised to offer a compelling lineup of vehicles that cater to the changing preferences of consumers in the U.S. market and beyond.