Nissan rolls out new electric crossover, aims to boost image
TOKYO (AP) — Nissan unveiled an electric crossover vehicle Wednesday, the Japanese automaker’s first major all-new model since getting embroiled in the scandal surrounding its former chairman, Carlos Ghosn.
At its global premiere in Yokohama, Japan, the new vehicle, “Ariya" was billed as “a new chapter for Nissan.” The event was held online because of the coronavirus pandemic.
“I can tell you this is a no-compromise car,” Nissan Chief Executive Makoto Uchida said, stressing the Ariya symbolizes the company turning a new leaf in its business, culture and products.
“You have to drive it to feel it,” said Uchida.
The Ariya is set to go on sale in Japan by the middle of next year, and in Europe, North America and China by the end of 2021.
It will cost about 5 million yen ($46,000) and will be competing against the Tesla Model Y, which now sells for between $43,690 and $53,690 in the U.S., including incentives and other cost-savings of $6,300. In the U.S., the Ariya will qualify for a $7,500 federal tax credit.
The Ariya comes with autonomous driving, so it will park itself and brake on imminent collisions, connect to the net and offer concierge-like services. It also boasts features associated with electric cars, such as quick acceleration and a roomy interior.
The crossover blends the muscle drive of a sport-utility vehicle with the comforts of a regular car and is one category that’s selling well even as the pandemic slams auto demand around the world.
Crossover vehicles have accounted for more than 40% of recent U.S. auto sales.
Koji Endo, an auto analyst at SBI Securities, said the big test still lies ahead, because buyers are looking for various features, such as driving performance, resale value and how easy the vehicle will be to recharge.
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