At Auto China 2026, Nissan unveiled two new NEV SUV concept cars, in its accelerated product rollout. It also highlights China’s role as one of the company’s lead markets and a global innovation and export hub, according to Nissan.
Ivan Espinosa, President and CEO, says China is not only a highly competitive domestic market but also a source of innovation, enabling us to create new value and experiences for customers in China and in the global markets. “Advanced technology must serve a clear purpose and be experienced directly by customers through mobility that is safer, more intuitive, and more accessible.”
Nissan says the Urban SUV PHEV Concept is designed for young Chinese customers. Its design draws from philosophies of the NX8 and Nissan’s future SUV lineup, blending advanced electrification technology with urban daily driving performance.
The Terrano PHEV Concept marks the return of an iconic nameplate. Equipped with the latest plug-in hybrid technology, the Terrano builds on Nissan's off-road heritage while addressing the dual needs of outdoor adventure and urban commuting.
Production versions of both concept cars are scheduled to be unveiled within one year. Nissan also plans to introduce three additional NEV models in China within a year.
Nissan has unveiled its new vision, "Mobility Intelligence for Everyday Life". Within this vision, China plays two distinct and important roles as Nissan’s three lead markets, alongside Japan and the United States.
First, China serves as a strong domestic market, delivering clear and compelling value for Chinese customers. Second, it functions as a global innovation and export hub, leveraging China’s innovation and speed to develop competitive technologies and products globally.
Since 2025, Nissan has accelerated its NEV product offensive in China, including the N7, Frontier Pro PHEV, N6, and NX8. Combining Nissan’s global quality standards, China speed, and advanced local technologies, these models have earned strong recognition from Chinese consumers, the Japanese manufacturer claims.
Nissan says the N7 will be exported to Latin America and ASEAN, while the Frontier Pro is planned for export to Latin America, ASEAN, and the Middle East. The NX8 and the production model of the Terrano PHEV Concept are also intended for selected global markets. Nissan aims to achieve one million units in annual sales in China by fiscal year 2030, with exports as a key strategic role.
ZF Aftermarket has named Maic Dressen as Managing Director of ZF Services South Africa (Pty) Ltd and Sub-regional Head for Sub-Saharan Africa and the DomTom regions. He will lead the company’s South African operations and support its growth across the continent.
Volkswagen has marked 75 years of vehicle production and sales in South Africa with a gala event in Kariega attended by President Cyril Ramaphosa, while also revealing the new Volkswagen Tengo, the third model to be built at the local plant. The Tengo will be produced for the South African and wider markets.
BAIC South Africa used the Festival of Motoring 2026 at Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit to highlight both its established range and new energy vehicle ambitions. The event marked the first public appearance of ARCFOX in South Africa, alongside the unveiling of BAIC’s X55 Plug‑in Hybrid Electric Vehicle.
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I have bad reflexes. I was once run over by a car being pushed by two guys
Woody Allen
BAIC South Africa used the Festival of Motoring 2026 at Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit to highlight both its established range and new energy vehicle ambitions. The event marked the first public appearance of ARCFOX in South Africa, alongside the unveiling of BAIC’s X55 Plug‑in Hybrid Electric Vehicle.
When Volvo introduced the XC40 Recharge Pure Electric to South Africa in late 2021, the timing raised eyebrows. The country was enduring a severe power crisis, with loadshedding recorded on 200 days that year.
Three months after launching its off-grid, solar-powered electric vehicle (EV) charging network on the N3 corridor, Zero Carbon Charge (CHARGE) has confirmed plans to double charging capacity at both Charge hubs.
