Now the second generation Nissan Qashqai (index J11) is being assembled in Russia, side by side with the older X‑Trail model. Along with local registration, Qashqai received changes to our operating conditions.
For comparison, we took a ride on our Qashqai and in English, and then drove them onto the lift - and bombarded Philip Dyakov, senior engineer of the technical division of the Russian branch of Nissan, with questions. Philip did not tell any mysterious stories in the style of “Carlos Ghosn himself appeared to me in a dream and broadcast that it was necessary to increase the capacity of the washer reservoir”, but now we know how the process of “Russification” of cars goes in general.
The decision on improvements is made at the very top, taking into account the costs of implementing ideas. Usually the list of changes is quite wide, and our operating conditions dictate it. When there is dirt, snow and bad roads all around, no one will refuse all-wheel drive and high ground clearance. And Russian customers are more sensitive to the quality of plastic, the width of the gaps, to squeaks - they want maximum comfort.
Philip has been doing this business for the second decade. The head office of the technical center is located in Europe, Dyakov heads the Russian branch of nine people. All of them have a higher automotive education, with experience in Nissan, and many started by turning nuts with their own hands. Of course, employees undergo practice and training in the European center. Their competence is the assessment of driving and consumer qualities, on the basis of which the engineering department issues recommendations about design changes. But the work of collecting information is much larger.
One to one?
The list of changes begins to form when the model is run. As part of the Auto launch survey procedure, already held and potential buyers share their opinions about the car, marketing surveys are conducted, dealership acceptance masters collect comments. All data is systematized by marketers, and we get the final information. As a rule, as a result, driving performance changes noticeably: if the American models are smooth, but they steer poorly, and the “Europeans” have a pinched suspension, then we have to compromise.
Philip assures that it was the same with Qashqai. Even the cars delivered to us from England were already different from those sold in Europe, and when put on the St. Petersburg conveyor, the Qashqai changed even more.
This is a happy exception to the rule. More often, the opportunity to correct the accumulated comments is tied to subsequent restyling, which must be waited for three to four years, and then there was a chance to improve the car literally a year after the start of sales. On the Qashqai of the Russian assembly, we used the front and rear subframes from X-Trail - they are attached through silent blocks and will not fit on an English car, since the embedded elements are located differently. I don't know why the Europeans didn't do it right away. Thanks to this solution, we slightly reduced the level of vibrations. The subframe pulled the levers and axle shafts behind it - as a result, the track grew by 20 mm in front and 30 mm in the rear. Because of this, it was necessary to change the lining on the arches so that they covered the wheels - it is the lining that is a sure sign of a Russian-made Qashqai.
Even in the course of improvements, the clearance was increased by 10 mm (up to 200 mm). Philip grumbles that everything was fine before - Qashqai climbed any curb without problems, which is why the lip of the front bumper remained unchanged. But since the opportunity arose to trump with increased ground clearance, they took advantage of it.
All versions of the Russian Qashqai have a unified fuel tank, its capacity is 60 liters (for the "British" the volume depends on the modification).
Improved sound insulation of the engine shield. The rear suspension on all Russian cars is multi-link - semi-dependent on weak crossovers was abandoned so as not to lose comfort and controllability. As for the conditionally greater reliability of the beam and the ease of its maintenance, Nissan offers not to worry about the multi-link: it, like the entire car, is covered by a three-year warranty.
Shock absorbers supplied by Tenneco - with more comfortable settings. The power steering has also been recalibrated. Having wound several hundred kilometers on the British and Russian versions, I confirm: the differences are noticeable! And I prefer "European". It repeats the asphalt relief a little more, but it is perceived as more collected during active driving and reacts more accurately to the steering wheel. But I am ready to admit that comfort is more important for most drivers. And the St. Petersburg Qashqai is softer on broken roads - even despite the wheels with 215/45 R19 tires against 215/60 R17 tires on an English car. And it’s a pity that we didn’t manage to personally evaluate the properties of Pirelli Scorpion Verde summer tires, which our Qashqais are equipped with. According to Philip, they appeared in the process of localization and proved to be excellent in terms of grip and driving comfort.
Nissan is a brand of cars produced by the Japanese company of the same name, headquartered in Yokohama. Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. is one of the three largest Japanese automakers along with Toyota and Honda. It is engaged in the manufacture of cars, commercial and trucks, auto components, as well as communication satellites, sports boats, etc.
Nissan was founded in 1925 by the merger of Kwaishinsha Co., which made Dat cars, and Jitsuo Jidosha Co. The first name was Dat Jidosha Seizo Co. The official date of birth of the automaker is December 26, 1933, when Jidosha Seizo Co., Ltd. was formed. with President Yoshisuke Aikawa. On June 1, 1934, the company was renamed Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
Soon she built the first car factory in Yokohama. Its design capacity was 15 thousand units per year. However, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. there was no experience, no personnel, no technology for the manufacture of their own cars. The Americans had the most advanced experience at that time, and Yoshisuke Aikawa began to look for a partner to create a joint venture.
The choice fell on the concern General Motors, but when the deal was almost concluded, the Japanese government imposed a ban on it. Luckily, William R. Gorham, the American who became chief designer of Dat and later Nissan, appeared. He went to the United States and bought auto production equipment from the bankrupt Graham-Paige. In addition, Gorham offered jobs to the automaker's most promising employees, killing two birds with one stone.
When the American auto company's equipment and highly trained specialists arrived in Yokohama, Nissan focused on the development and production of its own cars. For a long time, the company assembled its models under the Datsun brand. Only in the name of some of them did the prefix Nissan appear, and very rare copies were sold only under this name.
In 1934, the Nissanocar was released, which was called the "most economical and reliable" small car. It was equipped with a 748 cc engine. cm and a power of 8.8 kW. The car accelerated to 75 km / h and was a good example of a combination of power and original design.
Nissan car (1934)
Since 1935, Nissan has been intensively improving the technology of manufacturing cars. One of the innovations introduced in 1935 was the transition to special presses for processing metal sheets and the rejection of manual labor for this operation. In addition, the company is starting to use only Japanese-made components.
After such a serious technological transformation, it is time to start promoting the brand. To do this, in May 1935, a new marketing policy of the company was developed, which, among other things, provides for the introduction of corporate symbols.
The emblem of the corporation was a combination of a red circle, symbolizing the rising sun, and a blue stripe, which denoted the sky. The slogan was the phrase: "Sincerity brings success." At this time, the company is working on expanding the geography of sales, in particular, sales of its models begin in Australia.
Nissan's first own car was the Type 70, based on designs from Graham-Paige cars. Standard and luxury sedans rolled off the assembly line, selling for 4,000 yen and 4,500 yen, respectively. The car received an attractive design and a spacious interior with large seats. At the rear of the model, seats for three more passengers could be placed, making the car a seven-seater. The body was made entirely of steel and safety glass was used for the windshield.
Under the hood was a 3670 cc inline six-cylinder engine. see water-cooled. He developed 85 hp. at 3400 rpm and aggregated with a three-speed transmission.
Nissan Type 70 (1937)
At this time, Type 90 buses and Type 80 vans also come out. The latter was produced on the basis of the Graham Paige truck. It was distinguished by a well-thought-out streamlined body structure, which provided the driver with excellent visibility. In addition, it was characterized by high ride comfort, a small turning radius, and a large carrying capacity. It was equipped with an in-line six-cylinder engine with a maximum power of 85 hp, which was paired with a four-speed gearbox.
With the outbreak of hostilities, the production of civilian vehicles was completely stopped. In 1940, Nissan becomes a major zaibatsu which included Tobata Casting and Hitachi. It included 74 firms. It was the fourth largest unification of Japan during the war years.
During the Second World War, the brand focused on the production of military equipment. In addition, it produced engines for military aircraft and motor boats.
In 1943, the construction of the Yoshiwara plant was completed, which, due to hostilities, did not work for too long. In September 1944, the company moved its head office to Tokyo and took a different name - Nissan Heavy Industries Ltd., which lasted until 1949.
In 1945, the company resumed the production of trucks, but the post-war recovery was slow. Despite the fact that the Yokohama plant was not damaged by the bombing, most of the capacity was under the control of the occupying authorities for 10 years. Moreover, many car dealers have moved to Toyota Motor.
Despite the difficulties, the company headed for the restoration of pre-war positions. In 1947, the production of cars under the Datsun brand was resumed.
In the 1950s, Nissan was looking for ways to gain access to advanced vehicle and engine technology. As a partner, the company has chosen Austin from the UK. They entered into an agreement under which Nissan assembled about 2,000 Austin models from imported units, some of which were sold in Japan under the British brand.
Nissan produced and sold cars under the Austin brand for seven years. From 1953 to 1959, 20,855 cars were produced. The agreement also gave Nissan the rights to use the British marque's patents. The Japanese successfully applied the extracted technologies in the production of their own engines.
In 1950, Nissan buys shares in Minsei Diesel Motor Co. Ltd., which will enter the corporation as a division of Nissan Diesel Motor Co., Ltd.
In 1951, using the experience of manufacturing military vehicles, the brand produces the Patrol all-wheel drive SUV. It was equipped with a powerful six-cylinder engine, a reinforced frame and solid axles. This principle of building a model is used to this day.
The 3.7-liter engine produced 75 hp, and the torque was transmitted to all four wheels through a four-speed manual gearbox. Later, the engine range was replenished with a 92-horsepower power unit, and then a 4-liter engine with 105 hp.
In 1960, the second generation Nissan Patrol was released, which was so successful that it was produced for 20 years without any major modifications. Cars of the third generation, which appeared in 1980, were used by the UN mission.
Nissan Patrol (1951)
In 1953, as a result of disagreements between management and workers at Nissan factories, the largest 100-day strike began. Negotiations with then-union leaders stalled, several hundred workers were laid off, and union leaders were arrested by the US occupation authorities.
After that, a new union was formed in the company, which agreed to a reduction in wages in exchange for the preservation of 2,000 jobs. Nissan Motor develops corporate principles for employees, which is still followed.
In 1958, the company began exporting passenger cars to the United States. In 1960, the first official branch in the North American market, Nissan Motor Corporation USA, opens in California. In 1962, deliveries of cars to European countries begin.
In 1960, the Nissan Cedric was released, which at that time was the largest Japanese car. The model was distinguished by high comfort and a spacious interior. The car was presented in several trim levels, offered with a cabin for six and eight people, and also received a line of engines with power from 70 to 87 hp. In addition, the model was equipped with diesel engines.
The six-seater Cedric was the first Nissan car to use a monocoque body. The second generation of the model, which was produced from 1965 to 1971, used a body designed by the Pininfarina design studio.
Nissan Cedric (1960-2004)
In 1961, Nissan becomes the leading car exporter in the United States and forms Nissan Mexicana, S.A. de C.V.
In 1966, Nissan Motor took over the Prince motor company. This merger has brought only benefits to the already successful automaker: the company's staff has been replenished with highly qualified specialists, the quality of cars has increased significantly, and advanced models - Skyline and Gloria - are being released.
In 1965, the luxurious Nissan President limousine appears, which is intended mainly for senior corporate executives and government employees. Initially sold only in the Japanese market, it then made its way to Singapore and Hong Kong in limited numbers. Later, a North American version of the car appeared.
Released in 1973, Nissan President with body number 000002 was made specifically for Brezhnev. Car number 000001 was delivered to the Prime Minister of Japan as a service car.
The first generation of the model replaced the premium Cedric Special. It was an expensive car, not only to buy, but to maintain. It was distinguished by its large size and powerful volumetric engine (from 3.0 to 4.4 liters). Since 1971, an anti-lock braking system has been offered as an option for the Nissan President.
Nissan President (1965-2010)
In 1969, the legendary 240Z was released for the North American market. It was equipped with a 2.4-liter engine with a cast-iron block, an aluminum alloy head, two valves per cylinder and seven crankshaft bearings. Its power was 151 hp. at 5600 rpm, and the torque was at the level of 198 Nm at 4400 rpm. Initially, the engine was aggregated with a four- or five-speed manual transmission, and from September 1970 a three-speed automatic transmission appeared.
The 240Z received MacPherson strut front suspension, telescopic shock absorbers, anti-roll bar. The maximum speed was 201 km / h. Compared to its main competitor - Porsche - 240Z was half the price, not inferior in dynamics. In the 70s, it was recognized as the best-selling sports car in the world: in less than 10 years, 500,000 cars of the model were sold.
In 1983, the company decided to drop the Datsun brand. The fact is that outside of Japan, the Nissan brand was practically unknown - Datsun was the first violin. This forced the corporation's management to reconsider the marketing strategy. Gradually, the Datsun brand was phased out in all markets.
In 1990, the Nissan Primera appeared - a family of cars with a sedan, station wagon and liftback body. The model was intended mainly for the European market and was assembled in the UK.
Nissan Primera (1990-2007)
In the mid-1990s, the company experienced financial difficulties. This led to the fact that in 1999 its controlling stake was bought out by the French automaker Renault. The new leader, Carlos Ghosn, successfully implemented the Nissan recovery program, which made him very popular in Japan.
In 1995, the production of the Almera model begins, a joint venture is formed in Indonesia. In 1997, a CVT was installed on the Primera and Bluebird to improve fuel economy. In addition, the company's first development in the field of hybrid technologies appears - HEV (hybrid electric vehicle).
Since December 2006, the Nissan Qashqai, the most popular brand car in Russia, has been produced. This model was the first designed by Nissan Design Studio in London. A year after the release, sales of the model in Europe reached 100,000 units, with 15,376 sold in Russia.
In 2014, the second generation of the car was released, which is produced at the Nissan plant in St. Petersburg.
Nissan Qashqai (2006)
In 2004, Nissan Motor RUS LLC was opened in Moscow, which is wholly owned by the Japanese brand. Already in 2006, car sales reached 75,000 units, and Nissan became the fourth best-selling automaker in the Russian market.
In the spring of 2007, in the Kamenka industrial zone near St. Petersburg, construction began on a Nissan full-cycle plant with a capacity of 50,000 vehicles per year. The volume of investments in the construction of the enterprise amounted to 200 million dollars. The plant opened on June 2, 2009. By 2012, the company launched the production of such models as X-Trail, Teana and Murano.
In 2012, AvtoVAZ started assembling the Almera model.
In 2010, the company's electric car, the Nissan Leaf, appeared in the body of a compact five-door hatchback, which in 2014 was already sold in 35 countries around the world. It is the best-selling electric car with 158,000 model units sold as of December 2014.
The Nissan Leaf has won numerous awards including European Car of the Year (2011), World Car of the Year (2011) and Japanese Car of the Year (2011, 2012).
When developing the car, the designers paid attention not only to the environmentally friendly transmission, but also to other elements that reduce energy consumption to a minimum. So, the car is equipped with LED headlights, which consume less energy than halogen lamps. The model's aerodynamics are also well thought out, with a drag coefficient of 0.29, which has been reduced to 0.28 for the 2013 model year.
Now Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. is one of the largest car manufacturers in the world. In 2013, over 5 million vehicles were sold worldwide. It has several factories in Japan, as well as manufacturing plants in China, India, Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand, Mexico, Spain, UK.
Nissan's history begins with the opening of the Kwaishinsha Co. automobile factory, established in 1911 by the pioneer of the Japanese automobile industry, Mr. Masujiro Hashimoto, in the Azabu-Hiroo district of Tokyo. In 1914, a small, box-like passenger car of his own design was released, which debuted on the market a year later under the name Dat Car. Its maximum speed was 32 km/h. The name Dat is an abbreviation of the first letters of the names of Mr. Hashimoto's three main patrons: Kenjiro Den, Rokuro Aoyama, and Meitaro Takeuchi. In addition, the name Dat in Japanese means "lively, agile."
Jitsuyo Jidosha Co. Ltd., another forerunner of Nissan, was founded in Osaka in 1919 and made a Gorham-style three-wheeler designed by American engineer William R. Gorham. The company was engaged in the import of machine tools, components and materials from the United States, and thus was recognized as one of the most modern automobile factories.
In 1926, the Kwaishinsha Co. merged. and Jitsuyo Jidosha Co. and Dat Jidosha Seizo Co. was formed, which in 1931 became a division of Tobata Casting, previously established by Mr. Aikawa.
But the official date of establishment of Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. is December 26, 1933, when the predecessor company Jidosha Seizo Co., Ltd. was formed. with an authorized capital of 10,000,000 ?. Mr. Yoshisuke Aikawa was appointed President of the company. A division of Tobata Casting Co., Ltd. transferred to Jidosha Seizo Co., Ltd. production of the first Datsun cars. And in 1934, the construction of the first Nissan Yokohama Plant was completed.
On June 1, 1934, the name of the company was changed to Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. The export of the first Datsun cars to Asia, Central and South America began in the amount of 44 cars. The president of the company, Mr. Yoshisuke Aikawa, turned out to be a brilliant leader. He had great hopes for the development of Japanese industry at the expense of the automobile industry, made huge plans to increase production to 10,000-15,000 cars a year, and practically achieved such results.
The first Datsun passenger car rolled off the Yokohama factory in April 1935. At that time, Nissan switched to using only Japanese-made components and installed presses to produce body panels, thus putting an end to the manual processing of metal sheets. These changes overnight allowed Nissan and the Japanese automotive industry to take a step forward.
In May 1935, emphasis was placed on the development of the Nissan brand, which had a huge impact on the company's marketing policy. The first corporate symbols were adopted: a red circle symbolized the rising sun, blue color - the sky. The slogan of that time was "Sincerity brings success."
In 1935, the export of cars to Australia began. In those days, Datsun cars symbolized Japan's rapidly growing advantage in modern industrialization, and, as proof, the slogan appeared: "The rising sun is the flag, Datsun is the car of choice."
In 1939, after successful sales in the Dat car market, Nissan began building the Nissan Type 70 large cars, Nissan Type 90 buses, and Nissan Type 80 vans.
In 1943, the construction of the Yoshiwara Plant was completed and automobile production began. At the end of 1943, in the midst of the Second World War, the production of cars and trucks was completely stopped. In September 1944, the head office of Nissan Motor Co. moved to Tokyo, Nihonbashi area, and the company name changed to Nissan Heavy Industries, Ltd.
In 1945, Nissan resumed the production of trucks, and in early 1946, the head office returned to Yokohama (Jokohama). Research and development of textile machinery began. In 1947, the production of Datsun cars was re-launched.
Recovering its position after the forced stagnation of the Second World War, in 1950 Nissan acquired shares in Minsei Diesel Motor Co., Ltd. and signed a technical cooperation agreement with Austin Motor Co., Ltd. two years later. (Great Britain), releasing the first Austin off the assembly line a year later.
In 1951, Nissan celebrated the birth of the Patrol, the first all-wheel drive SUV with a 6-cylinder engine.
In 1953, the Nissan Motors Workers' Union was created, a new trade union organization. This Union set as its goal the creation of modern relationships between workers and managers, based on the principle of mutual trust and respect.
In 1958 Nissan Motor Co. began exporting passenger cars to the United States. In September of the same year, two Datsun 210s took part in the Australian Mobil Gas Trial Rally, one of the most difficult rallies in the world, and won the championship title in their class.
Nissan was the first automobile manufacturer in Japan to receive the 10th "Award of the Year" in 1960 for excellence in industrial engineering. And throughout this period, Nissan has persistently built a strong organization as the foundation for rapid and successful growth in the future.
Recognized by buyers in Japan, the Datsun brand has become synonymous with high quality small cars. The motorization process continued its victorious march in the Japanese market, and in August 1958, Nissan rolled off the assembly line a high-end car Datsun Bluebird, created for personal use. At that time, domestic cars were considered less practical than imported ones, as they required more effort from the driver when braking. One notable feature of the Bluebird was the introduction of power-assisted front brakes for the first time by Japanese manufacturers, which allowed even fragile women to brake with a light pedal stroke. The first generation Bluebird embodied the features of a reliable, attractive and durable car.
In 1960, a new large car model, the Nissan Cedric, was developed. The name of the car was coined in honor of the protagonist of the famous story Little Lord Fauntleroy, which is read all over the world.
The 1959 Bluebird and 1960 Cedric captured the hearts of Japanese buyers and accelerated the motorization process in Japan.
From the very beginning, Nissan built production overseas, in 1959 taking the initiative to set up an assembly plant based on Yulon Motor Co., Ltd. in Taiwan; in 1961 she organized Nissan Mexicana, S.A. de C.V. and Nissan Motor Manufacturing Co. in Australia.
In anticipation of the liberalization of Japan's capital investment laws, Nissan built two factories from scratch: the Oppama Plant in 1962 and the Zama Plant in 1965. A year later, Nissan acquired Prince Motor Co., Ltd., as a result of which the Nissan lineup was replenished with new Skyline and Gloria models, and a single highly qualified team of engineers was created, continuing the glorious tradition of Nakajima and Tachiki aviation companies, which previously produced high-end aircraft engines.
Heralding the advent of the era of high-speed cars, the Gloria was equipped with one of the most powerful engines of its time. The car also provided excellent ride comfort. In May 1964, during the ll Grand Prix Rally in Japan, two Gloria Super-6s took the lead from the very beginning of the race and finished first by a huge margin, winning the championship title.
The Cedric is a mid-size car, the result of a huge effort by the company. It represented the embodiment of the latest Japanese technology of the time. At the time, Japan's largest mid-size car, the model featured a spacious interior and comfortable handling that was typical of large sedans. The sumptuous body of the Cedric was adorned with twin headlights, and with impressive dynamic performance, fuel consumption was as low as that of a small car. The Cedric was exceptionally durable and equipped with state of the art equipment. At the 1964 Olympic Games in Tokyo, the Nissan Cedric was chosen as the vehicle that carried the Olympic Flame from Greece to Japan.
In September 1963, the start of production of the second generation Skyline was announced, and in November 1963 the car appeared on the Japanese market. This model has gained fame as a small, comfortable family car, simple and reliable to drive and maintain.
The car engine had a guarantee for 2 years of operation or 30 thousand kilometers. The chassis did not require lubrication for 30 thousand kilometers. The materials used for the manufacture of ball bearings repelled dirt and dust, which increased the durability of parts. For this, the car received the highest "Technical Award from the Society of Automobile Manufacturers".
Subsequently, in February 1965, the Skyline 2000GT-B was released. Despite the fact that the model was positioned as a sports car, the Skyline 2000GT-B became a mass car, providing high sales volumes. Standard equipment included three Italian-made Weber-type carburetors with the best performance in the world. Even the most experienced drivers could not fail to appreciate the excellent performance of the car. The popular model Skyline S54B won the Rally in Japan and won all the tours without exception, beating all the most famous foreign sports car analogues.
Introduced in 1966, the Sunny ushered in the era of "own car" in Japan, which was a huge driving force against the background of the rapid growth of the small car market.
In 1966, a steady increase in the number of people with enough rest time to enjoy driving a private car began to be traced. Although the Nissan Bluebird remained a popular family car, the price was out of reach for younger employees. In response to this situation, Nissan developed and launched the Datsun Sunny 1000 with the goal of providing customers with high quality at an affordable price. Being a compact class car (a completely new category at the time), the Sunny became the most popular in Japan's general motorization process. The name of the car absolutely suited its image, which was defined as "full of sunshine", "bright, lively and young".
In 1966, the Nissan Prince R380 took 3rd place in the Japanese Grand Prix rally, competing with the legendary Porsche 906. And in the same year, the Nissan Bluebird won its class in the XIV Safari Rally. For the first time, a Japanese car won.
In 1967, the first Prince Royal limousine with a 6373 cm3 V8 engine was developed for the Japanese imperial family; the car was 6.155 mm long, 2.100 mm wide and 1.770 mm high.
In January 1968, the company's headquarters moved to a new building in the Ginza district of Tokyo. In the same year, the new Fairlady 2000 was launched on the market, which helped Nissan gain immense popularity in the international market.
In 1969, the dynamic rear-wheel drive car Datsun 240Z with independent suspension, front disc brakes and a 6-cylinder engine appeared on the market, recognized as the best-selling sports car in the world in the 70s. 500,000 Datsun 240Zs were sold in less than 10 years.
Sales increased year after year and by 1969 total exports had reached 1,000,000 vehicles. In early 1970, Lambda 4S-5 successfully launched Japan's first OSHIMI satellite. In those years, Nissan was involved in the development and production of rocket engines and launchers. In the same year, the company began to expand its production area, also engaging in the production of engines for the shipbuilding industry.
In 1970, Nissan won the Safari Rally thanks to the superb performance of the Bluebird, and in 1971, the Datsun Fairlady 240Z won.
The increase in the number of cars on the roads has led to an increase in the number of accidents and environmental pollution. In 1971, Nissan developed the first Experimental Safety Vehicle (ESV), using more technology than ever to improve its safety. To prevent further air pollution, Japan has brought exhaust emissions into line with the US-mandated Muskie Bill (“Air Purification Act”). Although in reality these standards were almost impossible to meet, they nevertheless made it possible to successfully implement a 3-stage catalytic reduction system for exhaust gases - the most advanced technology of that time. Thus, significant steps have been taken towards improvement in the production of automotive electronics and component materials.
The two energy crises of the 1970s set off a boom in exports of small Japanese cars known for their excellent fuel economy and superior quality. In a 1973 EPA fuel economy test, the Sunny won, gaining huge popularity in the US during the "Datsun saves" ad campaign.
At the time, American manufacturers were not at the forefront of small car creation, and their low sales led to plant closures and mass layoffs. As a result, social divisions arose, which caused an increase in protectionist sentiments and requests for quotas on the import of Japanese cars. For Japanese companies, this entailed opening factories in the United States.
In March 1971, the construction of the Tochigi Plant was completed.
By 1972, the cumulative Japanese production in the history of Nissan exceeded 10 million cars, and three years later sales in Japan reached 10 million cars.
Over the years, Nissan has maintained a high reputation as a manufacturer of high-quality vehicles and a pioneer in the creation of various kinds of avant-garde technologies. In order to improve fuel economy, Nissan has created various materials to reduce vehicle weight, such as highly elastic sheet steel for body panels, and has developed advanced engine management systems to control the combustion process. In addition, Nissan has also been a pioneer in the development and use of CAD/CAM systems (computer assisted vehicle design systems and industrial robots).
In 1974, 10,000 Nissan Patrol SUVs were announced for the year.
In 1977, the cumulative production since the founding of Nissan had already exceeded 20 million units.
Attaching great importance to the domestic market, Nissan opened the Kyushu Plant in 1977, and another Iwaki Plant in 1992, introducing the most advanced automatic technology. Later Iwaki Plant began production of new V6 engines. In 1987 Nissan launched the Be-1 and in 1988 the Cima, thus creating new segments of the automotive market.
In 1981, Nissan began promoting its vehicles worldwide under the Nissan brand as part of the company's new corporate strategy. In November 1981, the Nissan Technical Center was opened.
Then in the 80s. Nissan has established two strategic manufacturing bases overseas: in 1980, Nissan Motor Manufacturing Corp., U.S.A. in the USA and in 1984 - Nissan Motor Manufacturing (UK) Limited in the UK. The first Datsun pickup truck rolled off the assembly line at Nissan Motor Manufacturing Corp., USA in June 1983, the first Sentra (Sunny) in March 1985.
In 1983 Nissan Motor Iberica, S.A. began production of the Patrol SUV (Safari), which in 1984 won the Paris-Dakar rally.
1985 was a significant year for Nissan for many reasons: it acquired a stake in Yulon Motor Co., Ltd. (Taiwan) and Nissan Foreign Business College was opened. In 1986, Nissan expanded the 4x4 range with the all-new Nissan Terrano, responding to the growing need for a family-friendly car and maintaining this market position to this day.
In 1988, the Nissan Silvia Q won the "Grand Prix for Best Design" and the following year it won the "88-89 Japanese Car" award. In the same year, the Cima sedan was released to the Japanese market.
In April 1989, Nissan Europe N.V. was established in Holland as a regional head office responsible for operations in Europe, as well as Nissan Distribution Service (Europe) B.V.
In the same year, a division of Nissan, the Infiniti Division of Nissan North America, was created in the United States, producing luxury cars that compete with Mercedes, BMW and Lexus. In November 1989, the famous Infiniti Q45 model appeared on the market.
In 1990, Nissan North America, Inc. was established in the United States as a regional head office to oversee North American operations. That same year, the 300ZX won the 1990 Imported Car of the Year award in the United States. In November 1990, Nissan acquired a stake in Siam Motors Co., Ltd., (Thailand).
In the same year, the Nissan R390 GT1 sports car took 5th place in the Le Mans Rally, the highest of any Japanese manufacturer participating in this serious competition.
Total production reached 50 million vehicles in January 1990.
In 1991, a new distribution company, Nissan Motor (GB), Ltd, was established in the UK.
In 1992, Nissan Motor Manufacturing Corporation, USA began production of the Altima (Bluebird), and Nissan Motor Manufacturing (UK) Ltd. began producing the Nissan Micra (March), designed by renowned Japanese designer Mr. Tokuichiro Hosaka, which immediately won the European Car of the Year 1993 award. March won the 1992-93 Japanese Car Award. and "New Car 1992-93." in Japan.
In 1993, Nissan Motor Iberica, S.A. launched a new all-wheel drive model on the market - Terrano II SUV for the European market.
In February 1994, the first H-II rocket was successfully launched, powered by Nissan's solid propellant rocket engine (SRB). By that time, Nissan's total vehicle production had exceeded 60 million.
In the same year, Nissan received the "Global Environmental Award" for its significant contribution to the system of protecting the environment and the environment.
In 1994, sales of the new generation Maxima QX were launched in Europe, and in 1995, the Almera.
In June 1995, Nissan defined the Worldwide Restructuring Policy, which included the promotion of local manufacturing bases and the expansion of parts imports from around the world.
Nissan has been working hard on environmental issues, which have recently come under increasing scrutiny. The company's efforts to protect the environment include the creation of purified power sources for cars and extensive activities to reuse natural resources. In 1997, Nissan developed a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) that runs on both gasoline and electricity.
Since 1997, Nissan has produced one model after another, equipped with direct injection gasoline engines and direct injection diesel engines (Presage in 1998). Nissan has also been actively expanding the use of the HYPER CVT continuously variable transmission, which provides greater fuel economy. In 1997, Nissan began selling Primera and Bluebird vehicles with Hyper CVT.
In 1998, the updated Primera was launched on the market and immediately, according to the European New Cars Assessment Program, it was recognized as the safest car in the event of an accident.
In the same year, the Nissan team became the only one that performed adequately in the difficult 24-hour Le Mans rally in 10 positions in all 4 cars. In 1998, a new Patrol GR appeared with a 2.8-liter 6-cylinder turbodiesel engine.
In 1999, at the Geneva Motor Show, a prototype of the new Almera Tino was presented, which in September 2002 went on sale in the European market.
Cumulative car exports reached 30 million in July 1999. On March 27, 1999, Nissan and France's Renault SA signed an agreement to form a worldwide alliance to achieve profitable growth for both companies. Carlos Ghosn (Mr. Carlos Ghosn) has been appointed Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Nissan.
In November 1999, Nissan introduced the Extroid CVT system on Cedric/Gloria sedans, the world's first CVT system on rear-wheel drive models equipped with large displacement engines, thereby reducing fuel consumption by 10% compared to automatic transmissions. Cedric/Gloria cars won the "Best Car 1999-2000" award. The Extroid CVT system received the 1999-2000 Technology Award. In the first quarter of 2000, Nissan launched the Tino Hybrid and the two-seater Hypermini.
In 1999, 7 major Japanese factories and a group in charge of product planning and research received the ISO 14001 certification document for the use of environmentally friendly systems.
On October 18, 1999, Nissan announced the Company Recovery Plan (NRP), a comprehensive reorganization plan designed to achieve continued, profitable global growth for the company. The goals and objectives of the Nissan Recovery Plan were met ahead of schedule, by the end of fiscal year 2000.
Thanks to the Nissan Renaissance Plan, strong steps have been taken to increase the attractiveness and competitiveness of products, while reducing costs and debt.
In addition, in 2000, Nissan began selling the ultra-small EV Hypermini and the ultra-low emission vehicle (SULEV) Sentra in California. In November 2000, the Bluebird Sylphy's 1.8L QG18DE engine won Technology of the Year.
In 2002, for the fourth time in 10 years, Nissan received the prestigious Red Dot award for high-end design from the German design center Nordrhein-Westfalen. This annual award was given to the new Nissan Primera in 1993, 1996 and 2002.
In 2002, the Nissan Altima won the North American Car of the Year award.
Since April 2002, the company has continued to move forward with the adoption of a new business plan "NISSAN 180", the goal of which was to achieve additional sales of 1 million vehicles worldwide within 3 years, achieve 8% operating income and zero automobile debt. .
In the same year, Nissan acquired a 13.5% stake in Renault and then increased its stake to 15%.
In 2002, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. and Dongfeng Motor Corporation signed a strategic partnership agreement in China. Each party will own a 50% stake in the new company, which will also produce Dongfeng buses, trucks and commercial vehicles in addition to Nissan's full lineup. Together in a joint venture, Dongfeng and Nissan intend to become the first Sino-Japanese company to produce a range of trucks, commercial and passenger vehicles. The new company was named Dongfeng Motor Co., Ltd.
At the end of 2002, Nissan Motor Co. announced the development of a seat belt that tightens already at the time of hard braking. It is designed to mitigate bruising in the event of a collision. This new restraint system detects the moment of a possible collision based on how hard the driver presses the brake pedal, and pre-tensiones the belt to protect the driver. If an accident is unavoidable, the seat belt limiter helps maximize the effectiveness of the car's other safety systems. This system will be used in a new luxury model, which will appear on the market in 2003-2004.
For over 10 years from 1992 to 2003, all European Nissan models were created at the Nissan Design Center in Munich, which moved to London in January 2003, the heart of the European design industry.
In March 2003, the new Nissan Micra was awarded the European Automotive Design Award 2003.
In 2002, Nissan produced 2,761,375 vehicles, up 10.5% from 2001. In the domestic market in Japan, the company produced 1,444,314 vehicles from the assembly line, up 13.5% compared to the previous year. Car production abroad increased by 7.5% and amounted to 1,317,061 units.
Today, Nissan Motor Co. is a great example of a fast-growing company that builds its success on the principles of strong positioning and strategies, which are expressed in the company's global mission: to produce unique and innovative vehicles and services that represent the highest value for customers, employees, dealers and suppliers.
At the end of April 2004, a new three-year Nissan Value-up business plan (Nissan: Increasing the Value) was made public, which came into force in April 2005.
The company's new three-year business plan aims to grow, achieve high profitability and return on investment. Under the new plan, by the end of fiscal year 2007, we aim to achieve sales of 4.2 million vehicles a year, maintain operating net income in line with the world's leading automakers, and maintain a return on investment of at least 20%.
The Nissan Value-up plan will expand the company's global footprint. Great hopes are also placed on the promotion of the Infiniti brand: it will be positioned as a global luxury brand of the “first order”. In support of the company's strategy of significant geographic expansion in the global market, 28 brand new Nissan and Infiniti models will be launched, destined for various countries.
For Russia, Nissan Qashqai 2017 is one of the most popular cars, it has established itself as a high quality, affordable price. A manufacturer who wants to conquer the market and make his machines more affordable always strives to organize production in the territory of the country that actively purchases the goods. Nissan is no exception. So, where are 2017 cars made?
History of the plant
Until 2008, Nissan was not produced in Russia, cars were brought from abroad, but in 2009, their own production, Nissan Manufacturing Rus, appeared. The plant is located near St. Petersburg.
Production is under the strict control of the Japanese concern: quality is monitored, new batches of machines are regularly tested.
However, on the territory of Russia, Qashqai with Russian assembly is not a monopolist. You can buy a car assembled elsewhere: such a variety is explained by the fact that the capacities of the St. Petersburg plant are not enough, demand exceeds supply. If you wish, you can find a car assembled in Japan, but its cost will be much higher, since you have to pay customs duties upon importation.
Countries where Nissan is produced
The question of where the Nissan Qashqai is assembled is of interest to many buyers, since it is believed that the quality of the car directly depends on this. However, it is worth noting that the models produced in Russia are in no way inferior in quality to Japanese ones.
Nissans produced in the Russian Federation make up only 35% of the total number of cars of this model sold in the Russian markets. Production is established in the following countries: Japan, England, Russia. In addition to the company plant, Qashqai is assembled at AvtoVAZ plants.
Two modifications are available for the Russian market, both have a gasoline engine, the volume of one is 1.6 liters, the second is 2.0 liters. You can choose a version with a familiar manual transmission or a modern CVT. The CVT model appeared in 2016.
Is there a difference in quality?
Made in three countries, does assembly differ in quality depending on where the production is located? The concern closely monitors subsidiaries and factories where assembly is carried out. The Japanese regularly test each batch, check for defects.
Nissan, whose image is well known all over the world, is demanding on quality, so you can buy any car. Russian ones will cost less, since they do not have to clear customs.
Where are Nissans assembled?
Nissan brand cars are one of the most popular among motorists in Russia. The famous Japanese quality and reasonable price had a significant impact on potential buyers. Next, consider where Nissans are actually assembled.
Where are Nissan cars assembled?
Russia occupies a leading position in sales of Nissan cars. The most favorite models of this brand are Nissan Almera, Juke, Note, Teana, Qashqai, X-Trail and many others. That is why, starting from 2009, a plant of the Nissan auto concern, which is located near St. Petersburg, began to operate in Russia. Approximately 35% of all Nissan cars that are sold in Russia are assembled there. The rest of the cars are assembled directly in Japan and the UK itself. Since 2012, after the merger of Nissan and Renault car concerns, part of Nissan models has been assembled at the AvtoVAZ plant in Togliatti.
Where is Nissan Almera assembled?
Model Nissan Almera is the most popular model of the Nissan brand in Russia. It has been produced since 1995. Since 2012, cars of this model have been assembled at the AvtoVAZ plant in Tolyatti, which certainly caused an uproar among potential buyers. The "younger brother" of this model Almera Classic, which was discontinued in 2013, was previously produced at the Samsung plant in South Korea.
Where is the Nissan Qashqai assembled?
This crossover is one of the best-selling in Russia. One of the reasons for this is the traditional European assembly. Nissan Qashqai for the European and Russian automotive markets is produced exclusively at a factory in the UK. However, in this regard, only a limited number of modifications of this crossover reach Russia, namely: only cars with gasoline engines.
Where is Nissan Terrano assembled?
Another Nissan brand crossover popular among Russian motorists comes off the assembly line in three different countries: Russia, India and Spain. At the same time, the bulk of cars goes to the domestic market of countries, although some are exported. In Russia, Nissan Terrano is assembled at the AvtoVAZ plant in Togliatti.
Where is the Nissan X-Trail assembled?
If until 2009, Russians could choose to purchase this family car in Japanese or Russian assembly, now this model for the Russian market is produced from the assembly line of a plant near St. Petersburg. This significantly reduced the rating of the car, but completely unreasonable. The X-Trail of the Russian assembly is no worse than its Japanese counterparts.
Where is Nissan Tiana assembled?
This model came to the Russian market in 2003 and immediately became a favorite among our motorists. For a long time, Tiana was assembled exclusively in Japan, but with the opening of a plant near St. Petersburg, its production for Russia was transferred there. However, for some other countries, Nissan Tiana cars are assembled at factories in Japan and even Thailand.
