Nissan Motor will begin exporting electric vehicles manufactured in China to Southeast Asia, the Middle East and other international markets starting in 2026, according to reports from Nikkei. The move represents the struggling Japanese automaker’s latest attempt to leverage competitively-priced Chinese production capabilities while addressing persistent sales declines.
The company’s China operations have faced significant headwinds, with sales falling for six consecutive years and dropping 27% in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the previous year. Foreign automakers including Nissan have struggled as Chinese consumers increasingly favor domestic electric vehicle brands, contributing to a 17% decline in traditional gasoline vehicle sales across the market.
Central to the export strategy is the N7 electric sedan, which has attracted over 17,000 orders in its first month since launching in April. The midsize sedan, priced from ¥119,900 ($16,500), was developed through Nissan’s joint venture with Dongfeng and shares technology with Chinese domestic models.
The export plans come as China’s overall vehicle exports are expected to slow significantly in 2025, with electric vehicle shipments forecast for zero growth after years of rapid expansion. China exported 4.8 million vehicles in 2024, maintaining its position as the world’s largest auto exporter, but faces increasing tariff pressures from Europe and other markets.
