Nissan Accelerates AI Driving Technology Rollout in New Strategy
In Focus
- Nissan has revealed its “Mobility Intelligence for Everyday Life” vision
- The company plans to integrate AI driving technology in 90% of its vehicles
- Nissan will phase out under-performing vehicle models in a vehicle lineup reduction plan
Japanese automaker Nissan plans to roll out AI driving technology across 90% of its vehicle models. Introduction of Nissan’s AI-powered vehicle is part of the company’s effort to streamline its global lineup. The car maker will be phasing out under-performing models as part of broader recovery efforts following years of turmoil.
Nissan’s Vision for Mobility Intelligence
In a statement released on April 14, 2026, Nissan Motors announced its “Mobility Intelligence for Everyday Life” vision. The vision underpins the company’s long-term customer-focused strategy that revolves around integrating mobility intelligence into daily use.
The automaker has been testing Wayve’s AI-powered driving technology on its Ariya electric vehicles in Tokyo. Nissan’s mobility intelligence strategy emphasizes AI-Defined Vehicles (AIDV) and offers a range of electrification technologies tailored to varying customer and market needs.
“Our vision defines where Nissan is headed, with customer experience as our guiding priority. By advancing mobility intelligence, we will deliver products and technologies that are safer, more intuitive and more accessible with outstanding value and a more rewarding overall experience,” Nissan President and CEO, Ivan Espinosa noted.
As part of trimming its global car lineup, Nissan plans to reduce its vehicle models from 56 to 45. Nissan is introducing its AI driving technology in its vehicles about a year after the car maker signed a commercial deal with the U.K. startup, Wayve. At the time, Nissan said it would use Wayve’s self-driving technology to support its driver assistance system beginning in 2027.
Focus on Restructuring Production and Sales
CEO Espinosa has been turning the company around for the last one year after he outlined a restructuring plan. Nissan is set to report on the progress made in implementing this plan outlined next month as part of its full-year financial report.
The company will announce additional aspects of its strategic direction later this year. CEO Espinosa’s restructuring plan includes cutting Nissan’s manufacturing globally and reducing its workforce by 15%. Nissan currently trails Honda, Toyota, and Suzuki in sales volume. CEO Espinosa said the automaker needed to sharpen its vision as it works on its turnaround plan.
“This is how our portfolio strategy comes to life, anchored in profitability and built around a leaner, stronger lineup,” Espinosa added.
The company will be targeting sales of up to 1 million vehicles annually in China and U.S. markets by the year 2030. The company is also looking to increase sales in Japan to 550,000 units annually over the same period.
What Next for Nissan?
Nissan plans to increase U.S. production to 80% over time, from the current 60%. The company is also planning to revive its Infiniti luxury brand with new models. In Japan, the car maker will be launching a compact car series in 2028. The car maker also plans to integrate its self-driving technology in its Elgrand minivan, which is scheduled to launch in Japan next year.
In terms of growing sales, Nissan plans to make exports a strategic pillar in China, from where it will ship the N7 electric sedan to Latin America and ASEAN markets. China will also serve as a hub for shipping its Frontier Pro pickup to the Middle East and other regions.
