Multiple media sources have reported that on the opening day of the Shanghai Auto Show on April 23, Stephen Ma, the head of Nissan China, made a significant announcement. By the end of 2026, Nissan will invest an additional 10 billion yuan in China, specifically dedicated to the research and development of electric vehicles. This move underscores Nissan's commitment to continuing its participation in the fiercely competitive Chinese market.

Last December 11, Nissan announced a reshuffle in its management team, with Stephen Ma, the current Chief Financial Officer (CFO), appointed as the Chairman of the Nissan China Management Committee, replacing Shohei Yamazaki. Effective from January 1, 2025, Ma will report directly to Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Makoto Uchida.

Notably, Stephen Ma also holds the position of President at Dongfeng Motor Co., Ltd.

During a media interview at the Shanghai Auto Show, Stephen Ma quoted a Chinese proverb, stating, "Where there is danger, there is opportunity." He emphasized that every crisis presents an opportunity, bringing unprecedented possibilities to the automotive industry. Despite some doors closing due to US tariffs, others have opened wide.

Ma further elaborated, "As the leader of the Chinese market, my objective is to harness my global management experience and profound understanding of the local market to create competitive products. These products will not only cater to the Chinese market but also enhance and diversify Nissan's global product portfolio. This is my mission here."

According to the outlined plan, by summer 2027, Nissan aims to introduce 10 new energy vehicles into the Chinese market. The Nissan brand will see its offerings expand from 5 to 9 models, with more models set to follow.

At this year's Shanghai Auto Show, Nissan debuted its first global plug-in hybrid pickup truck, the Frontier Pro PHEV, alongside the pure electric sedan N7. Stephen Ma highlighted that both models are global launches, premiering in China before being rolled out globally within a year, leveraging Nissan Motor's extensive dealer network.

Particularly noteworthy is the pure electric sedan N7, equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295P processor and an advanced intelligent driving system based on Momenta's end-to-end large model. The N7 is scheduled for an official launch on April 27.