Nissan Extends Production of Midsize Frontier Pickup, Potential for Future Electric Model
Nissan’s Midsize Frontier Pickup Sees Production Extension
As Nissan shifts its focus away from full-size pickups and towards midsize pickups, the production of the current-generation midsize Frontier at Nissan’s factory in Canton, Miss., has been extended two years beyond its previously expected redesign, now carrying into the 2029 model year. The previous Frontier underwent its first major redesign in 2021 after 17 years.
In a supplier memo obtained by Automotive News, Nissan did not provide a reason for the life cycle extension. However, one supplier briefed on the matter suggested that the changeover would have coincided with the start of electric vehicle (EV) production at the Canton factory, causing potential complications. Nissan wants to avoid a major model launch during the EV production ramp-up.
Potential for an Electric Frontier Pickup
There is speculation that the Frontier could reemerge around 2030 as an electric pickup. A battery-powered truck could help Nissan regain relevance in the EV segment, which it pioneered with the Leaf over a decade ago. Nissan has not commented on future product plans.
Delaying the Frontier’s redesign allows the market to mature and generate enough demand for an electric Frontier to be profitable. It also gives Nissan time to launch multiple EVs and invest in product electrification at the Canton factory. Nissan is investing $500 million in the plant to initially build four EVs.
Pricing and Technology Considerations
If an electric Frontier becomes a reality, Nissan aims to position it in the affordable price range of around $40,000. Pricing will be critical in the highly competitive midsize pickup segment, and Nissan wants to offer a high value proposition to retain visibility in the market.
Nissan plans to pilot production of solid-state batteries, which hold twice the energy of lithium-ion batteries, charge faster, and reduce costs, at its Yokohama Plant next year. These advanced batteries could potentially power the future electric Frontier.
Importance of an Electric Pickup for Nissan
An electric pickup will be crucial for Nissan’s sales ambitions and help the company meet stricter emissions standards. Trucks are making it challenging for automakers to meet corporate average fuel economy standards, and electrifying vehicles is a way to address this issue.
