Zhengzhou Nissan to make 25% of Nissan LCVs

Shanghai, October 15 (Gasgoo.com) Zhengzhou Nissan, a Chinese venture and LCV (light commercial vehicle) manufacturing base of Japanese carmaker Nissan Motor, will produce 20% to 25% of Nissan LCVs, as part of Nissan's global strategy, reported 21st Century Business Herald, citing a Japanese vice president at Dongfeng Motor.

Different from other Nissan facilities worldwide, Zhengzhou Nissan is an auto manufacturer of two brands -- Nissan and Dongfeng. According to its mid-term plan, the joint venture based in central China's Henan province is scheduled to launch three new car models in 2009, including two Nissan-branded models and one Dongfeng-branded model.

Zhengzhou Nissan aims to sell 60,000 vehicles this year, 100,000 units in 2010 and expects its annual sales will increase to 200,000 units by 2012 when the venture will make about eight Nissan and Dongfeng LCV models on six platforms. The venture is considering selling Dongfeng cars via Nissan Motor's marketing network around the world.

In April 2007, Dongfeng Motor set up a Nissan-brand LCV division to promote the making and sales of the Nissan LVC in China. The second plant of Zhengzhou Nissan will start operation in 2010 and by then the venture's annual capacity will rise to 200,000 vehicles.

Dongfeng Motor and Nissan Motor are also planning to build an engine manufacturing base in Zhengzhou.