Nissan’s Nismo To Expand Global Presence Whilst Doubling Its Lineup

Nissan is currently in a challenging state. As the Japanese automaker navigates cost reductions while still remaining relevant in the global automotive market, what Nissan needs right now are models that will capture the hearts and emotions of car enthusiasts. Thankfully, Nissan is aiming to do just that as the Nismo sub-brand (operating as Nissan Motorsports & Customization Company Limited or NMC) will now go global.

As part of the Re:Nissan product strategy, ‘heartbeat models’ are key to sparking emotion and defining Nissan’s brand DNA. That’s where the expansion of Nismo comes in. Under the motto “Road to track, track to road,” Nissan will leverage technologies and engineering learnings from the various racing programs the company participates in, such as Japan’s Super GT and Formula E. Insights and innovations are pulled from the track and leveraged in the upcoming Nismo car lineup. Additionally, Nissan will continue to challenge itself in endurance racing like the Super Taikyu, as well as expand into new types of racing.

Now, for the exciting part. Nissan is promising that it will double the number of Nismo models from today’s five to ten in the near future. Today, the global Nismo range includes the X-Trail e-Power Nismo (Japan-only), the Note Aura Nismo (Japan only), the Ariya Nismo (Japan and Europe), the Z Nismo (Japan, North America, Philippines), and the Patrol Nismo (North America, Middle East, Philippines).

Furthermore, these Nismo models will be sold globally, as the company hopes to increase annual shipment volumes from approximately 100,000 units to 150,000 units by 2028. By going global, it also hopes that sales outside Japan will rise from approximately 40% to 60%.

Beginning from fiscal year 2026, Nissan will introduce prototype vehicles for racing activities to accelerate technological advancements in both hardware and software development for racing purposes and car lineup expansion.

Finally, for fans and owners of Nissan’s past icons, the Japanese automaker has announced that it will expand its restoration, restomod, and parts sales business. The parts and restoration business will initially focus on the Skyline GT‑R R32, R33, and R34, with more vehicles and regional offerings to follow.

Yutaka Sanada, President and CEO of NMC, stated, “Nismo continues to elevate the excitement and innovation of Nissan vehicles. Moving forward, we aim to infuse our passion and driven excitement into Nissan’s other product lines.”