Electric Cars

Nissan is poised to significantly broaden its Nismo performance division, with plans to expand its model range from the current five to ten vehicles in the upcoming years. This strategic initiative underscores a renewed focus on high-performance vehicles, aiming to elevate Nismo's annual sales figures from 100,000 to an ambitious 150,000 units by the close of 2028. This growth trajectory may even involve collaborations with external automotive partners to introduce new Nismo-branded models.

The announcement arrives as the Nissan GT-R R35 concludes its production run in 2025, leaving enthusiasts with the promise of an exciting future for Nissan's performance offerings. While the exact timeline for the next-generation GT-R remains undisclosed, the expansion of the Nismo portfolio offers a compelling vision for the brand's commitment to dynamic driving experiences. The current Nismo lineup is spearheaded by the Z model, complemented by regional variants such as the recently launched Patrol Nismo in the Middle East and the Armada Nismo in North America. Other notable Nismo additions include an electric Ariya Nismo, a Nismo version of the X-Trail (known as Rogue in some markets), and the Note Aura Nismo hot hatchback available in Japan.

This aggressive push for Nismo is a key component of Nissan's overarching "Re:Nissan" strategy, which not only involves stringent cost-cutting measures but also a substantial product launch offensive. Recent introductions under this plan include refreshed models like the Leaf, Sentra, and Elgrand. Interestingly, some new models, such as the Rogue Plug-In Hybrid (a rebadged Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV) and the 2026 Micra (a re-engineered Renault 5), highlight Nissan's strategy of leveraging existing platforms and partnerships. Similarly, the new Navara mid-size pickup truck shares its underpinnings with the Mitsubishi Triton, and two new sedans, the N6 and Teana, have just been unveiled for the Chinese market.

The identities of the five forthcoming Nismo models are currently under wraps. However, industry speculation suggests the Sentra could be an ideal candidate for a performance makeover. A strong contender for a Nismo variant is also the new Skyline sports sedan, which is anticipated to debut in 2027 with a rear-wheel-drive configuration and a manual transmission. The previous-generation Skyline in Japan already received a limited-edition Nismo treatment, making a performance version of the new model a logical progression.

Nissan's global design director, Alfonso Albaisa, indicated that the four-door Skyline will occupy a market position between the Z and the GT-R. Furthermore, Nissan has reaffirmed its intention to revive the Xterra, though a Nismo iteration remains speculative. The return of the iconic GT-R is also a clear goal, with CEO Ivan Espinosa stating the company's dedication to "reimagining the future generation of GT-R." Enthusiasts are hopeful that the next-generation R36 GT-R will be among the ten expanded Nismo offerings.

Looking ahead, Nissan plans to introduce Nismo-branded race car prototypes starting in fiscal year 2026, which commences next April. The insights and advancements garnered from these competitive vehicles will be instrumental in the development of future street-legal Nismo models, further reinforcing the brand's commitment to performance and innovation.

Volkswagen is preparing for an exceptionally busy period leading up to 2026, marked by a significant wave of product introductions. Martin Sander, the company's sales chief, revealed that the automotive giant is gearing up for "unprecedented launch activities" globally, encompassing both upgrades to existing models and brand-new additions to its extensive portfolio.

Volkswagen's Global Product Strategy Unveiled

In a recent discussion with Automotive News, Martin Sander reiterated Volkswagen's commitment to launching the ID. Polo, an electric supermini, with an attractive starting price of approximately €25,000. This will soon be followed by the production version of the ID. Cross concept, which reimagines the electric Polo as a stylish SUV. These two electric vehicles are designed to mirror the successful relationship between the current gasoline-powered Polo and T-Cross models.

Furthermore, Volkswagen is set to introduce updated versions of the ID.3 and ID.4. While Sander did not explicitly confirm whether these would be entirely new generations or refreshed models, industry reports suggest they will be significant updates. Kai Grünitz, Volkswagen's development boss, confirmed that both vehicles will feature a "completely new design language." Beyond aesthetics, these models are expected to boast improved interiors with higher-quality materials and a return to some physical controls. Grünitz highlighted substantial enhancements in battery cost efficiency and overall performance, promising a "huge improvement" for these electric vehicles. Notably, the ID.5 was not mentioned, fueling speculation about its potential discontinuation by 2027.

The expansion plans extend to China, where Volkswagen will launch an electric vehicle equipped with a range-extending gasoline engine next year. This model, previewed by the ID. Era concept, was developed in collaboration with SAIC. It is a full-size, three-row SUV designed to offer a combined range exceeding 1,000 kilometers (621 miles) and an electric-only range of up to 300 kilometers (186 miles). China will also see the introduction of two A-segment electric cars built on a locally developed platform, distinct from the ID. Every1, which is slated for a 2027 European release as an entry-level EV priced around €20,000.

The United States market is also a focus, with new hybrid models in the pipeline. However, Sander acknowledged that American consumers continue to show a strong preference for conventional internal combustion engine vehicles.

Volkswagen's overarching strategy clearly emphasizes electric vehicles, with the company firmly believing in an "electric future." Despite this, Volkswagen recognizes that achieving profitability parity between electric and combustion-engine vehicles will take time, a timeline Sander chose not to specify. The electric vehicle offensive will continue beyond 2026, culminating in the highly anticipated arrival of the ninth-generation Golf towards the end of the decade, which will be exclusively an electric model. The combustion-engine version of the Polo, however, will remain in production.

Volkswagen's bold electrification strategy for 2026 and beyond demonstrates a significant pivot towards sustainable mobility. This ambitious plan, encompassing new electric models, updated existing EVs, and regional-specific offerings, underscores the industry's dynamic evolution. The company's commitment to improving battery technology and interior design in its electric lineup is a positive sign for consumers, suggesting a focus on both performance and user experience. The strategic decision to retain combustion-engine models in certain markets also reflects a pragmatic approach to the transition, acknowledging diverse consumer preferences and market realities. As the automotive landscape continues to shift, Volkswagen's proactive stance could serve as a blueprint for balancing innovation with market demands.