Nissan is set to export electric vehicles from its Chinese manufacturing plants to overseas markets— including the Middle East—starting in 2026, with the mid‑size electric sedan Nissan N7 leading the charge, according to Car News China.
Nissan has announced it will begin exporting electric vehicles (EVs) produced in China to overseas markets starting in 2026, as part of its wider “Re: Nissan” transformation strategy.
The move aims to revitalise the Japanese carmaker’s global footprint and leverage cost-effective manufacturing capabilities in the world’s largest EV market.
The first model to be shipped abroad will be the Nissan N7, a mid-size electric sedan based on the eπ 007 developed by its Chinese partner Dongfeng. The N7 is expected to be marketed primarily in Southeast Asia and the Middle East, two regions identified by the brand as growth markets for new energy vehicles.
To facilitate the exports, Nissan will establish a new joint venture with Dongfeng Motor Group, with a registered capital of 1 billion yuan (approximately USD 140 million). The new company will be 60% owned by Nissan China Investment Co., and 40% by Dongfeng, and will manage the logistics, marketing, and localisation of the Chinese-built vehicles.
The initiative is seen as a strategic response to overcapacity in the Chinese market and growing price competition among local EV brands. By shifting production for export to China, Nissan aims to optimise its global supply chain and increase competitiveness, particularly as Chinese automakers ramp up exports of their own EVs.
However, the company faces challenges related to compliance with overseas software regulations. The N7, for example, uses an AI-driven intelligent system developed in China, which may face restrictions in international markets. To address this, Nissan has partnered with local software firm IAT Automobile Technology to adapt and localise the system for export regions.
The export plan forms part of Nissan’s broader effort to recover from sluggish global sales and reassert its position in the electric mobility space. The company has also indicated that additional EV models, plug-in hybrids, and possibly an electric pickup will be included in future exports from China.
By 2026, Nissan expects its Chinese manufacturing base to play a key role in supplying select international markets, helping the brand maintain cost efficiency while meeting growing global demand for electric mobility.
Key takeaways
| Point | Summary |
|---|---|
| When? | Exports begin in 2026. |
| Lead model | Nissan N7 electric sedan. |
| Export joint venture | Nissan-China Investment & Dongfeng, 60:40, 1 bn yuan. |
| Software compliance | Adapting Chinese AI via IAT partnership. |
| Nissan turnaround | Part of broader “Re:Nissan” revival plan. |
