Mitsubishi and Nissan Announce Electric Vehicle Model Swap
Mitsubishi and Nissan are leveraging their Alliance partnership to exchange key electric vehicle models in the US market. Mitsubishi will sell the third-generation Nissan Leaf electric car, while Nissan will gain access to Mitsubishi’s Outlander plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV).
This model trade is initially limited to the US market, with both models expected to arrive next year. While Mitsubishi suggests potential expansion into Australia and other markets for the rebadged Leaf, its Australian division is simultaneously developing a Foxtron-sourced electric vehicle for the local market.
Details of the Model Exchange
The decision to limit the trade to the US market for now is strategic, given the different market conditions and existing product lineups in various regions. Mitsubishi’s Australian division confirmed it is working on a Foxtron-sourced EV, likely a rebadged version of the Model B small SUV, which won’t be coming to North America due to its Taiwanese production.
The partnership allows Nissan to enhance its hybrid offerings in the US market as EV sales plateau. Nissan has confirmed the Rogue (known as X-Trail in other markets) will gain a PHEV option in 2026 using Mitsubishi’s PHEV technology. The US market will get two hybrid options for the Rogue, helping it compete against models like the Toyota RAV4.
Future Collaborations
Beyond this model trade, Mitsubishi is exploring ways to strengthen its partnership with Nissan, potentially leading to further collaborations such as a rebadged Nissan Ariya. This move is part of Mitsubishi’s efforts to enhance its electrified vehicle lineup and accelerate progress toward carbon neutrality.
As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, this partnership between Mitsubishi and Nissan demonstrates how manufacturers are adapting through strategic collaborations to meet changing market demands and regulatory requirements.
