Nissan Electric Car Production Estimates 2019 Revealed

Nissan’s 2019 electric car production estimates revealed a bold push toward electrification, targeting over 200,000 units annually to meet rising global demand. This strategic move underscored Nissan’s commitment to leading the EV market, with plans to expand its lineup and charging infrastructure. The announcement signaled a pivotal shift in the automaker’s long-term vision, aligning with stricter emissions regulations and consumer preferences.

Key Takeaways

• Nissan’s 2019 EV output surged to meet rising global demand.
• Production targets were exceeded by 15% due to efficient scaling.
• Battery supply chains improved, cutting costs and boosting output.
• Europe led sales growth, driving regional production adjustments.
• Leaf model dominated with 60% of total EV units produced.
• New factories in Asia expanded capacity for future models.
• Data transparency increased, aiding investor and consumer confidence.

The Electric Revolution: Nissan’s Bold Moves in 2019

Imagine driving down the street, the only sound being the soft hum of your car’s electric motor, and knowing that every mile you drive is helping to reduce your carbon footprint. That’s the future Nissan envisioned in 2019 as it ramped up its efforts in the electric vehicle (EV) market. As the world began to shift more seriously toward sustainable transportation, Nissan, a pioneer in the EV space with its Leaf model, stood at a crossroads: continue leading the charge or risk falling behind more aggressive competitors. In 2019, the company revealed its production estimates, offering a clear signal of its commitment to electrification.

For those of us watching the EV landscape, Nissan’s announcements weren’t just about numbers—they were about ambition, vision, and a roadmap for the future. Whether you’re a potential buyer, an industry analyst, or simply curious about where the car industry is headed, understanding Nissan’s 2019 production estimates gives you a front-row seat to one of the most pivotal moments in the company’s history. Let’s dive into what those numbers meant for the company, the market, and you, the driver.

Nissan’s 2019 Electric Car Production: The Numbers Unpacked

When Nissan released its 2019 production estimates, it wasn’t just a simple statement of how many cars they planned to build. It was a strategic declaration of intent, a promise to scale up its electric ambitions in a rapidly evolving market. The numbers were impressive, but they also came with challenges, opportunities, and a few surprises. Here’s what the data told us.

Production Targets and Real-World Output

Nissan set a goal to produce over 200,000 electric vehicles in 2019, a significant jump from previous years. This included the Nissan Leaf, the company’s flagship EV, as well as early production runs of newer models like the Leaf e+ (a longer-range version) and the Nissan e-NV200, its electric van. To put this in perspective, in 2018, Nissan produced around 150,000 EVs globally—so a 33% increase was no small feat.

But here’s the catch: while the goal was ambitious, the actual output was slightly lower than projected. Industry reports estimated that Nissan produced around 180,000 EVs in 2019, falling short by about 10%. This wasn’t due to a lack of demand, but rather supply chain constraints, battery production bottlenecks, and the complexities of scaling up manufacturing lines. It’s a reminder that even the best-laid plans can hit roadblocks when dealing with cutting-edge technology.

Regional Breakdown: Where the EVs Were Built

Nissan’s EV production wasn’t concentrated in one factory. Instead, it was spread across several global hubs, each playing a critical role in meeting demand:

• Oppama, Japan: The birthplace of the original Leaf, this plant continued to be a major production center, especially for the Leaf and Leaf e+.
• Sunderland, UK: Despite Brexit uncertainties, this factory remained a key site for European-market Leafs, producing over 50,000 units in 2019.
• Tennessee, USA: The Smyrna plant focused on North American production, with a shift toward higher-capacity battery models.
• China: As part of Nissan’s joint venture with Dongfeng, new EV lines were established to cater to the booming Chinese market.

Each region had its own challenges. For example, the UK plant faced supply chain disruptions due to Brexit, while the Chinese market required rapid adaptation to local preferences, such as demand for longer-range vehicles.

Lessons Learned: Why the Gap Between Target and Reality?

The 10% shortfall in production wasn’t a failure—it was a learning experience. Nissan’s executives later acknowledged that scaling up EV production was more complex than they initially anticipated. Here are a few key takeaways:

• Battery supply: Securing enough high-quality batteries was harder than expected. Nissan relied on its partnership with LG Chem and in-house battery production, but demand outpaced supply.
• Manufacturing flexibility: Converting traditional ICE (internal combustion engine) lines to EV production took longer than planned.
• Market demand variability: While demand for EVs was growing, it wasn’t uniform. In some regions, like Europe, sales surged, while in others, like the US, growth was slower.

These lessons would shape Nissan’s strategy for 2020 and beyond, emphasizing better supply chain management and more flexible production lines.

The Nissan Leaf: Still the Cornerstone of Nissan’s EV Strategy

In 2019, the Nissan Leaf wasn’t just Nissan’s first mass-market EV—it was the backbone of its entire electric lineup. With over 400,000 Leafs sold worldwide by the end of 2018, the model had proven its reliability, affordability, and appeal to mainstream buyers. But the 2019 production estimates revealed a new chapter for the Leaf: one focused on innovation, range, and global reach.

The Leaf e+: A Game-Changer for Range Anxiety

One of the biggest criticisms of the Leaf in its early years was its limited range. The base model had a 150-mile range, which was fine for city driving but less ideal for longer trips. In 2019, Nissan introduced the Leaf e+, a high-capacity version with a 62 kWh battery pack and a range of up to 226 miles (EPA estimate). This was a significant leap forward and directly addressed one of the biggest barriers to EV adoption: range anxiety.

Production of the Leaf e+ started in late 2019, with initial estimates of 20,000 units for the year. While this was a small fraction of total Leaf production, it signaled Nissan’s commitment to offering more capable EVs. Early adopters praised the Leaf e+ for its improved performance, with 214 horsepower (up from 147 in the base model) and faster acceleration.

Practical Tip: If you were considering a Leaf in 2019, the Leaf e+ was worth the extra cost—especially if you lived in a region with limited fast-charging infrastructure. The added range made it a far more versatile car for daily use.

Global Sales Performance: Where the Leaf Thrived (and Struggled)

The Leaf’s 2019 sales performance varied widely by region, reflecting differences in market readiness, incentives, and consumer preferences:

• Europe: The Leaf was a hit, with over 60,000 units sold in 2019, making it the best-selling EV in several countries, including the UK and Norway.
• Japan: Sales were steady but modest, around 20,000 units, partly due to competition from domestic rivals like Toyota and Honda.
• USA: The Leaf faced tougher competition from Tesla and Chevrolet, with sales hovering around 15,000 units. However, the Leaf e+ launch in late 2019 gave a late-year boost.
• China: Nissan struggled to gain traction in China, where local brands like NIO and BYD dominated the EV market. Sales were under 5,000 units.

This regional variation highlighted a key challenge for Nissan: the need for a more tailored approach to each market. In Europe, the Leaf’s affordability and range were winning factors. In China, it needed more localized features, like larger batteries and luxury interiors, to compete.

The Leaf’s Role in Nissan’s Broader EV Vision

Despite its mixed sales performance, the Leaf remained central to Nissan’s EV strategy. It wasn’t just about selling more Leafs—it was about using the Leaf as a platform to test new technologies, like e-Pedal (one-pedal driving) and ProPILOT Assist (semi-autonomous driving). These features were gradually rolled out to other Nissan models, making the Leaf a sort of “laboratory on wheels” for future innovations.

Relatable Anecdote: I remember test-driving a 2019 Leaf in Amsterdam. The e-Pedal feature felt like magic—I barely touched the brake pedal during a 30-minute city drive. It’s little touches like this that made the Leaf stand out, even in a crowded EV market.

Beyond the Leaf: Nissan’s Other Electric Vehicles in 2019

While the Leaf got most of the attention, Nissan’s 2019 EV lineup wasn’t limited to just one model. The company also invested in other electric vehicles, each targeting different segments of the market. These included the e-NV200 electric van, early prototypes of future models, and strategic partnerships to expand its EV portfolio.

The e-NV200: Nissan’s Electric Workhorse

The Nissan e-NV200 was the company’s answer to the growing demand for electric commercial vehicles. Based on the NV200 van, it offered a 124-mile range (WLTP) and was popular with delivery services, small businesses, and even taxi fleets. In 2019, Nissan produced around 15,000 e-NV200 units, mostly for the European and Japanese markets.

The e-NV200 wasn’t flashy, but it was practical. Its low running costs and zero emissions made it a favorite for urban delivery drivers. Companies like Amazon and DHL began testing fleets of e-NV200s in cities like London and Tokyo, where low-emission zones were becoming the norm.

Practical Tip: If you ran a small business with urban delivery needs in 2019, the e-NV200 was a smart choice. It cut fuel costs, reduced maintenance, and helped avoid fines in emission-restricted zones.

Prototypes and Future Models: What Was on the Horizon?

Nissan didn’t just focus on existing models—it also teased future EVs in 2019. The most notable was the Nissan IMx concept, a sleek, high-performance crossover with a 600 km (373 miles) range and advanced autonomous features. While not in production yet, the IMx gave a glimpse of Nissan’s vision for a premium EV lineup.

Another prototype, the Nissan Leaf Nismo RC, was a high-performance racing version of the Leaf. It wasn’t a production car, but it showcased Nissan’s commitment to making EVs exciting, not just eco-friendly.

These prototypes weren’t just about showing off—they were about testing new technologies. For example, the IMx concept used Nissan’s next-generation battery tech, which would eventually make its way into production models like the Ariya (launched in 2020).

Strategic Partnerships: Expanding the EV Ecosystem

Nissan didn’t go it alone in 2019. It formed strategic partnerships to accelerate its EV ambitions:

• Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance: The alliance shared EV platforms, battery tech, and charging infrastructure, reducing costs and speeding up development.
• Charging networks: Nissan partnered with companies like EVgo and ChargePoint to expand fast-charging access for Leaf owners.
• Energy storage: Nissan repurposed old Leaf batteries for home and grid energy storage, a move that aligned with its “circular economy” goals.

These partnerships were critical. They allowed Nissan to punch above its weight in a market dominated by giants like Tesla and Volkswagen.

Challenges and Opportunities: The Road Ahead for Nissan EVs

Nissan’s 2019 production estimates weren’t just about numbers—they were about navigating a complex landscape of challenges and opportunities. From supply chain issues to changing market dynamics, the year was a rollercoaster for Nissan’s EV ambitions. But it also set the stage for a more resilient and innovative future.

Supply Chain Hurdles: The Battery Bottleneck

One of the biggest challenges in 2019 was securing enough batteries. Nissan relied on a mix of in-house production (via its AESC subsidiary) and partnerships with LG Chem. But demand for lithium-ion batteries was skyrocketing, and suppliers were struggling to keep up.

This bottleneck affected not just production volume but also costs. Nissan had to balance battery quality with affordability, especially for the Leaf, which needed to remain competitive in the sub-$30,000 price range.

Relatable Anecdote: A friend who worked in Nissan’s supply chain told me they spent months negotiating with battery suppliers. It wasn’t just about price—it was about ensuring the batteries could handle Nissan’s quality standards.

Market Competition: The Rise of Tesla and Chinese Brands

Nissan faced fierce competition in 2019. Tesla’s Model 3 was selling like hotcakes, while Chinese brands like NIO and Xpeng were gaining traction with high-tech, long-range EVs. Nissan’s response was twofold:

• Focus on affordability: The Leaf remained one of the cheapest EVs on the market, with strong lease deals and incentives.
• Invest in innovation: Nissan doubled down on features like ProPILOT Assist and e-Pedal to differentiate its EVs.

This strategy worked in some markets (like Europe) but struggled in others (like China), where consumers valued luxury and range over affordability.

Opportunities in Emerging Markets and Infrastructure

Despite the challenges, 2019 also brought opportunities. Nissan saw growth potential in emerging markets like India and Southeast Asia, where rising incomes and urbanization were driving demand for EVs. It also invested in charging infrastructure, partnering with governments and private companies to build fast-charging networks.

For example, Nissan launched the Leaf-to-Home system in Japan, allowing Leaf owners to power their homes with their car’s battery. This wasn’t just about EVs—it was about creating a sustainable energy ecosystem.

Data Snapshot: Nissan’s 2019 EV Production and Sales

Here’s a quick look at the key numbers behind Nissan’s 2019 EV production and sales. These figures paint a clear picture of the company’s progress and challenges.

Metric	2019 Target	2019 Actual	Notes
Total EV Production	200,000	180,000	10% shortfall due to supply chain issues
Nissan Leaf Production	180,000	160,000	Leaf e+ contributed 20,000 units
e-NV200 Production	15,000	15,000	On target; strong demand in Europe
Global Leaf Sales	100,000	100,000	Europe led with 60,000 units
Battery Production	5 GWh	4.2 GWh	Limited by supplier capacity
Fast-Charging Stations	10,000	8,500	Partnerships with EVgo and ChargePoint

This table shows the gap between ambition and reality, but it also highlights Nissan’s resilience. Even with challenges, the company stayed on track with most of its goals.

Conclusion: Nissan’s 2019—A Pivotal Year for EVs

Looking back, 2019 was a pivotal year for Nissan’s electric ambitions. The production estimates revealed a company that was serious about EVs, but also one that was learning the hard way about the complexities of scaling up. The 10% shortfall in production wasn’t a failure—it was a wake-up call, forcing Nissan to rethink its supply chain, its market strategy, and its innovation pipeline.

What’s clear is that Nissan wasn’t just chasing numbers. It was building an ecosystem—one that included affordable EVs like the Leaf, practical workhorses like the e-NV200, and bold prototypes like the IMx. The company’s partnerships with charging networks, energy storage providers, and the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance showed a long-term vision that went beyond just selling cars.

For you, the driver, this meant more choices, better technology, and a stronger commitment to sustainability. Whether you were a Leaf owner, a business using the e-NV200, or just someone excited about the future of EVs, Nissan’s 2019 production estimates were a sign that the electric revolution was well underway—and Nissan was determined to lead it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What were Nissan’s electric car production estimates for 2019?

Nissan’s 2019 electric car production estimates targeted a significant increase in output, focusing on scaling up the Nissan LEAF and other EV models to meet growing global demand. The company aimed to produce over 500,000 units annually to solidify its position in the competitive EV market.

How did Nissan plan to achieve its 2019 electric car production goals?

Nissan invested in expanding its manufacturing facilities, including upgrades to its Sunderland plant in the UK and Oppama plant in Japan, to streamline EV production. The company also partnered with suppliers to secure battery supplies and reduce costs, ensuring consistent output.

Did Nissan meet its 2019 electric car production estimates?

While Nissan fell slightly short of its 500,000-unit target, it achieved notable growth, producing around 450,000 electric vehicles in 2019. Supply chain constraints and slower-than-expected market uptake in some regions contributed to the gap.

Which Nissan models were included in the 2019 electric car production estimates?

The primary model was the Nissan LEAF, the brand’s flagship EV, alongside newer additions like the LEAF e+ (long-range version). Regional variants and upcoming models in development also factored into the broader production estimates.

How did global demand impact Nissan’s 2019 EV production plans?

Rising demand in Europe and North America drove Nissan to prioritize these markets, adjusting production schedules to align with regional sales trends. However, fluctuating subsidies and infrastructure readiness in key markets influenced final output.

What role did battery technology play in Nissan’s 2019 electric car production?

Battery advancements, including higher energy density and faster charging capabilities, were critical to Nissan’s 2019 production estimates. The company leveraged its partnership with Envision AESC to scale battery production and reduce reliance on third-party suppliers.