
Core Viewpoint - Nissan is facing its most severe crisis since 1999, with a net loss of 670.9 billion yen (approximately 32.6 billion RMB) and negative free cash flow, marking a financial cliff that puts the company at a crossroads of survival [1][2]. Financial Performance - Nissan reported its worst financial results in 25 years, with a net loss of 670.9 billion yen and an operating profit margin of less than 1% [1][2]. - The company aims to cut costs by 500 billion yen by the fiscal year 2027 and reduce its production capacity from 3.5 million to 2.5 million vehicles [2]. Strategic Initiatives - The new CEO, Ivan Espinosa, has launched the "Re:Nissan" revival plan, which includes closing seven factories and laying off 20,000 employees [2]. - Nissan plans to focus on six core markets globally, with China identified as a strategic priority for the next three years [2][5]. Market Challenges - Nissan's global sales declined by 2.8%, with an 88% drop in operating profit, particularly struggling in the U.S. and Chinese markets [4]. - In the U.S., sales of the Rogue SUV fell nearly 10%, and the Titan pickup was discontinued, while in China, sales plummeted by 12.2% [4]. Competitive Landscape - Nissan's electric vehicle, Leaf, has been outperformed by competitors like BYD and Tesla in key areas such as range and acceleration [4]. - The company's CHAdeMO charging standard has been phased out in favor of more widely accepted standards, and the new electric vehicle Ariya has seen poor sales performance [4]. Collaboration and Partnerships - Nissan's collaboration with Honda has ended due to fundamental disagreements over platform control and technology integration [5]. - The company is exploring potential partnerships with firms like Foxconn and some U.S. tech companies, but these discussions are still in early stages [5]. Future Outlook - Nissan views the Chinese market as crucial for its recovery, despite a significant drop in sales from 1.13 million units in 2018 to under 700,000 units [6][7]. - The company is adapting to local market dynamics by decentralizing R&D to Chinese teams and planning to launch 10 new energy models by 2027 [6]. - The success of Nissan's "Re:Nissan" plan hinges on its ability to tell a new story in the smart electric vehicle era within three years, or it risks irreversible decline [6].