Core Viewpoint - Nissan is planning to close its flagship factory in Zama, Kanagawa Prefecture by the end of the fiscal year 2027, transferring production to its Kyushu plant in Fukuoka to reduce costs and capacity as part of a broader restructuring effort [2][3] Group 1: Financial Challenges - The Zama factory currently employs approximately 2,400 workers, and Nissan is attempting to cut costs to address its rapidly deteriorating financial and operational situation [3] - Nissan reported a fiscal year loss of 670.9 billion yen (approximately 4.5 billion USD) as of March, a significant decline from a profit of 426.6 billion yen in the previous fiscal year [5] - The company is facing increased competition in the global market, declining sales in certain regions, and high restructuring costs, which have contributed to its financial struggles [5] Group 2: Restructuring Plans - Under the new CEO Ivan Espinosa, Nissan plans to reduce its global workforce by about 15%, which equates to nearly 20,000 jobs, and consolidate its 17 factories into 10 [6] - The annual production capacity is expected to decrease from 3.5 million units to 2.5 million units as part of these restructuring efforts [6] - Previous merger talks with Honda were abandoned, and Nissan is now seeking funding support and strategic partnerships [6] Group 3: Technological Advancements - To achieve a turnaround, Nissan must focus on technological breakthroughs, particularly in solid-state battery development, which could provide a significant competitive advantage in the electric vehicle market [7] - The company needs to increase investment in research and development for battery materials and structural innovations to enhance energy density, safety, and charging performance [7] Group 4: Market Strategy - Industry experts suggest that Nissan should abandon its "global car" strategy and adopt a regionally customized product approach, particularly focusing on the North American market's demand for electric pickup trucks [8] - The company should prioritize the development of electric pickup models that meet local consumer needs, emphasizing practicality, comfort, and competitive pricing [8] Group 5: Ecosystem and Collaboration - Nissan is encouraged to restructure its ecosystem through supply chain and alliance innovations to enhance competitiveness [8] - The company should actively seek partnerships to share resources and co-develop advanced electric platform technologies, potentially collaborating with tech firms to address software deficiencies [8][9]

Core Viewpoint - Nissan is closing its Oppama plant in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, to reduce costs and streamline operations as part of its restructuring efforts [3][4][15]. Group 1: Plant Closure Details - The Oppama plant, which employs approximately 2,400 workers, will cease production by the end of the fiscal year 2027, specifically in March 2028 [4]. - This decision aligns with Nissan's previous plans to close certain factories and is expected to significantly impact the local economy [4][10]. - Production from the Oppama plant will be transferred to Nissan's Kyushu plant in Fukuoka Prefecture [3]. Group 2: Financial Context - Nissan has been facing severe financial difficulties, reporting a fiscal year loss of 670.9 billion yen (approximately $4.5 billion) as of March, a stark contrast to a profit of 426.6 billion yen in the previous fiscal year [12]. - The company has been adversely affected by declining sales in China and other markets, high restructuring costs, and inventory issues [12][15]. Group 3: Restructuring Plan - The closure of the Oppama plant is part of Nissan's "Re:Nissan" restructuring plan, which includes a global workforce reduction of about 15%, equating to 20,000 jobs, and consolidating production from 17 factories to 10 [15]. - The annual production capacity is expected to decrease from 3.5 million units to 2.5 million units as a result of these changes [15]. Group 4: Historical Significance - The Oppama plant has a long history, having been operational since 1961 and was the site of the production of Nissan's first mass-produced electric vehicle, the Leaf [8]. - The plant has been a significant economic contributor to the local area, providing thousands of jobs and supporting numerous local suppliers and businesses [10]. Group 5: Leadership and Future Outlook - CEO Ivan Espinosa emphasized the necessity of these changes to overcome current challenges and return to growth, while expressing sympathy for affected workers [6][12]. - Despite the closure, other nearby Nissan facilities will remain operational, and the company aims to continue supporting the local community [12].