Core Viewpoint - Nissan is set to close its Oppama factory by March 2028 as part of a global restructuring plan, reflecting the challenges faced by the Japanese manufacturing sector amid the shift towards electric vehicles [1][4]. Group 1: Factory Closure and Impact - The Oppama factory, established in 1961, will cease automobile production by the end of the 2027 fiscal year, affecting 2,400 employees and the local economy [1][4]. - Local residents are uncertain about the future of the factory site, with speculation about its potential redevelopment into a resort or theme park [2][4]. - Nissan's CEO Ivan Espinosa has indicated that there are no plans for contract manufacturing at the Oppama site, despite discussions with Foxconn about electric vehicle production [2][4]. Group 2: Industry Challenges - The closure of the Oppama factory highlights the broader struggles of Japanese manufacturers to adapt to changing consumer preferences and competition from companies like Tesla and BYD [4][5]. - Nissan's production has significantly declined, with the Oppama factory now only producing two models compared to seven in 2007 [4]. - The automotive supply chain is under pressure, with 32 related companies filing for bankruptcy in the last fiscal year, the highest in a decade [5]. Group 3: Financial Performance and Strategy - Nissan has initiated a recovery plan named "Re:Nissan," aiming to reduce global factories from 17 to 10 and cut annual production capacity from 3.5 million to 2.5 million vehicles, alongside a workforce reduction of 20,000 [5]. - The company anticipates asset impairment and restructuring costs of 160 billion yen for the current fiscal year [6]. - Japanese automobile exports to the U.S. have seen a significant decline, with a 26.7% year-on-year drop in June, exacerbated by increased tariffs [6].

Core Viewpoint - Nissan is undergoing a significant restructuring by closing two domestic factories, aiming to improve operational efficiency and return to growth amidst declining sales and overcapacity [1][2]. Group 1: Factory Closures - Nissan announced the closure of the Zama plant by the end of the 2027 fiscal year, with production shifting to the Kyushu plant in Fukuoka [1]. - The Shonan plant will cease operations by the end of the 2026 fiscal year, marking the first major capacity reduction in Japan since the closure of the Murayama plant in 2001 [1][2]. - Out of five domestic factories, two will be closed while the remaining will continue operations [1]. Group 2: Impact on Workforce and Production - The Zama plant employs approximately 2,400 workers, who will continue working until the end of the 2027 fiscal year [2]. - The current operating rate of Nissan's domestic factories is around 60%, and the closures are expected to increase this rate to 100% and reduce production costs in Japan by 15% [2]. Group 3: Future Plans for Closed Facilities - Discussions are ongoing regarding the future use of the Zama plant, with potential sale negotiations with multiple partners, including Foxconn [2]. - The Zama plant currently produces the "Note" and "Note Aura" models, with plans to transfer the production of the upcoming SUV model "Kicks" to Kyushu [2]. - The Shonan plant is also exploring auxiliary business opportunities, prioritizing employment and considering various possibilities [2].

Core Viewpoint - Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. is leveraging its new e-Power technology to facilitate a turnaround after reporting significant financial losses, focusing on the North American market for recovery [1][2]. Group 1: e-Power Technology - e-Power is a hybrid system that utilizes both an electric motor and a gasoline engine, providing a smooth driving experience without the need for charging [1][2]. - Unlike traditional electric vehicles, e-Power generates its own charge through gasoline, making it more convenient for drivers [2]. Group 2: Financial Performance and Strategy - Nissan reported a $4.5 billion loss for the fiscal year ending in March, highlighting the urgent need for a successful model [2]. - The company is implementing a major restructuring plan, which includes cutting about 15% of its global workforce (approximately 20,000 jobs) and reducing manufacturing plants from 17 to 10 [3]. Group 3: Market Position and Competitors - e-Power is currently available on models like Qashqai and X-Trail in Europe and Note in Japan, with plans to launch in the U.S. in the new Rogue [4]. - The only other automaker offering a similar hybrid system is Suzuki, indicating a competitive landscape for e-Power technology [4]. Group 4: Future Developments - Nissan is also working on advanced electric vehicles and solid-state battery technology, which may replace current lithium-ion batteries [5]. - Previous merger talks with Honda were dropped, indicating a shift in strategic focus [5].