Nissan Philippines to Launch China-Built EV and PHEV Models
Nissan Philippines will introduce the Navara Pro Plug-in Hybrid pickup and Primera EV sedan on Nov. 6, sourcing both from its joint venture with Dongfeng Motor in China. The company says the models are part of an export initiative that uses China as a development and production base, with the Philippines chosen as the lead ASEAN market because of left-hand-drive compatibility. Nissan executives emphasized that the vehicles follow global engineering, safety, and quality standards.
Nissan Philippines plans to add two electrified models from its Dongfeng Motor joint venture on Nov. 6. The Navara Pro Plug-in Hybrid uses a body-on-frame chassis, a 1.5-liter turbo petrol engine, an electric motor, four-wheel drive, and a 32.85 kWh battery rated for up to 135 km of electric range.
The Primera EV is a midsize electric sedan built on the Dongfeng Nissan N7 platform. It measures 4,930 mm long with a 2,915 mm wheelbase and a 0.208 Cd drag coefficient. Its base motor produces 218 hp and 305 Nm. Nissan chose the Philippines as lead ASEAN market due to left-hand-drive compatibility.
This launch may give Philippine buyers more electrified pickup and sedan choices, potentially affecting fleet operators, commercial users, and early EV adopters. It could pressure charging infrastructure and service networks to adapt, while Chinese sourcing may shape perceptions about quality and local manufacturing. If sales grow, fuel demand and emissions could decline modestly, though grid mix and vehicle use patterns would influence actual climate benefits.