Nissan Motor unveils global compact car Micra at Geneva show

Nissan Motor on Tuesday launched its new global compact car, the Micra, and unveiled its ambitious plans at the glittering Salon International de l'Automobile (Salon de l'Auto), better known as the Geneva Motor Show, which is into its 85th year as of 2010 — showing off its global compact car, built on the new V-platform, the Juke crossover car and a range of other automobiles.

Pulling the covers off the Micra, touted as the most eco-friendly and user-oriented car in the world market, Nissan's charismatic Chief Executive, Carlos Ghosn, the Brazilian credited with turning round the auto maker's fortunes, told press people at the Palexpo in the cosmopolitan city of Geneva that the cars would roll out of five plants — Thailand, China, India, Mexico and one other as yet unspecified location — starting later this month with Thailand. Production of the car at the Nissan's Chennai plant in Oragadam would begin in May, and it was slated to hit the Indian market shortly thereafter. Armed with a newer, lighter and cleaner engine, the car would be price competitive and environmentally friendly. It would be sold in more than 150 countries. Mr. Ghosn said it represented a breakthrough in packaging and small-car engineering, and would be a reliable, stylish, accessible compact car.

“Combining 25 years' experience of designing compact cars for city driving…with a totally new, versatile platform and Nissan production know-how… and the result is a modern, simple and destined to be a serious competitor on the world stage,'' said Mr. Ghosn.

B-plus segment

The car is expected to compete in the B-plus segment in India, which includes the Maruti Suzuki Swift and Hyundai's

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The Oragadam plant, which is set to be inaugurated on March 19, envisages an investment of Rs.4,500 crore by 2015, with a production capacity of four lakh cars, by expanding the current production capacity of two lakh cars, 80 per cent of which is to be exported. The car constitutes a strategic investment for Nissan, according to Mr. Ghosn.

Leaf electric vehicle

Nissan also unveiled its new Leaf electric vehicle, built on a generous 2700 mm wheelbase, making it truly spacious.

Capable of a maximum speed of 140 kmph, the car can do up to 160 km on a full battery charge, making it a practical option for customers. Nissan is also in talks with Bajaj Auto to make an ultra low cost car, and is working with Ashok Leyland to produce a series of light commercial vehicles, according to Nissan Executive Vice President Colin Dodge.