Zhengzhou Nissan Automobile Co., Ltd., a joint venture of Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. in China, unveiled the new pickup truck “Frontier Pro” in the Chinese market on November 28, 2024. This model holds historical significance as Nissan’s first pickup truck to be designed, developed, and manufactured in China and exported globally.
Nissan’s first “Made in China, Expanded Globally” pickup truck is born
The plug-in hybrid model “Frontier Pro PHEV,” which was also announced at the same time, is attracting attention as the Nissan brand’s first plug-in hybrid pickup truck. Prices are set at 169,900-199,900 yuan (approximately 3.4 million-4 million yen) for the gasoline/diesel model “Frontier Pro,” and 189,900-249,900 yuan (approximately 3.8 million-5 million yen) for the “Frontier Pro PHEV.”
Exterior design that inherits Nissan’s design DNA
Frontier Pro PHEV
V-motion grille and advanced LED lighting
The exterior of the Frontier Pro inherits the V-motion front grille , which has become established as a Nissan design icon . The front grille features a laser-engraved logo that creates a floating feeling, and by combining it with the latest LED headlights, a design that combines strength and innovation has been achieved.
While maintaining the practicality of a pickup truck, its sophisticated design makes it suitable for use in urban areas, clearly demonstrating its position as Nissan’s new generation pickup truck.
Rear design with an overwhelming presence
The rear features full-width 3D taillights . The deep, three-dimensional light creates a design with a strong presence that makes a strong impression on following vehicles. This 3D structure stands out particularly when driving at night, achieving both visibility and aesthetic appeal.
An interior that pursues comfort and functionality
Frontier Pro PHEV
High-quality six-layer leather seats
The interior of the Frontier Pro is designed with an emphasis on comfort, safety, and a high-quality experience. The front seats are equipped with leather seats with six-layered, highly breathable cushions , providing a comfortable seating experience that reduces fatigue even during long drives.
Furthermore, the use of suede material with a sophisticated texture results in a finish that is highly resistant to wear and scratches, ensuring durability that can withstand hard work use.
Multifunctional rear seats and spacious luggage space
The rear seats can be switched to seven different modes , allowing for flexible seat arrangements depending on the situation. When folded completely flat, a spacious luggage space of up to 970 liters can be secured, making it suitable for carrying large luggage and long items.
Premium interior space
The cabin is equipped with soundproofing and vibration-proofing materials, achieving a level of quietness that is hard to believe for a pickup truck.The large panoramic sunroof and high-quality audio system make the drive a special experience.
Robust body structure that can withstand harsh environments
Strong frame made of high-strength steel plates
The Frontier Pro uses high-strength steel plates over a wide area of the body and frame , ensuring unwavering stability even in harsh terrain. The structure also ensures sufficient rigidity for off-road driving and carrying heavy loads.
Thorough rust prevention and protection measures
The exterior is made of 100% double-sided galvanized steel for long-term durability and corrosion resistance, while the underbody is treated with an anti-gravel coating to protect against flying stones and debris, making it durable enough to withstand harsh environments such as deserts and mountainous terrain.
Advanced safety technology: 25 types of driver assistance functions
The Frontier Pro is equipped with 25 different driver assistance features , from various warning systems to prevent accidents before they happen, to occupant protection systems in the unlikely event of an accident, all designed to ensure high levels of safety in all situations.
This comprehensive safety equipment brings passenger car-level safety to the pickup truck, making it suitable for both family and business use with peace of mind.
Innovative Powertrain Technology
Frontier Pro PHEV: Nissan’s first plug-in hybrid pickup
The Frontier Pro PHEV uses a plug-in hybrid system that combines a 1.5-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine with a high-output electric motor mounted in the transmission.
The entire system delivers over 300kW of power and a maximum torque of 800Nm , combining the powerful performance and excellent fuel economy required for a pickup truck. For the Chinese market, the vehicle is expected to achieve a maximum EV range of 135km (NEDC standard).
6kW external power supply function makes it ideal for outdoor use
The Frontier Pro PHEV is equipped with a 6kW high-capacity intelligent external power supply function . This makes it suitable for a wide range of uses, from using induction cookware and lighting at camp to running power tools at construction sites. This function also makes it highly practical and appealing as an emergency power source in the event of a disaster.
Frontier Pro: 3rd generation diesel engine and ZF 8-speed automatic transmission
The gasoline/diesel Frontier Pro is equipped with a third-generation M9T diesel engine that delivers a powerful 500Nm of torque , mated to a reliable 8-speed ZF automatic transmission for smooth acceleration and excellent fuel economy.
An important milestone in Nissan’s global strategy
“The Frontier Pro is a model born in China and developed with the global market in mind, marking an important milestone in Nissan’s global strategy,” said Steven Ma, chairman of Nissan’s China Management Committee.
Exports are scheduled to begin in the first half of 2025, and the plan is to expand the technology and innovation cultivated in China to global markets. Nissan will continue to strongly support the development of Zhengzhou Nissan, deepening its China strategy and creating a new trend in the LCV (light commercial vehicle) market through local innovation.
Summary: Leading the pickup truck market in the era of electrification
The launch of the Frontier Pro and Frontier Pro PHEV marks a major turning point in Nissan’s global strategy. This new approach of designing and developing vehicles in China and then deploying them in global markets represents an efficient strategy for global expansion while meeting local needs.
The Frontier Pro PHEV in particular is a model that symbolizes the wave of electrification in the pickup truck market and suggests future trends in the automotive industry. As a next-generation pickup truck that combines high practicality and environmental friendliness, its development in the global market is attracting attention.
