NISSAN EDGES UP IN RANK IN THE TOP MOST VALUABLE BRANDS IN THE WORLD!

Nissan has been named one of the world's most valuable brands for 2013, according to Interbrand, the world-leading brand consultancy. In the Best Global Brands Study, released by Interbrand, Nissan ranked 65, up from 73 in 2012. The leading brand consultant noted Nissan's leadership in zero emissions mobility, as well as the roll-out of Nismo badged performance cars around the world, and said the brand resonates with a broad range of global consumers. The value of the Nissan brand was estimated at $6.203 billion, an increase from last year's value of nearly $5 billion.

The ranking follows Nissan being named in June as one of the world's greenest brands for 2013 in Interbrand's Best Global Green Brands report. The Nissan LEAF is by far the world's best-selling 100% electric vehicle making the company the global leader in Zero Emissions mobility. Nissan ranked fifth overall out of 50 brands in that report.

"The power of our brand is a core pillar of our Nissan Power 88 strategic plan, which means that it's essential to our growth plan," said Roel de Vries, Nissan Corporate Vice President and global head of marketing, brand and communications. "These rankings demonstrate we're on track to achieve the ambitious brand power goals we set in our mid-term plan."

The Best Global Brands study is Interbrand's annual report on the world's most valuable brands. Interbrand's method looks at the ongoing investment and management of the brand as a business asset, taking into account financial performance, the role of brand in the purchase decision process, and the strength of the brand.

In this year's study, Interbrand noted Nissan's global, multi-channel approach with a consistent message of innovation, which it said was the DNA of the brand. The report noted that demand is continuing to grow for the Nissan LEAF and that stronger consumer engagement will help Nissan achieve aggressive business targets, build loyalty and energize new audiences.

CREDIT: http://www.interbrand.com/en/best-global-brands/2013/Best-Global-Brands-2013.aspx

California Governor leads the way on Plug-In Day!

Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. today marked "National Plug In Day" by signing a half dozen bills to support California's burgeoning electric vehicle market.

"Today, we reaffirm our commitment in California to an electric vehicle future," said Governor Brown.

The Governor signed the following bills today:

• AB 8 by Assemblymember Henry T. Perea (D-Fresno): Extends to 2024 programs aimed at reducing auto emissions in California, including the Alternative and Renewable Fuel and Vehicle Technology Program, the Air Quality Improvement Program, the Enhanced Fleet Modernization Program and the Carl Moyer Memorial Air Quality Standards Attainment Program.
• AB 266 by Assemblymember Robert Blumenfield (D-Woodland Hills): Extends the white sticker program allowing for certain low-emission vehicles to drive in high-occupancy or "diamond" lanes until 2019 or until federal authorization expires.
• AB 1092 by Assemblymember Marc B. Levine (D-San Rafael): Requires the California Building Standards Commission and the Department of Housing and Community Development to develop standards for electric vehicle charging infrastructure in multi-family housing and non-residential developments.
• SB 286 by Senator Leland Yee (D-San Francisco): Extends the green sticker program allowing for certain low-emission vehicles to drive in high-occupancy or "diamond" lanes until 2019 or until federal authorization expires.
• SB 359 by Senator Ellen Corbett (D-Hayward): Provides $30 million to fund the Clean Vehicle Rebate Project and the Hybrid and Zero-Emission Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Project; $10 million to fund the Heavy-Duty Vehicle Air Quality Loan Program; and appropriates $8 million for the enhanced fleet modernization program.
• SB 454 by Senator Ellen Corbett (D-Hayward): Creates the Electric Vehicle Charging Stations Open Access Act, which removes obstacles to using electric vehicles by making electric vehicle charging stations accessible to all electric vehicle drivers, easier to locate and more convenient to use.

This legislation builds on the state's efforts to help California's electric vehicle market grow, including an Executive Order issued by Governor Brown that established a target of 1.5 million zero-emission vehicles on the road in California by 2025 and a number of other long-term goals.

Earlier this month, Governor Brown joined dozens of California business, automotive, consumer, technology and utility leaders to discuss and highlight public and private sector efforts to expand the state's electric vehicle market at the "Drive the Dream" event sponsored by the California Plug-in Electric Vehicle Collaborative.

National Plug In Day is a nationwide celebration of all-electric and plug-in hybrid-electric vehicles and includes more than a dozen events across California during the weekend of September 28th to 29th.

Interested in checking out the number one selling Electric Vehicle in the world? San Diego is lucky enough to have 7 Mossy Nissan locations selling the Nissan LEAF - the world's best selling EV! Click here now to view our inventory of these energy saving, earth saving rides!

CREDIT: http://gov.ca.gov/news.php?id=18234

OCTOBER CAR CARE MONTH AT MOSSY NISSAN SAN DIEGO!

CREDIT: http://www.bestadsontv.com/ad/56697/Nissan-Juke-City-of-Stormtroopers

NISSAN CONCEPT CAR: The Nissan Resonance signals the future direction of Nissan crossovers with smart, edgy design!

• Inspired by a new "innovation era" and optimism for a bright, energetic future
• Elevates the crossover experience with engaging aerodynamic exterior, spacious and sophisticated interior and advanced HEV powertrain
• Global concept aims to present an intelligent, fresh alternative for U.S. consumers

With its boldly futuristic aerodynamic styling and fuel-efficient hybrid-electric powertrain, the Nissan Resonance concept proposes an all-new dynamic and edgy design that once again leads the trend for the crossover category. The global concept makes its world debut today at the 2013 North American International Auto Show.

Said Francois Bancon, Nissan Motor Co. division general manager, Product Strategy and Planning: "When the designers were first working on conceptualizing the Nissan Resonance, they were inspired by amazing scientific advancements in technology and material innovations. They also were inspired by the aspirations of those people who unabashedly embrace innovation and are optimistic about the future. It was about serving those people a concept vehicle that is forward-looking and fuses style with an athletic ride."

While seen as a concept of global relevance, Resonance was created by Nissan Design America, San Diego, CA, under the direction of Shiro Nakamura, senior vice president and chief creative officer of Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

An Energetic, Premium Exterior Design that Resonates

Light on its feet, the exterior design signals that Nissan Resonance is pushing the crossover segment forward.

The energetic surfaces show a counterpoint of dynamic fluidity and pure edginess. Nissan's designers worked to express an aerodynamic feel that was lightweight yet also protective, and drew inspiration from the futuristic allure of hypersonic travel. 

The front exterior design shows the V-Motion, which starts from the front grille, moves through the hood and resonates with the iconic boomerang shaped headlights. The body is strengthened by powerful surfaces and provocative lines and is accented by the flow through the car to the kick-up shape around D-Pillar. These distinct details give the crossover a very advanced yet spacious impression.

The roof's unique "floating" design is created through the use of the thin, steeply raked A-pillars, large full-length glass panel and flowing D-pillar design. The effect created gives the impression of a flowing structure carried by the large windows and overall spaciousness of the cabin.

The body color, named Flare Orange, adds even more energy and warmth to the overall exterior design. Other exterior features include a tinted acrylic grille with Satin Chrome accents and 22-inch, full dynamic flow aluminum-alloy wheels.

Inside, a Futuristic VIP Lounge

With the interior, the designers imagined what the future of first-class space travel might be: Welcoming yet exclusive and high-tech yet premium. The resulting "VIP lounge," with its light, buttery leather and premium-stitched seats, exudes genuine sophistication. 

Thoughtfully considered details, including sequential welcome lighting, add warmth and drama upon entering the vehicle. The dramatic interior illumination highlights the natural wood pattern in the modern cabin.

An advanced instrument panel floats on a generous console, creating a forum where the driver can access all infotainment and communication features. Technology is graphically layered to give a holographic experience and visual depth is used to separate information in order of importance.

The open glass roof gives passengers a unique panoramic view of the world and floating elements like the roof lining add to the sense of space and airy lightness. The spacious interior atmosphere is enhanced by the sculpted door panels and elegant, deep shape of the center console.

Said Bancon: "The Resonance interior reflects the enlightened modernity of today's crossover buyer, who values an amazing experience over traditional indulgence. The architecture of the cabin is open and structured. Like the exterior, it redefines and pushes the segment beyond convention."

Sustainably Dynamic Performance

Though Resonance is presented strictly as a design concept, its efficient hybrid electric drivetrain signals the desire by crossover drivers to be respectful of the environment without sacrificing driving pleasure. The all-wheel drive Resonance includes Nissan's proprietary "one-motor, two-clutch" system that combines a smaller displacement internal combustion gasoline engine with an electric motor/lithium-ion battery and advanced management system.  Resonance also features Nissan's next-generation Xtronic CVT® (Continuously Variable Transmission).

An Other-Worldly Concept for Real-World Customers

The bold Resonance follows Nissan's longstanding leadership in crossover design, demonstrated by such cutting-edge vehicles as Murano, Qashqai and Juke, while pushing the boundaries of design into another dimension.

Concluded Bancon: "Resonance is meant to be provocative, energetic and engaging - even polarizing. Its edgy yet sophisticated design, combined with an environmentally sensitive powertrain and intelligent utility provides a clear, exciting view into the future of crossover innovation.

"This design is not meant to appeal to traditional two-box SUV shoppers, but rather to those whose fashion and design choices make a statement. For Nissan, this concept makes our statement about the future of this segment."

CREDIT: http://nissannews.com/en-US/nissan/usa/channels/us-united-states-nissan-models-concepts-resonance/releases/innovative-nissan-resonance-concept-crossover-features-bold-differentiating-style

Nissan announces the second mass production of the e-NV200 compact van!

e-NV200 has received positive comments from large commercial fleets for its quiet, comfortable driving with no tailpipe emissions and low noise, CO2 reduction, and generous carrying capacity.

• Nissan is exploring further innovative ways of harnessing its world-leading EV technology in the commercial vehicle market with the e-NT400, which is in development phase, the European Cabstar-based light truck  (known as the Nissan Atlas in Japan)

Nissan is in the final development phase of its second mass production zero emission vehicle, the e-NV200 compact van. Electric vehicles are ideal for urban delivery applications, and this vehicle is envisaged for use as a delivery van that offers a breakthrough type of mobility for entrepreneurs, featuring efficiency and green consciousness.

The company has been working with several large commercial fleets in global markets since 2011 to understand how the e-NV200 test car performs under real operating conditions. So far the e-NV200 has received positive comments for its quiet, comfortable driving with no emissions and low noise, CO2 reduction, and generous carrying capacity.

Feedback will help Nissan adapt future battery-powered light commercial vehicles to better fulfill exacting customer requirements.

The 100% electric compact van, e-NV200, is scheduled for launch in 2014. As Nissan's second global electric vehicle, it follows Nissan LEAF, the world's first affordable 100% EV for the mass market.

In addition to further reinforcing Nissan's zero-emissions leadership, the launch of the e-NV200 represents significant innovation in the commercial vehicle market. The model offers all the spaciousness, versatility and practicality of its base vehicle, the multipurpose commercial van NV200. It delivers advanced performance that can only be achieved through the powertrain of the Nissan LEAF.

The e-NV200 provides exceptionally smooth acceleration and quietness, driving characteristics that are unique to EVs, while emitting no CO2 emissions at the point of use. e-NV200 displays great potential for businesses, with its advanced telematics system and power-supply function in the cargo compartment. Also, the model's enviable running cost - a priority for most companies - will be highly attractive when competing in the commercial vehicle marketplace.

"The e-NV200 will offer all the spaciousness, versatility and practicality of a traditional diesel or gas-powered compact van, but with zero CO2 or other pollutant emissions at the point of use. What's more, it will provide an outstanding driving experience that is unique to EVs. e-NV200 represents a bold and innovative addition to our commercial vehicle range, which is already one of the broadest of any manufacturer," said Hideto Murakami, corporate vice president, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

When e-NV200 production begins it will become Nissan's second zero-emission vehicle, but the company is already investigating further innovative ways of harnessing its world-leading EV technology in the commercial vehicle market with the e-NT400, which is a light truck based on the European NT400Cabstar, known as NT400 Atlas in Japan.

The e-NT400, still in its development phase but with plans for production under study, uses Nissan LEAF running gear to create a zero-emission 100% electric vehicle.

Like e-NV200, e-NT400 would be able to enter city areas denied to conventional vehicles powered by diesel or petrol engines, while its near-silent running means it could operate around the clock as it creates no noise or emission nuisance.

Low running costs would make e-NT400 a breakthrough business proposition, while the high output, high capacity lithium-ion battery powering the 80kW electric motor gives smooth, vibration-free acceleration for a completely unprecedented driving experience.

With a cruising range of 87 miles (140 kilometers) in NEDC mode, and the availability of fully integrated Quick Charging potential - allowing the battery to be charged to 80 per cent capacity in just 60 minutes - the e-NT400 has the potential to make a serious contribution to lowering CO2 emission in cities. At the same time, it will increase productivity and lower running costs for operators.

Hideto Murakami, Nissan corporate vice president responsible for the Global LCV Business Unit, said: "As well as e-NV200, Nissan is developing a number of vehicles that adapt a diverse range of EV technologies. We want to explore the potential of EV technology in the light commercial market to diversify the value that Nissan's commercial vehicles provide to businesses."

CREDIT: http://nissannews.com/en-US/nissan/usa/releases/nissan-e-nv200-zero-emission-van-in-final-development-phase

CREDIT: http://nissannews.com/en-US/nissan/usa/releases/nissan-enters-wearable-technology-space-with-the-unveil-of-the-nismo-watch-concept

Nissan shatters the world record for "Heaviest Aircraft Pulled by a Production Vehicle"!

The Nissan Patrol has set a Guinness World Record for "Heaviest aircraft pulled by any production vehicle," after towing 170.9 tons at the Sharjah International Airport in the United Arab Emirates. An unmodified production Patrol hauled the cargo plane over 160 feet, shattering the previous record of 15 tons.

The record attempt was part of the "Nissan Patrol Challenge," which was launched last year to show off what its iconic SUV could do. Fans were invited to design an innovative test for the Patrol while giving themselves a chance to win a trip to Japan along with other great prizes. The result of the competition was the tow attempt, which saw an Ilyushin Il-76 cargo pulled by the Patrol.

Though the Toyota Tundra wasn't part of the same record that Nissan just set, the Endeavour space shuttle is about 21 tons lighter than this plane.

CREDIT: http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2013/08/nissan-patrol-beats-toyota-tundra-towing-record.html

NISSAN NEWS: Following in Google's footsteps - Nissan says it will have self-driving car on the road by 2020!

Nissan has just joined Google in the race to make driverless cars a reality. The Japanese automaker is aiming to have such driverless autos on the road by 2020.

"Nissan Motor Company's willingness to question conventional thinking and to drive progress is what sets us apart," said CEO Carlos Ghosn, in a press release. "In 2007 I pledged that --- by 2010 --- Nissan would mass market a zero-emission vehicle. Today, the Nissan Leaf is the best-selling electric vehicle in history. Now I am committing to be ready to introduce a new ground-breaking technology, Autonomous Drive, by 2020, and we are on track to realize it."

Nissan intends to start testing such vehicles by 2014. It's unclear how long Nissan has been testing the technology, though the release refers to "years." Google began road-testing its self-driven autos in 2010. The search giant has no stated intention to use the cars for commercial purposes. However, the company could benefit from selling its technology to automakers.

The automaker does not appear to be working with Google on its Autonomous Vehicles as it dubs them. However, it has developing the technology "alongside teams from the world's top universities, including MIT, Stanford, Oxford, Carnegie Mellon and the University of Tokyo," according to the release.

CREDIT: http://www.cnn.com/2013/08/27/tech/innovation/nissan-driverless-car/index.html?hpt=hp_t2

National Plug In Day -  Saturday, Sept 28th in San Diego

Saturday, September 28, 2013

10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Liberty Station

2401 Truxtun Road (in the Trader Joe's parking lot)

San Diego, CA 92106

FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!

Charged up about electric vehicles (EVs)? Bring your family and friends for this one-day-only opportunity to get "plugged into" the future of transportation.

And, if you already own an EV, come to the event, park it on display along with other cars belonging to EV drivers, and network with your local community as part of the National Plug In Day celebration. (Please note that this opportunity is on a first-come, first-served basis as parking spaces are limited.)

Attendees at ELECTRIC VEHICLE DAY can:

• Get behind the wheel and test-drive a Nissan LEAF!
• Check out EV chargers and find out more about other plug-in technologies.  Learn how easy it is to charge an EV at home or throughout the San Diego region, with more than 500 public charging stations available.
• Get your questions answered from San Diego Gas & Electric about special EV rates that can help drivers pay the lowest price for EV fuel when charging from midnight to 5 a.m.
• Learn about state and federal incentives available for zero-emission and plug-in electric vehicles from the EV experts from the California Center for Sustainable Energy.
• Find out about life as an EV owner from your neighbors who already have made the switch to this cleaner, more energy-independent vehicle option.

Mark your calendars!  Don't miss out. Plan on joining us at San Diego's ELECTRIC VEHICLE DAY on September 28!

REGISTER TODAY TO LET US KNOW YOU'RE COMING! http://pluginday.org/event.php?eventid=40

ELECTRIC VEHICLE DAY is presented by:

Corporate Sponsors:  NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, 

Regional Sponsors:  California Center for Sustainable Energy, San Diego Gas & Electric and San Diego Regional Clean Cities Coalition 

National Plug In Day Sponsors:  Plug In America, Sierra Club and Electric Vehicle Association

Electric Vehicle Day Organizer:  Electric Power Research Institute

CREDIT: http://pluginday.org/event.php?eventid=40