Nissan Australia will continue to field electric vehicles (EVs) in the future as it looks to broaden its electrified offerings, even though its all-electric Ariya has failed to resonate with local buyers.
For context, Nissan was one of the first brands to bring an all-electric model to Australia in the form of the first-generation Leaf in 2012, which was succeeded in 2019.
However, the third-generation version, launched globally in 2025, has been paused ‘indefinitely’ for Australia, despite morphing from a hatchback into a more popular SUV shape.
Likewise, the Australian arrival of the Ariya was delayed for years before launching in 2025, but has failed to make a dent in the mid-size electric segment against the likes of the Tesla Model Y and BYD Sealion 7.
MORE: Nissan eyes cheaper SUV for Australia, and Kicks may be it
For reference, Nissan has sold 256 examples of the Ariya this year, compared to the 35,930 Model Ys and 19,964 Sealion 7s sold over the same period.
Speaking to Drive, Nissan Oceania CEO Steve Milette said EVs remain an important part of the brand’s future, with more models expected to bulk out its tailpipe emissions-free offerings.
“If you look at our mid-term to long-term plan, there is diversification of powertrains – BEVs [battery electric vehicles] is certainly a part of it,” Milette said.
“Nothing we can confirm today, but you can imagine our portfolio will have BEVs, we’ll have plug-in hybrids, we’ll have e-Power hybrids, and super-efficient petrol engines.
MORE: 2027 Nissan Patrol finally being made for Australia
“So, where the market is, we’re going to be.
“It won’t happen overnight, but I think you’ll see us move in all those categories.”
Exactly what form these new EVs will take is currently unclear, but after the launch of the Navara Pro PHEV, Nissan Australia is open to bringing in more models from China.
MORE: China-built Navara Pro ute with diesel power under consideration by Nissan Australia
This could include the NX8 SUV, which is available as both an EV and range-extender, but what else could arrive in Australia is unclear.
At present, Nissan fields hybrid versions of the Qashqai and X-Trail SUVs, known as e-Power, while the new-generation flagship Patrol off-roader is scheduled to arrive in early 2027.
Nissan’s stable also includes the diesel-powered Navara workhorse – built in partnership with Mitsubishi and the Triton – that will be joined by a China-sourced Navara Pro PHEV in the second half of next year.
The post Nissan still committed to EVs despite Leaf hiatus and Ariya struggles appeared first on Drive.
