Nissan has confirmed that it will re-introduce the Datsun name, launching a small car in India under the old brand name.
Executives in Kapan said the decision was easy, based on the brand’s reputation for endurance, reliability and affordability.
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“Datsun is part of our heritage. We know how strong this brand has been in some markets,” chief executive Carlos Ghosn told the Wall Street Journal. “For young people, launching Datsun or another name is the same because, anyway, they don’t remember. So why not Datsun? I would say between launching the Datsun name or [choosing] a new name, it is equal or better.”
The new Datsun small model will be launched in 2014 as part of a global programme – also including Indonesia and Russia – to revive the marque dropped three decades ago, Nissan Motor India managing director and CEO Kiminobu Tokuyama told reporters.
Datsun was discontinued in 1981 to unify the model lineup under the Nissan brand.
Tokuyama said: “Datsun will officially begin sales in India by 2014 in the entry hatchback segment to tap high growth market.”
He added that two models will go on sale within the first year and an enhanced line-up will be offered within three years. The cars will be designed to meet distinct local customer needs and will be built locally.
Nissan is developing a platform at its Chennai unit for the Datsun brand and will be investing in developing new products and ramping up plant capacity, Tokuyama said.
Nissan Motor India reported its highest-ever monthly sales in India at 5,371 units in February compared to 2,081 units a year ago.
