Nissan Motor has developed a new global platform for light duty trucks (LDTs) on which its new Cabstar model will be built.
Go deeper with GlobalData
The new LDT platform plus a platform for panel vans, will replace Nissan’s 11 unique LCV platforms by 2010 in order to maximise efficiency.
Some LCVs will also continue to be built on passenger vehicle platforms.
The new LDT platform was developed by Nissan’s engineering division in Barcelona, Spain in collaboration with Nissan Motor Light Truck engineers in Japan. The platform will support the Cabstar first, followed by a new generation of light duty trucks later.
“The development and introduction of the new LDT platform demonstrates that Nissan is taking its place in the global commercial vehicle market very seriously. We are ambitious to succeed and we are confident that we will meet the needs of operators and drivers across the globe with the range of products that will be developed on the new platforms,” said Nissan LCV business unit chief Andy Palmer.
How well do you really know your competitors?
Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.
Thank you!
Your download email will arrive shortly
Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample
We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form
By GlobalDataDue to the Cabstar’s new frame, it will be easier and quicker to operate on the engine during maintenance and repair, due mainly to the adoption of a tilting cab configuration.
The platform has been reinforced to ensure a car-like crash performance. Independent tests have demonstrated that in the case of frontal impacts, Cabstar’s safety level is as high as that of a passenger car, Nissan claims. Safety was enhanced by reinforcing the front part of the frame and by enhancing the elasticity of the straight elements behind the cabin.
Nissan has set ambitious commitments for its global LCV business, one of four breakthrough areas identified under the company’s so-called Value-Up business plan. By fiscal year 2007, the company plans to double operating profit margin to 8% and grow volumes by 40% to 434,000 units worldwide compared with fiscal 2004.
In fiscal 2005, ended March 31, 2006, the Nissan LCV business sold 400,000 units, up 28% from the previous year. The unit’s consolidated operating profit margin was 7.7%.
The Cabstar will continue to be manufactured at Nissan’s plant at Avila, near Madrid, Spain.
