Thursday, June 30, 2011

NISSAN HOLDS 112TH ORDINARY GENERAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., today held its 112th Ordinary General Meeting of Shareholders at the National Convention Hall of Yokohama. The meeting lasted 2 hours 16 minutes, starting from 10:00 JST and concluding at 12:16 JST. A total of 1005 shareholders attended the meeting.

The shareholders' meeting included an overview of the company's new six-year business plan called "Nissan Power 88." The key contents of the plan focus on developing Nissan's leadership and profitability in global growth markets; actively cultivating sustainable mobility through zero-emission cars and technologies that reduce emissions; and advancing "mobility for all" by offering attractive, competitive products to make personal mobility accessible for people worldwide.

Chief Operating Officer Toshiyuki Shiga reported on the company's sales and financial performance from fiscal year 2010 and its outlook for fiscal year 2011. Nissan President and CEO Carlos Ghosn confirmed the company's plan to distribute a sustainable, attractive dividend over the course of the midterm plan, with a dividend of 20 yen per share for fiscal year 2011 and a targeted minimum payout ratio of 25% of net income beyond fiscal 2011 and through fiscal 2016.

Ghosn and the members of Nissan's Executive Committee responded to questions submitted by shareholders who attended the meeting and who supplied questions in advance.

Three items were proposed to the shareholders for approval:
  • the approval of appropriation of retained earnings for the 112th fiscal year;
  • delegation to the board of directors to determine the terms and conditions of issuing Shinkabu-Yoyakuken (share options) without consideration to employees of the company and directors and employees of its affiliates; and
  • the election of nine directors due to the expiration of terms of all directors.

All items were approved by the shareholders as presented.

In place of the annual reception party for shareholders at the conclusion of the meeting, the company made a donation to relief efforts benefiting victims of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami in Japan. The donation was made in the name of all Nissan shareholders.

About Nissan
Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., Japan's second-largest automotive company, is headquartered in Yokohama, Japan, and is part of the Renault-Nissan Alliance. Operating with more than 248,000 employees globally, Nissan provided customers with more than 4.1 million vehicles in 2010, generating revenue of 8.77 trillion yen ($102.37 billion US). With a strong commitment to developing exciting and innovative products for all, Nissan delivers a comprehensive range of 64 models under the Nissan and Infiniti brands. A pioneer in zero-emission mobility, Nissan made history with the introduction of the Nissan LEAF, the first affordable, mass-market, pure-electric vehicle and winner of numerous international accolades, including the prestigious 2011 European Car of the Year award and 2011 World Car of the Year.
http://www.nissannews.com/pressrelease/2638/1/nissan-holds-112th-ordinary-general-meeting-shareholders

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Senator Alexander, Nissan and Pew to Highlight Importance of Electric Vehicles in Clean Energy Economy

EVs called an effective way to achieve energy independence, create jobs and investment

U.S. Sen. Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.); former Michigan Governor Jennifer M. Granholm, senior adviser to The Pew Charitable Trusts; Phyllis Cuttino, Pew Clean Energy Program director; and Nissan leadership today at Nissan Americas headquarters discussed the role that electric vehicles (EVs) can play in growing the clean energy economy. In remarks at the Tennessee Electric Vehicle Summit, they were unanimous in acknowledging that EVs are key to attracting jobs and investment, achieving energy independence by reducing America's reliance on foreign oil, enhancing environmental sustainability and improving overall vehicle efficiency.

In March, the United States spent $39.3 billion on oil imports, the highest level in nearly three years, and net oil imports represented 65 percent of the U.S. trade deficit. These figures underscore the need for change to the nation's transportation system.

By 2030 plug-in electric and hybrid vehicles could make up 22 percent of U.S. auto sales and advanced batteries could represent a nearly $100 billion market. Nissan introduced the all-electric, zero-emission Nissan LEAF in December 2010. The LEAF is currently available in select regions of the nation, including Tennessee.

In May, Sen. Alexander, along with Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), introduced the "Promoting Electric Vehicles Act," which would accelerate the deployment of EVs in communities across the United States and assist companies in switching their vehicle fleets from gas to electric through two competitive grant programs. The legislation would also invest in the development of advanced batteries.

"If the United States pledges to making 25 percent of new vehicles electric by 2020 and deploying 10 million charging stations, it could help strengthen economic, national and environmental security far into the 21st century," Granholm said.

Scott Becker, senior vice president, administration and finance, Nissan North America, added, "Nissan wants to be part of the solution in addressing our nation's energy challenges, and is committed to leading the way in zero-emission mobility and supporting policies that will establish the clean energy economy. The Nissan LEAF and the batteries that power it will be manufactured in Tennessee starting next year."

Although the United States has made critical initial investments in EVs and charging infrastructure, it will face intense competition for production and installation of these technologies. China hopes to produce 500,000 EVs annually beginning this year and is investing $15 billion in EV research, purchase incentives and charging stations. South Korea has launched its Battery 2020 Project, which aims to invest $12 billion in new technologies to become the world leader in rechargeable battery production in 10 years.

The Tennessee Electric Vehicle Summit at Nissan Americas in Franklin brought together leaders from the government, the electric power industry and auto manufacturing to explore the future of EVs and the challenges that must be addressed to accelerate the clean energy economy.
http://www.nissannews.com/pressrelease/2605/185/senator-alexander-nissan-pew-highlight-importance-electric-vehicles

Infiniti EX35 Named IIHS Top Safety Pick

-2011 Infiniti EX Luxury Crossover Joins Infiniti M37/56 as an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety 2011 Top Safety Picks-

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) today awarded the 2011 Infiniti EX35 a "Top Safety Pick" rating. The rating is given to vehicles that achieve the Institute's highest rating of "Good" in front, rear and side impact protection, are equipped with electronic stability control, and earn a good rating in roof strength. The Infiniti EX35 joins the Infiniti M37/M56 on the list of 2011 Top Safety Picks.

"Infiniti is proud to receive another Top Safety Pick rating from IIHS," said Infiniti Americas Vice President Ben Poore. "Like all Infiniti vehicles, the 2011 Infiniti EX35 luxury crossover is designed to offer owners a strong sense of peace of mind, whether from its exhilarating driving performance, engaging interior environment, advanced technology or long list of standard safety features."

Every 2011 Infiniti EX35 comes equipped with the Infiniti Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage, dual-threshold front air bags and seat belt and occupant classification sensors, roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags for front and rear outboard occupant head protection, seat-mounted driver and front passenger side-impact supplemental air bags and front-seat Active Head Restraints.

Additional standard equipment includes LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and Traction Control System (TCS).

In addition, the Infiniti EX also offers a host of available advanced technologies including: Lane Departure Prevention system (LDP), Intelligent Cruise Control, Distance Control Assist (DCA) and Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) with Forward Collision Warning. The Blind Spot Warning (BSW) system illuminates an indicator light if another vehicle is detected in the blind spot area. If the driver then uses the turn signal, the indicator flashes and an audible warning sounds.


About Infiniti

Infiniti offers a full-line of luxury performance automobiles, including the G Coupe, Sedan and Convertible, M sedan, EX and FX crossovers, and the QX full-size SUV. More information about Infiniti and its Total Ownership Experience® can be found at www.InfinitiUSA.com.


http://www.nissannews.com/pressrelease/2626/1/infiniti-ex35-named-iihs-top-safety-pick

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

The 2012 Infiniti Lineup: Charting the Changes

Following the 2011 introduction of two next-generation redesigns, the Infiniti M and Infiniti QX, and two highly significant model line extensions in the form of the Infiniti G25 Sedan and Infiniti M Hybrid, the Infiniti lineup enters the 2012 model year with a number of product enhancements - led by a refreshed front exterior design for the Infiniti FX. Key changes to the 2012 Infiniti lineup include, but are not limited to, the following:
  • Infiniti M - All-new360-horsepower, 32-mpg M Hybrid. Enhancements to the rest of the Infiniti M line include a new 18-inch Wheel Package, the combining of the previous M56 Sport and Sport Touring Packages into a single Sport Package, and the availability of the Graphite interior for models equipped with the Deluxe Touring Package. Available now. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE 2012 M

  • Infiniti G Sedan - Content refinements to the Limited Edition and Sport Appearance Edition. The G37 Limited Edition adds a new Graphite interior color (replaces the previous Monaco Red interior), a Black Obsidian exterior color and dark-finish 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels. The G37 Sport Appearance Edition model changes include a new Midnight Black grille. Other 2012 refinements include one new exterior color, Malbec Black. Available September 2011. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE 2012 G SEDAN
     
  • Infiniti G Coupe - No major refinements for the new model year. Available September 2011. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE 2012 G COUPE
     
  • Infiniti G Convertible - Changes include the addition of a standard spare tire (replacing the previous repair kit). In addition, the previous Limited Edition package is no longer available. Available September 2011. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE 2012 G CONVERTIBLE
     
  • Infiniti QX - Enhancements include the addition of Blind Spot Intervention to the Technology Package, the addition of the Bose Cabin Surround sound system with 15 speakers (two additional for 2012) to the Deluxe Touring Package, the addition of heated second row seats and remote tip-up second row seats to the Theater Package (from the Deluxe Touring Package) and the addition of headlight washers to QX56 2WD models with Deluxe Touring Package. The 22-inch Wheel Package (introduced in late 2011) carries over to 2012. Available August2011. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE 2012 QX
     
  • Infiniti FX - Revised front grille and front fascia design, revised meter illumination, standard heated front seats on all models and the addition of a new "Limited Edition" for the FX35 AWD. The Limited Edition includes an extensive list of special features, starting with an exclusive Iridium Blue exterior color, 21-inch 10-spoke dark finish aluminum-alloy turbine wheels, Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System, and Around View Monitor. Other 2012 Infiniti FX enhancements include a new exterior color, Graphite Shadow (replaces Platinum Graphite), a new 20-inch wheel design for the FX35 Deluxe Touring Package, the addition of Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS) to the FX50 Sport Package, and a shift of the quilted leather climate-controlled front seats to the FX35 Deluxe Touring Package from the Premium Package. Available October 2011. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE 2012 FX
  • Infiniti EX - Enhancements for the new model year include the addition of HomeLink Universal Transceiver as standard equipment on the EX35 Journey (previously part of the Deluxe Touring Package). Available September 2011. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE 2012 EX
     
  • Infiniti JX - The all-new Infiniti JX 7-passenger luxury crossover is set to be previewed at the 2011 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, prior to its global debut at the upcoming Los Angeles Auto Show in readiness for a spring 2012 introduction as a 2013 model. The new Infiniti JX is designed to push the boundaries of what a luxury crossover can be - with signature styling cues of the brand, such as dynamic and elegant line treatments inspired by nature. It will feature a stunning interior, while offering exceptional seating flexibility, easy access to the roomy 3rd row, plus the latest in-vehicle technology - including advanced telematics. More details will be released as they become available. 

2012 Infiniti EX Detailed Overview

2012 Infiniti EX
The Infiniti EX35 combines a sleek, sculpted, elegant skin, exhilarating driving performance and an engaging interior environment. Enhancements for the new model year include the addition of HomeLink Universal Transceiver as standard equipment on the EX35 Journey (previously part of the Deluxe Touring Package).

Key highlights of the 2012 Infiniti EX include:

  • Standard advanced 297-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine and 7-speed automatic transmission.
  • Available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive.
  • Standard 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, available 19-inch wheels and tires (Deluxe Touring Package).
  • Available Blind Spot Warning (BSW) system.
  • Available Around View Monitor utilizes four small cameras located front, side and rear to give the driver a "top-down view" of the outside of the vehicle and help reduce blind spots when parking.
  • Other driving aids include available Lane Departure Prevention system (LDP), Intelligent Cruise Control, Distance Control Assist (DCA) and Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) with Forward Collision Warning.
  • A long list of other available features, including standard leather-appointed seating and RearView Monitor, and available driver's seat headrest coat hanger, advanced audio systems and power up-folding 2nd row seat.


The 2012 Infiniti EX is available in four models: EX35 RWD, EX35 AWD, EX35 RWD Journey and EX35 AWD Journey. It goes on sale in September 2011.

2012 Infiniti FX Detailed Overview

2012 Infiniti FX
The Infiniti FX, Infiniti's iconic performance crossover, enters the 2012 model year with big news - a revised front grille and front fascia design, revised meter illumination, standard heated front seats on all models and the addition of the new Limited Edition FX35 AWD model.

The 2012 FX Limited Edition includes an extensive list of special features, starting with an exclusive Iridium Blue exterior color, 21-inch 10-spoke dark finish aluminum-alloy wheels, dark tinted headlights and roof rail crossbars, aluminum pedal accents, Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System, Around View Monitor, Graphite interior with unique blue piping on the floor mats and more.

Other 2012 enhancements include a new exterior color, Graphite Shadow (replaces Platinum Graphite), a new 20-inch wheel design for the FX35 Deluxe Touring Package, the addition of Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS) to the FX50 Sport Package, and a shift of the quilted leather climate-controlled front seats to the FX35 Deluxe Touring Package from the Premium Package.

Key highlights of the 2012 Infiniti FX include:

  • Available with a choice of a 390-horsepower 5.0-liter 32-valve DOHC V8 engine with VVEL (Variable Valve Event & Lift) or with a 303-horsepower 3.5-liter 24-valve DOHC V6.
  • Both engines are paired with a standard 7-speed automatic transmission featuring Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) and available solid magnesium paddle shifters.
  • Available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (standard on FX50), double-wishbone front/multi-link rear suspension and large 4-wheel disc brakes, along with available Continuous Damping Control (CDC), Rear Active Steer, Intelligent Brake Assist and 6-spoke 21-inch super lightweight aluminum-alloy wheels (FX50 Deluxe Touring Package).
  • A warm, modern, inviting environment highlighted by a driver-oriented cockpit with intuitive controls, available sport seating and advanced audio, navigation and technology ranging from an 11-speaker Bose-developed audio system to Infiniti Intelligent Key, available Intelligent Cruise Control (Full-Speed Range) and available Around View Monitor system.
The 2012 FX is available in three models: FX50 AWD with 5.0-liter V8, FX35 AWD with 3.5-liter V6 and FX35 RWD with 3.5-liter V6. It goes on sale in October 2011.

2012 Infiniti QX Detailed Overview

2012 Infiniti QX
Following its total redesign for 2011, the Infiniti QX has experienced record sales and strong media and consumer reviews. Featuring an all-new platform versus the previous generation QX - along with a new exterior and interior - the Infiniti QX is designed to attract and hold viewers' attention, conveying its underlying sense of power and strength. The styling is dynamic, its size capable of transporting up to eight adults and their belongings with spacious elegance, and its drivetrain rugged enough to handle tasks such as towing boats or trailers (8,500-pound towing capacity, when properly equipped), while also offering 14% better fuel economy (EPA Combined) than the previous generation QX.

Enhancements for the 2012 model year include the addition of Blind Spot Intervention to the Technology Package, the addition of the Bose Cabin Surround sound system with 15 speakers (two additional for 2012) to the Deluxe Touring Package, the addition of heated second row seats and remote tip-up second row seats to the Theater Package (from the Deluxe Touring Package) and the addition of headlight washers to the QX56 2WD Deluxe Touring Package. In addition, the 22-inch Wheel Package (introduced in late 2011) carries over to 2012.

Key highlights of the 2012 Infiniti QX include:

  • A high-stiffness frame structure that enhances ride comfort while reducing noise, vibration and harshness.
  • A standard 5.6-liter V8 engine that combines the responsive acceleration of Infiniti's VVEL (Variable Valve Event & Lift) technology with the efficiency of Direct Injection Gasoline (DIG) and 7-speed automatic transmission - rated at 400 horsepower and 413 lbs-ft of torque.
  • An interior that is long on luxury and comfort, including standard Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System, Around View Monitor, Bose 13-speaker Premium Audio System, available perforated semi-aniline leather-appointed seating and an available Theater Package with dual 7-inch color monitors, which allows different sources to be played at the same time.
The 2012 QX is offered in two fully equipped models - Infiniti QX56 2WD and Infiniti QX56 4WD. It is scheduled to go on sale in August 2011.

2012 Infiniti G37 Convertible Detailed Overview

2012 Infiniti G37 Convertible
Now in its fourth year of production, the 2012 Infiniti G Convertible again features athletic, well-proportioned coupe-like styling (with the top raised), flowing front fenders, wave-like hood, signature Infiniti double-arch grille. Its exclusive body structure for open-top use includes unique panels from A-pillar rearward (compared to the G Coupe) and an exclusive three-piece power retractable hardtop with one-button operation.

Modifications compared to the G Coupe include a wider rear track, modified rear suspension and a special convertible-focused interior with rear Pop-up Roll Bars and available Bose front seat Personal Speakers and available climate-controlled front seats. For 2012, the previous Limited Edition package is no longer available. Other changes include the addition of a standard spare tire (replacing the previous repair kit).

Key highlights of the 2012 Infiniti G Convertible include:

  • Standard leather-appointed seating and an available Bose Open Air Sound System that dynamically changes equalization based on outside noise, vehicle speed, and top position, and an adaptive climate control system that adjusts fan speed in accordance to top position and vehicle speed.
  • Technology features include standard RearView Monitor and available Pre-Crash Seat Belts and Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC). The G's available Infiniti Navigation System includes XM NavTraffic Real-Time Traffic Information, NavWeather with Real-Time Weather and 3-day forecast (XM subscription required, sold separately), Streaming Audio via Bluetooth and Zagat Survey Restaurant Guide. The system also features a touch screen and Voice Recognition.
  • Every 2012 G Convertible comes equipped with a standard 3.7-liter VQ-series V6 with VVEL (for Variable Valve Event and Lift) rated at 325 horsepower. The engine is backed by a choice of an electronically controlled 7-speed automatic transmission with available solid magnesium paddle shifters or a responsive close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission.
  • The G37 Convertible Sport 6MT adds sport-tuned steering and larger sport brakes, along with 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels and W-rated performance tires.
The 2012 G37 Convertible is available in G37 Convertible and G37 Convertible Sport 6MT models. It is scheduled to go on sale in September 2011.