Nissan Trucks From the 1970s to Today
This week we have been discussing the history of the Nissan truck. The earliest version was the Japanese military DAT. Through a series of merges and control shifts, Nissan eventually took over the DAT company. Shortly thereafter, the Datsun was born. Datsun lightweight pickup trucks revolutionized the American automobile industry in the 1950s. By 1979, when the last Datsun truck in the United States was sold, Nissan was a major contender. The company made the historic decision to become the first importer to manufacture trucks in the United States. Today we will take a look at the far-reaching consequences of that decision.
Nissan Truck Production
After a long search for the perfect location, Nissan eventually settled on Smyrna, TN as the new home of its American production facilities. Located just outside of Nashville, the site offered everything the new plant would need. The first production line of American-made Nissan trucks was introduced in 1983.
Nissan Motor Manufacturing Corporation U.S.A., or NMMC, has proved to be a real boon to the Middle Tennessee economy. The company has poured over a billion dollars into the facility, which continues to be a significant employer.
Nissan Hardbody
By 1987, Nissan was up to its sixth generation of American-built trucks. The Nissan Hardbody became a true trendsetter, selling over 100,000 units each year.
Nissan Frontier
Just ten years later, Nissan introduced yet another groundbreaking new truck. The Nissan Frontier offered a powerful 6 cylinder engine, a full range of options and the largest truck bed in its class. Additionally, the truck introduced the 4-door King Cab to the American market. It also received the J.D. Power and Associates Award for fewest quality problems.
Nissan Titan
In 2003, the company that had introduced us to the compact pickup truck was ready for a bold move. October saw the debut of the full-size Nissan Titan. The powerful 5.6 liter V8 engine boasted 305 horsepower and 379 pound feet of torque. However, the truck did not sacrifice comfort or usability, with the only 5 speed automatic transmission and best fuel economy in its class. The truck has won numerous awards.
The Future
Nissan has a long and proud history as a true innovator in the pickup truck industry. A recent partnership with Chrysler is set to bring about yet another set of innovations. If you would like to learn more about the Nissan trucks of today and tomorrow, we invite you to visit our convenient Nissan dealers – Wilmington.
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