SEPTEMBER 29, 2016
Introduction/Micra Background
Good morning.
Today marks an important milestone for Nissan. We are redefining one of Nissan’s most iconic cars – the Micra.
Since the Micra was first introduced 30 years ago, 7 million vehicles have been sold worldwide – 3.5 million in Europe. We believe the fifth-generation Micra – the Micra Gen5 – is just as innovative as the original, and it will create a new milestone.
This new generation Micra will also raise expectations for what a hatchback can, and should, deliver to its customers. The European hatchback market is the largest in the world. Drivers are looking for dynamic design and performance that offers an agile and exciting driving experience, equipped with the latest technologies. They expect their vehicles to fulfill every aspect of their lifestyles.
These expectations required us to completely re-invent the Micra.
From its sleek design to its cutting-edge technologies…to its responsive acceleration and steering, and comfortable, quiet interior… the new Micra
is bringing a new level of excitement and sophistication to city living…and city driving.
Product Overview
Every detail of the new Micra has been designed and engineered to provide an exciting driving experience.
The first thing you notice is the athletic exterior design. It is lower…wider…longer…and sleeker than its predecessors – and most of its competitors.
And as you can see from the 8 cars presented here …each vehicle can be customized to match the personality and aspirations of its driver. Customers can choose from 10 body colors for the exterior, and 3 optional interior trims. In total, there are 125 variations.
The interior features top-of-the-line materials. The cabin is designed to be ergonomic, roomy, and quiet. It offers maximum comfort for both driver and passengers…and reduces driver fatigue at long distances.
The new Micra comes equipped with advanced features and intuitive technologies. One is the premium BOSE Personal Sound System. Speakers are embedded into the driver’s head rest, as well as the A-pillars and front doors, for a 360-degree listening experience. Today marks the world-premiere of this breakthrough audio system.
Smart-phone connectivity is also at the driver’s fingertips...a priority for today’s customers who expect constant connection, even while on the road.
The new Micra will also bring to the market the latest generation of Nissan Safety Shield technologies… advanced features more commonly found on upper segment models.
It will be the first Nissan vehicle in Europe equipped with Intelligent Emergency Braking with pedestrian recognition.
Unique in the B-segment, the new Micra will be the first to offer Lane Departure Prevention. The 360-degree Intelligent Around View Monitor system, blind spot warning and traffic sign recognition will also be available.
But safety does not come at the expense of enjoyment.
The Micra’s exceptional aerodynamic performance measures at the highest levels for a hatchback. The Active Ride Control allows for greater comfort, while Active Trace Control enables sharper handling. And a new brushless electric power steering system will be now available for Micra, allowing for a more assured and responsive drive.
Engine efficiency was also a key focus in redefining the Micra. At launch, customers will have the choice between a turbo-charged three-cylinder petrol engine and a 1.5-litre diesel.
Intelligent Mobility
These engines...together with efficient aerodynamics …mark another step forward in Nissan Intelligent Power. Combined with the advanced safety shield features…building blocks of autonomous drive… the new Micra embodies the elements of Nissan Intelligent Mobility.
With Nissan Intelligent Mobility as our North Star, Nissan is committed to leading the way to a new era of safer, more efficient, more connected...and more exciting...mobility.
This vision inspired us to launch in 2010 the pioneering LEAF, the world’s best-selling EV...years before our competitors.
It has also fueled the development of cutting-edge autonomous drive technologies.
Last month, we took another critical step forward in our development of autonomous drive. Nissan launched the fifth-generation Serena minivan in Japan, the first vehicle infused with our ProPilot technology. ProPilot technology allows cars to drive autonomously in a single lane, navigating traffic conditions on highways.
European customers won’t need to wait long to experience this technology. Next year, we will launch a Qashqai with ProPilot technology in this market. And by 2020, the Renault-Nissan Alliance plans to launch 10 models with autonomous drive technology.
Alliance
In addition to innovation, we’re focused on delivering new levels of manufacturing efficiency.
The new Micra marks the return of the Micra production to Europe…and signals Nissan and the Alliance’s ongoing commitment to manufacturing and delivering cars in Europe for European customers. Localizing production is a critical part of our strategy to remain flexible to customer needs.
This is possible thanks to the power of the Renault-Nissan Alliance. The new Micra will be jointly produced in Renault’s Flins plant….the first time that a Nissan passenger car will be manufactured at a French Renault factory. This location leverages significant economies of scale, and European production will provide greater flexibility and quicker response times for our European customers.
It's a win for Nissan… it's a win for Renault…and it will be a win for European customers…who want attractive, quality products designed with their needs in mind.
Conclusion
With its contemporary design, innovative technologies, and world-class agility, the new Micra will be the ideal vehicle for modern urban dwellers to get the most out of city life.
The new generation of the Micra will be available to customers in under six months. We are excited to re-introduce the Micra to the European market…and the world…while also raising the standards for quality, personalization, and innovation in this segment.
Thank you.