NV Guide

What was the cost?

How much time and difficult was it to switch out these components?

Welcome to the site :) I am surprised at the fuel mileage. Do you tow a lot of carry heavy loads? One thing that I have heard other complain about if the lack of parts (like running boards) from Nissan.

NISSAN TO PRODUCE 100% ELECTRIC VAN IN BARCELONA - Electric variant of NV200 to launch in 2013- - All-new 100% electric e-NV200 to enter production in FY13 - Nissan's second all-electric vehicle allocated to Barcelona Plant - Major project investment by Nissan of €100 mn in Spain - More than 700 jobs to be created at Nissan and its Spanish suppliers - Multi-use vehicle providing families and businesses with unique driving experience - Interior functionality and cargo capacity similar to existing NV200 with class-leading running costs NISSAN NV FORUM - Today Nissan announced that a 100% electric compact van, the e-NV200, will go into production at its Barcelona plant in the 2013 Financial Year. The new model will be based on the existing award-winning NV200 currently produced at the plant and will be an important and innovative addition to Nissan's global range of light commercial vehicles (LCV's). e-NV200 will become Nissan's second all-electric vehicle (EV) following the launch of the multi-award winning Nissan LEAF in 2010, underlining Nissan's long-term commitment to zero emission mobility. The new model, which represents €100 million investment by Nissan in Spain, is expected to create around 700 new jobs at the plant and throughout its local supplier base. As the sole producer of e-NV200, Barcelona will supply world markets highlighting the growing competitiveness of Nissan's Spanish industrial operations. Last week a new medium duty truck was allocated to Nissan's Avila Plant in central Spain. e-NV200 will provide both businesses and families with functional and roomy interior space and will retain the host of innovative and practical features of the current NV200 line up combined with the most advanced powertrain components of the Nissan LEAF. This will deliver a driving range similar to the Nissan LEAF on a single charge and similar performance, together with best in class running and maintenance costs. Andy Palmer, Nissan Executive Vice President, said: "e-NV200 represents a genuine breakthrough in commercial vehicles and further underlines Nissan's leadership within the electric vehicle segment. "The new model will offer all the spaciousness, versatility and practicality of a traditionally powered compact van, but with zero CO2 emission at the point of use and also provide an outstanding driving experience that is unique to EV's. "Crucially, it will also offer class-leading running and maintenance costs, which makes it an exceptionally attractive proposition to both businesses and families." e-NV200 will also make a significant contribution to Nissan's aim of becoming the world's largest LCV manufacturer by 2016 as a key pillar of the Nissan Power 88 mid-term plan. Last year Nissan achieved an historic milestone of selling more than one million LCV's worldwide in a single year. Andy Palmer added: "e-NV200 represents a bold and innovative addition to our commercial vehicle range, which is already one of the broadest of any manufacturer. "I would like to thank the Spanish and Catalonian Government for their continued support of Nissan in Spain, and congratulate the Barcelona workforce for earning the right to produce what will be an extremely important model for Nissan globally." The current NV200 line up has already sold around 100,000 units. Its popularity led it to be chosen as the next generation New York City 'Taxi of Tomorrow' following a rigorous selection process. Currently, intensive evaluations of prototype NV200-based electric vehicles are being carried out in Europe. Trials will continue in coming months in order to provide real-world feedback from the most demanding usage. Feedback will help Nissan to fulfill exact customer requirements ahead of the start of production expected in FY13.

How Nissan's NYC taxi contract may be a ticket to Hollywood fame Auto Blog / Jeff Sabatini Whether this leads to any burnishing of the Nissan brand remains to be seen, but regardless, AN says the contract is worth 40,000 units in New York alone over the next 10 years. We have to expect that at least some taxi companies outside of the Big Apple won't be shy about ponying up the thirty-large Nissan is asking for its Mexican-made cab either, as the day when every last Ford Crown Victoria extant has joined the Checker Marathon in cabbie Valhalla is certainly coming. READ MORE HERE.

Drivers grumble, naturally, over New York's new cabs Paul A. Eisenstein | MSNBC Like most New York taxi drivers, Hakan Karakas has a ready opinion on everything – especially when you ask him about the “Taxi of Tomorrow.” “It’s like the communists have taken over,” he laments. “This is a free market, and I should be able to choose what I drive.” But the fact is Hakkan and the rest of the Big Apple’s independent and fleet taxi owners won’t have a choice. This week they’re getting a first look at the vehicles that will replace the aging Ford Crown Victoria sedans that have long served as the majority of New York’s yellow cabs. READ MORE HERE

Nissan NV Forum - Nissan Taxi Of Tomorrow Makes World Debut On Eve Of 2012 New York International Auto Show Nissan NV Forum - Each day, 600,000 New Yorkers hop in the back of a taxi - the iconic yellow cab that is a symbol of New York City around the world. Starting today, the first full vehicle prototype of the Taxi of Tomorrow can be seen by drivers, passengers and owners. The 2014 Nissan NV200 Taxi, New York's Taxi of Tomorrow, will make its global debut tonight at a special event in SoHo with Nissan President and CEO Carlos Ghosn and New York City Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg. Following the event, the Taxi of Tomorrow is headed to the 2012 New York International Auto Show, where it will be on display for New Yorkers and visitors from around the world. The auto show at the Jacob Javits Center is open to the public April 6-15. "We're proud to introduce a new era of urban mobility to New York with the Nissan NV200 Taxi - New York City's Taxi of Tomorrow," Ghosn said. "The exclusive Taxi of Tomorrow draws on Nissan's global experience in commercial vehicles, as well as insight from New York City taxi drivers and passengers, who helped identify important improvements over today's cabs. The Nissan taxi will deliver unprecedented levels of innovation and comfort to New York's 600,000 daily taxi riders." After a rigorous, two-year competitive bid selection process, the New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) selected the Nissan NV200 Taxi in May 2011 as the exclusive taxi of New York City beginning in late 2013. The Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum, the Design Trust for Public Space and Smart Design also have engaged with Nissan and the TLC in the vehicle's design. "The Nissan NV 200 unveiled today will be the safest, most comfortable and most convenient taxi the City has ever had," said New York City Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg. "New York City cabs have always been iconic, and now they will set a new standard. The 600,000 passengers who use taxis to get around every day deserve the cutting-edge technology and top-of-the-line safety features that this model delivers." Designed from the inside out, using input from New York taxi drivers, medallion holders, fleets and passengers, standard interior features and passenger amenities include: Ample room for four passengers and their luggage, offering substantial improvements over current taxi models Sliding doors with entry step and grab handles, providing easy entry and exit Transparent roof panel, presenting unique views of the city Opening side windows Independently controlled rear air conditioning Active Carbon Lined headliner to help neutralize interior odors Overhead reading lights for passengers and floor lighting to help locate belongings A mobile charging station for passengers, including a 12-volt electrical outlet and two USB ports Breathable, antimicrobial, environment-friendly, durable and easy-to-clean seat fabric, simulating the look and feel of leather Flat "no hump" passenger floor area for more comfortable ride Other notable vehicle features are: Proven 2.0L 4-cylinder powertrain, engineered to enhance the emission performance and fuel efficiency of the taxi fleet 150,000 mile powertrain warranty A low-annoyance horn with exterior lights that indicate when the vehicle is honking, so the horn is used less frequently. A 6-way adjustable driver's seat featuring both recline and lumbar adjustments, even with a partition installed Unique driver's seat material and stitching to promote improved airflow USB Auxiliary audio input and charge port for driver Standard navigation system with integrated rearview backup monitor Hearing Loop System for the hearing impaired Driver and passenger intercom system Pre-wiring for taxi T-PEP system In addition, important safety features of the Taxi of Tomorrow include: Only taxi ever to be safety tested and certified with full taxi partition Front and rear-seat occupant curtain airbags, and seat-mounted airbags for the front row Standard traction control and Vehicle Dynamic Control Sliding doors to lessen risk of pedestrians, cyclists and other motorists getting struck by doors opening unexpectedly Lights that alert other road users that taxi doors are opening With more than 13,000 taxis traveling a cumulative 500 million miles per year, building a taxi with the utmost durability is critical to the development process. Drawing on its full range of commercial vehicle experience - including providing taxis for municipalities around the world - Nissan will conduct significant validation testing for the Nissan NV200 Taxi prior to the vehicle going on sale. Additionally, as acknowledged by Mayor Bloomberg during the May 2011 announcement, the Taxi of Tomorrow will be the first New York taxi to be crash-tested with taxi equipment installed, including the partition. Nissan has also partnered with the Braun Corp., the world leader in automotive mobility products, to develop, engineer and produce a creative solution for a wheelchair-accessible taxi in New York. Drawing on Braun's innovation and experience in the mobility industry, Nissan will offer a mobility solution to New York taxi medallion holders when the taxis go on sale in 2013. As part of the Taxi of Tomorrow program, Nissan is also working with the City and taxi owners on a pilot program to study the use of zero-emission, electric vehicles as taxis. Nissan will provide six 100-percent electric Nissan LEAFs and three Level 2 charging stations at no charge to taxi owners and New York City to test the electrification of the taxi fleet. The Nissan NV200 Taxi will be produced in North America at Nissan's manufacturing facility in Cuernavaca, Mexico. Total manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP) of the vehicle, with all planned standard features, will be approximately $29,700. To stay informed on news and events related to Taxi of Tomorrow, follow it on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/taxioftomorrow or visit www.taxioftomorrow.com. About Taxi of Tomorrow In 2007, City officials convened a group of stakeholders, including representatives of taxi drivers, owners and passengers, to create a set of goals for the next New York City taxi cab, a project called the Taxi of Tomorrow. Taxi of Tomorrow was the result of a groundbreaking effort by the Design Trust for Public Space and the NYC Taxi & Limousine Commission to re-imagine the entire taxi system - including the vehicle - for the 21st century. In December 2009, the TLC issued a "request for proposals," inviting auto manufacturers and designers to submit their best ideas for a purpose-built vehicle to serve as a New York City taxicab. At the end of the evaluation, the Nissan NV200 was selected and will be the next New York City taxicab for ten years, beginning in 2013.

NISSAN ANNOUNCES U.S. PRICING FOR 2012 NV PASSENGER VAN Nissan NV Forum - announced pricing for the 2012 Nissan NV Passenger Van, which is on sale now at Nissan Commercial Vehicle dealers. The new 4-row/12-passenger Nissan NV Passenger Van joins the Nissan NV full-size commercial van series and is offered for both personal and fleet use. Driver and passenger comfort and safety are top priorities, as is flexibility – with a class-leading 324 seating configurations and segment-exclusive supplemental side curtain air bags for all rows. The Nissan NV Passenger is available in three grades and 4.0-liter V6 or 5.6-liter V8 engines. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices* (MSRP) for the 2012 Nissan NV Passenger models include: Model/Engine NVP 3500 S / 4.0-liter V6 --- $31,690 USD NVP 3500 SV / 4.0-liter V6 -- $33,890 USD NVP 3500 S / 5.6-liter V8 --- $32,590 USD NVP 3500 SV / 5.6-liter V8 -- $34,790 USD NVP 3500 SL / 5.6-liter V8 -- $37,390 USD About the 2012 Nissan NV Passenger Van Just one year after its entry into the commercial vehicle business in North America with the segment-changing Nissan NV full-size commercial van series, Nissan is expanding the lineup with the new NV3500 HD Passenger Van. The 4-row/12-passenger Nissan NV3500 HD features the most flexible seating configurations in the full-size passenger van segment, along with standard curtain supplemental air bags for all four rows of passengers, and standard headrests and integrated seat belts for all rear seating positions. The 2012 Nissan NV3500 HD Passenger Van is offered in a choice of two engines, a 261-horsepower DOHC 24-valve 4.0-liter V6 with 281 lb-ft of torque or a 317-horsepower DOHC 32-valve V8 with 385 lb-ft of torque. Both engines include Nissan's Continuous Valve Timing Control (C-VTC) for improved efficiency and are matched with a refined, heavy-duty 5-speed automatic transmission. The Nissan NV3500 HD Passenger Van is built on a foundation of a rugged heavy-duty, fully boxed ladder frame, with independent double wishbone front suspension with twin-tube coil-over shocks, solid rear axle with rigid leaf springs, heavy-duty disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), and engine-speed-sensitive power steering. Also standard is a 28-gallon fuel tank. In addition, the Nissan NV3500 features SUV-like maneuverability and easy access for serviceability due to its pickup truck-like front engine/full hood design. The NV Passenger Van's flexible seating features large comfortable 1st row seats with integrated outboard wear patches for durability, completely removable and repositionable split 2nd and 3rd row seats, and 50/50-split 4th row seat than can be partially or completely removed as needed. Mobile office support items include large center console with storage for laptop computer and charger, business cards, hanging files, pens and paper, available 120V outlets, and fold-down front passenger seat with underseat storage. Available technology includes a 5-inch touch-screen navigation system with integrated RearView Monitor, XMÒ Satellite Radio (XMÒ subscription required, sold separately); BluetoothÒ Hands-free Phone System, and telematics pre-wiring (Nissan Fleet Tracker) Utility is enhanced utility with its low step-in height, easy ingress and egress without intrusive seat belts (integrated into rear seats), wide door openings, and rear 50/50-split French doors. The new Nissan NV Passenger Van is assembled in Canton, Mississippi and available through a select network of certified Nissan Commercial Vehicle dealers nationwide.

Nissan NV200 Compact Cargo Van Offers Efficient Packaging with a Large Cargo Space Within a Small Footprint – Latest Addition to the Nissan Commercial Vehicle Lineup Combines Innovative Ease-of-Use and Smart Design While Minimizing Cost of Ownership – The all-new Nissan NV200 Compact Cargo Van, which makes its North American debut at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show, is set to join the growing lineup of Nissan Commercial Vehicles in early 2013 at 300 Nissan Commercial Vehicle dealerships nationwide. The NV200 follows the full-size Nissan NV Cargo, introduced in spring 2011, and the recently announced full-size Nissan NV Passenger that goes on sale this spring. The Nissan NV200 provides a new entry point for current cargo van and small pickup buyers looking for a compact, efficient alternative to their larger, less fuel-efficient vehicles. "There is an increasing need for a 'right-sized' van that optimizes cargo space while offering the best possible fuel economy and an affordable price – the exact sweet spots of the innovative new Nissan NV200," said Joe Castelli, vice president, Nissan Commercial Vehicles and Fleet. "Businesses today, both large and small, are also looking for vehicles that represent their brands in the best light – smart, innovative, and professional. NV200 does that and much more." While new to North America, the Nissan NV200 compact van is already in use in more than 40 countries around the world, receiving acclaim from both users and media alike for its optimal functionality and smart design. It won the 2010 International Van of the Year award in Europe, the 2010 Commercial Delivery Van (CDV) of the Year in China, and the 2011 Universal Design Award from Universal Design GMbH, a German organization dedicated to promoting the convergence of design and the emerging importance of customer needs. NV200 has also established a presence as the strong segment leader in Japan with a wide-ranging lineup that includes a taxi version. "Our global success provides a great foundation for the North American version, which we know will become an essential tool for business," added Castelli. High Volume in a Small Footprint, Exceptional Ease of Use As the next "innovation for business," NV200 offers a large cargo capacity of 123 cubic feet (estimated using SAE J1100 rev 2009) with a small exterior footprint. Unique for North America, the NV200 body has been extended 7.9 inches (200 mm) versus the models sold in other global markets. This longer body length offers additional cargo carrying capability for North American customers. Measuring just 186.2 inches in overall length, on a 115.2-inch wheelbase, NV200 is highly maneuverable in traffic and negotiating city parking spaces. Yet it allows for a 1,500-pound (estimated) maximum payload. The cargo area dimension between the efficiently designed wheelhouses allows for loading standard U.S. 40x48-inch pallets. Added utility is provided by the standard integrated mounting points, which allow installation of racks and shelves without drilling into the sidewalls, and six available floor mounted cargo hooks in the cargo area. NV200's exterior design features a Nissan signature front grille, aerodynamic front end design, and functional cabin design. The large body side includes low-effort dual sliding side doors and large areas for business signage and graphics. In the rear, NV200 features tall 40/60 split opening doors with dual opening positions (90 and 180 degrees). The low floor height and tall interior cargo height aid easy loading and unloading. Other exterior features include halogen headlights, durable black front and rear bumpers, and outside mirrors with wide-angle spotter mirrors and available heated function. "In many ways, choosing a new work van is like finding a new business partner. Beyond the basic necessities, it must instill trust that it can always get the job done – and that you are comfortable with for many years," said Castelli. "In that regard, along with the innovative cargo area features, NV200's interior is designed to offer comfort and convenience day in and day out." The driver-focused cockpit includes both comfort and functional features. The driver's seat is 6-way adjustable with manual lumbar and armrest and is designed for durability with outboard vinyl wear patches. NV200 offers "Mobile Office" functionality with a center console featuring laptop/hanging file folder storage, pen/pencil tray, CD holder, and dual cupholders. Recessed storage areas are provided on the upper instrument panel for folders and documents. In addition the passenger seat folds down to serve as a worktop or extends the cargo space for hauling longer items. Power windows with auto up/down are standard. A 12-volt power outlet on the instrument panel is standard, along with an available 12-volt power point in rear of center console. There is also a passenger-side underseat storage tray, drive computer, battery saver feature, AM/FM/CD with auxiliary input and two front door mounted speakers. Available technology includes a Nissan Navigation System, Bluetooth® wireless communications, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately), RearView Monitor, and telematics pre-wiring (Nissan Fleet Tracker). Standard safety features include the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS), roof-mounted curtain side impact supplemental air bags for front occupant head protection, front seat mounted driver and passenger side impact supplemental air bags, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Efficiency and Affordability The 2013 Nissan NV200 is built on Nissan's proven compact commercial platform and features an efficient 2.0-liter 16-valve DOHC 4-cylinder engine. The engine is matched with a responsive and efficient Xtronic CVT® transmission. The suspension utilizes independent struts and stabilizer bar in front and a leaf spring design in the rear. Front disc/rear drum brakes with Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) are standard, along with electric power-assisted steering and 15-inch steel wheels mounted with 185/60R15 high-load all-season tires. "The Nissan NV200 is designed as a durable work tool, with features such as the seating wear patches, low-effort sliding side doors and wide-opening rear doors," adds Castelli. "And since we fully understand how vans like this are used in business, it's also a very pleasant vehicle to drive and use as a mobile office." One other key element of NV200, built in from the earliest planning, is low total cost of ownership. The 2013 Nissan NV200 will have a competitive price, excellent fuel efficiency, and reduced upfitting costs (due to the standard integrated mounting points), all of which will provide business owners with a low total cost of ownership. Two Well-Equipped Models Two well-equipped models are available, Nissan NV200 S and Nissan NV200 SV in a choice of five exterior colors, matched with a gray cloth interior. In addition to the long list of standard features on the NV200 S, the SV model adds power heated outside mirrors, power door locks with auto-locking feature, remote keyless entry with two key fobs, cruise control with steering wheel-mounted controls, rear cargo floor mat, additional 12V power point in the rear of the center console, six floor-mounted cargo hooks in the cargo area, and full wheel covers. Several option packages will be available, including rear door glass; an Exterior Appearance Package with body-color bumpers, door handles and outside mirrors and chrome grille; Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System; and a Technology Package with Nissan Navigation System, RearView Monitor and XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately). The new Nissan NV200 will be manufactured in Cuernavaca, Mexico and available through a select network of certified Nissan Commercial Vehicle dealers nationwide.

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Nissan e-NV200 Concept Previews Future Affordable, Multi-Usage Zero Emissions Small Van Advanced Electric Vehicle Design, Based on the Award-Winning Nissan NV200, Makes World Debut at the 2012 North American International Auto Show Nissan NV Forum - The innovative Nissan e-NV200 Concept, which makes it world debut at the 2012 North American Auto Show in Detroit, serves as more evidence of Nissan's leadership position in the zero-emission automotive industry. Based on the popular Nissan NV200 multi-usage vehicle, the Nissan e-NV200 Concept previews a near-future production version of a full electric vehicle designed to provide businesses or families with flexible, roomy interior space, while achieving a dramatic CO2 footprint reduction. "With its 'no gas, no tailpipe, no emissions' powertrain, the Nissan e-NV200 Concept combines a quiet, comfortable driving experience with a large, highly versatile, functional interior space within a compact overall body length," said Hideto Murakami, corporate vice president, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. "A potential game changing vehicle in its segment, the battery capacity will support a driving range similar to the Nissan LEAF, while payload and cargo space will offer the same level as the current NV200. The production version would be targeted mainly at businesses, but also at private users or families in major regions." As a potential mass production vehicle, Nissan e-NV200 Concept would also provide a reduction in operating costs compared to current internal combustion engine vehicles. "A vehicle like the Nissan e-NV200 Concept would energize the current compact van market in more ways than one – helping improve the quality of urban life and providing a smart financial investment for large and small businesses alike," Murakami added. NV200 Functionality, Nissan EV Identity The Nissan e-NV200 Concept exterior starts with a foundation of a production Nissan NV200, then adds strong visual cues from the breakthrough Nissan LEAF EV. The versatile and highly acclaimed NV200 light commercial vehicle won the 2010 International Van of the Year award for Nissan, as well as the 2011 Universal Design Award from Universal Design GMbH, an organization dedicated to promoting the convergence of design and the emerging importance of customer needs. On top of those, it received the CDV of the 2010 Year award in China, while also establishing its presence in Japan as segment leader with a wide-ranging lineup that includes a taxi version. The Nissan e-NV200 Concept's EV-style identity starts with its front "face." The wide hood is accented by a large central charging port door, the blue–accented Nissan badge, and sweeping headlights with LED illuminated accents. The exterior is highlighted by the interaction of the strong main character lines and its broad body surfaces. Large front windows and long rear greenhouse combine with a pair of large glass roof panels to create an airy, open interior environment. The exterior is painted in a customized color, following the concept of the Nissan LEAF's Aqua Blue, which expresses a sense of environmental friendliness. Inside, the Nissan e-NV200 Concept interior depicts a clean, modern Nissan EV identity through use of the EV meters, blue colored accents and bright interior color palette, while also retaining the NV200's strong functional feeling. The e-NV200 Concept interior also features advanced telematics and a flat C-cluster display that resembles and responds to user input like a tablet computer. "The Nissan e-NV200 Concept is a standout design, sharing the iconic EV look established by the Nissan LEAF but in a modern, active, functional commercial vehicle form," said Murakami. "Inside, it offers a smart, convenient cockpit along with an EV feel and an easy-operational interface." Zero Emission Drivetrain The Nissan e-NV200 Concept shares its major drivetrain components with the innovative Nissan LEAF. Silent, zero emission power is supplied is by a lithium-ion battery composed of 48 compact modules and a high-response 80kW AC synchronous motor that generates 207 lb-ft (280 N-m/rpm) of torque. Unlike a conventional internal combustion engine, the motor delivers 100% of its torque from start with immediate response bringing excellent acceleration and smooth, comfortable driving feel. And, like the Nissan LEAF, the Nissan e-NV200 Concept offers a highly responsive, fun-to-drive experience that is in keeping with what consumers have come to expect from traditional, gasoline-powered vehicles. In line with the Nissan LEAF, the Nissan e-NV200 Concept offers excellent projected fuel economy – a critical factor for commercial vehicle operators. Real World Testing Underway In addition to the global debut of the Nissan e-NV200 Concept, evaluations of prototype NV200-based electric vehicles are currently being conducted to provide real-world feedback from delivery and other companies in various global markets. The initial trial was conducted in summer 2011 by the Japan Post Service, which used a single prototype for delivery and collection duties in Yokohama, Japan. Additional testing began in London last month in conjunction with FedEx. Feedback will help Nissan tailor future battery-powered light commercial vehicles to better fulfilll exact customer requirements. Nissan's New York "Taxi of Tomorrow" As a true global product, the Nissan NV200 is produced in Japan, Europe and China, and is currently available in 40 countries. Future launches are planned for North America and India. Undoubtedly its most visible role to date will begin in late 2013 when the Nissan NV200 becomes the foundation for New York City's new designated yellow cab, serving an estimated 600,000 passengers a day. Selected over other global manufacturers for its combination of compact exterior and maximum interior space in a multi-year "Taxi of Tomorrow" competition, the all-new Nissan NV200 Taxi design reflects the input of hundreds of taxi owners and drivers, and thousands of passengers who shared their ideas and priorities with Nissan designers and engineers. Interior features planned for the Nissan NV200 Taxi include a spacious cargo area to accommodate luggage for four passengers, sliding doors with entry step and grab handles for easy entry and exit, passenger-controlled rear-seat heat/air conditioning with a Grape Polyphenol filter to improve cabin air quality, enhanced interior materials intended to help passenger cabin smell fresher, and breathable, anti-microbial, easy-to-clean and environmentally friendly seat upholstery. For additional information on the Nissan e-NV200 Concept, please visit www.eNV200.com. For information on the Nissan NV200 Taxi, please go to http://taxioftomorrow.com/.

Nissan Announces NV Passenger Van Nissan NV Forum - Just one year after its entry into the commercial vehicle business in North America with the segment-changing Nissan NV commercial van series, Nissan is expanding the lineup with the debut in spring 2012 of a new NV3500 HD Passenger Van. Offered for both personal and fleet use, the 4-row/12-passenger Nissan NV3500 HD features the most flexible seating configurations in the full-size passenger van segment, along with one of the highest standard horsepower and torque ratings. “Just as we did prior to shaking up the commercial van category with the highly innovative Nissan NV, we first did our homework in the full-size van segment by studying the real-world needs, wants and desires of both families and fleet operators,” said Joe Castelli, vice president, Commercial Vehicles and Fleet, Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA). “As a result, we’re delivering a vehicle that offers everything owners are looking for – enhanced usability, driver and passenger comfort, flexible storage, dependability, durability and an affordable cost of ownership. Then we’ve topped it all off with signature Nissan style, performance and value.” The 2012 Nissan NV3500 HD Passenger Van will be offered in a choice of two engines, a 261-horsepower DOHC 24-valve 4.0-liter V6 with 281 lb-ft of torque or a 317-horsepower DOHC 32-valve V8 with 385 lb-ft of torque. Both engines include Nissan’s Continuous Valve Timing Control (C-VTC) for improved efficiency and are matched with a refined, heavy-duty 5-speed automatic transmission. The Nissan NV3500 HD Passenger Van is built on a foundation of a rugged fully boxed ladder frame with independent front strut/solid rear axle with rigid leaf springs suspension, heavy-duty disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and engine-speed-sensitive power steering. Also standard is a 28-gallon fuel tank. In addition, the Nissan NV3500 features SUV-like maneuverability and easy access for serviceability due to its pickup truck-like front engine/full hood design. “First and foremost, as we’ve learned through more than 75 years of Nissan global commercial vehicle experience, you have to start with a durable, dependable workhorse platform and highest quality components,” explained Castelli. “These vehicles go through more use and abuse in a year than regular passenger vehicles experience in a lifetime, so that was a priority. Then we turned our team of innovators loose on the usability and comfort aspects.” As a result, the Nissan NV3500 HD Passenger Van more than delivers on every key area of customer input, including: • Safety – integrated seat belts for all rear seating positions; standard headrests for all seating positions; and segment-exclusive standard side curtain air bags for all four rows of passengers Seating flexibility – 12-person seating capacity with up to 324 possible seat configurations; large 1st row seats to optimize comfort, completely removable and repositionable 2nd and 3rd row seats; 50/50-split 4th row seat than can be partially or completely removed as needed Mobile office support – large center console with storage for laptop computer and charger, business cards, hanging files, pens and paper; available 120V outlets; seat wear patch; fold-down front passenger seat with underseat storage; no engine intrusion into the cabin area Enhanced utility – low step-in height, easy ingress and egress without intrusive seat belts (integrated into rear seats); wide door openings; rear 50/50-split French doors with 243? rear opening Comfort and convenience – rear HVAC system, available personal lamps for 2nd, 3rd and 4th rows; rear cargo lamp behind 4th row; available 3rd row 12V outlet; numerous cupholders and bottle holders Technology – available navigation system, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, telematics pre-wiring, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately); and integrated rear view camera Modern style – Nissan truck twin strut signature grille; pickup truck style front end design; large windows with privacy glass; styled-steel 17-inch wheels “The Nissan NV3500 HD’s styling is professional and rugged outside, and completely passenger-focused inside,” said Castelli. “While you want to feel assured that there is room for all your luggage, for example, you don’t want to be treated like a piece of cargo inside. We’ve found a great balance between functionality and comfort that we believe sets the new benchmark in class.” Three Well-Equipped Models Designed to be affordable and to stand up to the abuse that full-size passenger vans face everyday, the new Nissan NV3500 HD is available in a range of models and option packages to fit a range of owner needs and uses. The 2012 Nissan NV3500 HD is offered in three well-equipped models, the NV3500 HD S, the NV3500 HD SV, and NV3500 HD SL (V8 engine only). A number of option packages are offered, including a Power Basic Package (S models only), with power windows and door locks; a Tow Package (V8 only), with extendable heated outside mirrors and Class-IV receiver hitch, wiring and heavy duty battery; the Power Basic Package + Tow Package (S-grade V8 only); and the Technology Package with Rear Camera (SV and SL only), featuring XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately), 5-inch touch-screen SD navigation system, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System (standard on SL-grade) and RearView Monitor. The new Nissan NV3500 HD will be manufactured in Canton, Mississippi and available through a select network of certified Nissan Commercial Vehicle dealers nationwide. For updates and more information, please go to www.nissancommercialvehicles.com.

The Chevy Express and Ford E-Series have been standards, however, they have become inefficient when compared to the NV and Sprinter. It will take some awareness and time, but the NVs will do well.

Nissan NV: The next sales dogfight? Full-sized vans Looks like Ford is planning a commercial van blitz. The automaker’s execs have their eyes focused on the newest competitor in the full-sized van market, the Nissan NV. Sales began last month. This is a real, strong competitor in a field dominated by Ford. In particular, Ford will be watching sales for Nissan’s high-roof models, which raise the roof about two feet. It’s tall enough on the inside to walk around, long enough to add a work bench and big enough to create a workshop on wheels. Different wheelbases are offered. Additionally, a passenger version -- engineered by Nissan as an airport shuttle or school bus -- also is planned. During a dinner earlier this month at the Geneva motor show, Derrick Kuzak, Ford’s global product development chief, said the automaker will do whatever it takes to maintain its leadership. Read more: http://www.autonews.com/article/20110321/BLOG06/110329981/1503#ixzz1HUElC8nV

Chrysler targets commercial van sector Fiat's Ducato, Doblo to be rebranded as Rams in '13 models Nissan NV Forum - The commercial van segment is dominated by Ford Motor Co. and General Motors Co., which represent more than 95 percent of sales with the Chevrolet Express/GMC Savana and the Ford Econoline/Club Wagon, as well as the new Ford Transit Connect. Daimler AG's Mercedes Sprinter is the other competitor in the segment. Under DaimlerChrysler AG, the Sprinter was sold as a Dodge, but after the two companies split, the Sprinter was reclaimed by Mercedes, leaving a hole in the Dodge lineup. Nissan Motor Corp. joined the fray this year with its new Nissan NV full-size van, which started production in Canton, Miss., in January. The first 12 deliveries were made in February. READ MORE HERE

First Drive: 2012 Nissan NV Building A Better Box For Your Budding Business Nissan NV Forum - Nissan has been a player in the world's commercial vehicle market for a long time. In fact, 2011 marks the company's 75th year in the industry, and these workhorses represent 20 percent of Nissan's total annual sales volume. Nissan's commerical trucks and vans are used around the world, with over 700,000 units sold in 2010 alone. Yet, it's highly unlikely that you've ever even seen a Nissan commercial vehicle. Nissan doesn't sell its commercial vehicles in the United States and Canada – instead, General Motors and Ford own the market. Things could change very quickly, however, because the 2012 NV commercial van is poised to hit the U.S. market. The Japanese automaker set out to build a commercial van to the exacting needs of this country's small business owners. It asked them questions and incorporated the thousands of answers it received. GM, Ford and even Mercedes-Benz should pay close attention, because the NV could be just what this country's blue-collar workforce ordered. READ MORE @ AUTO BLOG