Ricardo Flammini, CEO of Nissan Argentina, surprised by admitting they didn't expect such a rapid improvement in the country's macroeconomic conditions. In his first public appearance after the announcement of the local production halt, he explained the reasons behind the decision and outlined the company's plans for 2025.
On March 28, Nissan announced it will stop manufacturing the Frontier/Navara pickup in Córdoba by the end of this year. Production will be moved to Mexico, from where the entire region will be supplied. This decision had a significant impact on the local automotive industry.
"The decision had nothing to do with the country's economic or political situation, it's a Nissan decision", Flammini clarified to the press.
Production in retreat, but focused on growth
Despite the closure of its industrial operation, Nissan will continue to market the pickup in Argentina, now as an imported unit. The executive noted that the brand's growth plan is still in place and that the current context could even favor it.
"If the macroeconomy continues on this path, we'll be able to expand the portfolio", Flammini stated. The most notable news will be the launch of the new Nissan Kicks in the last quarter of the year. Manufactured in Brazil, it is a C-SUV with improvements in engine, equipment, and market positioning.
Drop in market share and risk reduction
Flammini acknowledged that in 2023 Nissan's market share fell from 4.6% to 3%, which meant a drop from eighth to tenth place in the brand ranking. The main reason was a corporate decision to reduce financial exposure to potential economic disruptions.
