Nissan has recently introduced a new plug-in pickup truck in the Chinese market known as the Z9. This vehicle, manufactured by Zhengzhou Nissan, is equivalent in size to the Nissan Frontier Pro and offers an impressive electric range of over 35 miles. What’s even more surprising is that the starting price for this electric pickup is just $16,600, but keep in mind that this price is specifically for the Chinese market.
Positioned as the electric counterpart to the domestically-built Nissan Frontier Pro, the Zhengzhou Nissan Z9 essentially mirrors the Frontier Pro in terms of specifications and pricing. The Z9 comes with a base model boasting a 17 kWh battery that provides 35 miles of range, making it a more affordable option compared to other electric pickups like the Slate EV, which starts at $28,000 before incentives.
For those looking for a bit more range, there is an option to upgrade to a 32.85 kWh battery in the Z9, offering nearly 85 miles of all-electric range. Even with this extended-range model priced at ¥168,900 (approximately $23,400), it remains competitive with other electric pickups on the market.
While the Z9 is set to be a success in the Chinese market, it is unlikely to make its way to the United States. Nissan has expressed international ambitions for its new electrified pickup, aligning with their strategy for electrification and smart transformation. However, given the challenges Nissan has faced recently, it is doubtful that the Z9 or its sibling, the Frontier Pro, will be available in the US.
Despite the uncertainty of a US release, Nissan remains optimistic about its global expansion goals, aiming to become a top exporter of pickups and off-road vehicles within the next three years. For fans of Nissan’s pickups, there may still be hope for a potential collaboration with Toyota to produce a new electric pickup that could appeal to a wider audience.
In conclusion, while the Zhengzhou Nissan Z9 is a promising addition to the electric pickup market, its availability outside of China remains uncertain. With the growing demand for affordable electric vehicles, it will be interesting to see how Nissan navigates the competitive landscape of electric pickups in the coming years.
