NP200 production at the Nissan plant
Nissan South Africa (SA) has announced that it may cut jobs at its local operations as it halts production of the NP200 half-ton bakkie.
While the Nissan SA plant in Rosslyn, Tshwane, is set to continue production of the Navara one-ton pickup, assembly of the NP200 will end in March, when the vehicle will reach the end of its already extended lifecycle.
“The immediate replacement model for NP200 was planned to be built on a shared platform in Russia,” says the Japanese manufacturer.
“However, the geopolitical situation in Russia means this model is no longer viable due to significantly reduced volumes.
“In line with our African strategy, securing a second model for production in South Africa is a priority, and a study into an alternative vehicle is already progressing.”
However, notes the company, until such future plans are confirmed, the business will be operating at reduced production volumes.
“The business…needs to act responsibly to maintain its long-term competitiveness and be ready to secure future opportunities.
“Nissan South Africa has now entered into a formal consultation phase to restructure the business, which could result in a reduction in the number of employees across the company.”