Nissan Drops Ariya Electric SUV for 2026 Model Year
▼ Summary
– The new Nissan Leaf is an inexpensive compact EV now featuring active battery thermal management, and it is Nissan’s second modern EV after the Ariya SUV.
– Nissan USA will discontinue the Ariya SUV for model-year 2026, as reported by Automotive News, to reallocate resources and optimize its EV portfolio.
– The Ariya’s discontinuation is attributed to a 15% import tariff, as it is built in Japan and shipped to the US, adding financial strain to Nissan.
– Nissan has reduced Leaf production at its Tochigi plant due to a battery shortage and previously cut production plans because of Chinese rare-earth export restrictions.
– Nissan has postponed plans to build two EVs in Canton, Mississippi, and previously canceled another pair of EVs intended for production there.
Nissan has made the surprising decision to discontinue the Ariya electric SUV for the 2026 model year in the United States, according to a recent report from Automotive News. The move comes as the automaker shifts its focus and resources within a rapidly changing electric vehicle market. While the Ariya was only introduced a couple of years ago as Nissan’s second modern EV, following the more affordable Leaf, interested buyers will need to act quickly to secure one before inventory runs out.
In a letter sent to dealers and obtained by the trade publication, Nissan explained that the choice allows the company to reallocate resources and optimize its EV portfolio as the industry continues to evolve. It remains uncertain whether the Ariya will make a return for the 2027 model year, a decision likely influenced by both market conditions and Nissan’s own financial outlook.
A significant factor behind the discontinuation is the 15 percent import tariff imposed during the Trump administration. Since the Ariya is manufactured in Japan at Nissan’s Tochigi facility, the additional cost of shipping vehicles to the U.S. has placed further strain on the automaker’s finances.
This development follows earlier reports that Nissan has scaled back Leaf production at the same Tochigi plant due to a battery shortage. The company had already reduced output plans for the Leaf earlier this year, citing restrictions on Chinese rare-earth exports. In a broader strategic pivot, Nissan has also delayed production for two electric models originally scheduled for assembly in Canton, Mississippi, and canceled two other EVs intended for the same facility just months prior.
Nissan has been contacted for additional comment regarding these changes, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
(Source: Ars Technica)
