Toyota last week reported a massive loss of $4.5 billion for the fiscal year. In comparison, Honda posted a profit of $1.41 billion.
Amid a global downturn that has affected virtually every major manufacturer, Nissan said its worldwide sales for the fiscal year dropped nearly 10 percent, to 3.4 million vehicles. The company expects sales to fall even farther to 3.1 million units during the current year.
Although Nissan said it will delay some product programs to preserve cash, the company confirmed plans to begin production of pure electric vehicles in fall 2010 at its Oppama plant in Japan. The plant will be able to build up to 50,000 EVs a year.
Nissan will begin selling its new dedicated EV initially in Japan and the United States, with a broader worldwide rollout planned for 2012.
Inside Line says: The popularity of the GT-R didn't do much to drive traffic to Nissan showrooms in 2008. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent
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