Nissan considers higher U.S. production as Rogue hybrid debuts

Nissan says it is looking to raise U.S. output as it prepares to launch the 2027 Rogue crossover, including a new hybrid version aimed at American buyers. Christian Meunier, chairman of Nissan Americas, said the company is close to full capacity at its Smyrna, Tennessee, plant and may add a third shift to expand production. The Rogue is a key model for Nissan in the U.S., where the automaker currently builds it alongside other crossovers. If added, a third shift could support hundreds or even thousands of additional jobs, though Nissan has not announced plans for a new factory. The company also revealed its new ePower hybrid system for the U.S. market. Nissan said the system uses the engine to generate electricity for the motors rather than directly powering the wheels, and it plans to start U.S. manufacturing of the hybrid next year after the gaspowered Rogue launches in Tennessee. Nissan is using the Rogue hybrid as part of a broader turnaround plan that includes streamlining its lineup and increasing domestic production over time. The automaker said its U.S. sales have improved this year, even as it continues to work through a wider global recovery effort.