Dongfeng Nissan files NX7 as plug-in hybrid with 40.9-kWh CATL battery

Dongfeng Nissan , Nissan Motor's joint venture in China, has filed its NX7 with local regulators, paving the way for the launch of the fourth model in its N series.

China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) released its latest batch of new vehicles set to be allowed for sale on Friday, with the NX7 appearing on the list as a plug-in hybrid SUV (sport utility vehicle).

That comes just two days after Dongfeng Nissan began teasing the model with official images, a sign that the launch timeline is accelerating.

The NX7 is 4,785 mm long, 1,920 mm or 1,932 mm wide and 1,660 mm or 1,665 mm tall, with a wheelbase of 2,815 mm, according to the filing.

By comparison, the NX8 extended-range SUV launched in April is 4,870 mm long with a 2,917 mm wheelbase. The NX7 is noticeably more compact.

The new model seats five, has a top speed of 180 km/h and a curb weight of 1,915 kg to 2,000 kg.

The NX7 is powered by a 1.5-liter engine codenamed NR15, with a displacement of 1,497 ml and output of 73 kW. Its drive motor has a peak output of 170 kW.

The energy storage device is a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, with cells produced by a joint venture between CATL (HKEX: 3750) and China FAW.

The battery pack has a capacity of 40.95 kWh and can provide an all-electric range of 220 or 225 kilometers, according to the filing information.

Promotional material released by Dongfeng Nissan after the filing was published said the NX7 carries a 40.9 kWh CATL battery that can cover a week of daily commuting.

The model comes with two tire options, 235/60 R18 and 235/55 R19, along with three wheel designs.

The NX7 offers an optional roof-mounted LiDAR, fender cameras, rear spoiler cameras, a sunroof and roof rails, as well as different wheel styles and a two-tone roof.

Dongfeng Nissan said the model will feature urban NOA (navigate on autopilot).

The NX8 is priced from 159,900 yuan ($23,549) to 209,900 yuan, with a limited-time starting price of 149,900 yuan. The NX7 is expected to be priced below that range.

The N series currently comprises the all-electric N7 sedan, the plug-in hybrid N6 sedan and the NX8 SUV.

The series had retail sales of 9,316 units in June , up 50.53% year-on-year, according to China Passenger Car Association (CPCA) data compiled by CnEVPost.

The N series sold 33,590 units at retail in the first half of the year. Cumulative sales have reached 86,359 units since deliveries began in April last year.

($1 = 6.7904 yuan)