Datsun developing a sub-GO hatchback for emerging markets

Since being launched in India a few months ago, Datsun seems to have gotten off to a decent start. The Japanese manufacturer has been generating consistent volumes, helping Nissan show a positive growth since the past few months. While it is common knowledge that Nissan is going to launch the GO+ very soon, the company’s global chief planning officer, Mr. Andy Palmer, has revealed that they have been working on a new car which will slot below the GO hatchback.

The new hatchback will be based on a new platform which will be shared with Nissan's long-term partner, Renault, which will also sell the car with its own badging in its other markets. The hatchback will be manufactured in India with 100 per cent localisation and will also be shipped off to the manufacturer’s other emerging markets. 

Speaking during the launch of Nissan Sunny facelift, Mr. Palmer said, "You are only seeing parts of the story with the recently-launched Datsun GO hatchback and the soon-to-be launched GO Plus MPV. But we have got an A platform vehicle to come below that where the space is very spartan. This will be priced lower than the GO." 

Nissan aims to capture atleast 10 per cent of India’s market share, up from the two per cent it currently has. Nissan, the parent company, had revived the Datsun brand to introduce budget cars in emerging markets like Russia, Indonesia, South Africa and Brazil. While Datsun cars are currently sold through Nissan showrooms, the manufacturer is planning set up an independent dealership network by the end of this fiscal year.