Nissan’s story began in 1914, when the company produced its very first car under the Datsun name. Nearly two decades later, in 1933, founder Yoshisuke Aikawa officially introduced the Nissan name by listing Nihon Sangyo on the Tokyo Stock Exchange under the ticker NISSAN. In the nine decades since, Nissan has grown into a global automotive leader known for bold design, advanced engineering, and forward-thinking innovation.

Expanding Across the Globe

Nissan made its U.S. debut in 1959 at the Los Angeles Auto Show, introducing early Datsun models—a 1000 cc car and truck. As demand grew worldwide, Nissan expanded production, beginning in Mexico in 1966, followed by facilities in Australia and Taiwan. In 1983, Nissan opened its first American manufacturing plant in Smyrna, Tennessee, which remains one of the most productive automotive plants in the country.

Racing Heritage & Iconic Vehicles

By 1971, Nissan’s annual U.S. sales surpassed 250,000 vehicles, fueled by both consumer demand and a growing motorsports legacy. The Datsun/Nissan 510 and legendary 240Z became dominant forces on racetracks across two continents, helping solidify the brand’s performance reputation.
Milestones continued quickly: the 1-millionth Nissan sold in America in 1973, and in 1979 the launch of Nissan Design America (NDA) in La Jolla, California—an innovation hub tasked with bringing American style and creativity to the Nissan lineup.

NDA has since shaped some of the brand’s most influential vehicles, including the original Altima®, Pathfinder®, Pulsar NX, and the adventure-ready Xterra®.

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