Over 100 Years Of Exciting Innovation Discover Our Story

After studying manufacturing in the United States, Masujiro Hashimoto establishes the Kwaishinsha Motor Car Works, forerunner of today’s Nissan Motors.

The launch of the 10 horsepower DAT 31 was the beginning of a new era, its name coming from the initials of the company’s three major investors.

A new factory is commissioned and the Kwaishinsha Motor Car Works officially becomes the DAT Motor Vehicle Company. The first prototype is nicknamed ‘Son of Dat’, which becomes ‘Datsun’.

Nihon Sangyo assumes ownership; the company name becomes Nissan; the vehicles are still called Datsun and a new logo appears, representing the rising sun on the horizon – a symbol of power and integrity.

Datsun Phaetons are imported into Australia, the beginning of a long and successful relationship.  

The imposing Nissan 70 sedan is launched, the first of our cars to wear the Nissan name.

As a response to serious oil shortages, Nissan develops and markets the ‘Tama’. An all-electric powered car with a range of just under 100km, remarkable for its time.

Post-war production starts again at the Yokohama plant with the manufacturing of a version of the Austin A40.

The Datsun 112 is launched, an innovative car that wins the prestigious Mainichi Industrial Design Award for its ‘novel design, manoeuvrability, and comfortable interior’.

The 6th Australian Mobilgas Trial, called ‘the world’s cruellest rally,’ was the longest motorsport event in the world at the time; after 16,000 punishing kilometres, a Datsun 210 takes class honours.

Sir Lawrence Hartnett, often referred to as ‘the father of the Australian automotive industry’, is so impressed with the Datsun Bluebird P310 that he secures the Australian distribution rights.

The 4WD Patrol that was to become a legend for its all-terrain capabilities and indestructibility goes on sale for the first time.

Called the Fairlady Z in Japan and the Datsun 240Z in export markets, this vehicle re-defines what a sports car should be, winning the gruelling and demanding Safari Rally in 1971.

As a further sign of its long-term commitment to Australia, Nissan opens its new Australian headquarters in Dandenong, Victoria.

As part of an international re-branding program, the Datsun name is phased out. Worldwide marketing under the Nissan brand begins in 1983.

Following changes to eligibility rules for V8 Supercars, Nissan was the first new manufacturer to re-enter the championship with new race cars based on the Nissan Altima.

The legendary Nissan Navara pickup is reimagined for hard-working, hard-playing Australians. Power, efficiency and sophistication are seamlessly combined in the Nissan Navara.

From exciting concept cars to innovative safety technology development, the Nissan Intelligent Mobility framework is dedicated to making driving easier, safer and better for the environment – to improve drivers’ lives for years to come.