Ghosn: Nissan will not offer any hybrid-only models like the Prius

Nissan’s CEO Carlos Ghosn told Automotive News today that he has ruled out a stand-alone hybrid like the Toyota Prius.

“We don”t have this in our plans,” Ghosn said. “We are not intending to play a leadership role in hybrids. “One company already assumed leadership in the technology. We want leadership on EVs.”

Ghosn said that Nissan will offer hybrid variants of existing models in its lineup.

Nissan’s first in-house technology will be seen in the 2011 Infiniti M35, which will go on sale in the U.S. in spring 2011. Nissan’s hybrid system for the Infiniti M consists of a single electric-motor/twin-clutch arrangement, mated to a naturally aspirated 3.5L V6.

2011 Infiniti M:

2011 Infiniti M 2011 Infiniti M 2011 Infiniti M 2011 Infiniti M

– By: Stephen Calogera