Innovative Technology and Skilled Workforce Power Nissan Kicks Production in Latin America

Nissan Latin America is experiencing an intense period with the arrival of the new Nissan Kicks and its production rollout in Mexico.

Launching the production of a new vehicle is a major undertaking that requires cutting-edge machinery and extensive staff training, which begins 18 months before production starts.

"The advancement of Nissan's manufacturing project in Latin America hinges on proactive training. It is our talented workforce, combined with state-of-the-art technology, that makes it possible to produce modern, high-quality vehicles," said Joan Busquets, Vice President of Manufacturing at Nissan Mexicana.

As part of its commitment to employee safety, Nissan has strengthened its procedures to identify, prevent, and eliminate potential workplace risks. This includes the implementation of the “kiken yochi” methodology, which raises awareness among employees about hidden risks in their operations, encouraging them to take action to prevent incidents.

Additionally, Nissan introduced the “tachi ai” approach, which focuses on evaluating and eliminating safety risks during the design and manufacturing stages of new machinery and equipment.

Quality remains a top priority. Over 350 standards in vehicle functionality and operational systems were part of the training provided to ensure 100% compliance with assembly parameters, guaranteeing the physical integrity and safety of the new Nissan Kicks occupants. Inspectors and operators received training in "detection capability" to meet international governmental regulations.

The company has also integrated next-generation technology, which required specialized training, such as the "Laser Welding" machine, an eco-friendly tool that enhances precision in processes, and the "Side Glass Robot," an innovative system that ensures perfect assembly of the vehicle's windows. Other automated systems were introduced to improve ergonomics and positively impact the production line work.

The new Nissan Kicks comes equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system that uses sensors to alert the driver of any pressure fluctuations.

Training at Home Base

A team of engineers, staff, and technicians from Nissan plants across Latin America traveled to Nissan Motor Corporation's headquarters in Japan to deepen their understanding of the new Nissan Kicks model. They learned specialized techniques to ensure the perfect assembly of components based on the latest technology.

This knowledge was passed on to more than 3,000 plant workers over the last 18 months, supplemented by training with prototype units, both static and dynamic, as well as simulators to smoothly integrate new operations, techniques, machinery, and tools into production processes.

To simplify and enhance the ergonomics of the production process for the new Nissan Kicks, the company added 70 robots and 30 Portable Spot Welding (PSW) machines, which streamline the production workflow. With over 4,000 welding points ensuring the structural strength of the vehicle’s body, Nissan’s team of talent, along with 455 automatic robots and 193 PSW machines operated by specialized technicians, drives innovation and brings the new Nissan Kicks to life.

Nissan in Mexico

Since Nissan’s establishment in Mexico in 1992, it has produced more than 7.5 million vehicles at its Nissan Aguascalientes 1 plant. The facility also houses Nissan’s Global Training Center for the Americas region, the second center of its kind established outside of Japan.