NSANY Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

Nissan Motor launched its Tekton SUV in South Africa on Monday as the Japanese automaker works to rebuild its position in the country after ending local vehicle production earlier this year. The Tekton is the first of several new models Nissan plans to introduce in South Africa, Africa’s largest auto market. Nissan sold its Pretoria manufacturing plant to China’s Chery Automobile this year, raising questions about its long-term commitment to the market. Nissan Africa Chairman Jordi Vila said the company is now maximizing production at other plants to improve competitiveness. The Tekton, manufactured in India, will be priced from 339,999 rand ($20,940) and makes South Africa its first African launch market after its global debut in India. The move toward an import-based business model comes as Nissan implements a global restructuring focused on cutting costs through plant closures, workforce reductions and a more streamlined vehicle lineup. $NSANY