‘Nissan 360’ – Celebrating 80 Years of Moving People – Part 9

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For an entire month, journalists from around the world descended in waves on Newport Beach, California for the Nissan 360 event.  The event is a month-long showcase of the latest breakthroughs in vehicle technology, sustainability and market expansion.  It was designed to provide journalists with inside information about Nissan, Infiniti and the all-new Datsun, allow them to drive most of the 100 various vehicles they brought along, and interact with Nissan's senior global management, technical experts and regional leaders.

... And what an event it was!

Nissan 360 took place from August 19 through September 15, and was spread out over several venues: At El Toro (a decommissioned Marine Corps Air Station),  The Resort at Pelican Hill on Newport Coast, and even Crystal Cove Beach!  This world-class event celebrated Nissan's 80 years of moving people worldwide, and coincides with Nissan’s continued execution of Power 88, the business plan announced in June 2011, with a goal of 8% global market share and 8% operating margins by the end of fiscal year 2016.

We were there, and we'd like to share with you the experiences and excitement of the event.  We'll show you photos of new global vehicle models, our driving impressions, major announcements about future products, insights from Product Planners and technical staff, and we'll even take you back in time for some highlights from Nissan's 80 years of innovation.

So, without further ado, let's get into it!

The Nissan 360 event was scheduled in "waves" - Nine groups, attending the event for four days, over the course of the month.  I was fortunate enough to be in the very last "wave," which meant everyone was on-point, any kinks were worked out, and the enthusiasm amongst the Nissan employees was electric... I've attended a lot of press events for NICOclub.com, but this one outshined them all.

Upon arrival at John Wayne Airport, Nissan 360 staff were there to whisk me and a few other attendees off to our home for the weekend - Pelican Hill Resort.

Pelican Hill's jaw-dropping views, stunning beauty and idyllic setting on the Newport Coast are just the beginnng.  This five-star, five-diamond destination was recently voted "#1 Resort in the United States" by  Condè Nast, and their service and attention to detail certainly showed why.

Here's a quick video of the view right after I checked in...



I'm a simple guy - I work on cars, I usually have grease under my nails, a random band-aid, and a sore back.  On top of that, I'm usually sleep-deprived (and sometimes a little cranky) from working on the forums.  So, it's not often I get to experience a place like Pelican Hill.  My quarters for the weekend was a gorgeous 850-square foot bungalow with an ocean view and the best of everything... I suppose I'm going to get a little spoiled.

Here's some pics of my bungalow, the entryway, and the surrounding areas.

       

For now, there's no time to soak in the whirlpool tub or watch the enormous TV - it's almost time to get ready for the opening dinner!  Nissan personnel provided each attendee with a package of necessities for the event, and they clearly went all-out with the thoughtfulness and planning.  A Nissan360 bag, a pair of flip-flops, some Oakley shades, a Nissan360 hat, and a map of the resort.



As if that weren't cool enough, each attendee received (for the duration of the event), a smartphone, pre-programmed specifically for each guest.  Through this device, you could access your itinerary for the weekend, view information and pictures of all of Nissan's vehicles, reserve drive times, access event personnel, and even set reminders for the next scheduled event!  High-tech for sure.



On my way over to the opening dinner, I couldn't resist getting some more photos of the amazing surroundings... I hope you enjoy them as much as I did.

           

Stick around, and join me for the opening dinner and some nostalgic Datsuns and Nissans!  Check it out here:  Nissan 360 - Part 2



                    [post_title] => 'Nissan 360' - A Global Event to Celebrate 80 Years of Moving People
                    [post_excerpt] => Journalists from around the world descended on Newport Beach for Nissan 360. We were there, and we'd like to share with you the experiences and excitement of the event.
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                    [post_content] => Heading over to the opening dinner, I stopped to enjoy the majestic views of the Newport coast - As you all know, pictures of a place like this really doesn't do it justice, you simply have to see it to experience it properly.  

Interestingly, the majority of my "wave" of attendees was made up of journalists and Nissan staffers from Nissan's burgeoning China market.  Sadly, I didn't learn much Mandarin, but a couple friendly staffers taught me nihao (hello) and xie xie ni (thank you).  

The Nissan360 team encouraged us all to mingle over cocktails and appetizers, but the truth of the matter is, it's hard to pay attention to food and beverage when you're in the presence of five of the most notable vehicles ever built by Nissan.  



Since we've got plenty of time, unlimited space (and I'm a Datsun nut), let's check them out:

   

1958 was an important year for the fledgling company, marking its first exports to the US market.  This 1958 Datsun 210 (with a 1-liter E-series engine) is often referred to as a "humpback sedan" by Datsun aficionados.  Here's why it's awesome: It was the first Japanese car to enjoy any real success as an export model and, perhaps more significantly, it had the honor of becoming the first Japanese car to attain international motorsport success. In 1958, two Datsun 210s entered the torturous Mobilgas Trial, an epic 16,250-kilometer trek around Australia. Out of the 67 cars entered, only 36 made it to the finish line. Two of those 36 cars to finish were the Datsun 210s. In fact, THIS very car finished first in its class.  It has since been refurbished to its original condition, but the damages sustained during the race were left as a reminder of the brutal environment the little Datsun survived.

   

The Skyline legend began in 1964. This very car, after being outfitted with a 2-liter straight-six engine, was entered in the 1964 race at Suzuka by Prince Motor Company. It brazenly challenged the established champion, a Porsche 904 Carrera GTS, and with the crafty driving of Yoshikazu Sunako, the Skyline pulled ahead during a brief period in the race. While it ultimately did not defeat the Porsche, this car placed second, followed by its Skyline teammates in 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th place. Toshiyuki Shiga, now Nissan’s Chief Operating Officer, says that day decided his path in life (I got to spend some time with Shiga-san later in the weekend - more on that later). Thus began the legend of the Skyline, and more importantly, Nissan's involvement in motorsports for the next fifty years and beyond.



The shapely and low-slung 1967 Nissan R380-II was intended to compete in the Japanese Grand Prix.  However, since that series was terminated in 1965, the R380 would instead be used to test high-speed aerodynamics. This led to the car being used to break five land speed records in late 1965, and in late 1967 the Type II set no fewer than seven international records.  The information gleaned from this testing led Nissan to break new ground in other racing car aerodynamics, which trickled down to its passenger vehicle designs. 

   

The fastest and most expensive Nissan road car ever developed was created to comply with the Le Mans GT1 Class regulations - which required manufacturers to build at least one street-legal version of the race car.  Nissan did things a little differently, building the street-legal version first, then developing the race car based on the testing and lessons learned during the development and construction of the street car.  This very Nissan R390 GT1 placed 3rd in the 1998 running of the 24 Heures du Mans.  Its 650hp twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter engine proved ultra-durable, as all four R390s completed the grueling race, placing 5th, 6th and 10th.

    

Arguably the most recognizable (and popular) car ever fielded by Nissan Corporation was the #46 BRE 510 race car.  Racing fans and experts didn't give the boxy 510 much of a chance when it entered the highly competitive Trans Am racing series in 1971.  However, this very car, driven by the legendary John Morton, simply destroyed the superstars of the under-2.5-liter class such as BMW, Fiat, Volvo and defending champions Alfa Romeo.  What many people don't know is that Peter Brock took the 510 from Japanese-market economy car to full-blown racing monster in just FIVE weeks. The little Dime went from the showroom floor to victory lane, went on to dominate the class for nearly a decade, and helped make the 510 one of the best-selling cars in the history of the Nissan brand.

Being in the presence of these cars, for a classic Datsun enthusiast such as myself, was a dream come true - I could have pored over the details of each car for hours, but the rest of the evening was calling. After enjoying an enthusiastic welcome from Victor Nacif, Nissan's Global Head of Product Communication (and former Vice President of Nissan Design Europe), there was much more Nissan Heritage to be experienced.  

Moving towards the shore, we were led onto the Pelican Hill Resort's manicured event lawn.  This lush setting overlooks the ocean, and features an iconic Italian rotunda. The event space was ringed with buffet tables of gourmet dinner, and the lawn was dotted with multiple vehicles, resting undercover... 



Let's go see some more nostalgic Datsuns and Nissans - Join me here:  Nissan 360 - Part 3



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                    [post_content] => Each classic vehicle was introduced and described by Mr. Nacif before being unveiled, eliciting "oohs" and "aaaahs" from the gathered attendees.  Eating dinner among these legends of Nissan's heritage, while chatting with other journalists, Nissan executives and staff, and other enthusiasts such as myself, was an experience I will never forget.  

Incidentally, during a conversation with Mr. Nacif, I mentioned that we collect and restore classic Datsuns.  He motioned at the assorted cars and asked a question I had been itching to answer - "Which of these is your favorite?"  As it turns out, we share the same love for the crisp, clean, classic design of the 1966 Nissan Silvia.  This handbuilt coupe, designated as model code CSP311, was one of 554 built utilizing the Roadster chassis and powertrain.  Only four exist in the US, and I've had the good fortune of driving one several years ago.  I will add a CSP311 to our collection someday.



In the interest of expediency, I'll list the rest of the cars, with links to additional information about each.

1935 Datsun 14 Roadster
1947 Tama Electric Car
1961 Datsun 320 Pickup Truck 
1961 Datsun Fairlady 1200 Roadster
1966 Silvia CSP311
1970 Datsun 240Z
1990 Infiniti Q45

Here's a little gallery of the rest of the Nissan Heritage display:

   
               

Dinner was superb, and I shared a table with my new friend Juan Guillen.  Juan is the founder and CEO of Latin Trends Magazine, a New York-based periodical that reports on pop culture with a Latin twist.  We shared some laughs and compared experiences working in media.  He's a true New Yorker, and I'll definitely look him up for a tour next time I'm in the Big Apple. 

Anticipating a full day to come, we all bid adieu to the scenic view, the spectacular cars, and the new friends we had made, and retired to our respective bungalows for the night...

Dreams of my next classic Datsun restoration filled my sleep, and I awoke excited to see what the next day held in store.

Ready to join me for Day Two of Nissan 360?  Let's go! Nissan 360 - Part 4



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                    [post_content] => Day Two of Nissan360 started off with a spectacular gourmet breakfast and a walk around the hotel grounds... At a resort such as this, you're bound to see some impressive cars, and no car guy can resist snapping a few pictures!

      

It's about a 20-30 minute bus ride to El Toro, so I thought I'd do a little research on the place and learn about the history... Until the closure of the base in 1999, El Toro was the largest Marine Corps air installation in the western United States.  The station was used for fighter jet training activities for almost 50 years, to support the operations and combat readiness of Fleet Marine Forces. El Toro MCAS is included on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's National Priorities List of hazardous waste sites requiring cleanup, and the question of how to use the 4,700 acres of publicly owned land is one of the most controversial issues facing Orange County today. 

Forget about all that - Today, all we care about it that it's a great place to host a HUGE automotive event!  Rolling onto the property, we were greeted by columns of helpful Nissan360 staffers, handing out bottled water, helping people find their way around, and ready and eager to answer any questions we might have. Looking around, we could see the main Nissan360 headquarters.

Also on-site were the Nissan Performance and Technology Center, as well as stations for Trucks and Light Commercial Vehicles, an Autonomous Vehicle Station, the World and City Drive Station, and various other assorted facilities such as the Nissan Refreshment Van, an Information station, a Bose Audio and Technology demonstration tent, and even a Media station (with wi-fi and charging ports).  Amazingly, ALL of these buildings and structures are temporary, constructed specifically for the Nissan360 event... The logistics of this project is enough to make your head spin!

   

Entering the main Nissan360 Headquarters for our first presentation, several of us grabbed some caffeine at the coffee bar - Go ahead, try and stump this young lady with your Starbucks-style order. She had it down to a science!



The first multimedia presentation gave us some in-depth insight into Nissan's role in emerging technologies, including safety systems, in-car connectivity and automation – all fields where Nissan has secured industry-leading positions. We also learned about how Nissan is aggressively extending its global presence through its longstanding alliance with Renault, complemented by more recent partnerships in different vehicle or engineering segments with Daimler, Mitsubishi Motors, AvtoVAZ, Dongfeng and Ashok Leyland.



With the presentation over, attendees were free to engage in their activity of choice, and I made an immediate beeline to the Nissan Performance and Technology Center, where I was able to get up-close and personal with some of Nissan's current motorsports hardware. Also in this area were the NISMO Test Track, and the GT Academy competition display.  

Ready to check out some Nissan Motorsports?  Join us for Part 5! 



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                    [post_content] => The ZEOD RC (Zero Emission On Demand Racing Car) the world’s fastest electric race car, will reach speeds of more than 180 MPH and is powered by the same lithium battery technology as the Nissan LEAF. It will make its competitive debut at the 2014 Le Mans 24 Hours, where it will be driven by Le Mans veteran and inaugural GT Academy champion Lucas Ordonez.

   

You're all familiar with the Red Bull Infiniti Formula 1 car, and it's incredible in person.  

       

And this was playing on the big screens - Too cool not to share.  Check it out!


After chatting with GT Academy winner Ashley Oldfield, I decided to try my hand at the Nissan360 GT Academy Face-Off.  The five best lap times for the day (Suzuka Circuit, GT4) would get the opportunity to compete in the NISMO 370Z for bragging rights.  A one lap, winner-take-all, mad dash to the prize.  Now, I'm no video game guy.  I rarely sit still, and it's been well over a decade since I played any video games.  In fact, Gran Turismo was still in its first iteration... Still, I climbed into one of the Sony Playstation Gaming Sleds that are used in the qualifying rounds of GT Academy, muddled through a few laps, and didn't expect to be in contention for a spot in the Face-Off at 2:30 pm.



In the meantime, I took a couple spins in the NISMO Leaf RC - the world’s first 100% electric, no tailpipe, track-ready race car.  Lest you think this thing is a marketing gimmick or a trailer queen, you'd be wrong. The RC uses a standard Leaf’s lithium-ion battery pack and 80-kW, 107-hp AC synchronous motor.  However, it's all wrapped in a carbon fiber monocoque and body panels, weighing in at 40% of a standard Leaf. 



We're talking about the beauty of power-to-weight ratios here, and the Leaf RC suspension is more "shifter kart" than "street car."  Watching it navigate the course, you're struck by its silence, even at full-boogie.



Driving the Leaf RC, you notice a few things: One, it only has two pedals, and realistically, the left (brake) pedal is rarely needed.  Two, steering is less than a turn lock-to-lock - with instantaneous torque, the steering needs to keep pace with the responsiveness of the drive wheels.  Lastly, despite what you hear when watching the Leaf RC from the outside, the driver gets a different sensation - You hear everything. The R-compound tires continually spray the bodywork with pebbles, the electric motor whines aggressively, and when off-throttle, you can distinctly hear the air rushing over the contours of the car.  It's a car that doesn't  LOOK terribly impressive on paper, but is an absolute adrenaline rush when you get behind the wheel.  I was so enthralled with the instantaneous acceleration, I bypassed the first turn, taking a quick shortcut between the 
cones... Here's a video of my first outing in the Leaf RC:



After my outing in the NISMO Leaf RC, I took a few more laps in some of Nissan's and Infiniti's finest track-worthy cars.  The G37 IPL has come a long way since I sold my supercharged G35 Coupe, and it's a car I could definitely live with on a daily basis.  In fact, I found it easier to drive fast than the Nismo Z (which we'll get back to later).  The 370Z Roadster and Coupe are both cars you could daily-drive, and enjoy the occasional HPDE track day or autocross event, without risk of embarrassment.  The 370Z Roadster has really come a long way since the 2005 350Z Roadster I drove back in 2006, and it's easily in the running for top choices if you're looking for a droptop GT under $40k.



Obviously, I couldn't drive and film at the same time, but here's a video of some of the vehicles that were available to drive, showing them on the courses Nissan set up for us:




Sadly, I didn't get to experience the Infiniti Emerg-E Concept, but there it was in all its menacing glory.  Several other attendees got to take laps behind the wheel of this technological marvel, and I think it's a car that could give Acura, Porsche, Tesla, and Audi a run for their money.



   

Let's go check out some TRUCKS! - Join me here:  Nissan 360 - Part 6



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                    [post_content] => With about an hour remaining before lunch, I decided to wander over to the Light Commercial Vehicles area. There, Nissan had their entire truck lineup on display, and since the majority of the attendees were more interested in the small cars, I had almost the entire fleet to myself!  The Nissan360 staff had laid out a test track for the trucks, with several features - including a turning radius area, some railroad tracks, a freeway  on-ramp, a slalom area and a segment with bumps and ripples, much like a construction zone.

There's simply not enough time to tell you about ALL of the awesome trucks I drove, but I'll share the highlights of several of them:

Nissan Cabstar F91A - What man doesn't want to drive a dump truck?  The Cabstar is spearheading Nissan's expansion into the European LCV market, with a goal of becoming THE benchmark light truck. To further enhance its reputation for comfort and convenience, a series of updates have been made to the Cabstar’s interior—which for many drivers represents their "office."  This thing put a smile on my face a mile wide.

  

Nissan Navara (D40) Diesel - We own a D40 Frontier, so I expected this to be a "been there, done that" experience.  However, this Navara was equipped with the 2.5-liter direct-injected turbo diesel engine and a 5-speed.  While it lacks the off-the-line punch of its VQ40-powered brother, it'll pull a house, with 332 lb/ft of torque.  This is a truck that needs nothing - It's been around since 2005, and it looks just as good today as it did when it was introduced.  

   

Nissan NV350 - This newest edition to the NV350 model family features a one-touch auto-sliding side door, which improves convenience. The exterior has a clean and modern design, and it's deceptively large - the interior can be configured to accommodate up to 14 passengers comfortably!



Nissan Pickup (D22) - Everyone remembers this staple of the Nissan workforce. It replaced the popular D21 “Hardbody” in 1997 and is still being sold in many countries, under various names such as the D22 Navara, Frontier, Fiera, Terrano, Winner, NP300, and just plain “Pickup”.  It was nice to see the familiar KA powerplant under the hood, and driving this truck was like going back to a simpler time.  Such a fun truck!

   

Nissan NP200 - Developed for the Africa market and built in South Africa, this replacement for the Bakkie was my favorite. Powered by a 1.6 liter diesel backed by a 5-speed manual, this functional little workhorse was a blast to drive.



Nissan NV100 Clipper - The Clipper van is a result of a partnership with Mitsubishi Motor, with large cargo-carrying capacity and nimble maneuverability.  It's powered by a 657cc turbocharged engine, and qualifies as a Kei model for the Japanese market.

  

Nissan Civilian - Hop on the bus!  The Civilian has been sold since 1971 in Japan, China and several countries in the Middle East and Africa. This multipurpose bus has a manual transmission, and gets used as a bloodmobile, school bus, presidential transportation, ambulance and various other purpose-built models.  It was remarkably easy to drive, and FUN!

 

Nissan Cedric Taxi - OK, so it's not a truck, but the 10th generation Cedric has been marketed since 1960. Popular with taxi companies, particularly in Singapore, Japan and Hong Kong, this 5-speed sedan is another workhorse of the Nissan lineup.

   

Nissan e-NV200 - The e-NV200 van combines the technology of the Nissan LEAF with the functionality of the NV200 van. This all-electric compact van delivers the same performance on a single charge as the Nissan LEAF, and believe it or not, it's fun to drive! 



DOST - Looks are deceiving!  The 1.25-ton light commercial vehicle (LCV) is the first product to be launched by the Indian-Japanese joint venture Ashok Leyland Nissan Vehicles. The LCV is being produced in Sri Lanka. DOST is available in three versions, and this one features air-conditioning and power steering.

   

Last but not least, on display in the LCV Station, was a Cummins Turbodiesel engine, slated for use in the next-generation Nissan Titan.  Here's a quick walkaround:



We'll revisit some more trucks tomorrow - For now, let's move on to more cars! Nissan 360 - Part 7



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                    [post_content] => Whew!  All that truck driving made me hungry... but where to eat in the middle of a decommissioned airfield?  Nissan had that handled too.  Three of Southern California's award-winning food trucks were on site for three hours, serving up gourmet fare.  I highly recommend the Original Dogzilla (but I went back for seconds, and got some Mahi Mahi tacos - because, you know, I needed to write about 'em.  Right?)  Just in case you're the dessert type, there was a Ben & Jerry's cart tucked among the food trucks, scooping up big servings of ice cream to keep us cooled off in the hot California sun.  

After lunch, we attended another Executive Session, where Victor Nacif spoke at length about Nissan's research and design elements, its advances in zero-emissions motoring, and its global alliances.  This is the kind of stuff that the end-user doesn't often get to learn about, but it's interesting for those of us who are industry enthusiasts.



With the drive tracks opened again, I thought I'd go wander around and sample some of the world cars... Before I could, my event device alerted me that I was to report to the Nissan360 GT Academy Face-Off.  I figured it had to be a mistake, considering my difficulties with the whole video game thing, but I guess my best time kept me in the mix. Each driver would get one timed lap in the NISMO 370Z, with the fastest time winning the event.  



Sadly, two drivers beat my time (including a fellow who decimated two defenseless cones, earning a +2 second penalty).  Sorry, guys - I really wanted to bring one home for the NICOnauts.



The day's big winner?  Brian Armstead, Editor in Chief at Automotive Rhythms.  Brian and I got to be buddies over the course of the event, and I learned three things about him:  One, he's 6' 9" (and barely fits in a 370Z), two, he had a LOT of practice driving that NISMO 370Z on the course while I was off playing with trucks (cheater!), and three, he's a talented automotive journalist - Check out his site!  

After sustaining that humiliating defeat at the hands of the Jolly Giant (HA!), I needed some relaxation - I found it at the Bose display, where Mary Ma, Senior Marketing Manager, showed off the Infiniti Q50's impressive Bose system... with a big-screen television in front of the windshield, and a live concert playing on the system, it really did feel like being in front of a live band.  The soundstage demo was equally impressive, with one of the National Geographic-style nature videos showing off the multi-dimensional theater capabilities of the in-car entertainment system.  You can check out the infographic here: 

Infiniti Q50 Bose Audio System Details and Specifications 

I hope you're all still hanging in - Next, we're going to go check out some concept cars!  Nissan 360 - Part 8



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Since most of the rest of the attendees had now flocked to the drive tracks, I decided to get back into the air conditioning and take a closer look at the Nissan concept vehicles for you guys.  It's pretty impressive to see these one-off cars up-close, knowing that every piece is hand-fabricated and finished, and somehow, the end result appears almost production-ready.

Nissan FriendMe - Created by Nissan Design China and Nissan Global Design Center, Friend-ME was unveiled at the 2013 Shanghai Auto Show. Developed specifically for drivers in the Chinese market who were born in the 1980s, which is estimated to contain 240 million potential buyers.

       



Nissan EXTREM - Nissan’s first concept car designed specifically for Brazil made its global debut at the São Paulo auto show in 2012. The EXTREM is an urban compact 2+2 targeted at young, city-based car enthusiasts.   



Nissan Resonance - Inspired by the future allure of hypersonic travel, Resonance looks ahead to the world of tomorrow. From its 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, to its hybrid electric drive system and Nissan's next-generation Xtronic continuously variable automatic transmission, this concept represents the next direction of Nissan crossover styling.





...and, we got an up-close look at the Datsun GO - The new GO is built to meet the needs of the rising group of optimistic customers in high-growth markets who seek better value propositions.  Outstanding fuel efficiency, excellent acceleration and a roomy, comfortable interior for five were the goals for this car, which will be produced in India. The 1.2-liter, 5-speed GO will start at less than 400,000 Indian Rupees, equivalent to about  $6,700.

   

Here's a cool video that was playing near the Datsun GO display:



Would you guys join me for the Infiniti Reception dinner? Nissan 360 - Part 9



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                    [post_content] => After a long day of driving amazing cars, meeting new people, and soaking up a ton of knowledge about Nissan worldwide, my fellow journalists and I loaded up to head back to Pelican Hill to prepare for the Infiniti Reception dinner.  This was a truly classy event, with a multi-course meal and a delightful ambiance.  



Several Nissan executives milled about, chatting with the attendees, and I had the great fortune to meet Nissan's Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Toshiyuki Shiga.  He has been with Nissan Motor Co. for 37 years and he's currently the second-in-command, after CEO Carlos Ghosn. 



Shiga-san and I spoke briefly about my passion, which is collecting classic Datsuns, and I even got to show him pictures of our cars.  It was genuinely delightful to hear and see his reactions as he scrolled through the pictures, and he presented me with his business card.  I presented mine in return, and with a broad smile, he announced, "Today, I'm sixty years old!"  I'd love to have time to sit and talk with him again someday.

At dinner that night, I made some other new friends.  I was seated next to Andrew Jennings, Product Planner for Sentra.  Some of you may remember him from our Live Chat on NICOclub when the B17 Sentra was unveiled. Nathan Adlen, President of TheFastLaneCar.com, joined us - His niche is a video blog on all things automotive, and he shares my eclectic taste in cars.  Definitely check out his site!  Also, I met with Vishnu Jayamohan, Maxima Product Planner. Vishnu is engaging and brilliant, and we made plans to "talk shop" the next day, as I wanted to pick his brain about the future of the Maxima.  Wendy Payne (Manager of Corporate Communications for the Midwest Region) joined us later, and rounding out our little group was Paige Presley, Corporate Communications Specialist.  Paige and I are both from the south, so we hit it off well - she's a gifted writer and a cheerful, enthusiastic asset to Nissan's team.  What a great group of people and some fantastic new friends - Thanks for the great conversations! 



On the way back to my room from dinner, I caught up with Steve Yaeger, Nissan's Technology and Motorsports Communication Manager.  Steve is a true car guy, and one of those people you could sit and chat with for hours.  We learned that we enjoy a lot of the same things, and know a lot of the same people... small world.  Steve mentioned that he and a few other Nissan folks were getting up super-early to sneak out for Cars & Coffee over in Irvine, and I was welcome to join them... I didn't need a second invitation - I'll always forego an extra couple hours of sleep to enjoy a car event!

Six a.m. came really, really early, but I was excited to go see the spectacle that is Southern California's Cars & Coffee.  Bruce Robinson, Senior Project Engineer for Nissan's Vehicle Performance Development Division, was my company for this trip, and he's got a long, broad history in the automotive industry.  Rolling in, we saw that the guys from Nissan360 had beat us there, and they were already displaying the Infiniti Emerg-E and the NISMO Leaf RC.  Those two cars drew a ton of attention, as expected, and I wandered off to take pictures of the rest of the vehicles in attendance. 

  

Click here for a gallery of pics from Cars & Coffee.

I hope you're still with me, because we're only halfway through the event!  Join me for an exciting Day Two of Nissan 360! Nissan 360 - Part 10 



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                    [post_content] => Thanks to Bruce, we made it back to El Toro just as the rest of the attendees were arriving in the buses. 

   

The opening presentation took an in-depth look at Nissan's increase in production capacity worldwide.  We learned that Nissan U.S. Manufacturing is expected to nearly double the number of export markets it will be able to serve by 2015. By early 2014, Nissan’s production capacity will eclipse two million units in the Americas, driven by recently added capacity at its U.S. plants, as well as new facilities in Mexico and Brazil.  As of August 2013, more than 900 U.S.-built Nissan Pathfinders have been shipped to Australia and New Zealand marking the latest milestone in an aggressive and growing export strategy for Nissan, with 12 percent of U.S. production going to export markets in 2012. Over the next six months, Nissan expects to expand U.S. exports of Nissan Altima, Pathfinder, Maxima and Infiniti QX60 models into new markets such as Ghana, Nigeria, Philippines, Vietnam, Israel, Argentina and parts of Latin America. 

Here's a cool infographic, for those who prefer visuals:  Nissan Motor Company - Worldwide Assembly Plants, Production, and Exports

Business is interesting, but you guys want to hear about the driving!  Well, it was time to go experience the best Nissan has to offer... A quick jaunt across the facility (in the new Taxi of Tomorrow, no less) led us to the racing course, where the participants were greeted by two new GT-R's, the Nissan GT-R NISMO GT3, and the ever-menacing “Lilly,” the first-ever built Nissan Juke-R, and one of only four in existence.  



You can imagine my pulse rate at this point - I was about to drive the Nissan Juke-R.  

Participants were limited (for obvious reasons) to two drives, in the car of their choice.  



Thinking strategically, I figured that in order to get the most out of my brief opportunity, I'd drive the course in the GT-R (a car I've driven several times before). 

 

Strapping on a helmet, I selected the red GT-R, and after a quick rundown of the track layout from my instructor, we were off.  If you've never gotten the chance to drive a GT-R, find a way to make it happen... There's no explaining the refinement, precision, and brute power of this car, and anyone who has the opportunity to own one is exceedingly fortunate.  The drive went by far too fast, but I managed a quick run and was ready to take on the Juke-R... or so I thought.

There's a reason the 545-hp Juke-R costs upwards of $600,000... the Juke is nearly 500 lbs lighter than the GT-R, reaches 60mph in less than 3 seconds, and has a full F1A roll cage... handy to have when 170 mph is easily attainable.  I'd be lying if I said I remembered everything about the experience... I recall strapping in, getting positioned in the seat, and thinking, "I feel like I'm strapped to a bar stool, and that bar stool is strapped to a rocket."  Before I knew it, my instructor gave the signal to launch, and we were off.  Now, the differences in the Juke-R and the GT-R are numerous... there's no refinement, no comfort, no civility.  This car was built to rip your face off and smack you with it.  It's loud, raucous, nasty...and feels much more skittish and sketchy than the GT-R.  The twin-turbo V6 is clearly pissed that it wound up in a flat-black Juke, and it shows.  

   

There's a lot less electronic intervention. Because of the super-short wheelbase, the Juke-R quickly changes attitudes, from plowing the sticky front tires, to full-snap oversteer.  It feels as if it pivots on an imaginary point just beneath the shift lever, and despite my best efforts, I did the unthinkable - I went into a decreasing-radius sharp right-hander too hot, plowed, and hit a cone.  Well, that's not entirely true.  I DECIMATED a cone.  No time to be humiliated, I had half the course left, and I tried to enjoy the remainder of my drive (which, fortunately, was relatively straight and allowed me to open up the VR38DETT powerplant).  All too soon, this once-in-a-lifetime chance was over.  I learned later, thankfully, that a couple of Nissan's executives had also executed cones with the Juke-R.  I feel fortunate to be in good company, and I'd like to thank Nissan for giving us the chance to have that experience.  

Participants also had the opportunity to ride along with GT Academy winner and race car driver Ashley Oldfield in his personal office, the Nissan GT-R NISMO GT3.  I'm not a great passenger, so I chose to watch this one from the sidelines, but everyone that came back from their blast around the course returned with a grin from ear-to-ear and a newfound respect for what this car (and this driver) is capable of.

   

Incidentally, the VR38DETT engine is a technological marvel. Already, tuners have extracted over 1,500 hp from the engine, without changing the bore and stroke. Check out this video from Nissan’s Yokohama engine plant (where the VR38 engine is made):  



Let's go check out some of the Nissan cars we'll never get to drive in the US market! Nissan 360 - Part 11 



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                    [post_content] => From there, I wandered back for a little more "sensible" driving experience.  Nissan had set up two options for driving most of the 60+ cars on hand, as follows:

Street Drive - For those who wanted a more intimate experience with certain vehicles, Nissan arranged the World Drive schedule.  Participants could check out any of the three dozen US-spec Nissan or Infiniti vehicles for a 45 minute drive on some picturesque roads and on a winding route along a mountain ridge with plenty of panoramic views.

World Drive - Because some of the global vehicles couldn't be driven on public roads in the US, Nissan constructed a special track that simulates real-world driving conditions.  This track allowed room for full-throttle acceleration, as well as some tight chicanes, some high-speed sweepers, and a couple challenging hairpins.



In the interest of time, and because I wanted to experience as many vehicles as I could, I stuck to the World Drive track.  Using the device we talked about earlier, I was able to reserve vehicles ahead of time, and could go from one to another, seamlessly.  My focus was primarily on cars that aren't available in the US, or ones that might be difficult to find at our local dealer.  With that, here's a list of MOST of the notable cars I drove:

Micra, Dayz Highway Star, Grand Livina, NISMO Juke, Maxima SV, Note (diesel 5-speed), Moco, Qashqai, Cube, Q50, Q70 long-wheelbase version, QX70, and many others.  The Kei cars (Micra, Moco and Dayz) were playful, well-optioned, and great fun to drive, despite their modest horsepower.  I especially enjoyed my time in the Micra, and I think it's a car that could easily slot into the US market.  

       

The NISMO Juke impressed me a lot more than the last couple Jukes I'd driven, and I especially liked the suede seating and steering wheel treatment.  

 

The diesel Versa Note (with the 5-speed) was also a car I think would sell well in the US, and it was much more fun to drive than the US-spec Note.  

  

The Maxima SV and I became good friends, and I went back for a second and third drive - it felt really 'at home' hustling through the chicanes, and the acceleration far exceeds expectations, especially for those of us who have known the VQ35 for over a decade.  

   

The Q70 LWB hearkens back to the old Nissan President (Q45 in the US), and it's simply an exercise in well-executed refinement, if perhaps somewhat excessive.

       

...and a few more:

   

I hope you guys enjoyed that part... Next time, I'm bringing an assistant, a couple GoPro cameras, and a voice recorder!  Let's head back inside for Nissan 360 - Part 12!



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                    [post_content] => With an empty stomach, a full memory card and a dead battery, I headed into the Nissan360 Headquarters to charge my phone, change my camera batteries, and devour some lunch.  



The food trucks didn't disappoint, and I went back for another Dogzilla and a hearty helping of Ben & Jerry's!  I spent some more time chatting with my new friends Brian and Juan, and we discussed what we'd seen and done so far that day.

Before heading back out, we caught a presentation on Nissan Motorsports - Here's a short clip... Enjoy!



Let me preface this next section by saying, I'm not a truck guy.  I've always owned a truck, but I view them as utilitarian - I've always driven our various trucks when I needed to, not because I wanted to.  Our 2005 Frontier Crew Cab 4x4 with the VQ40 and the 6-speed transmission is easily the best and most reliable vehicle I've ever owned, and it's a true member of the family.  I know that if I came home from an event without checking out the trucks, I'd hear it from my wife Becky (NICOclub's Business Manager).  She's a true truck gal, so I headed off to the off-road course to see what Nissan had to offer.

The Nissan360 team had laid out an Adventure Course that involved participants traveling from station to station, each designed to showcase the unique attributes of each vehicle along the course.  Due to some technical difficulties, I didn't get many pictures or video of this area, but I'll walk you guys through the experience. Let's just say I was amazed at some of the capabilities of the Nissan trucks we all love.

Here's a map of the course:  



The adventure began with a new Nissan Patrol. While the Patrol isn't available in the US market, the QX80 is.  



       

Here's a video of the Patrol displaying some of its off-road prowess.  

 

Just after my camera died, we used the Around-View monitor to cross a narrow path using ONLY the in-dash screen.  This is super-handy when off-roading without a spotter, and saves you from having to hang out the window to orient your tires on a trail!

Next up was the Frontier. The first test demonstrated the Hill-Descent feature, and it's a unique experience to voluntarily relinquish control of a truck on a 40-degree downhill grade.  I felt like I was looking straight down, and the Frontier gently meandered down the hill without slipping or flinching.  Total control. Then, we pulled into a long stretch of deep loose rocks... a huge challenge for most vehicles, as the tires displaced the round rocks like piles of marbles.  My co-pilot directed me to launch the Frontier at full-throttle in the rocks, to demonstrate the four-wheel limited slip differentials. To my amazement, there was no drama, no rocketing projectiles - Just smooth, seamless acceleration out of the rock pit.  

The next truck to play with was the venerable Titan.  While the big workhorse of the Nissan lineup is getting a little long in the tooth, you don't mess with a good thing.  This test had the Titan hitched to a 9,500-lb trailer.  The goal?  To demonstrate acceleration to 60 mph - and panic braking - on a rough dirt road.  I thought, "This is insane - we're going to break something."  Not one to shy away from an extreme torture test, we hammered the VK56-powered beast up to 60, which didn't take long... and then I stood on the brakes.  I expected somewhat more dramatic results.  Even with the electronic brake controller dialed down to 5%, the big Titan stopped straight, smooth, and in a far shorter distance than I expected.



I was really excited to see the Xterra was next on the course. Those of you who follow off-roading know that the Xterra is a super-capable all-terrain vehicle, even in stock form.  Check out the "Gone MOAB" event, an extreme off-road excursion for owners of Nissan 4x4's.  For this test, we'd be simulating the fording of a stream or crossing deep water.  With its steep approach and departure angles, the Xterra plopped down into the water like a duck, and churned cleanly out the other side.



Finally, we came to the Armada, and the goal of this demonstration was to show how refined and well-behaved the big SUV was over nasty terrain at normal speeds.  The course involved some deep ruts, severe holes, and a section of undulating road that should have rocked the massive Armada side-to-side violently - it didn't.  

Don't let the domestic truck guys fool you - While they're building single-purpose trucks that do a fine job, Nissan's got some pretty capable vehicles for a wide range of off-highway work - and play. 

OK, back to the cars - Click here for Nissan 360 - Part 13!



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                    [post_content] => After getting my off-road fix, I got a chance to sit down and relax in the shade with a cool beverage and have a great, in-depth conversation with our good friend Evan Fulton.  Many of you may remember Evan from the exclusive Nissan Pathfinder live chat we held several months ago.  As the Product Planning Specialist for Pathfinder, Xterra and Frontier, we had a lot to chat about.  He's especially proud of the reception that the Pathfinder has received, and spoke excitedly about the new Pathfinder Hybrid, and the future of the Xterra and the Frontier. 

 

I learned a great deal about the due diligence that goes into readying a new vehicle for production, and while we may think that change occurs at a glacial pace, there are actually countless processes that happen behind the scenes.  For fun, I gave him a theoretical situation - Let's say consumers said they wanted to see the LP200 (the little diesel-powered 2-seater ute we drove yesterday) He gave a really thorough example of the decision tree, backed up by statistics, financial considerations, regulatory restrictions, and other hurdles that all have to be cleared in order to even consider bringing a new vehicle to market.  In consideration of all this, it's a wonder anything remotely "cool" (to an enthusiast) ever makes it to showrooms!  I really appreciated Evan's engagement and patience with all my questions - We'll be talking to him some more in the future! 

I regret to mention that I didn't get a chance to experience the Nissan Autonomous Car demonstration.



Journalists at Nissan360 were among the first non-employees to experience Nissan’s Autonomous Drive technology in a specially-constructed Nissan Leaf.  Equipped with laser scanners, Around-View Monitor cameras, as well as advanced artificial intelligence and actuators, this technology enables the car to negotiate complex real-world driving scenarios, without any driver intervention.  

Here's a cool video of the Autonomous Drive Nissan LEAF demonstrations (the automated parking commands via smart phone are pretty awesome)!

I almost forgot to mention, along this same subject - Within the Nissan360 headquarters, visitors could watch a demonstration of the EPORO robot technology.  Created in 2009 by Nissan engineer Susumu Fujita, the EPOROs are small, zero-emission robots that could change the way we get around forever by eliminating collisions and creating an environmentally friendly and traffic-jam free driving environment.  



The EPOROs behave like fish, moving together in schools, in streams, and avoiding obstacles. The technology in the robots has already been a source of inspiration for current Nissan vehicle features like intelligent brake assist and forward collision warning.

Who wants to check out some more concept cars?  Nissan 360 - Part 14



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                    [post_content] => We already got a good look at the Nissan concepts that were present at Nissan360 - but until Day Two, the Infiniti concepts were kept under wraps.  You've seen these in pictures, but they're just so much more striking in person.  Again, the attention to detail is incredible, and all three Infiniti concepts look to be relatively production-ready with the exception of a few minor details.

Infiniti EMERG-E stretches Infiniti's already accomplished expertise in the areas of electric vehicles and alternative propulsion systems. This 402bhp(300kW) mid-engine, twin-motor sports car is capable of accelerating 0-60 mph in just 4 seconds. Along with its advanced Infiniti M Hybrid luxury sedan, Infiniti recently announced that a production luxury electric vehicle, based on the infiniti LE Concept, will join the lineup in 2014.



           

Infiniti Essence is a celebration of Infiniti and its 20-year history as a creator of performance cars. But equally it is an inspiring exploration into the brand's future. This dramatic design, technology and performance statement is a 592-horsepower, rear-wheel-drive gasoline/electric hybrid coupe. The Essence's front is characterized by Infiniti's signature double-arch grille, set at an angle that suggests the car is about to leap forward. The interior is minimalist, ergonomic and totally focused on giving the driver a feeling of absolute control, while the passenger area is dominated by comfort, calm and elegance.



          

Infiniti Etherea is a concept vehicle designed to show how a future Infiniti entry-level compact performance luxury sedan could look. It blends elements of coupe, sedan, hatchback and even crossover designs in a compact yet space-efficient and practical form. Among its surprises are new high-tech interpretations of traditional Japanese materials and finishes, and several design cues that can be seen on the recently-debuted Infiniti Q30.



       

Apologies for my less-than-stellar photography, but I wanted you guys to get some good views of the concepts... they really are breathtaking in person.



It's time to call it a day - We still have some fun stuff to do, so stick around for Part 15! Nissan 360 - Part 15



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                    [post_content] => By the end of Day Two, everyone was exhausted... Boarding the bus to return to Pelican Hill, I cornered Vishnu Jayamohan to conduct my Maxima interview. 

 

I asked Vishnu what he thinks of the notion that the Maxima is superfluous in Nissan's current lineup.  Unfazed, Vishnu explained why the Maxima remains a unique and important part of Nissan's overall model strategy.  While the Altima and Sentra have increased in size, the Maxima is still available with features that neither of those cars offer.  Based on Nissan's market research, although the current-Generation Maxima isn't selling like some previous generations, that is a testament to the quality and value of cars like the Altima.  However, they've found that the average Maxima shopper isn't comparing the Maxima to the Accord and Camry, as used to be the case.  Now, recent Maxima shoppers are people who are more likely to be comparing with the Acura TL, the Audi A4, the Lexus ES, the 3-series BMW, and the Infiniti Q50.  This allows Nissan to provide similar features and high build quality for a slightly lower price, and after a spirited test drive, many are choosing the Maxima.



I asked if we might start to see a different drivetrain option for the Maxima.  While Vishnu was hesitant to tell me about what's in the works for 2015-16, he did seem to indicate that the possibility of a hybrid drivetrain was unlikely - adding that in general, buyers in that range are not as concerned about a couple MPG - they are more interested in features, safety, and a vehicle that is enjoyable to drive. 

Lastly, I asked if he thought the price of the fully-featured Maxima SV might be its biggest drawback, considering it puts the Maxima into the range of many of the more "esteemed" auto makers.  Vishnu stated that it certainly might be a consideration, but that is one of the challenges Nissan has faced in other areas. He gave an example of consumer perception as it relates to Hyundai and Kia over the past decade - certainly an area of change if there ever was one. He reassured me - the Maxima isn't going away, and hinted that the term "flagship," while appropriate today, will be an even more applicable term in the very near future.

Big thanks to Vishnu for taking some time to chat with us - I could tell from our conversation that he's very passionate about the Maxima nameplate and what it represents, which bodes well for those of us who are eager to see it dominate its class again.

Upon arrival back at the resort, we had some time to relax and take in the beautiful views.  

   

I took a long walk, collected some thoughts and impressions with my phone for this article, and reflected on all the incredible experiences I'd had over the past 48 hours.  Even if Nissan360 ended right now, it would still stand out as the most impressive automotive event I had ever attended... but it wasn't over!

That's right - We're almost done, but there's a ton of fun left - Let's go! Nissan 360 - Part 16



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                    [post_content] => With enough time to charge up my camera, offload some pictures, and grab a quick shower, it was time to leave the dress shoes, collared shirt, and khakis in the closet.  Shorts, t-shirts, and flip-flops were the official evening wear for this event - We're going to a beach party!  

A quick bus ride down to Crystal Cove beach, and we were greeted with warm smiles, warm sand, great music, and tables upon tables of delicious island-themed food!  



As the sun sank into the ocean, everyone seemed to have a great time with their new friends.   A rack of surfboards, a pristinely-restored Datsun Roadster and a '65 Datsun L320 pickup (with a bed full of beer) added to the ambiance.  





           

As the temperature dropped on the shore, the excitement amongst the Nissan360 staff and planners was evident.  After months of planning and over a month on-site, they pulled off an exceptional event and their work was nearly done.  

   

Congratulatory hugs and group pictures signaled the end of our evening, and we loaded up on the buses to head back to Pelican Hill. 

The "Simmer Down Lounge" was our next destination, and the open bar was a perfect excuse to spend a little more time hanging out with all of our new friends.  The night ended far too soon for us, and that meant we'd all be heading back home to recount our experiences at Nissan 360.  

I hope to have the privilege of attending the next 360 event, and I really hope you all, our readers, enjoyed sharing this experience with me.  

While we've been concerned about Nissan's direction of late, the sense of excitement and optimism for the future is very apparent among the staff and executives at Nissan.  I witnessed some evidence of a return to the enthusiasm that seems to have been gone for a while from the lineup, and I think we're going to see some really cutting-edge, technologically-advanced, and best of all, FUN cars and trucks coming our way from our favorite car company.

Get out to your local Nissan dealer and take a drive in something that interests you.  Share your impressions and feedback, because if there's one thing I learned this weekend, they're listening.

  

Enjoy the ride!
Greg (AZhitman)
NICOclub CEO

A special thanks to James Sisson for contributing some of the photographs for this article. His camera costs more than mine.  :) 



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            [post_content] => 

For an entire month, journalists from around the world descended in waves on Newport Beach, California for the Nissan 360 event.  The event is a month-long showcase of the latest breakthroughs in vehicle technology, sustainability and market expansion.  It was designed to provide journalists with inside information about Nissan, Infiniti and the all-new Datsun, allow them to drive most of the 100 various vehicles they brought along, and interact with Nissan's senior global management, technical experts and regional leaders.

... And what an event it was!

Nissan 360 took place from August 19 through September 15, and was spread out over several venues: At El Toro (a decommissioned Marine Corps Air Station),  The Resort at Pelican Hill on Newport Coast, and even Crystal Cove Beach!  This world-class event celebrated Nissan's 80 years of moving people worldwide, and coincides with Nissan’s continued execution of Power 88, the business plan announced in June 2011, with a goal of 8% global market share and 8% operating margins by the end of fiscal year 2016.

We were there, and we'd like to share with you the experiences and excitement of the event.  We'll show you photos of new global vehicle models, our driving impressions, major announcements about future products, insights from Product Planners and technical staff, and we'll even take you back in time for some highlights from Nissan's 80 years of innovation.

So, without further ado, let's get into it!

The Nissan 360 event was scheduled in "waves" - Nine groups, attending the event for four days, over the course of the month.  I was fortunate enough to be in the very last "wave," which meant everyone was on-point, any kinks were worked out, and the enthusiasm amongst the Nissan employees was electric... I've attended a lot of press events for NICOclub.com, but this one outshined them all.

Upon arrival at John Wayne Airport, Nissan 360 staff were there to whisk me and a few other attendees off to our home for the weekend - Pelican Hill Resort.

Pelican Hill's jaw-dropping views, stunning beauty and idyllic setting on the Newport Coast are just the beginnng.  This five-star, five-diamond destination was recently voted "#1 Resort in the United States" by  Condè Nast, and their service and attention to detail certainly showed why.

Here's a quick video of the view right after I checked in...



I'm a simple guy - I work on cars, I usually have grease under my nails, a random band-aid, and a sore back.  On top of that, I'm usually sleep-deprived (and sometimes a little cranky) from working on the forums.  So, it's not often I get to experience a place like Pelican Hill.  My quarters for the weekend was a gorgeous 850-square foot bungalow with an ocean view and the best of everything... I suppose I'm going to get a little spoiled.

Here's some pics of my bungalow, the entryway, and the surrounding areas.

       

For now, there's no time to soak in the whirlpool tub or watch the enormous TV - it's almost time to get ready for the opening dinner!  Nissan personnel provided each attendee with a package of necessities for the event, and they clearly went all-out with the thoughtfulness and planning.  A Nissan360 bag, a pair of flip-flops, some Oakley shades, a Nissan360 hat, and a map of the resort.



As if that weren't cool enough, each attendee received (for the duration of the event), a smartphone, pre-programmed specifically for each guest.  Through this device, you could access your itinerary for the weekend, view information and pictures of all of Nissan's vehicles, reserve drive times, access event personnel, and even set reminders for the next scheduled event!  High-tech for sure.



On my way over to the opening dinner, I couldn't resist getting some more photos of the amazing surroundings... I hope you enjoy them as much as I did.

           

Stick around, and join me for the opening dinner and some nostalgic Datsuns and Nissans!  Check it out here:  Nissan 360 - Part 2



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