Nissan has decided to delay its plan to build new electric vehicles (EVs) at its factory in Canton, Mississippi, since EV sales are increasing slower than anticipated. 

EV Sales Grow Slower Than Predicted

According to Kelley Blue Book, during the first quarter of 2024, sales of EVs in the United States increased 2.6% over the same period in 2023. Last year's first-quarter sales of EVs were 46.4%.

Industry insiders had anticipated a surge in EV interest instead of a decline. However, consumer survey firm JD Power found that people are anxious about the high cost of EVs and whether or not they would have easy access to charging infrastructure.

These concerns have been the reason for recent drops in customer consideration of EVs.

Read Also: Nissan Aims to Boost Car Sales by 1 Million in Next 3 Years, Streamline EV Manufacturing Costs

Nissan Originally Planned to Build New EV Models in Mississippi

Nissan is currently selling two EV models in the US, the Ariya SUV and the Leaf compact hatchback. The company previously stated its intention to construct five more EV models in Canton, with two of those initially planned for release in 2025.

The lineup was originally going to include automobiles from Nissan and its high-end brand Infiniti. In a statement sent to CNN via email, Nissan said the company is changing the schedule for the release of five new models.

The goal is to make sure that the cars are available to customers when they need them based on demand and to make the most of the opportunities for their brands and suppliers. A spokesperson reportedly confirmed that by 2030, Nissan would still have 19 different EV models available worldwide. 

Read More: Nissan Mulls EV Partnership With Honda to Form Powerful Japanese Alliance to Take on Overseas Rivals