Nissan has used the 2026 Beijing Auto Show to preview two new electrified SUV concepts, offering a clearer picture of how the brand plans to rebuild its presence in the world’s largest car market – and potentially beyond.

The Urban SUV PHEV Concept (bottom) and the Terrano PHEV Concept (main) were revealed as part of a broader push into so-called “new energy vehicles” (NEVs), a category that includes plug-in hybrids and battery-electric cars. Both models are expected to reach production within the next year, underscoring the speed at which Nissan is trying to expand its electrified line-up.

Of the two, the Urban SUV appears to target younger buyers in cities, with a focus on daily usability and electrified efficiency. While details remain limited, it follows a familiar formula seen across China’s competitive mid-size SUV segment: plug-in hybrid power, tech-focused interiors and a design geared toward urban lifestyles.

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More intriguing is the return of the Terrano name. Once associated with rugged off-road vehicles, the concept reinterprets that identity through a plug-in hybrid lens. Nissan says it aims to combine off-road capability with everyday practicality, reflecting a growing trend among buyers who want SUVs that can handle both commuting and leisure use.

Neither concept breaks radically new ground on its own, but together they signal a shift in strategy. Nissan has lagged behind some rivals in China’s electrification race, particularly against domestic brands that have rapidly developed EV and hybrid technologies. The company is now attempting to close that gap by leaning on local development and faster product cycles.

That approach mirrors a broader industry trend, with global manufacturers increasingly using China not just as a sales market, but as a development hub. Nissan has confirmed that future models developed there will also be exported to regions including Southeast Asia, Latin America and the Middle East.

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The move reflects the scale of change underway in the automotive industry. China’s dominance in EV production and battery technology has made it a key battleground for international brands, many of which are restructuring their strategies to remain competitive.

For Nissan, the challenge will be translating these concepts into production models that can stand out in a crowded field. The Urban SUV and Terrano may offer a starting point, but success will depend on execution, pricing and how well they match the expectations of increasingly tech-savvy buyers.