Nissan plans to add more floor space to Smyrna, but not jobs

Nissan has applied for a permit to add 59,551 square feet to the back of its 5.9 million square feet of plant space in Smyrna, Tennessee. Built more than thirty years ago, the Smyrna plant is now Nissan's headquarters in the U.S. and builds vehicles ranging from the high-selling Altima to the much-loved Rogue crossover.

The expansion plans are to add floor space to the stamping area being built on the rear of the existing main factory building. The added space will act as storage for the new stamping area, so it does not come with more new hires for Nissan.

So far, however, the Smyrna plant has delivered on its promise of employing more than 7,000 people since its last big upgrade and the addition of a third shift to make for 24/7 operations.

The added space does not yet have a timeline for construction, but it will surely follow the additions to the stamping facility that are already underway. That began shortly after the new paint plant was completed at the facility, heralding one of the most efficient paint houses in the world; and after the 1.3 million square foot lithium-ion battery plant was completed on-site.

The Nissan Smyrna, Tennessee plant is responsible for six vehicles currently, building the Rogue, Pathfinder, Altima, Maxima, Infiniti QX60 and the battery-electric LEAF.