Nissan Launches Switch Subscription Service in Texas

by Michael Satterfield

Nissan has launched a pilot program in partnership with Central Houston Nissan in Texas. 'Nissan Switch' the on-demand subscription service allows drivers to switch cars as often as they like. The test will run through August 2020 and if deemed a success could be rolled out to other North American markets.

While there are levels to the program, Nissan's entire portfolio of vehicles can be accessed depending on the subscription level, from the all-electric Nissan LEAF-PLUS to the supercar killing GT-R, all without a long-term contract and insurance is included.

Nissan Switch is another way that Nissan is testing alternatives to the notion of traditional mobility, without long-term financial commitments for our customers. This program provides more choice, convenience, and flexibility. For those who want a sedan during the week and an SUV or sports car, like the GTR, on the weekends, Nissan Switch provides the solution.

Andrew Tavi, vice president, Legal, External Affairs and Business Development, Nissan 

There are two tiers to Nissan's subscription services with the ability to switch tiers each month. After a $495 membership activation fee, the monthly subscription includes the vehicle (unlimited switches, as often as a new vehicle each day), delivery, cleaning, insurance, roadside assistance, and regular maintenance.

Nissan Switch Select, $699 per month:

Altima
Rogue
Pathfinder
Frontier


Nissan Switch Premium, $899 per month:

Altima
Rogue
Pathfinder
Frontier
LEAF PLUS
Maxima
Murano
Armada
TITAN
370Z

Nissan Switch Premium members have access to the Nissan GT-R for an additional $100 per day with a 7-day consecutive maximum use.

We are eager to explore subscription services to understand how we can best serve customers' evolving wants and needs. This is a great opportunity for people to drive what they want when they need it for one, predictable payment.

 Chad Milow, general manager, Central Houston Nissan

After selecting the vehicle on the app, a dealership concierge will deliver the vehicle anywhere within the service area and offers a walk around to make sure the subscriber understands how the vehicle works and any special features that the vehicle offers.

To apply for Nissan Switch you have to download the app to your phone and put a credit card on file so they can charge the $495 membership activation fee. That fee is charged on top of your first monthly membership fee once your first car is scheduled for delivery. Depending on how long you are a member of Nissan Switch that membership activation fee raised your monthly. Keep Nissan Switch for just six months (the term of the pilot program) and that joining fee adds another $82.50 to your monthly average cost, meaning you could be paying $781.50 a month to drive a Nissan Rouge.

While there are added benefits to the Nissan Switch the pricing structure likely won't make sense for your average buyer as currently, according to NissanUSA.com, you can lease a brand new Altima for 36 months/36,000 miles for just $306 a month. Or buy an Altima for just $413 a month at 60 months with good credit and 0 down. The $699 a month Nissan Switch program does offer a lot of flexibility, but it will be interesting to see if the ability to change cars and concierge service are enough to get people to spend over $780 for a Nissan Frontier or Rogue they can lease for less than half that monthly payment.

You can learn more about Nissan Switch, or enroll, at www.nissanswitch.com.