FRANKLIN, Tenn. — The Nissan Rogue has earned the title of the “Coolest Thing Made in Tennessee” for 2024, awarded by the Tennessee Manufacturers Association. This accolade celebrates the Rogue’s exceptional craftsmanship and innovative design, marking it as a standout product of Tennessee’s manufacturing prowess. Built at Nissan’s Smyrna facility, the Rogue’s powerful engines are crafted at the Nissan Decherd Powertrain Plant.
David Johnson, regional senior vice president of Manufacturing, Supply Chain Management, and Purchasing for Nissan Americas, expressed his pride in the achievement. “Our team members are dedicated to excellence, and this award acknowledges their hard work and innovative spirit. The Rogue is a prime example of our commitment to delivering high-quality, innovative vehicles to our customers. It’s an honor to see their efforts recognized in such a prestigious manner by fellow Tennesseans.”
The competition, in its inaugural year, received over 100 nominations, showcasing the rich diversity of Tennessee’s manufacturing sector. The Rogue emerged victorious after three rigorous rounds of voting, amassing more than 75,000 votes from residents across the state.
Brian Crockett, vice president of Manufacturing at the Smyrna Vehicle Assembly Plant, emphasized the significance of the recognition. “Our team at the Smyrna plant puts their heart and soul into the Rogue, and this award is a huge validation of their hard work. They have helped make the Rogue a standout vehicle, and this achievement shows just how much passion and effort they exhibit every day. It’s incredible to see their efforts recognized like this.”
David Sliger, vice president of Decherd Powertrain Operations, highlighted the innovative engine technology behind the Rogue. “This recognition means a lot to everyone at the Decherd plant where we build the Rogue’s 201-horsepower VC-Turbo engine, the world’s first variable compression ratio engine. Our employees take immense pride in what they do, and it’s wonderful to see their dedication and talent celebrated.”
The award was presented at the Smart Solutions for Smart Factories Expo, held at The Commons at PIE Innovation Center in Cleveland, Tennessee. The event honored the finalists and celebrated Tennessee’s vibrant manufacturing industry.
Moore Hallmark, vice president and managing director of Regional Government Affairs for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, praised the competition’s impact. “The Tennessee Chamber of Commerce & Industry/Tennessee Manufacturers Association’s inaugural Coolest Thing Made in Tennessee competition truly showcases the great innovation and entrepreneurship happening in the Volunteer State. We extend our congratulations to the finalists, who exemplify the ambition, innovation, and passion that helps improve the lives of all Americans.”
The Nissan Rogue, a compact crossover SUV, is currently Nissan’s best-selling vehicle in the United States. Recently refreshed for the 2024 model year, it was the first Nissan to feature Google built-in, offering Google Assistant, Google Maps, and more on a 12.3-inch color touchscreen. Nissan Safety Shield® 360, standard on all grades, includes advanced safety technologies like Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Warning, and Lane Departure Warning.
Looking ahead, the 2025 Nissan Rogue, set to arrive at dealerships later this summer, will introduce the new Rock Creek edition, ProPilot Assist 2.1, and the debut of Invisible Hood View, continuing Nissan’s tradition of innovation and excellence.
The inaugural “Coolest Thing Made in Tennessee” competition, hosted by The Tennessee Manufacturers Association, University of Tennessee Center for Industrial Services, The Smart Factory Institute, and Chattanooga Regional Manufacturers Association, aims to highlight the state’s vibrant manufacturing industry and the remarkable products created by its talented workforce.
