JOHANNESUBURG, South Africa – As part of ongoing celebrations around the 70th anniversary of the iconic Nissan Patrol, Nissan has launched a new platform to recognize those who have helped build the SUV’s rich legacy. Titled ‘Patrol Legends’, it spotlights stories from around the world, underlining the role of those who have sat behind the wheel of the Patrol in building its legendary reputation over decades.

Via a dedicated platform hosted on TheNissanNEXT website, audiences can immerse themselves into the rich world of the Patrol and share their own memories. The platform also features a dedicated ‘Patrol Legends Training Package’, a multi-terrain driving masterclass that provides drivers with guidance on how to harness the Patrol’s strength and unlock its power across different terrains – from road to desert to mountain.

The platform also extends the celebration globally by crowdsourcing images from Patrol drivers across the world to create a unique 70th anniversary collage showcasing memorable Patrol moments over the last 70 years. Audiences are encouraged to share their most memorable moments behind the wheel on social media using #PatrolLegends. The site will continue to be updated with stories from off-road enthusiasts, adventurous families, racers, and more, as well as other exciting new content over the coming months.

Since its launch in 1951, The Nissan Patrol has continued to make its way into the hearts and minds of communities around the world. It has come a long way since its inception as a rugged utility vehicle, with every generation dialling up luxurious sophistication and intelligent technology, to establish the Patrol’s dominance both on and off the road.

Joni Paiva, Divisional Vice President for Marketing and Sales Operations, Africa, Middle East, India, and Oceania at Nissan Motor Corporation, said: “For 70 years the Patrol has remained a cut above the rest – combining power and rugged capabilities with opulent luxury. Combining the old with the new, Nissan is now moving to the next chapter of its legacy in the region, redefining possibilities and shaping the future, today. Patrol has evolved into more than just a vehicle by forming powerful connections with its drivers across generations. Through Patrol Legends, we want to bring to light the unique stories from Patrol drivers from around the globe, as we commemorate the SUV’s long-standing reputation as the 'Hero of All Terrains'. Our rich heritage moves us forward as we forge a path for the Patrol for the next 70 years, and we are excited to continue creating legendary driving experiences and cherished memories for our customers.”

Stefan Haasbroek, Marketing Director of Nissan Africa, said: “The Patrol is engineered from the wheels up to tackle the most demanding driving conditions on the planet. The Patrol has built a reputation of being the “King of the Off-Road” in South Africa and throughout the African continent for more than six decades.”

A cornerstone of Nissan’s SUV heritage, the Nissan Patrol has been lauded for its reliability and unparalleled all-terrain performance, along with premium design and comfort features – leading to over 2 million units being sold globally over the last 70 years.

The South African Patrol Owners Club held their own anniversary celebration recently. Owners and fans nationwide gathered at Goerapan in the Kalahari Desert (South Africa’s largest desert) to mark the milestone. They spent the last weekend of September celebrating the Patrol’s 70-year icon status, as well as Heritage Day. The celebratory weekend has no doubt produced amazing visuals to be featured on the #PatrolLegends platform.

To find out more about the #PatrolLegends campaign and share your own Patrol story, please visit https://www.thenissannext.com/