text: The above are all part of the Nissan Integrated 
  
  Manufacturing System, known as NIMS, which provides 
  
  more flexibility in manufacturing. Using NIMS, for example, 
  
  we can produce eight models on a single line. During 
  
  NISSAN 180, we introduced 16 NIMS lines worldwide into 
  
  our 18 total major lines. For NISSAN Value-Up, we will 
  
  increase this to 22 NIMS lines. 
  
  We will need that flexibility during NISSAN Value-Up, 
  
  because twice a month we will be launching new cars 
  
  somewhere—a total of 70 production starts. We cannot do 
  
  this with our old system. The launch stage can be a difficult 
  
  period, and too often problems arise that can cause panic 
  
  on the line. To cope with these problems, we’ve devised 
  
  what we call the Global Launching Expert system. The 
  
  launch expert can stand back and analyze the situation and 
  
  come up with solutions. We are now identifying, educating 
  
  and dispatching launch experts from around the world. In 
  
  2006, we will further refine our launch procedures by 
  
  opening the Global Production Engineering Center. 
  
  Currently, if we produce the same car in several markets, 