Nissan is not relying on pure e-cars like the Leaf for the electrification of Europe. In three years, the Japanese want to bring a cheap alternative on the market.
Nissan wants to offer its hybrid technology from 2022 in Europe. In the so-called E-Power system, the wheels are driven by an electric motor, which is powered by a gasoline generator via a small backup battery with electricity. The latter runs at constant speed and thus particularly efficient, which should reduce fuel consumption compared to the direct drive of the wheels. Nissan sees the self-developed technology as a cheaper alternative to the electric drive, which also requires no charging infrastructure.
In Japan, e-power versions of the Note mini van and the slightly larger Serena have been available for several years. Nissan does not say in which models the technology will be launched in Europe. A start in the next generation of the Micra small car would be conceivable.