Nissan gives an outlook on the next generation of its electric cars: The Japanese car manufacturer has now unveiled a twin-engine, four-wheel drive prototype that takes the all-electric driving experience to a whole new level.
That on the Nissan LEAF e + based model has two independent electric motors on front and rear axle. They develop a system performance of 227 kW / 309 PS and a maximum torque of 680 Nm. The ultra-precise engine control allows dynamic, but also gentle acceleration. The interaction of the units also makes it possible to implement an electric four-wheel system that supports the driver in every driving situation and thus promotes safety.
"Nissan will soon launch a next-generation electric car that sets new standards," said Takao Asami, senior vice president of research and pre-development at Nissan. "The new all-wheel steering system now developed links the electric drive and four-wheel drive system with our chassis control technologies, allowing us to leap to the level of sports cars in acceleration, deceleration and cornering."
Maximum ride comfort for all passengers
In addition to the ultimate in driving pleasure, the precise control of both engines provides unrivaled ride comfort. The regenerative braking action of the rear engine complements the conventional regenerative front engine brake, further minimizing the tilt and pitching motion of the vehicle. Inmates hardly notice any delays in city traffic, as a result of which the dreaded motion sickness and the associated complaints are much less frequent. Even on bumpy roads and when accelerating, the engine control system has a positive effect on driving comfort.
To maximize the cornering force generated by each tire, the brakes on each of the four wheels are independently controlled. Thus, the prototype shows optimal cornering behavior and follows exactly the steering commands of the driver. Also contributing to this is the electric four-wheel steering technology, which improves safety and traction on any surface. Thanks to the high-precision engine and brake control system, for example, curves on snow-covered roads are handled masterfully.
Highlight of Nissan Intelligent Mobility
These technologies are another example of Nissan Intelligent Mobility - the corporate vision that defines how vehicles will be driven, powered and integrated into society in the future. Although it is only a prototype, tailor-made exterior emphasizes this vision. Thanks to wheel arch extensions and rally rims, the vehicle can withstand even the most demanding road conditions.
In the interior, a large 12,3-Zoll-Display can be found in the middle of the dashboard: The graphically high-quality screen provides all important information about vehicle control in real time. This allows the driver to better interpret the vehicle movements and assess the intervention of the four-wheel drive at a glance.
Specifications at a glance
| Electric motor | EM57 x 2 (front and back) |
| Maximum power | 227 kW / PS 309 |
| Max. Torque | 680 Nm |
| Length / width / height (mm) | 4.480/1.830/1.540 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2.700 mm |
| Power Type | Electric four-wheel steering |
| Tubes | front: 215 / 55 R 17 |
| Rear: 235 / 50 R17 |