NISSAN INTRODUCES NEW ELECTRIC-MOTOR DRIVETRAIN: e-POWER

November 2, 2016 by Nissan

YOKOHAMA, Japan (November 2, 2016) – Nissan Motor Co. Ltd., today introduced its new drive system called e-POWER to customers. It marks the first time that e-POWER technology is available for consumers, marking a significant milestone in the electrification strategy under Nissan Intelligent Mobility.

e-POWER borrows from the EV technology perfected in the Nissan LEAF, the best-selling pure electric car in history, with more than 250,000 units sold. Unlike the LEAF, e-POWER adds a small gasoline engine to charge the high-output battery when necessary, eliminating the need for an external charger while offering the same high-output.

The technology of e-POWER

The e-POWER system features full electric-motor drive, meaning that the wheels are completely driven by the electric motor. The power from a high-output battery is delivered to the e-POWER's compact powertrain comprised of a gasoline engine, power generator, inverter, and a motor. In conventional hybrid systems, a low-output electric motor is mated to a gasoline engine to drive the wheels when the battery is low (or when traveling at high speeds). However, in the e-POWER system, the gasoline engine is not connected to the wheels; it simply charges the battery. And unlike a full EV, the power source originates from the engine and not just the battery.

This system structure generally requires a bigger motor and battery because the motor is the only direct source to drive wheels. This has made it hard for the automotive industry to mount the system in compact cars. However, Nissan has cracked the code and learned how to minimize and reduce weight, develop more responsive motor control methods and optimize energy management. As a result, e-POWER uses a smaller battery than the LEAF, but delivers the same driving experience as a full EV.

The benefits of e-POWER

e-POWER delivers massive torque almost instantly, which enhances drive response and results in smooth acceleration. Also, the system operates very quietly, much like a full EV. Because e-POWER relies on the engine much less frequently, its fuel efficiency is comparable to that of leading conventional hybrids, especially during around-the-town commutes. The e-POWER system allows you to enjoy all the benefits of an EV without having to worry about charging the battery.

Development history

Nissan is actively pursuing a zero-emission, zero-fatality world for driving through its EV program and autonomous drive technology. To make this vision a reality, Nissan is developing 'Nissan Intelligent Mobility,' which anchors critical company decisions around how cars are powered, how cars are driven, and how cars integrate into society, all while staying focused on creating more enjoyable driving experiences. e-POWER is another step towards achieving our zero-emission vision through a new and more efficient electric powertrain.

In 2006, Nissan experienced a breakthrough in its energy management technology. Nissan's engineers were able to reduce the battery capacity to match its competitors' hybrid vehicles while still delivering desirable EV qualities, such as quietness and efficient energy use. In addition, application of Nissan's technologies, such as the integration of a power-generating engine, electric motor drive for compact car use, strengthening of the powertrain's rigidity and improvements in NVH levels, became the foundation of e-POWER and its implementation in the compact-car segment.

Nissan is committed to developing electric-powered powertrains that use various fuels to cater to the different requirements of the world's markets. e-POWER is but one example of that quest and will strengthen Nissan's lineup of electric-powered powertrains. Nissan is also conducting research and development of the SOFC (Solid Oxide Fuel Cell) fuel-cell vehicle, and will continue to introduce innovative new products into various areas and promote the worldwide use of EVs.

Note: The e-POWER system is classified as a series hybrid. The Note e-POWER represents the first mass-production compact segment car ever to be equipped with a series hybrid system.

About Nissan in the UK

Nissan Sunderland Plant produces the Nissan Qashqai, Note and Juke and the 100% electric Nissan LEAF

Production of lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles began in 2012

Total plant volume since 1986 stands at more than seven million units with 80 per cent of production exported to 100 markets worldwide

Total investment made and announced since then is over £3.5 billion

500,237 units were produced at Sunderland plant in 2014

In 2014, one in three cars built in the UK was a Nissan

Sunderland Plant currently employs more than 6,700 people

Nissan's European Design Centre is located in Paddington, London and employs around 65 people

Nissan's European Technical Centre is based in Cranfield, Bedfordshire and employs around 1,000 people

Nissan's sales and marketing headquarters in Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire employs around 220 people

About Nissan in Europe

Nissan has one of the most comprehensive European presences of any overseas manufacturer, employing more than 17,000 staff across locally-based design, research & development, manufacturing, logistics and sales & marketing operations. Last year Nissan plants in the UK, Spain and Russia produced more than 635,000 vehicles including award-winning crossovers, commercial vehicles and the Nissan LEAF, the world's most popular electric vehicle. Pursuing a goal of zero emissions and zero fatalities on the road, Nissan recently announced its Intelligent Mobility vision. Designed to guide Nissan's product and technology pipeline, this 360 degree approach to the future of mobility will anchor critical company decisions around how cars are powered, how cars are driven, and how cars integrate into society. Nissan is positioned to become the most desirable Asian brand in Europe.

Photo credit: Nissan
posted on conceptcarz.com