Nissan presented two important innovations in Frankfurt, Qashqai e-Power and Ariya, which show the new electrification strategy of the Japanese manufacturer’s range.
Qashqai e-Power
Qashqai e-Power begins the birth of a new segment or a new approach to how to drive an electric car without the need to attach to the charging plug. The car is a Nissan Qashqai ( also called Nissan Rouge in the U.S.) with a unique engine.
It is an extraordinary system called e-Power that consists of a 190 Hp electric motor that moves the wheels of the vehicle and ensures driving pleasure typical of an Electic Vehicle. But how the car is charged? The electricity needed for traction is produced on board the car utilizing a new high tech engine, derived from Infiniti, the three-cylinder turbo petrol engine with 1.5 litres and 158 HP.
This advanced and distinctive propulsion system does not require recharging at the plug and builds up the electric charge when the vehicle runs on petrol. In simple terms, the new model is a 100% electric conduction but with a petrol engine that only needs to recharge the battery—a very different thing from those who drive a classic hybrid.
The e-Power engine is best used where restarts and braking are frequent, facilitating energy regeneration. The system helps to keep the engine heat off with about 65% fewer starts compared to a traditional hybrid vehicles. The new Qashqai e-Power also features e-Pedal Step technology, which allows the driver to accelerate and slow down using only the accelerator pedal. The estimated price is $45000/-.
Nissan Ariya
Nissan Ariya is a 100% electric crossover coupe capable of travelling up to over 500 km with a full tank. Three versions are available to meet customers’ different needs. Ariya 87 kWh, 2WD with an autonomy of up to 533 km , Ariya 63 kWh 2WD; and finally, the Awd model, Ariya e-4Orce. 87 kWh, consisting of Nissan’s most advanced all-wheel drive system consisting of two electric motors, capable of travelling without stopping up to 500 km. On board, the driver can select up to three driving modes, Standard, Sport and EC, which thus make it possible to adapt the car to the driving styles and conditions most suited to their driving.
But let’s look at the unique design of this car. It is undoubtedly modern and elegant, with essential lines that embody Nissan’s philosophy of Timeless Japanese Futurism. The front is imposing and is characterized by the “shield” that completely reinvents the new front grille. In contrast, the rear view is characterized by the lights that run along the entire width of the car, which is very elegant, especially at night, by light points on the fender and by a small spoiler that follows the roof line. Seated behind the wheel, you will notice a huge ‘Monolith’ display, consisting of a well-designed instrument panel and a central 12.3 “display that ensures easy access to information, onboard functions and applications, thanks to compatibility with Apple CarPlay Wireless and Android.