Nissan Navara could get e-Power hybrid, first Japanese hybrid pick-up ahead of Hilux and Triton?
Louis · Sep 14, 2022 11:57 AM
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Nissan Australia indicated that their e-Power hybrid system could be used in the Nissan Navara as the system is scalable and can be installed across different vehicle platforms.
Nissan stated their new e-Power hybrid system has 10,000 times faster rear torque response than a mechanical all-wheel drive system. Utilising what Nissan calls as “e-4orce”, their new electric-drive four-wheel-control technology takes on terrain in confidence and delivers the perfect balance between powerful and unprecedented control.
Could this be the first Japanese pick-up truck to feature a hybrid system? According to Toyota Australia, they've been "actively considering" diesel-electric technology for its Hilux range.
On the other hand, Mitsubishi Australia is studying a diesel hybrid option but they aren't stopping there as they are also considering whether the Triton could feature a PHEV system. This means the Triton could gain a plug-in hybrid or a mild-hybrid option.
Does the off-road capability of Nissan's e-Power hybrid lose out on ride comfort and handling then? According to Nissan, the e-4orce with its constant torque redistribution, it does not lose out on ride comfort and handling as the technology has the ability to quickly adapt to various road surfaces and conditions.
The lead engineer of the e-Power program pointed out that the e-Power system only uses the engine to generate electricity for their soon-to-be debut Nissan Qashqai and X-Trail in Australia. As the wheels are driven purely by the electric motor, there would definitely be more than enough torque for off-road applications.
“It’s incredibly fast, you’re not going to get any quicker, and it means you’ve got the permanent all-wheel drive system, so you apply torque wherever you want at any time.” – the lead engineer added.
Although Nissan declined to comment on future product plans, it was stated that this technology offers some very, very strong benefits and can be used in other applications.
Furthermore, Nissan added that they chose to use larger electric motors for both front and rear as it benefits from sending all the power from front to rear and that gives the extra capability to the all-wheel drive vehicle.
“So, having the larger motors is more about the all-wheel drive capabilities than peak acceleration power.” - Nissan added.
Currently, Nissan's e-Power hybrid system is available on the Nissan X-Trail, Serena and Kicks.
Louis is an automotive writer whose background was in the legal industry. Jumping from law firms to car dealerships, he finally found a career he loves and will never have to work a day in his life. He enjoys detailing his car and going to the gym during his free time.
