Nissan Motor is set to launch a new hybrid technology in the U.S. market, named “e-Power,” which operates like an all-electric vehicle but utilizes a traditional gas-powered engine solely as a generator. This series hybrid system is designed to power electric motors that drive the vehicle without the need for a plug. Unlike traditional hybrids, such as the Toyota Prius, where the gas engine propels the vehicle, the e-Power system maintains battery charge for electric propulsion.
The e-Power system will debut later this year in an updated version of Nissan’s popular Rogue compact SUV. Industry officials suggest that rising gas prices and slower electric vehicle adoption rates make this launch timely, as hybrid sales are anticipated to increase significantly amid new market entries.
According to S&P Global Mobility, the market share for hybrids in the U.S. is expected to rise to 18.4% of new vehicle sales in the current year, a notable increase from 12.6% the previous year. In contrast, the expected market share for pure electric vehicles has decreased to 7.1%.
The e-Power system represents Nissan’s third generation of series hybrid technology, which has been in use since its introduction in Japan in 2016. Over 1.6 million vehicles equipped with e-Power have been sold globally across nearly 70 countries. Nissan has developed a new 1.5-liter, three-cylinder turbocharged engine to enhance the system’s appeal to American consumers.
The driving dynamics of the e-Power system are characterized by fast acceleration and regenerative braking, providing an experience similar to that of electric vehicles while maintaining some traditional engine elements. The absence of a conventional transmission and drive components contributes to reduced noise and vibration during operation.
While Nissan has not disclosed specific details regarding pricing or fuel economy for the upcoming Rogue equipped with e-Power, comparative models have demonstrated fuel efficiencies exceeding 40 miles per gallon in city driving scenarios. The company has acknowledged that the e-Power system is modular, potentially allowing it to be adapted for various engine sizes in future vehicle models.
Nissan has not confirmed plans to expand the e-Power system to additional vehicles in the U.S., focusing instead on the upcoming launch of the Rogue with this innovative technology.
Source: Reported based on publicly available information from www.cnbc.com.
