e-POWER drivetrain
The new X-Trail will be the second model in Nissan's European range to be equipped with the brand's innovative e‑POWER drive system. Exclusive to Nissan, the e-POWER system is a unique approach to electrification, offering the EV-drive feeling without the need to recharge.
First introduced in Japan on the Note in 2017, it went on to become the best-selling car, with customers loving its combination of smooth, effortless performance and cable-free ownership.
The new X-Trail's e-POWER system is comprised of a high-output battery and powertrain integrated with a variable compression ratio petrol engine, power generator, inverter and 150kW front electric motor. This unique powertrain means that power to the wheels comes only from an electric motor, which results in instant, linear response to the accelerator.
To meet the typical demands of European consumers and their daily drive, the e-POWER installation has been significantly upgraded for the new X-Trail. The application in the Japanese Note featured a 1.2 petrol engine charging the battery unit, with a final power output of 106hp. For Europe it has been upgraded to a 1.5-litre Variable Compression Ratio turbo petrol engine, with a final system power output of 150kW (204PS).
The unique element of e-POWER is that the petrol engine is used solely to generate electricity, whilst the wheels are completely driven by the electric motor. This means the engine can always run within its optimal range, leading to superior fuel efficiency in urban settings
Thanks to the pure electric motor drive, there's no delay as with an internal combustion engine or traditional hybrid. The instant response delivers exhilarating high torque feel and agile acceleration to make overtaking or merging onto a highway easier and more confidence-inspiring.
Integral to the design of the e-POWER installation is the "linear tune", which governs the operation of the petrol engine, ensuring that it's spinning at an appropriate speed relative to road speed, avoiding the "rev-up" effect of traditional hybrids under hard acceleration. A secondary benefit is the refinement it brings, ensuring the engine is running only at the speed it needs to, which is typically low in urban and suburban conditions.
In addition to these benefits, the e-POWER drive system guarantees a quiet drive, for example at 40 km/h the sound in the car reduces by 8db compared with competitors.
Thanks to the pure electric motor drive, there's no delay as with an internal combustion engine or traditional hybrid. The instant response delivers exhilarating high torque feel and agile acceleration to make overtaking or merging onto a highway easier and more confidence-inspiring.
Integral to the design of the e-POWER installation is the "linear tune", which governs the operation of the petrol engine, ensuring that it's spinning at an appropriate speed relative to road speed, avoiding the "rev-up" effect of traditional hybrids under hard acceleration. A secondary benefit is the refinement it brings, ensuring the engine is running only at the speed it needs to, which is typically low in urban and suburban conditions.
In addition to these benefits, the e-POWER drive system guarantees a quiet drive, for example at 40 km/h the sound in the car reduces by 8db compared with competitors.