Nissan’s X-Trail Hybrid E-Power Technology
The all-new 4th generation Nissan X-Trail was introduced into the SA market in April 2023 and features some rather impressive tech features that enhance safety, driving experience and comfort. However, the most impressive innovation in the new X-Trail is Nissan’s flagship hybrid e-Power variant.
The 2023 Nissan X-Trail has a lot to boast about. Standard features include LED daytime running lights, cruise control, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Driver and safety aids also include an updated ProPILOT assistance system. Top-of-the-range trims are a panoramic sunroof, leather seats, an intelligent around-view monitor, and Nissan’s Intelligent Mobility technologies.
The hybrid e-Power X-Trail, on the other hand, revolutionises the driving experience – designed to deliver the instant response of an electric vehicle (EV), while also providing the range and convenience of a petrol car, but with the efficiency of a hybrid one. No rival hybrid can match the smooth experience of getting behind the wheel of the new e-Power X-Trail, and on top of this, the car promises lower fuel economy.
According to Nissan, the e-Power system allows you to “enjoy all the benefits of an EV” without the need for plugging into a charger.
Essentially, how it works is, the X-Trail’s 1.5-litre, three-cylinder turbo petrol engine acts purely as an electricity generator. Rather than powering the car’s wheels directly, this petrol engine sends power to the car’s battery or inverter, which in turn runs two electric motors – one driving the front axle and the second driving the rear.
The inverters in turn feed a 2.1 kWh (1.73kWh usable) Lithium-ion battery that powers an electric motor on each axle. These motors produce 150 kW (front) and 100 kW (rear) and 330 Nm and 195 Nm of torque respectively, providing a combined output of 157 kW and 525 Nm of torque available as soon as you press the accelerator.
The system creates steadier conditions for peak efficiency by minimising the peaks and troughs of engine demand that you’d experience driving a petrol car.
According to Nissan, 100km/h is reached in 7.0 seconds and it tops out at 180km/h. Combined fuel consumption is said to come in at an impressive 6.1-litres/100km.
In global markets, the X-Trail is available with a pure internal combustion engine (ICE), a mild-hybrid powertrain, or two range-extender hybrid configurations under the brand’s e-Power banner. In South Africa, however, the vehicle is currently offered as a petrol model, but that’s not to say the manufacturer won’t bring its hybrid technologies to SA soon! Either way, it’s safe to say that Nissan’s new tech makes this family SUV tough to beat.
