We were early in focusing efforts to reduce emissions, and have worked to develop a wide range of technologies, including (1) improvements for cleaner burning of fuel, (2) catalytic converters to reduce emissions, and (3) ways to use gasoline evaporations from fuel tanks. We have worked to incorporate and spread these technologies through the sales of our products to reduce emissions significantly.
Constantly evolving low emission vehicles
Exhaust emissions of SU-LEVs (Japan)
Beginning with compliance with the U.S. Clean Air Act Extension of 1970, we have always been quick to provide vehicles that meet environmental regulations. The emissions levels of today's cleanest gasoline-powered vehicles (U-LEV*1 and SU-LEV*2) achieve 1/100 to 1/250 of the levels defined in the 1970 regulations.
- *1 U-LEV: Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle. A vehicle producing 50% less nitrogen oxide (NOx) and hydrocarbon (HC) than the level prescribed in the 2005 emission standards.
- *2 SU-LEV: Super-Ultra Low Emission Vehicle. A vehicle producing 75% less nitrogen oxide (NOx) and hydrocarbon (HC) than the level prescribed in the 2005 emission standards.
Introduction of clean diesel vehicles
X-Trail 20GT
Cleaner diesel engines are called for today, and by incorporating technology such as diesel particulate filters that trap and remove soot and other particulates, NOx trap catalysts, and oxidation catalysts, we are introducing clean diesel vehicles that will meet future standards as early as possible.
A clean diesel engine that meets the Euro 4 emission standards was fitted on the 2007 Qashqai in Europe. In the fall of 2008 we will launch an X-Trail 20GT equipped with a clean diesel engine that meets new standards expected to be adopted in Japan.
