The Nissan "e·4WD" is the lightest and most compact four-wheel-drive (4WD) system, which is based on standard front-wheel drive (2WD). The rear wheels are powered by an electric motor and put into drive mode only when required by road conditions such as off-road or uneven areas where additional traction is needed.

Selecting the 2WD mode disengages the rear-wheel electromagnetic clutch and reduces driving resistance for fuel economy superior to that of conventional 4WD cars.

The Nissan March and Cube have come with e·4WD technology since 2002, and we have also expanded the use of this system to the Tiida, the Note, the Wingroad and the Bluebird Sylphy.

Tiida

The system comprises three elements; the "4WD control unit," that controls the power, a "rear wheel drive unit" consisting of a motor, clutch, and reduction gear, and a "dedicated generator," for supplying power to the drive motors. When 4WD operation is required, the 4WD control unit directs the dedicated generator to produce electricity, which powers the motors at the rear of the car, whereupon these motors drive the rear wheels via a clutch. Between the rear wheel motors and the wheels is situated an electromagnetic clutch, and by disengaging this clutch when 4WD is not required, friction is reduced, thus resulting in lower fuel consumption. In addition, the driver can select manually between 4WD and 2WD, meaning they can gain extra fuel efficiency on dry roads.

4WD Control Unit