e-POWER (Third generation)
e-POWER, Nissan's proprietary series hybrid system, is a unique electrified powertrain that combines a compact gasoline engine and an electric motor. It uses electricity generated by the engine to drive the vehicle solely with the electric motor, achieving smooth and responsive acceleration as well as a high level of quietness.
e-POWER history
Nissan began offering e-POWER on select models for the Japan market in 2016. Since then, Nissan has expanded the model line-up of e-POWER vehicles and their availability in several global markets.
・First-generation e-POWER system (2016~)
The first-generation e-POWER system combined existing engine options with an electric motor used on the Nissan LEAF, which offered EV-like driving performance with the peace of mind of having an onboard gasoline engine.
・Second-generation e-POWER system (2020~)
The second-generation e-POWER system (introduced in 2020) integrated the motor and inverter, making the powertrain more compact. It also was offered with more specialized engine options including a higher-output engine that expanded the range of models to include SUVs as the technology was introduced in new markets. Additionally, the system featured dedicated engines optimized for power generation.
・Third-generation e-POWER system (scheduled to debut in 2025)
The third-generation e-POWER system, scheduled to debut in 2025, takes an impressive evolutionary jump from the previous generation by adopting a 5-in-1 modular approach that optimizes the packaging of the motor, reducer, inverter, electric generator and increaser. The result is a purpose-build powertrain with a compact size that is powerful, efficient and quiet. Combined with an engine made specifically for e-POWER, engineers have enhanced the fuel efficiency while highway driving (up to 15%) and reduced in-cabin noise by up to 5.6 dB.
Compared to 2nd generation e-POWER (Qashqai)
Technology functionality
5-in-1 powertrain approach enables a compact and highly rigid design
The third-generation e-POWER system features a compact and highly rigid design integrating five key powertrain components: the motor, inverter, reducer, electric generator and increaser. This approach is called 5-in-1. The result is improved overall performance, reduced weight, enhanced unit rigidity, a compact design and better refinement and control.
- With 5-in-1, the unit's axis structure and precision have been optimized
- Improving unit rigidity and managing resonance points with the vehicle enhances quietness
The third-generation e-POWER system features a dedicated engine that improves fuel and thermal efficiency over the previous generation
The e-POWER system is able to activate the dedicated onboard engine for power generation independently of the accelerator pedal operation to charge to the battery, ensuring on-demand power is available when needed.
The engine features an optimized design to increase fuel efficiency and power output through use of the STARC concept* which stabilizes combustion within the cylinders. With efficient power generation in mind, Nissan engineers have further improved fuel efficiency at high-torque operating points where power generation efficiency is highest, significantly enhancing the engine's combustion rate and improving thermal efficiency.
- STARC: Strong Tumble & Appropriately stretched Robust ignition Channel
STARC concept
RELATED TECHNOLOGY
e-POWER system
e-POWER delivers a responsive and quiet drive like an EV
Next-generation X-in-1 electric powertrain
Further commonize and modularize core EV and e-POWER components, with the goal of reducing the cost of e-POWER to that of ICE vehicles by 2026
e-POWER control technology
Advanced control technology supports the powerful and quiet driving that is characteristic of motor drive
e-POWER's internal combustion engine achieves 50% thermal efficiency
Efficient, fixed-point operation is achieved by restricting the engine's operating range, which is only possible for an engine that is dedicated to electricity generation