Nissan has developed a 3-in-1 powertrain prototype, which modularizes the motor, inverter and reducer, which is planned for use in EVs. Under the approach, core EV and e-POWER powertrain components will be shared and modularized, resulting in a 30% reduction, compared to 2019, in development and manufacturing costs by 2026.
A 5-in-1 prototype, which additionally modularizes the generator and increaser, is planned for use in e-POWER vehicles. The X-in-1 approach, which covers 3-in-1, 5-in-1, and other possible variants, has been developed to enable EV and e-POWER core components to be produced on the same line.
Under its long-term vision, Nissan Ambition 2030, the company aims to produce 27 new electrified models, including 19 EVs, by 2030. Nissan says it aims to achieve e-POWER price parity with ICE vehicles by around 2026.
In 2010, Nissan became the first automaker to mass-market an EV, the Nissan LEAF. To continuously enhance its electrification technologies, Nissan has been carefully listening to its EV customers around the world. In 2016, Nissan launched its unique e-POWER electrified powertrain, utilizing its EV technology, which provides the same driving pleasure as an EV as it is 100% motor drive.
The X-in-1 approach to electrified powertrain development sharing and modularizes core components, improving production efficiencies and reducing powertrain costs by approximately 30% compared to 2019. Size and weight of the unit is reduced, improving vehicle driving performance and minimizing noise and vibration.
These newly developed motors will also reduce the the use of heavy rare earth elements to 1% or less by weight..
Senior Vice President Toshihiro Hirai, who leads powertrain & EV engineering powertrain development, said, “We make the most of our expertise and know-how from our more-than-a-decade long development and production of electrified technologies. Through our innovations in electrified powertrain development, we’ll continue to create new value for customers and deliver 100% motor-driven vehicles – EVs and e-POWER – as widely as possible.”
