Nissan has developed a 3-in-1 powertrain prototype under the X-in-1 approach, which modularizes the motor, inverter, and reducer, and is planned for use in EVs. The company is also planning to release a 5-in-1 prototype, which modularizes the generator and increaser, for use in e-POWER vehicles. The approach covers 3-in-1, 5-in-1, and other possible variants and has been developed to enable EV and e-POWER core components to be produced on the same line.
Nissan became the first automaker to mass-market an EV, the Nissan LEAF, in 2010. In 2016, the company launched its unique e-POWER electrified powertrain, which utilizes its EV technology and provides the feeling of driving an EV with 100% motor drive.
According to Nissan, the X-in-1 approach provides several benefits, including sharing and modularizing core components to improve production efficiencies and reduce powertrain costs by approximately 30% compared to 2019. The company aims to achieve e-POWER price parity with ICE vehicles by around 2026. Additionally, size and weight reduction of the unit improves vehicle driving performance and minimizes noise and vibration. The approach also adopts a newly developed motor that reduces the use of heavy rare earth elements to 1% or less of magnet weight. The sharing of core components and control technology also provides an enjoyable driving experience unique to Nissan EVs.
Toshihiro Hirai, Senior Vice President leading powertrain & EV engineering development at Nissan, 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."
Under its long-term vision, Nissan Ambition 2030, the company aims to bolster its lineup with 27 new electrified models, including 19 EVs, by fiscal year 2030. Nissan aims to bring the unique value of its electrified vehicles to the broadest range of customers by introducing the most suitable models to each market at the appropriate time.
Source: Nissan
