Nissan has used the platform of the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas to announce its new twin-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) system. It has a rather stylistically convoluted name, which is (ready for this?)... 'e-4ORCE'. Which is just pronounced 'e-Force', and it stands for 'e' (100 per cent electric), 'force' (er, force) and '4' (AWD).
Inspired by GT-R
Nissan says e-4ORCE provides instant torque to all four wheels, allowing for 'balanced, predictable power and handling on a par with many premium sports cars'. This electric AWD tech was developed from no less an inspirational source than the ATTESA E-TS torque-split system you'll find on the mighty GT-R, and also the intelligent 4x4 on a Patrol, and e-4ORCE is deliberately designed to offer smooth and stable control of an electric vehicle's (EV) power output and braking performance.
Apparently, the system also improves ride comfort, because it reduces pitch and drive. It does this by employing regenerative braking from both front and rear electric motors, making urban stop-and-go driving 'less jostling'. And on rough and bumpy roads, e-4ORCE works out the terrain to control the motors in a manner that minimises irregular movements from the car. High-precision motor and brake control makes the car handle sharply and the AWD traction provides a lot of security on slippery surfaces.
Nissan displayed its zero-emission crossover Ariya Concept, on which you can watch a video right here on YouTube, as the show car for e-4ORCE in the booth at CES, but it also used a technology test car in the form of a Leaf for dynamic displays in Las Vegas.
'Gives drivers greater confidence'
Takao Asami, Nissan's senior vice-president of research and advanced engineering, said: "The e-4ORCE twin-motor all-wheel control technology offers precise handling and stability, which gives drivers greater confidence and even more excitement than ever before. This technology enables excellent cornering performance and traction on slippery surfaces and comfortable ride for all passengers."