Nissan reveals sedan, SUV concepts with plug-in hybrid, electric power

Nissan has used the Beijing motor show to showcase a range of SUV and sedan concept vehicles, with both plug-in hybrid and pure electric power.

The Japanese brand has plans to launch five “new energy vehicles” – either plug-in hybrids or full electric vehicles (EVs) – in China by 2026 with its joint-venture partner Dongfeng, and these concepts could eventually lead that charge.

Nissan’s Era Concept is possibly the closest to any of its current range, with the SUV’s plug-in hybrid drivetrain based on the e-4orce all-wheel drive system which underpins the X-Trail e-Power.

In the X-Trail, its petrol engine acts as a generator for a small battery which in turn powers the front and rear electric motors, giving the driving feel of an EV but without having to solely rely on recharging via a plug.

Though Nissan didn’t disclose any further details about what’s under the Era Concept’s skin, the presence of a plug-in hybrid system suggests it would use a larger battery that could be topped up.

Nissan says the Era “supports urban lifestyles and is well suited to young businesspeople who treat their car as a second home”, with its interior featuring an “interconnected entertainment system and zero-gravity seats”.

Closely related to the Era is the Epic Concept, another SUV but with a full EV powertrain, designed for “adventurous city couples who explore on weekends”.

According to Nissan, it supports autonomous driving on city streets as well as highways, though given it’s not a functional concept, we can’t see its systems in action.

The Epic Concept also acts as a mobile power source via its vehicle-to-load (V2L) system, similar to the existing Nissan Ariya and Leaf EVs.

Nissan’s second electric-only concept is the Epoch sedan, claimed to suit urban and suburban go-getters with an interest in technology.

This is headlined by its interior featuring an “AI-expanded Internet of Things”, plus a virtual personal assistant which can recognise occupant’s emotions.

The second sedan, the Evo concept, is a plug-in hybrid for weekend road trips, based around family life by incorporating advanced driver assistance systems and safety features.

Like the Epoch, it also features an AI-enhanced virtual personal assistant.

Nissan is yet to confirm production plans for any of the four concepts.

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