One of the things that skiers and snowboarders can do to protect the precious snow against the problem of climate change is to choose a car that can directly contribute to the reduction of CO2 emissions.
NISSAN's "X-TRAIL", which has been supported by skiers and snowboarders since its launch in 2000 for its overwhelming performance on snowy roads and stylish presence, is now available for the first time in about nine years. Underwent a full model change. What has changed in the new X-TRAIL?! While inheriting the DNA from the first model, it is equipped with the evolved 2nd generation "e-POWER", electric drive 4 wheel control technology "e-4ORCE", "carbon neutral era" What are the benefits as a new option that meets the needs of skiers and snowboarders?
NISSAN｜Speaking of X-TRAIL
Speaking of NISSAN (Nissan Motor)'s X-TRAIL (X-TRAIL), as a pioneer of SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle), it had a big impact on the market when the first model was announced in 2000. At that time, the free skiing and extreme sports movements were just beginning to explode worldwide. The cool style and tough driving on off-road and snowy roads unique to a full-fledged SUV matched the birth of a new sports culture, capturing the hearts of many skiers and snowboarders.
This time, the new X-TRAIL, which has been completely renewed for the first time in nine years since 2013, has undergone a major evolution while inheriting the DNA as a "tough gear" from the first model. Equipped with the second generation "e-POWER" and the electric drive four-wheel control technology "e-4ORCE", it entered the next stage and was reborn as a completely new SUV. Let's get closer to that reality.
What are e-POWER and e-4ORCE?
"e-POWER" is an electric vehicle that generates electricity with an engine and runs with a motor. What is the difference from the so-called HV (hybrid car)? In other words, the HV runs using two power sources, the engine and the motor. In comparison, e-POWER is equipped with an engine, but it is only for power generation, and the difference is that it runs only with a high-output motor. Strictly speaking, it is one of the HVs in the sense that it is equipped with e-POWER, an engine, and a motor, and the official name is a series hybrid.
So what is "e-4ORCE"? In a nutshell, it means "Electric four-wheel control technology". It is a technology that optimizes the driving force of the four wheels by integrated control of the front and rear high-output motors and the left and right brakes. What will these technologies bring to users?
I would like to know how the new X-TRAIL has changed and what is attractive about it from the perspective of skiers and snowboarders of STEEP readers! I asked Mr. Ito, a public relations man for NISSAN who is also a skier himself.
What do you enjoy most about skiers and snowboarders?
The biggest point of this full model change is the installation of e-4ORCE. This is an electric 4WD technology that has never existed before, and this time it will be the first to be installed in the X-TRAIL. It also has a VC (variable compression ratio) turbo engine. I think that the merits brought about by this will be a nice feature for skiers and snowboarders who run on snowy roads and run long distances to ski resorts.
Overwhelming sense of security in slippery situations brought by "e-4ORCE"!
The e-4ORCE has one front and one rear motor that drives the front and rear wheels, and drives all four wheels. What is the difference from the previous 4WD?
“The reason why electric 4WD is superior to ordinary 4WD is that it can be controlled very precisely. For example, in the case of a gasoline car, if it senses that the tires are slipping, it controls the engine speed. This controls the torque transmitted to the tires, so there is a lot of time lag. However, electricity is very fast, so if you think you've slipped, the computer will detect it and instantly control the motor.
Therefore, the sense of security is overwhelmingly large in slippery situations. In addition, brake control is also used, so all four wheels can be controlled front, rear, left, and right. This is a very reliable performance on snowy roads. Switching between 2WD and 4WD is done automatically, so there is no need to switch, which is a smart feature.”
"VC Turbo" is quiet and comfortable to go back and forth!
The second big point is that it uses a new engine called VC Turbo.
“On top of the electric 4WD, it is equipped with a VC (variable compression ratio) turbo engine. Lowering the compression ratio increases power but reduces fuel consumption. So, if you create an engine that allows you to freely change the compression ratio from high to low, you can lower the compression ratio when you want more power, and raise the compression ratio when you want to save fuel efficiently, such as when cruising. It's an engine that can change, with better fuel economy and more power when you want it.
Since the X-TRAIL is e-POWER, the engine on board only generates electricity and does not drive. It's a bit confusing, but there are times when you want to generate a lot of power and times when you don't, so being able to change the compression ratio is really groundbreaking.
Benefits for customers include improved fuel efficiency and quietness. It's insanely quiet. Since it generates electricity efficiently, the time when the engine is stopped becomes longer. It is also quiet and efficient even when the engine is running. It's quiet when cruising and accelerating. It also has the advantage of not stressing the driver.
There are two reasons why people get tired when driving long distances. One is noise and the other is ride quality. In addition to the VC turbo engine, the use of a new platform has improved the ride comfort. It removes the physical and mental stress that causes fatigue while riding, so you should be able to spend a very comfortable time going to and from the ski resort.”
I want to know the driving performance of X-TRAIL e-4ORCE!
By finely controlling the driving force and brakes of the motor, the e-4ORCE can firmly control the car even on slippery roads such as snowy roads, and can turn at will on curves. These high operability are very reliable performance for accessing snowy mountains with many curves.
“The high performance does not change even when going uphill or downhill. Many people have the image that they can climb with a motor? Isn’t it scary? It is more stable than the 4WD.It is not scary to climb firmly.The e-POWER is surprisingly powerful.
Even if you get stuck in deep snow, you can easily get out. Easy to get out of deep snow. Electric ones are really strong against snow and ice. The most important thing in snowy mountains is safety. I think we were able to do that without any stress. I would like you to try riding it," says Ito.
This function is convenient!
The charm of the X-TRAIL e-4ORCE is also in its versatile interior. For skiers and snowboarders who spend long hours approaching ski resorts, ease of driving and a comfortable interior space are very important points. Everyone should be particular about creating a stress-free and relaxing space. The X-TRAIL e-4ORCE offers that comfort in many ways.
Drive selector with SNOW mode suitable for snowy roads
SNOW mode optimally controls the front/rear driving force distribution according to driving conditions to ensure smooth driving on snowy roads, and appropriately controls the driving force in response to accelerator operation to obtain the optimum acceleration force. In OFF-ROAD mode, it controls front and rear driving force distribution and acceleration force so that it can demonstrate powerful driving performance in deep snow and unpaved roads. Comfortable driving is possible with a drive selector that can arrange driving by switching modes.
Steering heater [Grade setting]
Equipped with a steering heater that quickly warms up cold hands when the switch is turned on.
All grades come standard with front seat heaters that instantly heat up when the
seat Seats with rear seat heater <Second seat left and right> [Grade-specific settings]
Seat heaters for rear passengers are also available.
Waterproof sheet
that can be easily wiped off even if you sit with snow or wet clothes. The main part of the seat uses Cellcloth®, which boasts a high level of waterproofness and moisture permeability, to ensure moisture permeability that alleviates unpleasant stuffiness in the summer.
propilot
A function that assists accelerator, brake, and steering operations on highways.
In addition, it works in conjunction with the NissanConnect navigation system, grasps curves and junctions in advance, and controls vehicle speed so that it can turn smoothly. Driving at high speed for long periods of time can be tiring. Especially on the way home after a day of skiing in the mountains, it would be a very welcome support. *NissanConnect navigation system required
Relationship between "X-TRAIL e-4ORCE" and environmental initiatives
What can skiers and snowboarders do to protect precious snow against the problems of global warming and climate change? One of the answers is to choose a car that can directly contribute to the reduction of CO2 emissions as an individual approach to environmental issues.
"X-TRAIL e-4ORCE" is not an EV, but it is possible to make an important touch on environmental issues unique to e-POWER. I asked Mr. Ito what he thought about it.
Enjoy the world view of EV while placing one step
“Nissan is also working on the issue of climate change under its sustainability strategy, Nissan Sustainability 2022. From this point of view, I think one of the direct effects of choosing the "X-TRAIL e-4ORCE" is that it will definitely improve fuel efficiency, which will lead to a reduction in CO₂ emissions.
I want to be aware of environmental issues and take action myself. However, there is anxiety and confusion about suddenly jumping to an EV. If you own an EV, you will need to recharge it on a daily basis, so new routines will increase, and many people are worried about whether it will suit their lifestyle.
However, if you use a car that uses EV technology called e-POWER, you can use it in the same way as a conventional gasoline car, but you can experience the pleasant driving and good fuel efficiency of EV. If you experience e-POWER before suddenly going to EV, put one cushion and enjoy the world of EV. I think you can objectively imagine the next step when you get into an EV.
I think it is very important to think about what suits your style when choosing.
For example, if you live in Yuzawa, can go to the ski resort in 30 minutes, and have a charger at home, you may be better off with an EV. But if you have to go to Tokyo once a month for a day trip, it might be a bit of a hassle. You don't have to charge it on the way. If you still want to ride an EV, the cost is cheaper than a gasoline car, and you don't mind charging, you may suddenly want an EV. But I wouldn't recommend an EV for a day trip from Tokyo to a ski resort. e-POWER is definitely more comfortable.
I believe that the "X-TRAIL e-4ORCE" is the perfect car for the first step in using things that match your own style while maintaining a support mindset for the environment. I believe that the environmental initiatives proposed by "X-TRAIL e-4ORCE" will serve as a bridge to an eco-friendly life in an EV someday."
the person who taught me
Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
Global External Public Relations Department
Shun ITO
Ever since I can remember, I've loved cars. When she was in 1st grade, she could name all the cars in town. His previous job was at an automobile manufacturer, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., for eight years. He has a busy life running around as a publicist. In winter, hot moguls ski on bumps such as Kagura, Kandatsu, and Kawaba. Ordered the FACTION new model for this winter, and the FT custom boots have already been formed!