KUALA LUMPUR: Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM) is showcasing Nissan's e-POWER powertrain system at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024 ahead of the local launch of an all-new Nissan model powered by that innovative hybrid drive.
The new model, believed to be the Serena e-Power, is expected to be introduced in the second half of the year.
Open to public viewing at MAEPS Serdang from May 22-26, the e-POWER hybrid drive is unique as it uses a petrol engine and lithium-ion battery to power an electric motor that solely drives the wheels. It was showcased in the first-generation Kicks compact SUV (a second generation model is already on sale in the United States).
Nissan Kicks e-POWER as shown in the outgoing Kicks.
The e-POWER model responds similarly to an electric car, providing instant torque and also has lower exhaust emissions and running costs compared to a traditional combustion engine without the need to plug in.
In addition to the petrol engine, e-POWER also uses regenerative braking to help keep the battery topped up.
Unlike conventional self-charging hybrids where the wheels are primarily and directly driven by the engine, the e-POWER’s intelligent control system regulates engine operation independently based on factors such as vehicle speed, road conditions, degree of acceleration and battery charge levels.
As a result, the driving experience is quiet and refined with less frequent engine operation compared to conventional hybrids.
At low to medium speeds, such as in urban areas, the vehicle is mainly driven by the electric motor powered by the lithium-ion battery for an EV-like performance.
At high speeds where rolling noise is elevated, the engine runs at optimal revs to generate sufficient electricity to power the motor, and when strong acceleration is required, the motor combines the electricity generated by the engine and the electricity from the lithium-ion battery to power the wheels.
Like EVs, e-POWER also offers the convenience of single-pedal driving where brake pedal operation can be reduced by nearly 70% through regenerative braking which can slow the vehicle while replenishing the battery.
ETCM chief executive officer Khoo Cheng Pah said the transformation which the automotive industry is currently undergoing presents unique challenges and opportunities.
"Battery electric vehicles have no doubt captured the attention of consumers, but there are barriers to adoption in large numbers.
"As the first automotive brand to mass produce electric vehicles with the Nissan LEAF, a model which ETCM introduced back in 2013, we are ready to embark on the another step in electrifying mobility for Malaysians through e-POWER," he said.
Khoo said the intelligent proposition of e-POWER combines the best attributes of different drive systems – the fun-to-drive characteristics of an EV, the freedom from never having to charge the car and the savings of an ultra-efficient petrol-powered vehicle.
"Nissan vehicles powered by e-POWER constantly rank among the best-selling cars in Japan, coveted for their invigorating drive, efficiency and refinement, minus the drawbacks associated with EV ownership," he added.
Aside from e-POWER, ETCM is also displaying the Nissan Almera Turbo Kuro Edition, Navara PRO-4X Ironman Edition and Serena Premium Highway Star.
