The Counteroffensive of EV, HV, and Nissan Clean Diesel Environmental Technologies

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. is scheduled to launch the "Leaf," its first full-scale EV, this winter. While the company was perceived to be focusing on EVs for environmental technology, it is now appealing with a diverse range of next-generation environmental technologies. This includes the "PURE DRIVE" series of evolved eco-cars, featuring next-generation environmental technologies optimized for currently widespread engine vehicles, such as the "March" with idling stop technology and the "X-TRAIL" equipped with clean diesel.

The "Fuga Hybrid" is the third model to join Nissan's "PURE DRIVE" series. This marks Nissan Motor's first commercial hybrid vehicle in approximately 10 years, since the "Tino Hybrid" released in 2000. Naturally, hybrid technology has advanced significantly over the past decade. The vehicle employs Nissan's proprietary "Intelligent Dual Clutch Control" hybrid system, a one-motor, two-clutch setup that embodies Nissan's environmental technology. Through precise control, including a cooperative regenerative braking system, it achieves remarkable fuel efficiency of 19.0 km/L (10-15 mode), comparable to compact cars, while delivering a refreshingly direct driving experience.

The "Intelligent Dual Clutch Control" system uses a single motor for both driving and power generation, directly connecting the engine and transmission without a torque converter. This results in a lightweight and highly efficient system. The one-motor, two-clutch configuration allows one of the clutches to completely disconnect the motor and engine, enabling EV mode driving. Unlike previous hybrid vehicles where EV mode was typically limited to low speeds, this system supports high-speed driving, significantly improving fuel efficiency. The motor used in this model, designated "HM34," delivers a maximum output of 50 kW (68 ps) and a maximum torque of 270 Nm (27.5 kgm), providing nearly the output of a mini-vehicle and double the torque.

Paired with the motor is a 3.5-liter "VQ35HR" engine, optimized for hybrid use, boasting a maximum output of 225 kW (306 ps) at 6800 rpm and a maximum torque of 350 Nm (35.7 kgm) at 5000 rpm. Furthermore, a manual mode with a 7-speed electronically controlled hybrid transmission, with shift characteristics optimized for the motor's output, contributes to a powerful driving feel. The suspension features double-piston shock absorbers that control damping force based on the frequency of road input. Notably, it is also equipped with an electric hydraulic power steering system and an electric brake booster, the first of their kind globally to use electric pumps for hydraulic pressure generation. The electric control brake system is also a world-first.

Additionally, it features a world-first "reverse driving warning" function. When driving on highways, the vehicle uses its driving information (vehicle speed, GPS location, navigation map data) to determine if it might be traveling in the wrong direction. If so, it alerts the driver with audio guidance and a display. It is also equipped with a vehicle approach notification system that audibly alerts pedestrians when the vehicle is nearby.

As an eco-drive support feature unique to hybrid vehicles, the Fuga Hybrid boasts a dedicated meter display. This display provides a variety of information, including the hybrid system's operating status (energy monitor), battery level, accelerator guide, eco-drive indicator, and a liquid crystal odometer/twin trip meter with an EV mode driving distance display.

Regarding its environmental performance, it achieves the "FY2010 Fuel Economy Standard +25%." Coupled with the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism's "75% Emission Reduction Level under the FY2005 Standard (SU-LEV)" certification, it qualifies for tax reductions under the "Incentive Tax System for Promotion of Eco-Car Adoption." As a next-generation vehicle, it is exempt from automobile acquisition tax and automobile weight tax, presenting a compelling package for Nissan's highly anticipated hybrid vehicle.

The price for this Fuga Hybrid starts at 5,775,000 yen.

Nissan Fuga Hybrid | NISSAN FUGA HYBRID
Body | Length 4,945 x Width 1,845 x Height 1,500mm
Wheelbase | 2,900mm
Engine | 3.5-liter V6 DOHC Engine + Motor
Maximum Output (Engine) | 225kW (306ps) / 6800rpm
Maximum Output (Motor) | 50kW (68ps)
Maximum Torque (Engine) | 350 Nm (35.7 kgm) / 5000rpm
Maximum Torque (Motor) | 270 Nm (27.5 kgm)
Transmission | 7-speed electronically controlled hybrid with manual mode
10-15 Mode Fuel Consumption | 19.0 km/L
CO2 Emissions | 122 g/km
Price | From 5,575,000 yen