Nissan's e-4ORCE Technology Conquers the Frozen Land of a Thousand Lakes

Nissan's e-4ORCE technology is a dual-motor all-wheel control system that delivers power, precision, and performance to electric vehicles. It enables drivers to tackle any road condition with confidence and ease, whether it's snow, ice, or gravel. To showcase the capabilities of this innovative technology, Nissan took two of its e-4ORCE-equipped models, the X-Trail e-POWER and the Ariya, to the frosty beauty of Finland, known as the Land of a Thousand Lakes.

What is e-4ORCE and how does it work?

e-4ORCE is Nissan's most advanced all-wheel control technology, specially developed for electrified powertrains. It uses a battery to power a twin motor system evenly distributed on each axle for independent wheel control. Based on the driving conditions monitored by sensors mounted in the vehicle, the driving force of each motor can be individually controlled by a high-speed processor. This allows the system to optimize the torque distribution between the front and rear wheels and the left and right wheels to enhance the vehicle's stability, handling, and comfort.

e-4ORCE also boasts regenerative braking distribution, which minimizes the car's forward pitching when decelerating and helps to recover energy. By applying the appropriate amount of braking force to each wheel, the system reduces the vehicle's body motion and maintains a smooth ride. Moreover, e-4ORCE can prevent wheel slippage by adjusting the power output and braking force of each wheel, ensuring the vehicle stays on the intended cornering line and enhancing the driver's confidence.

How did e-4ORCE perform in Finland?

To demonstrate the potential of e-4ORCE technology, Nissan invited a group of journalists and influencers to experience it first-hand in Finland, a country with harsh winter conditions and challenging road surfaces. The participants drove two e-4ORCE-equipped models, the X-Trail e-POWER and the Ariya, on various courses designed to test the system's performance.

The X-Trail e-POWER hybrid SUV combines a 1.5-liter gasoline engine with a dual e-motor system. The gasoline engine is a generator to charge the battery, which powers the electric motors. The e-4ORCE system has a total output of 213 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque, enabling the X-Trail e-POWER to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 7 seconds. The e-4ORCE system also has a 10,000 times faster rear torque response than a mechanical 4WD system, making it more responsive and agile.

The Ariya is Nissan's first all-electric crossover and the flagship model of its electrified lineup. It features a sleek design, a spacious interior, and a cutting-edge infotainment system. The e-4ORCE system in the Ariya has a total output of 306 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque, allowing the Ariya to sprint from 0 to 62 mph in 5.7 seconds. The Ariya also has a long-range battery that can travel up to 310 miles on a single charge, according to the WLTP cycle.

The participants drove the X-Trail e-POWER and the Nissan Ariya on three different courses: an on-road course, an off-road course, and an ice lake drive. On the on-road course, they experienced how e-4ORCE enhances the stability and handling of the vehicle on slippery and uneven roads. They also felt how e-4ORCE reduces the body roll and pitching of the vehicle when accelerating, braking, and cornering. On the off-road course, they witnessed how e-4ORCE improves the traction and grip of the vehicle on gravel and mud. They also observed how e-4ORCE prevents the wheels from spinning or locking up on loose surfaces. On the ice lake drive, they enjoyed how e-4ORCE delivers a thrilling and fun driving experience on frozen lakes. They also appreciated how e-4ORCE makes the vehicle more responsive and controllable on low-friction surfaces.