Nissan presents concept that merges X-Trail engine with e-Power system to create extreme sports car
Japanese automaker Nissan revealed during Tokyo Auto Salon a project that redefines expectations for the high-performance compact segment. The new prototype, called Aura Nismo RS, appears as an engineering exercise that integrates the powertrain of a medium SUV into a compact body, aiming to deliver a driving experience focused purely on speed and dynamic grip.
The development of this vehicle was based on the premise of using components from superior segments to maximize performance. The engineering team chose to transplant the powertrain from the X-Trail utility vehicle to the Aura hatchback platform, creating an aggressive power-to-weight ratio and refined track handling.
To withstand the significant increase in force and guarantee the necessary stability in high-speed curves, the vehicle’s external structure underwent drastic changes in its dimensions and aerodynamics:
– The body was widened by 145 mm with new fenders to accommodate larger tracks.
– The overall height of the car has been reduced by 20 mm, lowering the center of gravity.
– Foram installed 18-inch wheels equipped with sports compound tires.
Details of the engine and electrical system
The heart of the project lies in the e-Power 4WD technology, which uses a combustion engine exclusively as a power generator, while traction is provided by electric motors. The model incorporates the 1.5 liter VC-Turbo three-cylinder engine, capable of generating 106 kW just to power the battery system, ensuring that the energy flow is constant even under extreme demand on circuits.
Effective propulsion is carried out by the e-4ORCE system, consisting of two high-capacity electric motors. The front axle gets a 150 kW unit, while the rear axle is driven by a 100 kW engine. Essa configuration allows instantaneous and precise torque vectoring, surpassing the capabilities of the base model and offering acceleration comparable to competition cars in higher categories.
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Chassis and braking adjustments
The increase in power required a complete overhaul of the vehicle’s safety and control systems. The Nissan implemented a high-performance braking system to deal with the new dynamics of the car, which now weighs 1,490 kg, around 100 kg more than the conventional version due to additional electrical system components and structural reinforcements.
The brake assembly has been oversized to ensure resistance to thermal fatigue during heavy use. At the front, six-piston calipers were installed, while the rear has two-piston calipers. Esses components work together with the regenerative braking of the electric motors, providing powerful and linear deceleration.
The suspension also received special attention, with the use of adjustable coilover shock absorbers. Essa change aims to mitigate body roll and maintain tire contact with the ground during load transfers, ensuring that the driver can exploit the full potential of the all-wheel drive system.
Interior and design philosophy
The cabin of the Aura Nismo RS reflects the radical exterior proposal, eliminating superfluous elements and focusing on driving ergonomics. Bancos of the shell type were installed to offer maximum lateral support, and the steering wheel was finished with materials that increase hand grip, directly reminiscent of the brand’s racing cars.
The driver interface includes displays that provide real-time data on the distribution of torque between the wheels and the acting G-forces. The automaker’s goal with this concept is to demonstrate the flexibility of the e-Power architecture, proving that electrification can be used to revive the spirit of Japanese “hot hatches” with modern traction and energy management technologies.
