NISSAN’S position as the world leader in the zero-emission automotive industry was strengthened today with the unveiling of the innovative Nissan e-NV200 Concept.
The vehicle is making its world debut at the 2012 North American Auto Show in Detroit this week.
Based on the popular Nissan NV200, the Nissan e-NV200 Concept previews a near-future production version of a full electric vehicle designed to provide businesses or families with flexible, roomy interior space, while achieving a dramatic CO2 footprint reduction.
Unlike competitor vehicles, the e-NV200 is factory built rather than converted, and was designed from the outset to accept EV powertrain.
Hideto Murakami, Nissan’s corporate vice president, said: ‘The Nissan e-NV200 Concept combines a quiet, comfortable driving experience with a large, highly versatile, functional interior space within a compact overall body length.
‘A potential game-changing vehicle in its segment, the battery capacity will support a driving range similar to the Nissan LEAF, while payload and cargo space will offer the same level as the current NV200. The production version would be targeted mainly at businesses, but also at private users or families in major regions.’
The Nissan e-NV200 Concept exterior starts with a foundation of a production Nissan NV200, then adds strong visual cues from the breakthrough Nissan LEAF EV. Large front windows and a long rear greenhouse combine with a pair of large glass roof panels to create an airy, open interior environment.
The Nissan e-NV200 Concept shares its major drivetrain components with the innovative Nissan LEAF, 20,000 of which have been sold since its launch in December 2010.
Silent, zero-emission power is supplied is by a lithium-ion battery composed of 48 compact modules and a high-response 80kW AC synchronous motor that generates 207 lb-ft (280 Nm/rpm) of torque. Unlike a conventional internal combustion engine, the motor delivers 100 per cent of its torque from start with immediate response bringing excellent acceleration and smooth, comfortable driving feel.
In addition to this week’s global debut of the Nissan e-NV200 Concept, evaluations of prototype NV200-based EVs are currently being conducted to gain feedback from delivery and other companies in various global markets. The initial trial was conducted in summer 2011 by the Japan Post Service.
Additional testing began in London last month in conjunction with FedEx.
Undoubtedly its most visible role will begin in late 2013 when the Nissan NV200 becomes the foundation for New York City’s new designated yellow cab – the ‘Taxi of Tomorrow’ – serving an estimated 600,000 passengers a day.