Nissan has unveiled its new approach to electrified powertrain development called “X-in-1”. Under the approach, core EV and e-POWER powertrain components will be shared and modularized, resulting in a 30 per cent cost reduction in development and manufacturing costs by 2026, compared to 2019.

What is the new X-in-1 approach by Nissan?

The Japanese manufacturer intends on making its EV and e-POWER vehicles even more economical by using the X-in-1 approach which enables core components to be produced on the same line. The Nissan X-in-1 approach covers 3-in-1, 5-in-1, and other possible variants. Nissan has developed a 3-in-1 powertrain prototype, which modularizes the motor, inverter, and reducer for use in electric vehicles (EVs). For use in e-POWER vehicles, a 5-in-1 prototype that additionally modularizes the generator and increaser is also planned under the approach.
With the Nissan LEAF, Nissan became the first carmaker to mass-market an EV in 2010. Nissan has been actively listening to its EV customers all over the world to better its electrification technologies. The manufacturer developed its distinctive e-POWER electrified powertrain in 2016 using its EV technology. It is entirely motor-driven and provides the same driving experience as an EV.

Advantages of the X-in-1 approach to Electrified Powertrain Development

1) Shared and modularized core components will actually boost productivity and cut powertrain costs by almost 30 per cent compared to 2019. By 2026, Nissan aims to achieve e-POWER vehicles' price parity with ICE vehicles.
2) The unit's compact size and reduced weight will enhance vehicle handling and reduce noise and vibration.
3) Adopt a newly developed motor that reduces the use of heavy rare earth elements to 1 per cent or less of magnet weight.
4) The shared core components and control technology will provide an enjoyable driving experience unique to Nissan EVs.
Nissan aims to add 27 new electrified models to its portfolio, including 19 EVs by the fiscal year 2030, under the Nissan Ambition 2030 goal. The carmaker aims to bring the unique value of its electrified vehicles to the broadest range of customers by introducing the most suitable models to each market at the appropriate time.

Senior Vice President Toshihiro Hirai, who leads powertrain and EV engineering development at Nissan, said, “We make the most of our expertise and know-how from our more-than-a-decade-long development and production of electrified technologies. Through our innovations in electrified powertrain development, we’ll continue to create new value for customers and deliver 100 per cent motor-driven vehicles – EVs and e-POWER – as widely as possible.”