Nissan – Page 39 – Automobiles Review

2013 Nissan Altima Sedan Teaser [VIDEO]

The Japanese auto-maker Nissan has finally revealed a significant teaser of their new version of the Best-Selling Sedan – 2013 Nissan Altima. The vehicle is going to make its world debut at the 2012 New York Auto Show. The brand however, didn’t release much information about their upcoming product. What it has done until the present moment is to disclose an exclusive video clip of the new car. Therefore the fans of the brand and its customers can have a glimpse on the bold design of the all-new 2013 Nissan Altima sedan. All this is of course in advance of its world premiere at the 2012 New York Auto Show, which is going to take place in April. Additional information unveiled is that the Altima is built at Nissan’s assembly plants in Smyrna, Tenn. and Canton, Miss. On the other hand, the engines for Altima were built at the company’s Decherd, Tenn. plant. Of course, the brand expects great success for the 2013 version of Altima, because until now the model is the second best-selling car in the United States.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VzYRJ3pbyCM

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Nissan

March 5, 2012

Alternative Fuels: Propane, Electricity, Ammonia and Liquid Nitrogen

Yesterday we discussed two of the most popular alternative fuels – biodiesel and alcohol fuel. As we already became familiar, both are efficient not only in ecological terms, but also in economical ones. Given that the concerns around the global warming are escalating, I presume that in the future, there will be a great necessity for vehicles which emit less CO2 or are with zero emissions. Hence, this leads to the though that even more alternative ways for propulsion are going to arise in the near future. As we all can see, even now on the market, there is a big expansion of electric vehicles and hybrid ones. In addition, the brands are competing in the development of vehicles which are both fuel efficient and ecologically preserving.

First, let’s review one popular alternative fuel: propane. It is a compressed natural gas which almost everybody has used in their homes. However, it is popular as an alternative fuel too. It is a by-product of natural gas processing and petroleum refining. The process is called cracking. What is commonly used as vehicle fuel is actually a mixture of propane and butane, or more familiar as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG or LP gas). It is not necessary to state the environmental benefits of its use and the fuel efficiency it delivers for they are already very well known. Take a look at some models, which are using this type of fuel:

Extremely utilized way of alternative vehicle propulsion is through the means of electricity. The good news is that although the EVs were very popular more than hundred years ago, their development now flourishes. Moreover, it seems that the automotive world is in a stage of competition. The different brands are investing nowadays more than ever in the development of technologies, using electricity as alternative fuel. The EVs use electricity which is stored in battery in the car and don’t emit CO2. Although, they aren’t as fast as their gasoline powered rivals, they are considered perfect for city driving. Some of the electric vehicles, already on the market:

Did you know that ammonia can be used as fuel? In fact, ammonia has been proposed as a practical alternative to fossil fuel for internal combustion engines back in the beginning of the last century. In addition, it can be successfully used in already existing vehicles, which engines need only slight modification. Ammonia is beneficial in terms of zero emissions and economical efficiency.

Liquid nitrogen is another type of emissionless alternative fuel. Liquid nitrogen vehicles are comparable in many ways to the electric vehicles. However, they use liquid nitrogen to store the energy instead of batteries as it is in the case of EVs. They have several advantages that should be mentioned. First of all, they can be powered through the electrical grid (which contributes to their eco-friendliness). Secondly, there wouldn’t be any transportation of the fuel, since the power is delivered from the electrical grid. This is also economically viable. Next, the maintenance is also at low costs. At last but not least, the liquid nitrogen vehicles don’t have the degradation problems of the battery systems.

To sum up there are many different types of alternative fuels and nowadays even more are developed and considered for commercial use. Of course the main reason for this expansion of research is the negative environmental impact which the gasoline powered vehicles are causing, due to their high levels of CO2 emissions in the atmosphere. Undoubtedly, in the near future the commercial use of electric cars or hybrid ones won’t be considered as extravagancy but as a high level of environmental awareness.

Vehicles with Zero Emissions - the future of the automotive world? — Vehicles with Zero Emissions – the future of the automotive world

March 4, 2012

Alternative Fuels: Biofuel, Alcohol and Hydrogen

This week’s fresh “eco” air is a small review of some of the alternative fuels available for use. A simple fact is that humanity sooner or later will experience the necessity of their utilization. Hence, the aim of the article is not only to raise the ecological awareness, but also to lift up the veil of ignorance around the alternative vehicle fuels that can be successfully utilized. (more…)

March 3, 2012

Nissan Hi-Cross Concept Teaser [VIDEO]

Nissan is the one of the biggest leaders in the production of crossovers all over the world. What we are going to see from the brand at this year’s Geneva Motor Show is something spectacular.

There, we are promised to preview how Nissan explores new ideas and manifest them in reality. In addition, the brand is looking for an expansion in terms of award-winning range segment, and this is exactly where the attention will be put on the show in Geneva. A sneak peak of what is going to come and what we are going to see on 6^th of March is the exclusively released video teaser of the new Nissan Hi-Cross Concept vehicle. The video is so creatively made that after watching it you’ll be “hungry” to know more about the upcoming concept car. Of course, any other details than these are scarcity at the moment so we have to wait till the show next week.

So, let’s have a preview of the new Nissan Hi-Cross Concept:

httpv://youtu.be/yA1IOFx5S8A

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Nissan

February 28, 2012

The Exclusive “Nissan CMF” Next-Generation Vehicle Engineering “4+1 Big Module Concept”

Nissan has just announced the introduction of its next-generation vehicle engineering concept. It carries the name Nissan Common Module Family (CMF) and it is going to be featured in vehicles in 2013. The innovative CMF technology combines modular engineering with Nissan’s own engineering technologies, in areas such as simulation and variation engineering and simplicity. With the development of CMF, Nissan expects to raise the popularity of its products and thereby significantly expand sales volume. Since a long time already has Nissan been promoting vehicle platform communization. It started with several vehicle variations derived from a single platform. As a result, this has become critical to achieving the rapid improvements in products, which is necessary for a company to survive in the competitive market. Nissan is aware that each new vehicle that is developed must include distinctive characteristics, improved fuel economy, passenger safety and IT features, and the rapid application of the latest technologies into the development process. It is important now that volume efficiencies must be achieved with the help and use of common vehicle structures, components and parts. Up to now, it was difficult to balance such contrasting elements. However, Nissan is fully embracing these challenges and implementing its next-generation “Nissan CMF” vehicle engineering strategy.

In details, the application of Nissan CMF determines the use of four modules – engine compartment, cockpit, front underbody and rear underbody – as well as the architecture for electronic components, with each module having appropriate variations. What is important here is that vehicles are designed by combining these modules in different ways. Hence, all this results in variety of vehicles, depending on the module configuration: from compacts, large-sized vehicles through to tall SUVs. All of them can be efficiently designed.

Nissan brand made a committement to introducing 90 new technologies by 2016 and Nissan CMF is one of them. It will enable commonization that transcends vehicle segments, efficiency, and make the application of attractive new technologies across several models.

Source: Nissan

February 27, 2012

Some facts about Electric Vehicles

Behind the history of the electric vehicle are more than hundred years. Yes, I was surprised to find out this too. In particular, their history began in the middle years of the 19th century. However, at this time it was really costly to afford such automobile. Moreover, compared to internal combustion vehicles, the electric ones had much lower speed. Gradually this led to their extinction worldwide. Nowadays what we experience is quite the opposite. As we can see ourselves on the market are gradually being launched vehicles, which are powered by alternative fuel or are electric ones. This of course has to do with environmental issues.

The hydrocarbon fueled vehicles seem to cause great damage to the environment, because of the gases they emit. Or in other words, the automotive industry is now trying to take some precautions for the evil done, develop and promote environmental friendly vehicles and raise the global awareness in this particular area. We all want to live in less contaminated and better world, don’t we?

Electric car from early 20th century charging

In fact, for the first time in history, electric cars became popular after the mid-nineteenth century. Then the electricity was actually a strongly preferred method for automobile propulsion. Back in 1987 the electric cars found their first commercial use in the United States. For instance, the taxies in New York City were electric. They were manufactured by the Philadelphian Electric Carriage and Wagon Company. During the twentieth century the main manufacturers of electric vehicles in the U.S. were Anthony Electric, Baker, Columbia, Anderson, Edison, Riker, Milburn and many more.

Although that at this time the electric cars produced relatively slow speed, they had some advantages over their rivals. What I have in mind here is that they produced less noise, vibration and smell, which were a characteristic of gasoline powered vehicles. In addition, they did not require gear changes. And hence the electric car became famous among people living in the city, who could use their optimum potential. Furthermore, the electric powered vehicles didn’t require manual start as oppose to gasoline ones and were easier to drive, which lead their popularity growth among women.

And even back in the beginning of the twentieth century the electric car was considered the cleaner, quieter and of course the more fuel-efficient car, in comparison to the gasoline vehicle. However, by the 1930s the latter one became the “bigger star” and more importantly – what made it more popular was its lower price. They also developed far greater speed to their equivalent electrics. And adding to all this – the invention of the electric starter by Charles Kattering (in 1912) – gasoline cars became easier to operate. Then came the use of the muffler, which reduced significantly the noise they produced.

The total eradication of the electric automobile from the world was also possible due to the mass production of the gasoline Henry Ford vehicles, which even were at an extraordinary price – more than six time cheaper than the electric ones. After this expansion, no one really remembered the electric cars …

Until the late 1970’s and early 1980’s when the world experienced the first big energy crises. This led to the renewed attention on alternative fuel and electric vehicles. As a result, in the beginning of the 1990’s, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) set the requirements for the development of more fuel-efficient and lower-emissions vehicles.

The highest aim here was the production of zero-emissions vehicles. The electric ones were what they were looking for. Then the automotive world came to see some great electric models, such as Chrysler TEVan, Ford Ranger EV pickup truck, Honda EV Plus hatchback, or Toyota RAV4 EV.

However, the market wasn’t fully prepared to embrace this new ecologically orientated step, so the models were taken off production in the end. Another recession followed in the 2000’s, which lead to the increased need for smaller cars, hybrid cars and of course electric ones. One of the most famous nowadays electric cars manufacturer Tesla Motors, in 2004 began the development of the Tesla Roadster, which was firstly launched on the market four years later. Nowadays we have many examples of electric cars, developed and produced by famous carmakers. Such are: Mitsubishi i MiEV, Nissan Leaf, Mercedes-Benz Vito E-Cell, Smart ED and many more.

Nissan LEAF

To sum up, when the electric vehicles were invented, they seemed to be the best choice of and for the future. Moreover, the electric car produces no pollution to the environment and can be the greatest choice for the city dwellers, who are concerned about the world around them and want to make a positive change.

People won’t loose from comfort, road handling, safety, performance or durability, because the electric vehicles are similar to the gasoline powered ones. Another big advantage is also their low cost to operate and more importantly they have the potential to be more reliable because they include fewer parts and mature technology.

February 25, 2012

Nissan Pathfinder Concept with Family Focused Interior

Nissan Pathfinder is probably the perfect family vehicle. Now, Pathfinder Concept adds an unprecedented level of premium style, comfort and thoughtful technology. The new concept vehicle includes new aerodynamic exterior design and innovative, flexible interior. It is going to make its debut this autumn. 2013 Nissan Pathfinder Concept is a big-size, 3-row/7-passenger SUV with the seating and cargo capacity that growing families need. Moreover it brings now enhanced comfort, innovative technology, increased fuel efficiency, and most importantly, more flexibility for the family.

First of all one of the biggest changes to the upcoming Pathfinder design is the return to a unibody platform. It now offers many advantages, including a flat floor for enhanced interior packaging flexibility. Its premium features in the interior include quiet, comfortable interior with rich leather-appointed seating surfaces, heated and cooled front seats, heated second row seats, heated steering wheel, power tilt and telescoping steering wheel, Nissan Intelligent Key™ with Push Button Start and multiple user memory settings, and an advanced Bose® Audio System with thirteen speakers. Furthermore the Pathfinder Concept’s unique versatility is all about the design of the second and third row. The third row is possible due to the large rear door openings, 5.5 inches of second row seat travel, and forward folding seat design for ease of entry and exit. Next, the second row also features “child seat mode” which allows forward movement and access to the third row with a child safety seat remaining securely in place. The third row seat is a 50/50 split folding design, which also offers added cargo flexibility and reclines for greater passenger comfort. Both the second row and third row seats fold flat for optimal cargo capacity. In addition to that there is an under floor storage in the rear cargo area.

Innovative technology is also included in the Pathfinder Concept interior: instrument panel, which includes an advanced drive-assist display directly in front of the driver – along with a large multifunction IT display in the center of the dash; Nissan Navigation System with real-time traffic and weather information and Zagat Survey® restaurant guide; Bluetooth® Streaming Audio; and at last a RearView Monitor. What is special here is that the concept features Nissan’s advanced Around View™ Monitor, which shows the driver a virtual 360-degree image of the area around the vehicle. Other technology includes a tri-zone climate control system, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, power rear liftgate, iPod® integration, and tri-zone entertainment system with 2nd row headrest-mounted DVD display screens. There is also the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). It provides both visual and audible signals to help customers conveniently maintain correct tire pressures without the use of a gauge. Of course here to be mentioned is the remote engine start function as well, which allows the climate control system to warm up or cool down the interior prior to driving.

In other words the new Pathfinder Concept offers a lot of interior flexibility. At the same time it also includes brilliant new exterior. The new unibody platform shines bright with more aerodynamic exterior, without compromising headroom or cargo capacity. Moving upscale in look, the new exterior styling presents a smart fusion of signature Nissan styling cues and dynamic strength. Furthermore the exterior is adventure-ready with wheel-oriented muscular fenders and a strong, stable stance. The upper body features an open cabin with a low beltline and thin A- and D-pillars. They flow into the rugged, durable-looking lower body. The front and rear spoilers, rear tire deflectors and rear suspension fairings are helping the vehicle to achieve excellent aerodynamic performance. More importantly the new Pathfinder is expected to weigh significantly less than the previous body-on-frame design. This of course helps contribute to the enhanced fuel economy performance. Moreover, other exterior details feature a wide chrome grille and large aerodynamic headlights, recessed front windshield wipers, chrome door handles, large rear combination lights and panoramic dual-panel moonroof.

Furthermore the Pathfinder powertrain uses a refined V6 engine mated to a next-generation Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) which provides an expected 25 percent increase in combined City/Highway fuel economy in comparison to the previous V6-equipped model. In addition the Pathfinder Concept also includes an intuitive four-wheel drive system and a towing capacity comparable to the leaders in the segment. More importantly, the new engine and CVT combination offers enhanced efficiency, while maintaining nearly the same horsepower as the previous generation’s larger displacement V6. It also delivers responsive acceleration in a variety of conditions. The vehicle, of course, retains its ability to tow boats, jet skis, trailers and a variety of other recreational gear. The new Pathfinder stays an excellent vehicle for unfavorable driving conditions with four-wheel drive.

Source: Nissan

February 9, 2012

2013 Nissan 370Z at 2012 Chicago Auto Show

We spoke yesterday about Nissan‘s planned presence on the 2012 Chicago Auto Show and how every model will offer a special edition or a revision. Well, the Nissan 370Z wont be an exception. It will be an even leaner, meaner machine designed to carve out the tarmac. With several updates, the 2013 model intends to keep it fresh and hip and hopefully it will be out for sale in June this year. Again, three configurations will be available – Coupe, Roadster and NISMO Z

“Since the original 1970 Z® was first introduced our goal has always been to keep the design moving forward. The changes for 2013, though subtle, go a long way in enhancing its dynamic appearance inside and out,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc.

The updates for the new model year are as follows:

Refreshed front fascia with vertical LED daytime running lights (does not apply to Nismo configurations)

Red reflector added to rear fascia (replaces previous black center cover, does not apply to Nismo configurations)

Revised 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels (Sport Package equipped models)

New 18-inch wheels for 370Z Coupe

Red-finished brake calipers (Sport Package equipped models)

Dark-finish fuel gauge trim

Euro-tuned shock absorbers (Sport Package equipped models)

Two new exterior colors – Magma Red and Midnight Blue (Midnight Blue does not apply to Nismo configurations)

The 2013 370Z Coupe and 370Z Coupe Touring will both be sold with the same 2012 engine – a 332-horsepower 3.7-liter DOHC V6 and customers will have a choice between a six-speed manual gearbox or a seven-speed automatic. The same goes for the 370Z Roadster and Roadster Touring with the exception that the former won’t offer a six-speed manual.

Regardless, the Nismo Z remains the top of the range, motoring nirvana that comes with premium super-light, dark-finish 19-inch wheels and an exclusive Bose® Premium Audio Package with two additional speakers and two subwoofers. A more technical oriented innovation comes from the GT-R style high-rigidity brake hoses and performance brake fluid. The exterior, as well as the interior, is sporty and aggressive while the suspension is tuned to match the looks. Power is up to 350 horsepower thanks to the H-configured exhaust system design, muffler tuning and optimized ECM (Engine Computer Module) control. Only one gearbox seems appropriate for the Nismo Z – a close-ratio 6-speed manual with SynchroRev Match® as standard, which allows rev-matched heel-toe-like downshifting.

Soruce: Nissan

February 8, 2012

Nissan at Geneva – What’s in store?

Nissan is offering some insight of what they have in store for us, the people at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. Among the many production vehicles that will take part next month in the show, are also four premiering concepts – first seen in Europe are the e-NV200 and Juke Nismo concepts while first ever are the INVITIATION, on which we had news recently here, and another concept that is still a hard kept secret and a surprise, Nissan say.

The e-NV200 is based on the already successful NV200 which the small difference of being 100% electric. The e-NV200 is the next phase of Nissan‘s dominance on the EV market which began with the multi-award winning LEAF.

The Juke NISMO concept was fist seen on the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show back in December and now it will be in Europe for the first time. NISMO is Nissan’s motorsport branch which has taken up enhancing everyday mainstream production vehicles to give them that unmistakable feel of a NISMO performance car. They have certainly went the extra mile with the Juke and left it with with an outstanding character and plenty of grunt.

Production vehicles that will be making an appearance at the Nissan booth in Geneva represent a versatile bunch: From Pixos and Micras to Jukes and Qashqais and even Pathfinders and Navaras. The LEAF and the mighty GT-R will also be there to enchant the public. The common thing however, is that all participants will feature a minor MY2012 Innovation or a special edition.

The other thing that can be found in every single model is the shared Nissan DNA which is the reason for the company’s success – despite the economic downturn, Nissan in Europe enjoyed its best year in 2011. Sales were up by 25 percent in comparison to 2010. Who knows how much is that number going to climb this year.

Source: Nissan

February 7, 2012

Nissan INVITATION Concept

The Invitation Concept is one of the latest projects of Nissan. The dynamic concept will be unveiled at this year’s Geneva International Motor Show. It shows some of the innovation and excitement promised for the new model, which is due to be launched in the UK from 2013.

The INVITATION has interesting and energetic design with nice fresh style. The clean fluidity of the silhouette hints at its dynamic potential and showcases class-leading aerodynamics for enhanced efficiency. The interior combines practicality and modernity with impressive levels of quality and purposeful technology features.

Nissan is aiming for an ultra-low CO₂ emission target of under 100g/km for the most frugal model and with all versions eligible to wear Nissan’s Pure Drive badge.

At the same time, responsive agile handling will ensure that when it comes to driving dynamics, INVITATION will compete with the top performers in the segment.

But INVITATION is more than just a great looking car that’s fun and frugal to drive. The concept packs some of the most advanced technology ever seen in the B-segment, all of which is designed to ensure the car is as safe as possible.

Among the features is Nissan’s advanced Around View Monitor (AVM) safety technology – seen for the first time on a B-segment car – which makes reversing and parallel parking as stress-free as possible. In addition, INVITATION also incorporates the Nissan Safety Shield Technologies, which interacts with the driving environment keeping the driver aware of what is happening around the car.

INVITATION’s combination of exterior, interior, advanced safety features and class-leading emissions, fuel economy and dynamic performance demonstrates Nissan’s commitment to offering innovation and excitement to all car buyers, no matter what type of car they are looking to buy.

Source: Nissan

February 6, 2012

2012 Nissan Juke Shiro

There is a new version of the Nissan Juke already available which is Shiro.

It replaces the successful Japanese limited edition Kuro (which is painted in black), and more importantly moves to the opposite side of the color spectrum – white. In particular, the Juke hosts set of white details to mark it out from lesser models in the range. Furthermore, inside there’s a selection of tasteful white detailing. And the centre console, is shaped in motorcycle fuel tank, is also painted white, as are the door panels and window switch surrounds. Of course, the steering wheel is wrapped in leather with white stitching. Next, the seats themselves have a double layer fabric with a white background color visible through the perforated leather facing.

The Shiro sits on stylish dark grey 17-inch alloy wheels. It is also designed in satin silver finish to the door handles and mirror caps plus a gloss black finish to the B-pillar. Although available in any of the colours offered on Juke models, Shiro does have one additional unique hue in its palette: Nightshade, a sophisticated deep aubergine colour.

The vehicle is available with all three engine choices – a 110PS (80kW) 1.5-litre dCi; 117PS (86 kW) normally aspirated 1.6-litre petrol; and the range-topping turbocharged direct injection petrol 1.6-litre DIG-T with 190PS (140 kW). Moreover there are available 4×4 version and CVT automatics version.

Source: Nissan

February 1, 2012

2012 Nissan Note Price – £11 200

Nissan is going to attract more buyers for Note in the UK by offering further upgrades for 2012. The supermini-MPV is very successful with over 100 000 units sold.

During 2012, the Note will benefit from better equipment and style. The popular Acenta model will now feature two-tone 16” alloy wheels, chrome-effect door mirror covers and front fog light surrounds. There is also new seat fabric with blue stitching, climate control, automatic headlights and rain-sensitive wipers all now come as standard.

The best-selling N-TEC model also comes with increased equipment – rear parking sensors, darkened rear privacy glass and the touch screen Connect SAT NAV system.

The Connect includes CD/radio, iPod gateway, Aux-in, USB connection and Bluetooth phone connection.

The 2012 Note Visia is priced at £11 200. The new Acenta at £13 000 and the new N-TEC+ a further £500.

The engine range includes a 1.4 liter and a 1.6 liter petrol and 1.5 liter dCi power units. The Pure Drive badged 1.5dCi emits a CO2 level of just 110g/km with a combined economy figure of 67.3mpg.

Source: Nissan

January 25, 2012

Tag: Nissan