[ad_1]
The Nissan Juke is no longer available in North America where it was replaced by the more affordable and conventional-looking Kicks in 2019. However, in Europe, this unique crossover sold in solid numbers and the automaker is now expanding its engine range with a new hybrid powertrain. It will go on sale starting this summer when the Qashqai Hybrid will also hit showrooms.
Whereas in the electrified Qashqai the 1.5 liter engine generates electrical energy for the electric motor and does not drive the wheels directly, in the Juke Hybrid, there is a new 1.6 liter gas unit that works in tandem with two electric motors. The combustion engine produces 94 horsepower (69 kilowatts) and is powered by a 49-hp (36-kW) electric motor, a 20-hp (15-kW) starter generator and a 1.2-kWh battery.
13 Photo
The system switches between different regimes, including series, parallel, and series-parallel hybrid, to optimize powertrain efficiency. Despite the very small battery, Nissan claims its test drivers have managed to achieve up to 80 percent of driving in EV mode in cities. The Juke Hybrid starts in 100 percent electric mode and can reach speeds of up to 34 miles per hour (55 kilometers per hour).
Perhaps the most interesting component of the Juke Hybrid’s powertrain is the transmission. This is a low friction automatic gearbox that uses a dog grip instead of a conventional synchronization ring. Nissan says the transmission can shift between four ICE gears and two EV gears, and there’s no actual clutch. Instead, the two electric motors in combination synchronize the gears, resulting in “smooth, connected and responsive acceleration.” Nissan explains, behind the wheel, the whole hybrid system feels almost like driving an electric vehicle.
Visually, you’ll have a hard time distinguishing the Juke hybrid from the regular combustion model. The only minor differences include a new radiator grille with smaller air openings, a new lower bumper section to improve aerodynamics, and a re-profiled rear spoiler.
[ad_2]
Source link
