Nissan’s e-Power technology system consists of a gasoline engine with a power generator, an inverter, a battery, and an electric motor. The electric motor provides power directly to the wheels, utilizing the energy stored in the battery pack.
Japanese automaker Nissan Motor is set to introduce its e-Power hybrid technology car in Tunisia, as stated by its Africa head on Tuesday. This move is part of Nissan’s strategy to explore the demand for electric vehicles (EVs) in the African market. Africa is considered the last significant automotive market due to its low vehicle ownership levels. Nissan points out that the global average for motorization is 182 vehicles per 1,000 people, compared to Africa’s 42 per 1,000.
However, electric vehicles are currently beyond the financial reach of most consumers in Africa. Additionally, challenges such as power outages and logistical issues in countries like South Africa hinder investment in EVs on the continent.
Sherief Eldesouky, the Managing Director of Nissan Africa, said that while electrification may take a while in Africa, the company has a strategy for introducing its e-Power technology in some African markets that are prepared for it.
Nissan’s e-Power technology system comprises a petrol engine with a power generator, an inverter, a battery, and an electric motor. The electric motor directly powers the wheels using energy from the battery pack.
Eldesouky mentioned that the Qashqai was launched in Morocco last year and the X-Trail in Egypt in February, with plans to introduce the Qashqai in Tunisia next. He also highlighted the challenge of utilizing their technology in Africa due to inadequate infrastructure and limited electricity availability.
South Africa is making progress with its electric vehicle policy roadmap, published last year, which outlines steps to support the transition to EVs, including government incentives. As Japan’s third-largest carmaker by sales, Nissan has a significant presence in Africa, with wholly-owned manufacturing plants in Egypt and South Africa and a history spanning over 60 years on the continent.
This year, Nissan plans to export the South African-built Navara pickup trucks to new markets, including Algeria, Libya, Sudan, Tunisia, and Egypt, as stated by Nissan Africa Product Marketing Director Stefan Haasbroek. The automaker is also looking to introduce new vehicle grades, such as a mid-grade automatic transmission vehicle in Sub-Saharan Africa and an entry-level double cab in South Africa.
