Nissan Develops Innovative Concept Car With X-by-Wire Technology

CASCAIS, Portugal, April 28 -- Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., today unveiled a new concept car called "EA2" equipped with X-by-Wire technology.

X-by-Wire technology uses wires and electrical impulses instead of mechanical linkages for the control of major systems such as steering, braking and transmission. This eliminates many restrictions in how vehicle systems are integrated, allowing greater flexibility in vehicle packaging. EA2 is based on the first generation Murano crossover.

  Overview of X-by-Wire technology on EA2:

  -- Steer-by-wire and brake-by-wire systems: By replacing conventional
     mechanical linkages with by-wire technology, steering and braking
     systems can be re-packaged to create more internal space without
     changing the vehicle's overall length. On the EA2 concept, this has
     made it possible to add a third row of seating and capacity for seven
     passengers. By-wire also allows the adoption of a smaller racing-style
     steering wheel that requires less steering input and can be moved to
     facilitate easier ingress and egress.

     The brake-by-wire system reduces pedal travel through the use of an
     electrical system instead of boosters, links and hydraulic cylinders,
     freeing up more interior space.

     The adoption of steer-by-wire and brake-by-wire systems has resulted in
     an interior length of 2,600mm - 110mm more than a conventional model.

  -- Shift-by-wire system: The shift-by-wire system allows for the
     installation of a movable center console, making it easier to move
     between the driver and front passenger seats.

X-by-wire also helps to reduce vehicle weight, resulting in gains in performance, economy and emissions.