Nissan Presents Murano Based Concept with X-by-Wire Technology

Nissan Murano Based Concept with X-by-Wire Technology

By Clinton Deacon
April 30, 2008 10:16 AM
Filed Under: Concept Car, Japanese, Nissan

At a special event hosted in Lisbon, Nissan has unveiled a new concept based on the first generation Murano named the EA2 which features new innovative X-by-Wire technology.

The new technology removes the mechanical linkages between the driver and key driving systems such as the steering, braking and transmission and replaces it with electrical impulses therefore allowing the removal of the mechanical systems giving greater flexibiity for the vehicle designers.

The benefits of the technology are clear to see in this concept, with the increased internal space allowing enough room for a third row of seating. Lets also not forget the reduced weight advantages increasing the performance,economy and emmissions. However questions will still need to be asked on the reliability of the system, if the any of these systems fail such as the steering, it would be a huge safety risk for the driver and occupants.

Source: Nissan360

Press Release (Click to expand)

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.