In a bid to improve the average CO2 emissions across its line-up, Nissan has confirmed plans to launch 15 new hybrids by 2016.
Nissan’s new hybrid system is based on that employed in the Infiniti M35h (pictured). But instead of a V6, it involves a supercharged 2.5 litre four-cylinder engine working together with an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery to produce 260 hp and 338 Nm of torque.
The company did not say which models would receive the hybrid treatment, but last we heard, the system was expected to be introduced in the US by 2013 in the next-gen Altima. As always, time will tell.
“Thanks to environmentally friendly technology and new products, we are completely in line with our targets for the reduction of CO2 in the usage of vehicles,” said COO Toshiyuki Shiga at a recent press conference in Yokohama.
Some details on the company’s environmental commitments under the Nissan Green Program 2016 were revealed. A reduction of total corporate CO2 emissions is on the cards for the long term, even as vehicle sales are projected to rise dramatically. The use of scarce natural resources will be minimised and the lead in EV technology will be maintained.
The 15 hybrids, along with new EVs, will build on an estimated 19% rise in average fuel economy since 2005 in major markets, which the company intends to improve even further.
