Nissan unveiled four new concepts at the Beijing Auto Show, previewing four production vehicles for the Chinese market. The Epoch sedan and Epic SUV have fully electric powertrain, whereas the Evo sedan and Era SUV are plug-in hybrids. A fifth Nissan-branded model will be introduced in China by 2026, joining the four vehicles built by Nissan's partner Dongfeng.
The Chinese market treats electric vehicles (EV) and plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEV) as a block, with the generic name of New Energy Vehicles (NEV). This explains why many legacy carmakers still invest in plug-in hybrid powertrains, even though China is the world's biggest EV market. Nissan is trying to offer the best of both worlds and unveiled four NEV concepts during the 2024 Beijing Auto Show.
The four concepts include two sedans and two SUVs, each comprising one fully electric and one plug-in hybrid model. They preview four of the five new vehicles that Nissan plans to introduce in China by 2026 in partnership with Dongfeng. While the Epoch sedan and Epic SUV have a fully electric powertrain, the Evo sedan and Era SUV use a combustion engine as a range extender. Nissan doesn't offer details about the fifth NEV model, which Dongfeng will also build locally.
The Nissan Epoch concept previews a fully electric sedan designed for "urban and suburban go-getters," suggesting it might be a compact vehicle. The Epoch will focus on design and technologies, which makes it perfectly tailored to conquer younger generations. Nissan claims the Epoch has an AI-expanded Internet of Things and a virtual personal assistant that recognizes emotions.
The Nissan Epic electric crossover is related to the Epoch not only through its architecture but also its packaging. Nissan says it targets "adventurous city couples who explore on weekends." The subcompact SUV will offer autonomous driving capabilities for city and highway driving. It will also feature bi-directional charging capabilities, which will enable powering devices while camping.
The Evo concept previews Nissan's upcoming sedan featuring a plug-in hybrid powertrain. Nissan says it is perfect for weekend getaways with the family, probably based on the longer range afforded by the ICE range extender. The design is more aggressive than that of the Epoch, and it also offers advanced driver support and safety functions and an AI-enhanced virtual personal assistant.
Finally, the Nissan Era concept is a plug-in hybrid SUV geared toward young businesspeople who spend most of their time in their vehicles. It looks similar to the electric Epic concept but with a more aggressive front end and a rugged appearance that seems at odds with Era's urban vocation. The plug-in hybrid crossover features an interconnected entertainment system and "zero-gravity seats" to ensure maximum comfort. Its advanced e-4ORCE AWD system and active air suspension provide a confident drive regardless of terrain.
After his childhood dream of becoming a "tractor operator" didn't pan out, Cristian turned to journalism, first in print and later moving to online media. His top interests are electric vehicles and new energy solutions. Full profile
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