Nissan e-4ORCE AWD Technology | How it Works

The 2023 Nissan Ariya is officially on sale in Las Vegas, NV, and with it comes an innovative all-wheel-drive technology called Nissan e-4ORCE.  

As the brand’s first-ever all-electric SUV, Nissan engineers knew they needed to design a standout powertrain for this flagship model. What they landed on was an all-electric, all-wheel-drive system that provides instant torque to all four wheels and balanced, confidence-inspiring power in any driving situation.

If you’re curious about how this system works, keep reading. We’ll cover what makes e-4ORCE unique and how it enhances the performance of the 2023 Nissan Ariya. 

Nissan e-4ORCE, a portmanteau of “electric, four-wheel-drive, and force,” is a fine-tuned four-wheel-control technology designed for electrified and fully electric powertrains, specifically the Nissan Ariya.

Built around twin electric motors, this system distributes power independently to all four wheels, allowing for an even distribution of torque, and providing better traction and stability in various weather conditions. Compared to mechanical 4WD systems, it has a 10,000 times faster rear torque response, Nissan officials claim. 

e-4ORCE also uses regenerative braking to further enhance the vehicle’s handling and performance. Twin motors also mean a greater level of energy capture compared to a single motor, making the vehicle optimized for efficiency at every turn. 

Nissan engineers drew from their experience working on the GT-R and the Nissan Intelligent 4×4 system to build e-4ORCE. Through years of research and testing, they crafted a system that maximizes power output and delivers a smooth-yet-thrilling experience for drivers. 

Nissan e-4ORCE technology works in three main ways: 

Electric motors, unlike gas-powered models, require fewer parts. With fewer moving pieces, there’s no energy lost to friction, meaning drivers get a near-instantaneous response from their vehicle.  

Nissan capitalizes on this opportunity for ultra-performance EVs by incorporating twin electric motors into the e-4ORCE system. The result: powerful, responsive handling no matter the road conditions.

Icy, slick, or unpaved roads can be stressful, even for the most seasoned drivers. Thanks to e-4ORCE’s precision and chassis control, though, drivers can be confident their wheels have the most grip possible. Additionally, e-4ORCE also manages output, meaning if the driver applies too much pressure, the system will ensure safe control and traceability.

To illustrate its full capabilities, Nissan is leading a Pole to Pole expedition with a modified Nissan Ariya. Set to take off in March 2023, husband and wife explorers Chris and Julie Ramsey will travel more than 16,000 miles across three continents, navigating challenging terrains like arctic tundras and winding mountains. 

Many drivers experience poor handling on the road. For instance, their vehicle might drift to the outer edges of a roundabout while turning, or they have to frequently readjust the steering wheel to stay center in their lane. 

Nissan e-4ORCE addresses these common car troubles by modulating the output of each motor, as well as the brake control to create dependable control for the driver. It can also distribute torque based on the road and driving conditions. 

When cornering on snow-covered roads, for example, the vehicle can faithfully trace the driver’s intended line thanks to the coordinated control of the front and rear motors and the brake system, Nissan officials explain

With these features, the driver is left with a heightened level of control and minimal adjustments.

Comfort was a top priority when designing e-4ORCE, says Nissan. The challenge was to create a thrilling, impressive EV while also guaranteeing a smooth ride for the driver and passengers. 

One way they accomplished this was through their all-wheel regenerative braking. With regenerative braking, the energy is recaptured when the car slows, sending that electricity back to the battery. Because e-4ORCE is managed through each wheel, regenerative braking also works to reduce the vehicle’s pitch and dive. The result is a cabin that’s more level, preventing motion sickness in stop-and-go traffic.

Nissan demonstrated this level of control and stability in a playful video of an e-4ORCE-powered remote car delivering ramen to restaurant guests. The remote car was able to preserve the noodles with no sloshing or spillage, showcasing how the technology translates to the benefits of Nissan e-4ORCE vehicles. 

Want to try it for yourself? Experience the 2023 Nissan Ariya’s e-4ORCE all-wheel-drive technology at United Nissan. Test drive today or shop our lot of new and used vehicles online. We’d also love for you to follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay up-to-date on the latest Nissan news.