Nissan Navara Enguard concept
Nissan has unveiled an all-new vehicle at the 2016 Hannover Motor Show . The Nissan Navara EnGuard Concept is a durable and tough all-terrain pickup , designed to operate as a life-saving rescue platform in some of the world ’ s most harsh and extreme environments .
| Motors
B ased on a Double Cab Tekna version of the Nissan Navara – the current holder of the International Pick-up Award – the Navara EnGuard Concept features many bespoke design elements and performance upgrades . It is also packed with vital equipment suitable for emergency and disaster recovery work , including an advanced drone to provide vital intelligence about what dangers rescue crews might face .
It also marks the world debut of a prototype portable battery pack , designed and developed by Nissan . It utilises the brand ’ s tried and tested EV battery technology , already available on the road in the 100 per cent electric Nissan LEAF and e-NV200 . With more than 250,000 Nissan EVs sold worldwide , the company is at forefront of this fast-developing sector and ideally placed to apply its expertise to explore new vehicle sectors and consumer opportunities in the future .
When docked in place the battery packs are constantly in ‘ charge ’ mode , using power generated by the vehicle ’ s 2.3-litre 190PS twinturbo diesel engine to ensure they ’ re ready for emergency use when required . Each is a 2kW unit and utilises seven Nissan EV battery modules inside a weather-proof machined aluminium housing .
Two input ( charge ) sockets and five output ( discharge ) sockets are integrated into each battery pack , which features recessed ends to allow it to be carried easily . In a rescue environment they could be used to operate specialist cutting or heavy-lifting equipment , and have been specifically designed to provide an efficient alternative to a petrol generator .
With zero emissions and no flammable fuel , portable battery packs can also be used in enclosed spaces such as a building or a cave . Additional power sockets are integrated into each side of the pick-up ’ s load bed .
As part of its Intelligent Mobility vision , Nissan is working to explore how its pioneering EV battery technology can be integrated further into society . These prototype battery packs provide a real-world example of how it could be applied to new sectors , to provide cleaner , more sustainable power solutions .
Philippe Guerin-Boutaud , Corporate Vice
President , Light Commercial Vehicles , Nissan , commented : “ The Nissan Navara is a tough and smart pick-up which our customers rely on to go anywhere and do anything in their daily lives . The Nissan Navara EnGuard Concept is an extension of that principle , showcasing how our award-winning pick-up is perfectly suited to tackle the toughest terrain and save lives .” www . farmingmonthly . co . uk October 2016 | Farming Monthly | 59