A dedicated team of engineers from Nissan’s technical centre in Barcelona successfully completed the Baja Aragon Rally in a modified X-Trail e-4ORCE, powered by Nissan’s innovative e-POWER system.
The X-Trail triumphed over the rally’s challenging conditions, covering more than 310 miles of tough terrain over two days (27-28th July). The vehicle, prepared by seven engineers from Nissan Technical Centre Europe – Spain (NTCE-S), was driven by experienced test drivers Jonatan Gijón and Cesar Fernández.
Competing in the “Open” category, the team aims to participate in next year’s event in the “Stock” category, which includes vehicles based on standard production specifications, including hybrids.
“We are thrilled to have achieved our goal of finishing the Baja Aragon Rally. The demanding conditions highlighted the robustness of the e-POWER and e-4ORCE systems, and showcased the dedication of our engineers,” said Miquel Sasot, Manager, Powertrain Group, NTCE-S.
The X-Trail’s e-POWER system remained unmodified from the standard production version, with only necessary updates for the rally, such as enhanced cooling, uprated suspension, a roll cage, competition fuel tank, and mandated safety equipment.
The project began in February 2023 as a passion project by a small group of engineers who saw the potential of the X-Trail’s powertrain for rally competition. With support from NTCE-S leadership, the project gained momentum.
“In Nissan, we value innovation and entrepreneurship. The team’s work on the e-POWER X-Trail demonstrated the powertrain’s robustness and potential for rally competition,” said David Moss, Senior Vice President, Region Research & Development, Nissan’s AMIEO region.
The e-POWER system, popular among Qashqai and X-Trail buyers, uses an electric motor to drive the wheels, providing a smooth and responsive driving experience. Over 150,000 e-POWER-equipped vehicles have been sold in Europe since its introduction.
The X-Trail’s e-POWER system is complemented by Nissan’s advanced twin-motor e-4ORCE all-wheel drive system, which ensures stability and traction in all conditions by constantly adjusting power distribution.
“Nissan’s ‘Defy Ordinary’ spirit was embodied by the Barcelona team who recognized the potential of the X-Trail e-POWER with e-4ORCE. We are proud of their extraordinary achievement in the Baja Aragon Rally,” said Coralie Musy, Region Vice President, Brand & Customer Experience.
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