New Titan is in a class of its own
Nissan Titan
The first of the new Titan models, the 2016 Titan XD Crew Cab, creates a new class of pickup with the effortless towing and hauling of the larger, more expensive heavyduty trucks — including an available maximum towing capacity of more than 12,000 pounds and maximum payload of 2,000 pounds (when properly equipped) — yet has the fuel-efficiency and affordability of half-ton pickups. It is powered by the new Cummins 5.0L V8 Turbo Diesel rated at 310 horsepower and hefty 555 pound-feet of torque.
The second-generation Titan will also be offered in additional cab, bed, powertrain and model configurations, therefore increasing Titan’s market segment coverage.
Along with the Titan Crew Cab shown in the Detroit preview, the new Titan will be available in King Cab and standard cab versions and with 4x4 and 4x2 drivetrains. Future engine options will include a gasoline V8 and an advanced gasoline V6. More details on the full Titan lineup will be announced later.
Designed as a “powerful precision tool,” the new Titan features available cutting-edge towing, utility features and convenience aids — including RearView Monitor with Trailer Guides, Around View Monitor (AVM) with Moving Object Detection (MOD) and a Trailer Light Check system that allows one-person hook-up operation — including checking turn signals, brake lights and running/clearance lights from outside the vehicle. Also available are Blind Spot Warning (BSW) and a Front and Rear Sonar System. Titan XD includes an integrated gooseneck hitch engineered into the frame and easily accessible in the bed.
Nissan BladeGlider Concept
More than a concept, the Nissan BladeGlider is both a proposal for the future direction of Nissan electric vehicle development and an exploratory prototype of an upcoming production vehicle from the world’s leading EV manufacturer. BladeGlider was developed with form following function. Nissan crafted the vehicle’s unique architecture to give the driver and passengers “sustainable exhilaration” — a fresh electric vehicle driving experience based on peerless technology and exotic styling.
With its narrow, one-metre lightweight front track and wide, stable rear track, BladeGlider looks as if it could have sprung from a “skunk works” project. But the radical architecture all boils down to aerodynamics and balance. Having the front wheels close together reduces drag and enhances manoeuverability for high-G cornering power, assisted by its 30/70 front/ rear weight distribution ratio. Aerodynamic downforce is created by the highly rigid yet lightweight carbon-fibre underbody, hence the lack of drag-inducing wings.
To power the electric motors, BladeGlider employs Nissan’s innovative lithium-ion battery technology, proven in the Nissan Leaf. Battery modules toward the rear to enhance stability and handling.