In order to power the electric motor, a generator places resistance on the driveshaft during braking. The system converts this friction to usable energy that is stored in the system's 244.8V Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) battery for eventual use by the electric motor.

The Regenerative Cooperative Brake System calculates braking force generated by brake pedal operation and controls the regenerative brake force to convert kinetic energy into electric energy, optimizing energy regeneration.

Nissan Altima Hybrid utilizes proven technology and components from Toyota Motor Corporation that are mated to Nissan's refined 2.5-liter engine.

For use in the 2007 Nissan Altima, Nissan's proven QR25 4-cylinder has been refined with a larger intake manifold, increased compression ratio and reduced friction characteristics. It also features continuously variable valve timing, modular engine design, microfinished crank journals and cam lobes, molybdenum-coated lightweight pistons and electronically controlled throttle.

Helping provide smooth acceleration and maximize powertrain efficiency is the Altima Hybrid's hybrid system-specific eCVT, which works in conjunction with the Hybrid Vehicle-Electric Control Unit (HV-ECU) to determine which power source or combination of power sources will turn the wheels.

Nissan Altima Hybrid's electric motor produces high torque at low rpm, allowing it to utilize its Electric Vehicle (EV) mode to power the car from a standing idle and through initial acceleration without the assistance of the gasoline engine. While this stage of acceleration is a typical gasoline-only powered vehicle's least fuel-efficient stage, the Altima Hybrid offers much of its fuel-efficiency benefits here.

Nissan Altima Hybrid's all-electric mode, called Electric Vehicle (EV) mode, occurs in the initial acceleration phase.

After the electric motor provides initial acceleration, the gasoline engine quietly starts and assumes the load of powering the vehicle. The gasoline engine works independently through cruising speeds until the vehicle reaches speeds at which fuel efficiency declines.

When loads require, the electric motor starts again and aids the gasoline engine in powering the Altima Hybrid. This allows the gasoline engine to remain in its ideal rpm range while the axle rpm simultaneously increases due to the extra power being contributed by the electric motor.

A digital display on the speedometer indicates when the Altima Hybrid is running solely on electric power. The Altima Hybrid's available DVD navigation system also features a real-time display showing how the hybrid system directs the flow of energy.

"The Altima Hybrid feels remarkably smooth - most drivers will never be aware of the transitions between the electric and gasoline power sources unless they are watching the display panel," said Bosley. "Mostly what they will feel is highly responsive acceleration and the seamless delivery of power under almost all driving conditions."


The Best of Both Worlds

The new Nissan Altima Hybrid is the sixth model in the 2007 Altima lineup, joining the Altima 2.5, 2.5 S, 2.5 S with SL Package and two 3.5-liter V6-powered models, the Altima 3.5 SE and 3.5 SL (each available beginning in November 2006). These new 2007 Altimas deliver on customers' desires for a rewarding, engaging driving and ownership experience.

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