Nissan Ellure Concept

As expected, Nissan revealed today at the 2010 LA Auto Show the Ellure Concept, a concept which is not intended as a preview of any upcoming production model, but confirms the firm’s intention to be a strong player in the sedan segment. In our opinion, the new Ellure Concept previews the next-generation Nissan Maxima, and looking at the design we might say that the new car will be a major hit in its segment. The design of the car is completed by the 21-inch 5-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels wrapped in low-rolling resistance Michelin tires. Aerodynamics became a critical element of design, and the Ellure explores the ways to reduce or eliminate body openings that can cause drag, such as transparent coverings on the wheels and grilles, without impacting the beauty of the vehicle.

According to Nissan, the Ellure grill was inspired by “Kamishino” Samurai formal coat. The rear end of the car is inspired by the “Torii” Shinto shrine gate, while the sides are dominated by large 90-degree opening doors with rear-hinged rear doors. Furthermore, the concept comes with a “Geode” White tri-coat mica paint that features pearlescent/gold flake with a blue aspect that varies in appearance by tone and temperature of light. Inside, the car features a tri-color scheme of “Molten Ice,” “Molten Steel” and “Molten Gray.”

Under the hood of the Ellure Concept, we find a supercharged 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder with Intelligent Dual Clutch Control (one motor/two clutch design with lithium-ion battery) but also a 25 kW electric motor, matched with an Xtronic CVT and front-wheel drive. Moreover, the concept offers an independent suspension, regenerative braking, and advanced drive-by-wire electric/hydraulic steering. Ellure also wears a “PURE DRIVE” badge, indicating it would be part of Nissan’s range of low CO2/low fuel consumption internal combustion engine or hybrid vehicles.