Nissan Quickly Accelerates Production of Its First Hybrid SUV for the American Market | Carscoops

      Nissan is speeding up its plans to launch the Rogue e-Power hybrid crossover.

      This model will debut after the plug-in hybrid, which will not qualify for tax credits.

      The plug-in hybrid variant could be available as early as January, utilizing technology sourced from Mitsubishi.

      Earlier this year, the United States Energy Information Administration announced that hybrids accounted for over 12 percent of vehicle sales in the first quarter, a significant increase from around 2% in 2020.

      The rise in popularity has taken many automakers, including Nissan, by surprise. In response, the company is working on two environmentally friendly Rogue models.

      More: Nissan May Begin Producing Hybrids for Its Major Competitors

      The first model may be ready as soon as January, with reports indicating that it will heavily rely on Mitsubishi's plug-in hybrid technology. While the Rogue PHEV is expected to enhance the lineup, insiders have expressed disappointment that its launch will follow the discontinuation of the clean vehicle tax credit.

      This situation has reportedly caused Nissan to revise its sales forecast to fewer than 10,000 units by 2026. In light of this, the company is reportedly hastening the introduction of the Rogue e-Power.

      Originally slated for the first half of 2027, the model may now arrive sooner, but it could face tariffs as it is expected to be imported from Japan until domestic manufacturing starts in Smyrna, Tennessee, in 2028.

      The e-Power system is akin to range-extended vehicles, featuring electric motors and an engine that functions as a generator. However, it has a much smaller battery compared to a range-extended EV, making it more cost-effective.

      While the powertrain has been established for several years, it will be a new experience for American consumers. The Rogue will be their first encounter with it, and an e-Power variant of the redesigned Infiniti QX50 is also anticipated. Furthermore, Nissan is reportedly considering an e-Power version of the Kicks.

      Regarding the plug-in hybrid, it’s expected to resemble the Outlander PHEV, which utilizes a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, two electric motors, and a 22.7 kWh battery pack. This configuration provides the European model with a total output of 302 hp (225 kW / 306 PS) and an electric-only WLTP range of up to 53 miles (86 km).

      The updated Outlander PHEV will launch in the United States early next year, giving us insight into what to expect from its Rogue counterpart. Although this release is still a few months away, Nissan is reportedly focusing on states with a strong electric vehicle market.