Nissan has unveiled a lunar rover prototype jointly developed with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).

When developing lunar rovers, driving controllability is a key factor. A rover must be able to transverse the Moon’s powdery, rocky, and undulating terrain. Furthermore, energy sources for operating vehicles are limited in space, so the vehicle must be energy efficient.

Nissan’s research applies the motor control technology it has developed through its production of mass-market electric vehicles such as the LEAF as well as e-4ORCE all-wheel control technology featured on the new Ariya electric crossover.

The e-4ORCE technology precisely controls all four wheels independently. Nissan is attempting to evolve the system to offer enhanced performance in sandy terrain and other harsh conditions.

The collaboration will combine Nissan’s research gained from test-vehicle development with JAXA’s knowledge of rover research.

“The uses of automobiles and driving situations are wide-ranging. We aim for the ultimate driving performance through our research and development, and believe the know-how gained from this joint research with JAXA will lead to innovations in our vehicles that will bring benefits to customers,” said Toshiyuki Nakajima, General Manager of the Advanced Vehicle Engineering Department in charge of e-4ORCE control development at Nissan.

Source: Nissan Australia | Nissan Unveils Lunar Rover Prototype Jointly Developed with Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency 

3 December 2021