Nissan Murano EA2 “Drive-By-Wire” Concept

Nissan has unveiled a new concept car based on the first-generation Murano crossover called EA2 that is equipped with a new drive-by-wire technology. The Japanese carmaker actually calls it “X-by-Wire” and what this means is that mechanical linkages for the control of major systems such as steering, braking and transmission have been replaced with wires and electrical impulses.

While this technology still has its disadvantages in terms of driver satisfaction –it’s like controlling a video game, drive-by-wire is more compact than the traditional mechanical systems thus freeing up space while it also helps reduce vehicle weight, resulting in gains in performance, economy and emissions.

For example, on the Murano EA2 Concept, by replacing conventional mechanical linkages with by-wire technology, steering and braking systems can be re-packaged to create more internal space without changing the vehicle’s overall length. In particular, this resulted in an interior length of 2,600mm - 110mm more than the conventional Murano, making it possible to add a third row of seating and capacity for seven passengers. -Continued

Additionally, the shift-by-wire system allowed for the installation of a movable center console, making it easier to move between the driver and front passenger seats.