Nissan showed up to the 2020 Consumer Electronics Show with its Ariya Concept, an all-electric crossover that could preview future styling for the next-generation Rogue and Murano. On the surface, this doesn't sound like the type of news that would interest car enthusiasts but there's more to the Ariya than meets the eye. The concept features Nissan's new twin-motor all-wheel-control technology called e-4ORCE, which is meant to deliver balanced and predictable power to all four wheels in an EV application, providing handling that is on par with premium sports cars.

No one seems to know what's going on with the next-generation Nissan GT-R but the carmaker has hinted that its flagship sports car could become electric. If the R36 GT-R does, in fact, become electric, this new e-4ORCE system could be an important feature.

"The e-4ORCE twin-motor all-wheel control technology offers precise handling and stability, which gives drivers greater confidence and even more excitement than ever before," said Takao Asami, Nissan's senior vice president of research and advanced engineering. "This technology enables excellent cornering performance and traction on slippery surfaces and comfortable ride for all passengers."

Nissan says the e-4ORCE system was created using lessons learned from the GT-R's ATTESA E-TS torque split system and the Nissan Patrol's intelligent 4X4 system, so it does have a sporting pedigree. We expect this system will debut on a future electric Nissan SUV, though an AWD version of the Leaf may not be out of the question.

Nissan will display the Ariya Concept, which features e-4ORCE, at its CES booth and will also have a twin-motor, all-wheel-drive technology test car based on the Leaf (pictured above) running around Las Vegas. It appears like Nissan is targeting this technology towards future electric crossovers with AWD but we so no reason why it couldn't be adapted for sportier purposes, such as a new GT-R.
Check out All-Wheel-Drive Electric Cars.