Nissan Navara EnGuard, a version designed for rescue operations equipped with emergency batteries

The Nissan Navara is a versatile vehicle with great adaptability, so it is perfectly capable of carrying out the most demanding activities or missions, thanks to its design and performance. But Nissan wanted to go a step further, creating a prototype fitted with several auxiliary batteries intended for emergency and rescue missions. The Nissan Navara EnGuard was presented at the Hannover Fair, where it could be seen in action.

The off-road pick-up thus becomes a rescue platform capable of moving across quite difficult terrain that poses particular challenges for emergency vehicles. The vehicle is equipped with EV batteries designed by Nissan, identical to those found in the brand’s electric vehicles such as the LEAF or the e-NV200, capable of supplying energy to overcome any obstacle.

These batteries are always in the process of charging, thanks to the 2.3-litre twin-turbo diesel engine producing 190 CV, which supplies the energy they need to always be ready for use. Each unit has a capacity of 2 kW and includes seven battery modules insulated in a sealed aluminium chamber. This allows it to travel over any terrain and, even when driving through water, they are fully protected from the elements and can withstand considerable punishment.

Each battery unit features two charging connections and five outlets. In this way, they can be used for various purposes that could prove useful on a rescue mission, and they can function like a petrol generator, but delivering clean energy with no smoke emissions that could hamper any rescue operation.

With these functions, the batteries offer a completely different use from that originally envisaged, as energy storage for Nissan electric cars. But this is not the only additional capability of the Navara EnGuard. It also carries a DJI Phantom 4 drone, capable of climbing up to 600 metres and flying at speeds of up to 20 metres per second. The drone weighs around 1,380 grams and sends the images it captures to the prototype, helping the rescue team act safely and efficiently.

The model is based on the Navara Tekna, double cab, although the necessary modifications have been made to turn it into a practical and highly useful rescue vehicle. If it makes it to production, it will be a very useful ally for responding to natural disasters and reaching any location to provide assistance.

Source | Nissan