Nissan recently announced that the 2011 Nissan Altima Hybrid would not be available as a 2012 model, which effectively ends its hybrid relationship with Toyota. The current Altima Hybrid uses a hybrid system supplied by Toyota. Now it’s being reported that Nissan is currently developing a front-wheel-drive version of its in-house hybrid system for the next-generation Altima.
The new hybrid system is going to be based off the rear-wheel-drive hybrid system that debuted in the 2012 Infiniti M Hybrid. The system will be a one-motor, two-clutch system with a four-cylinder engine and a continuously variable transmission. The Altima Hybrid will also get lithium-ion batteries.
Nissan apparently believes that a hybrid system is the best way to increase the fuel economy in its larger cars. Nissan has failed to comment on the reports, but could a Nissan Maxima hybrid also be in the works?
