Sometimes, the syntax of the unusual names of automotive technologies is somewhat... challenging. And this new twin-motor, all-wheel-drive system from Nissan is no exception: it's known as e-4ORCE. That's pronounced 'e-Force' and is so-called because it's an AWD (4) system for electric vehicles (e) that, er, has a lot of force. Yes. Anyway, it was unveiled at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, where it was displayed on the Ariya Concept electric crossover in the show hall; however, a Nissan Leaf development mule was also in the American city for dynamic demonstrations. The e-4ORCE set-up takes its inspiration from both the 4x4 underpinnings of the chunky old Patrol off-roader, as well as the hyper-clever torque-splitting shenanigans of ATTESA E-TS, which is the AWD system you'd find on the mighty R35 GT-R. Everything about e-4ORCE (it's as annoying to write as it is to look at, by the way) is aimed to make the car feel 'smooth and stable', with the regenerative braking effect of both motors said to level out pitch and dive in urban start/stop driving conditions, while the EV AWD can even assess bumpy roads and control the motors accordingly to minimise irregular body movements in the car. Factor in the promise of sharp handling and impressive stability on slippery surfaces, and it's no wonder that Takao Asami, Nissan's senior vice-president of research and advanced engineering, felt confident enough to say: "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. This technology enables excellent cornering performance and traction on slippery surfaces, and a comfortable ride for all passengers."