VM test drive report Silence S04 Nanocar: The E-Micro is set to power Nissan

Surprising move at Nissan: With the model officially named "Silence S04 Nanocar," the Spanish light electric vehicle is now, as previously announced, entering the market: Starting immediately, the 2.28-meter long micro-mobile is available at the first Nissan dealerships, including locations in Berlin, Münster, and Munich. The expansion of the dealer network will proceed gradually, it is said.

The electric speedster was also seen at the IAA Mobility last year in Munich and is set to rival the Citroen Ami/Opel E-Rocks/Fiat Topolino, the Microlino, the Ari 452 or 902, the Estrima Biro, the XEV Yoyo, as well as the new, originally internal Alliance Renault Duo/Bento. Why not with Renault? "Because we can," says project manager Gareth Dunsmore, CEO of e-Micro Mobility AMIEO. Apparently, Nissan wants to generally distance itself more from the French. And for the established Japanese brand, to attract new and young target groups, even with a driver's license AM from 15 years of age: For example, in suburban areas without good public transport or city dwellers who prefer to own a car.

Seat beaten to the punch

Originally, it was planned to launch the Silence S04 as a quasi-successor to the Seat Minimo with the Spanish compatriots. This was not only regionally logical but also because Seat marketed the Silence scooters S01 and S02 as Seat Mo. Somehow, however, the VW subsidiary lost its drive and spirit. The Japanese have it, though, who, as early e-pioneers, can once again set a truly electric accent, albeit not from their own house, but "acquired." An in-house development of a micromobile would have taken years, it is said. So they preferred to follow the new strategy of "smart partnership" with Silence.

Silence seeks the sales power of a car manufacturer

The four-wheeled light electric vehicle of what is claimed to be the leading European provider of electric micromobility starts at prices from 11,995 euros gross (10,079 euros net). The electric dwarf weighs only 425 kilograms and offers surprisingly large trunk volume of 247 liters, mainly deriving from its depth and is easily accessible through the fast-opening but then dangerously sluggish tailgate above eye level. It comes with swap batteries and quite unique connectivity features in this segment. The LEV is offered with either one or two batteries in the vehicle classes L6e and L7e, differing by 2,100 euros in price.

175 kilometers: Also suitable for city-suburban areas

The L6e model with one battery offers up to 75 kilometers range. With the variant with two batteries (14,645 euros gross), up to 175 kilometers can be driven purely electrically. Both versions use a 6 kW/8 hp strong double wheel hub electric motor, which enables a maximum speed of 45 km/h. The L7e model combined with one battery (14,095 euros gross) is powered by two electric motors with 7 kW/10 hp, can reach up to 70 km/h, and has a range of up to 75 kilometers. The L7e top model with two batteries and a power of 14 kW/19 hp (16,745 euros) reaches up to 85 km/h and covers up to 149 kilometers, making it suitable for city-suburban areas as well. It is, of course, city-suitable with micro dimensions of 2.28 meters in length, 1.27 meters in width, and a "car-normal" height of 1.57 meters, as well as a turning circle of 3.5 meters. Naturally, the little vehicle even fits sideways into a parallel parking space.

Quite fast to drive, stable road handling

This is complemented by a rapid start with a thrust of under ten seconds to 45/50 km/h thanks to two rear wheel hub motors that initially hum cheerfully and then operate more quietly. It also features a secure road handling due to its wide track and long wheelbase, super agile and adequately intuitive handling despite the light steering, and a reasonable deceleration with ABS disc brakes all-around in the 14-inch wheels (steel front, aluminum rear) along with recuperation. The recuperation is "mild" and barely noticeable when you lift off the accelerator. The suspension comfort is rather rudimentary and reminiscent of the original Mini or go-karts. Ramps require cautious approaches to avoid being launched quite catapult-like out of the seat.

Leaves most combustion engines behind

For this, the body is built on a steel frame construction tested for at least lighter crashes and is largely squeak-free and quite well-constructed, except for a mechanical clunk from the underbody. Sure, at higher speeds, there are noticeable rolling and wind noises, but all within acceptable limits for an L7e concept. The three driving modes noticeably differentiate: Eco boosts the range by 30 kilometers but tops out at 60 km/h, City is the best compromise, and in this mode, as well as in Sport, you can leave most combustion engines behind. The range is likely quite realistic. This Catalonian lightweight electric vehicle conveys a message: it is not a budget option. Further safety features like airbags are already being considered.

Two batteries to choose from, in suitcase format

The energy for brisk propulsion is supplied by one or two 5.6 kWh batteries in all configurations. Once you have discovered the central release mechanism, they can be removed with rather simple steps and transported like a rollable suitcase. This is an advantage as each battery weighs 41 kilos, allowing them to be transported to a standard household socket. They are charged within seven to nine hours. Alternatively, the vehicle has a charging slot at the front under the flap with a household plug connection but unfortunately not Type 2 for public charging stations, necessitating an adapter. In the future, there will be special exchange stations planned. There is also consideration of a battery subscription (Battery as a Service).

Ample equipment is standard - including vegan leather

Inside, it is surprisingly spacious for the head and legs, although it naturally pinches at the shoulders. The Silence does not feel like a compromise vehicle, but rather pragmatic and quite well-made. The controls are clear and straightforward, the steering column levers are solid, and the screen and on-board computer provide the most important information, unfortunately excluding consumption. Buttons connect directly to the most important functions, including a code to unlock and start keyless via a button. The steering wheel is not height-adjustable, nor is the seat.

While seated on rather emergency-seat-like, narrow and hard seating without significant lateral support, it is suited for the purpose. The seat is offset for the passenger, which is advisable given the narrow space. The co-seat can be adjusted backwards for flexibility and can be folded, so the S04 can transform into a small transporter. Speaking of which, a cargo version without a passenger seat is expected next year, aimed at delivery services.

Climate control and heating are standard

All vehicles are offered in the so-called premium configuration. This includes an audio system with Bluetooth interface for smartphones, along with two somewhat tinny-sounding speakers, electric windows, a holder with integrated smartphone connection, electrically adjustable exterior mirrors, one central full LED headlight with two "eyes" like a bicycle, and door and arm rest panels made from vegan leather. And, as project leader Dunsmore emphasizes, it is the only lightweight electric vehicle that features both a heater and an air conditioning system. In the L7e model, in addition to the driver, the passenger seat is also adjustable in four ways, and the seat cushions are also made from vegan black leather.

Sharing option and digital services

The electric dwarf aims to combine fully electric driving with intelligent connectivity. The "My Silence" app offers various digital services, including keyless access, a location search, as well as monitoring of range and battery charge status. At the same time, users can share the vehicle with their friends without needing to hand over a physical key.

Finally, the success of the electric cart hopes to leverage Nissan’s dealer network, including service, and the vehicle’s low operating costs. Leasing through the corporate division Mobilize starts at 99 euros with a battery, and concepts without a battery are also in development. Silence's e-scooters will also be offered through Nissan, albeit not exclusively.

Strategic partnership for new mobility options

In a broader context, the partnership between Nissan and Acciona, along with its vehicle brand Silence, the leading European provider of electric micromobility, follows the introduction of Nissan's business plan with the melodious name "The Arc." The Japanese automaker aims to regain momentum and "strengthen value creation and competitiveness," as stated. They hope to simultaneously open new revenue sources, accelerate the transition to electric vehicles, and address "the diverse and evolving needs of customers today and tomorrow," the Japanese explain in their finest marketing language.