Nissan's New Elgrand Minivan Boasts Advanced Noise-Cancellation Technology

Key Takeaways

• Nissan’s new Elgrand minivan features an advanced noise-cancellation system developed by Panasonic.
• The system uses acceleration sensors to detect vibrations and generates opposing control sounds to cancel out unwanted noise.
• The Elgrand is the first production vehicle to feature an integrated ANC system that targets both road and powertrain noise.
• Nissan hopes the new Elgrand will regain its position in the luxury MPV segment in Japan.
• The Elgrand features an e-Power hybrid system and a radical new design.

What is Active Noise Cancellation and How Does it Work?

Active noise cancellation (ANC) is a technology used to reduce unwanted sounds in vehicles. It works by using sensors to detect vibrations and generating opposing control sounds to cancel out the noise. The system in the Elgrand is designed to target both road and powertrain noise, making it a more comprehensive solution than other ANC systems on the market.

The Elgrand’s ANC system uses acceleration sensors placed around the vehicle to detect the vibrations most closely tied to cabin noise. Once it reads those vibrations, the system generates opposing control sounds and pipes them through the car’s speakers to cancel the offending frequencies before they reach your ears.

How Does the Elgrand’s ANC System Compare to Others?

Most cabin ANC systems only fight road noise, but the Elgrand’s system is designed to target both road and powertrain noise. This makes it a more effective solution for reducing overall noise levels in the vehicle. Additionally, the Elgrand’s system is integrated into the vehicle’s design, making it a more seamless and effective solution than aftermarket ANC systems.

Nissan claims that the Elgrand’s ANC system is effective at canceling both road and powertrain noise, although it’s hard to say how effective it is until we experience it for ourselves. Panasonic has supplied ANC systems to over 60 different models, so it’s likely that other production models could adopt a similar setup in the future.

What Else is New in the Elgrand?

The Elgrand features an e-Power hybrid system, which is designed to provide improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. The vehicle also has a radical new design, which is intended to help it regain its position in the luxury MPV segment in Japan.

In Japan, the Elgrand helped create the hugely popular luxury MPV segment, but in recent years, it’s been dethroned by the Toyota Alphard. Nissan hopes that the new Elgrand will help the brand regain its mojo in this segment.

Can the Elgrand Compete with the Toyota Alphard?

The Toyota Alphard is a highly successful vehicle in Japan, and it’s clear that Nissan is trying to compete with it with the new Elgrand. The Elgrand’s advanced ANC system and e-Power hybrid system are designed to provide a more comfortable and efficient driving experience, which could help it to compete with the Alphard.

However, the Elgrand still has a long way to go to catch up with the Alphard in terms of sales. In the 2025 fiscal year, Toyota sold 81,357 Alphards, while Nissan sold just 1,163 examples of the outgoing Elgrand model. Nissan will need to work hard to promote the new Elgrand and convince buyers to choose it over the Alphard.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Active Noise Cancellation and how does it work?

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is a technology used to reduce unwanted sounds in vehicles. It works by using sensors to detect vibrations and generating opposing control sounds to cancel out the noise.

Q: How does the Elgrand’s ANC system compare to others?

The Elgrand’s ANC system is designed to target both road and powertrain noise, making it a more comprehensive solution than other ANC systems on the market.

Q: Will the Elgrand be available in the US?

No, the Elgrand will not be available in the US. It is a Japan-only model.