Nissan announced on Monday plans to introduce a hybrid version of its Rogue SUV to the U.S. market, featuring the company’s e-Power technology. This marks the first time the Yokohama-based automaker will offer a vehicle equipped with the e-Power system in the United States.

The launch comes amid increasing demand for hybrid vehicles in the U.S., driven in part by rising gasoline prices and a decline in the popularity of fully electric vehicles. Nissan views the updated third-generation e-Power system as better suited to American driving conditions, addressing previous concerns that the conventional system’s fuel efficiency diminished during extended high-speed travel.

The new generation of e-Power technology promises improved fuel economy, particularly at highway speeds, as well as quieter operation compared to earlier versions. Nissan hopes these enhancements will help the Rogue hybrid resonate with consumers seeking efficient and practical alternatives to traditional gasoline-powered cars and fully electric models.

The Rogue, closely related to the X-Trail sold in Japan, represents a significant portion of Nissan’s U.S. sales, accounting for roughly 30% of the company’s vehicle sales in the country. The hybrid variant will be manufactured at Nissan Motor Kyushu’s facility in Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan, and will be priced starting at $35,490.

By integrating the latest e-Power system into a popular SUV model, Nissan aims to strengthen its position in the increasingly competitive U.S. hybrid vehicle market.