Nissan has shared new information on the Qashqai e-Power variant with a self-charging hybrid powertrain, expanding the SUV’s electrified range next to the existing mild-hybrid variants. This is the first model in Europe benefiting from Nissan’s e-Power technology which is already available in Japan in the Note. The Nissan Qashqai e-Power combines a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder petrol engine with 156 hp, an electric motor producing 188 hp, an inverter, and a battery. The hybrid system is self-charging but offers an EV experience since the electric motor is driving the wheels, with the ICE working only as a generator.
This setup means that the driver has
access to the instant torque of the electric motor while the petrol engine with
variable compression capability works in an efficient and quiet way generating
energy for the inverter and the battery. The battery is also charged through
regenerative braking, especially in the e-Pedal driving mode that is activated
by a switch on the center console providing 0.2g deceleration when the driver
lifts its foot off the throttle.
Nissan’s goal was to provide a “connected”
driving experience with the ICE remaining relative to the SUV’s road speed.
This was achieved by a system called “Linear Tune” which increases engine revs
at higher speeds to avoid the disconnected experience found in other hybrids. According
to Nissan’s research, European crossover drivers spend more than 70% of their
time driving in urban and suburban areas, where the e-Power powertrain is
working efficiently and quietly. In a combined cycle, the fuel consumption is
5.3 lt/100 km (44 mpg) and the CO2 emissions are 119 g/km according to
preliminary data.
The Nissan Qashqai e-Power is set for a
European market launch in late summer 2022 with pricing to be announced closer
to that date.
