Nissan has announced a comprehensively updated version of its e-POWER technology, introduced four years ago. The system, which will be available for sale with the new Qashqai in September 2025, utilizes the internal combustion engine solely to generate electricity. This technology, which enables electric driving without external charging, offers significant improvements in both driving comfort and efficiency.
Nissan to introduce next-generation e-POWER technology
The new e-POWER system once again features dual motors. The gasoline engine does not directly power the wheels; it only provides energy to the generator. This energy is transferred directly to the electric motor via an inverter, which drives the wheels. Unlike traditional hybrid systems, it eliminates complex transmission structures. This design ensures the instantaneous response and quiet operation of electric vehicles.
The system converts kinetic energy into electrical energy through regenerative braking and returns it to the battery. This feature, widely used in electric vehicles, contributes to fuel efficiency and energy recovery. Nissan has improved numerous parameters in its new-generation e-POWER system compared to the previous version.
In the new version, fuel consumption has been reduced by up to 4.5 liters per 100 kilometers. This translates to a theoretical range of 1,200 kilometers. Carbon dioxide emissions have been reduced from 116 grams to 102 grams, representing a 12% improvement. Cabin noise has also been reduced by up to 5.6 decibels. In Sport mode, an additional 10 kilowatts of power delivers a quicker and more responsive driving experience.
The innovations are not limited to software or tweaks. The central component of the system, the motor, generator, inverter, gearbox, and booster, are now combined into a single, compact module. This 5-in-1 powertrain is both lighter and more compact. Many of the components have been redesigned, but the total engine output remains at 140 kW and the battery capacity at 2.1 kWh.
Significant changes have also been made to the three-cylinder, 1.5-liter turbocharged engine. Nissan’s proprietary STARC combustion concept stabilizes in-cylinder combustion, resulting in increased thermal efficiency and quieter, more balanced operation at low speeds.
A new, larger turbocharger at the top of the engine increases overall efficiency, while a new final drive ratio allows engine speeds to be kept 200 rpm lower at highway speeds. This contributes to both fuel consumption and cabin quietness.
The updated system also extends maintenance intervals. Service checks, performed every 15,000 kilometers in the previous version, will now be performed every 20,000 kilometers.
The new e-POWER Qashqai features not only system changes but also hardware improvements. It comes with Nissan’s enhanced ProPILOT driver assistance systems, new autonomous driving interfaces, and environmental awareness-enhancing technologies such as the 3D Around View Monitor.
The next-generation Qashqai and its e-POWER system are manufactured at Nissan’s Sunderland plant in England. The model will go on sale in European markets from September 2025.
