- Independent German consumer organisation test highlights impressive real-world fuel economy
- Fuel consumption reduction mirrored by lower emissions
- Comprehensive redesign of e-POWER also reduces noise by 5.6db
Following the recent introduction of a comprehensively redesigned and re-engineered e-POWER system on the Nissan Qashqai, ADAC, the German automotive consumer organisation, has released its official Ecotest fuel consumption figure of 5.4l/100km. This represents a reduction of nearly 15% versus the previous iteration and it positions the Nissan Qashqai e-POWER at the top level for fuel efficiency in its segment.
The ADAC testing regime combines laboratory and dynamic testing methods to establish a fuel consumption figure which is intended to be representative of real-world conditions.
The updated e-POWER system boasts a newly developed combustion engine that has benefitted from a comprehensive range of upgrades. The powertrain engineering team defined a broad base of improvement points, with a particular focus on optimising fuel consumption at European highway speeds up to 130km/h. These engineering efforts have yielded remarkable results in efficiency and environmental impact:
- Emissions reduction: as well as the reduction in fuel consumption, the new e-POWER system on Qashqai also sees a drop in emissions from 116 to 102g/km using the WLTP testing standard – a 12% improvement. This exceptional performance earned the Qashqai e-POWER, contributing to an overall score of four out of five stars.
- Outstanding range: this low fuel consumption combined with the 55-litre tank results in a theoretical range of 1,018 km – an increase of 145km per tank and a range normally familiar to drivers of diesel vehicles. The figure using the WLTP regime is 1222km.
Improved refinement
ADAC noted that the revised e-POWER system has resulted in a quieter drive system overall. Subjective and objective impressions confirm the Qashqai e-Power is quieter than before, with the measured noise level at 130 km/h dropping. By Nissan’s measurement, the noise reduction is 5.6db, placing it at a comparable level with full EVs.
Additionally, new e-POWER customers can expect lower total cost of ownership thanks to service intervals which have been extended from 15,000km to 20,000km.
Speaking about the ADAC Ecotest results, David Moss, Senior Vice President of R&D, Nissan AMIEO (Africa, Middle-East, India & Oceania region) said: “Following the Japanese principle of Kaizen, which is continuous improvement, Nissan’s powertrain engineers have worked hard to stretch e-POWER’s bold and innovative technology. The net benefits for customers are lower fuel bills, huge range on a single tank and an even more refined EV-like drive experience – and no compromise in performance. And, better fuel economy and lower emissions represents an important step in reducing the vehicle’s impact on the environment, a key objective at the heart of all our activities.”
He added: “The fuel consumption figure obtained in the ADAC Ecotest is a testament to Nissan’s commitment to smooth the transition from fuel-based to zero emissions motoring. We’re confident our customers will love it.”
EV-like drive experience
Unlike traditional hybrids, the Qashqai e-POWER system uses a petrol engine solely to generate electricity, which in turn powers an electric motor that drives the wheels. This means the wheels are driven only by electric power, delivering instant torque, smooth acceleration, and a quieter ride – all without the need to plug in.
The new updated e-POWER 5-in-1 powertrain integrates key components including the electric motor, generator, inverter, increaser and reducer to a completely new redesigned 1.5 litre turbo engine. It also adopts Nissan’s proprietary STARC combustion concept, which has lifted thermal efficiency to 42% – an exceptionally high level – by stabilising in-cylinder combustion, which enables the engine to operate more quietly and effectively at lower speeds.
As well as the comprehensive updates to the e-POWER system, the Qashqai also benefits from enhanced connected features as part of its Google built-in infotainment tech, which provides access to Google Maps, Assistant, and the Play Store. New features include voice commands via Google Assistant, access to additional apps through Google Play, weather forecasts at planned destinations, and Nissan Trip Stories – allowing customers to easily record and share their favourite journeys via the NissanConnect Services app.
Additional technology improvements include increased driving intelligence with enhanced ProPILOT driver assistance features such as improved multi-lane autonomous drive interfaces for better traffic monitoring and awareness of surrounding environment.
The latest Qashqai equipped with e-POWER began production in July this year in Nissan’s state-of-the-art factory in Sunderland.
