NISSAN is launching a new version of its e-POWER technology on the British-built Qashqai crossover nearly a decade after its global debut.

Comprehensively re-engineered for even better fuel efficiency, lower emissions and elevated refinement and set for production in Sunderland, the new e-POWER will further smooth the transition from fuel towards zero emissions.

First launched in the region four years ago, e-POWER was developed to deliver an electric-drive experience without the need to plug in - combining the smooth, effortless acceleration and refinement of an EV with the everyday convenience of traditional combustion power.

At the heart of e-POWER is a unique principle which delivers real customer benefits - the petrol engine is used only to generate electricity which is distributed directly to the electric motor to drive the wheels, as well as to charge the battery if needed.

New e-POWER brings major improvements across every key area:

At the core of the new e-POWER is a newly-developed modular powertrain unit, which integrates the electric motor, generator, inverter, reducer and increaser into a compact and lighter package.

Combined with improvements to engine calibration and sound insulation, the system reduces both noise and vibration under load. Overall, power is up by 14.75bhp, at a maximum of 202bhp. The battery capacity is unchanged at 2.1 kWh.

Despite having a similar three cylinder 1.5-litre turbo configuration as the out-going version, the engine is all-new and is now dedicated to its application in e-POWER.

It adopts Nissan's proprietary STARC combustion concept, which has lifted thermal efficiency to 42 per cent - an exceptionally high level - by stabilising in-cylinder combustion, which enables the engine to operate more quietly and effectively at lower speeds.

A new, larger turbo has been fitted which also brings efficiency gains, allowing a 200rpm reduction in engine speeds during highway driving, contributing to the lower overall noise level.

The variable compression ratio technology found on the previous version has been rendered redundant by the other changes to the engine.

The net outcome of all the changes is that Qashqai equipped with the latest e-POWER achieves 16 per cent better fuel economy in real-world conditions, and 14 per cent improvement in highway fuel consumption versus the current generation.

David Moss, senior vice president, region research and development, Nissan AMIEOsaid:"This new version of e-POWER reflects everything we've learned from developing electric motor drive systems for Europe.We've analysed what worked in our previous generations, what appealed most to customers, and re-engineered the system to deliver maximum efficiency, lower emissions and a quieter, more refined drive - all with the same performance as a diesel. We are proud that New e-POWER now offers best-in-class fuel efficiency and emissions."

With a theoretical range of 745 miles on a full tank, the new e-POWER goes further than many traditional plug-in hybrids - without the need for a charging cable or waiting for a full charge.

For many drivers, moving to a fully electric vehicle still comes with questions - about charging, range, infrastructure, and habit change. That's where e-POWER comes in.

With its fully electric motor drive and no plug-in requirement, new e-POWER offers a clear, confident step into electrified driving - combining the smoothness and instant response of an EV, with the familiar range and convenience of an ICE. It delivers the experience of electric, without the perceived challenges and common misconceptions that can still hold some drivers back from switching to fully electric.

And because the engine never powers the wheels, the driving feel is entirely electric, with no gear shifts, no power lag, and minimal engine noise at low speeds. Yet, unlike a battery electric vehicle, refuelling takes place at any petrol station.

By removing the complexity of change, e-POWER acts as a true transition technology - giving customers the benefits of electric mobility with none of the friction. It's built for drivers who want something better, but not something unfamiliar.

The new Qashqai will also benefit from enhanced connected technology features - including Google built-in infotainment, 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 new e-POWER, which is built at Nissan's state-of-the-art factory in Sunderland, UK will be available in European markets from September 2025.