PARIS: Nissan is future-proofing the Qashqai, Europe’s best-selling crossover, with electrified powertrains.
Supporting Nissan’s goal of achieving 50% electrified sales in Europe by FY23, the all-new Qashqai will not only be available with a 1.3 DiG-T petrol equipped with mild hybrid technology, but it also represents the European debut of e-POWER, Nissan’s award-winning powertrain that draws technologies from the company’s LEAF electric vehicle.
The e-POWER system for new Qashqai has been specially developed for the model to meet the rigorous demands of European drivers. Qashqai with e-POWER not only realises a high level of fuel efficiency and low CO2 emissions, but also responsive and powerful acceleration.
The Qashqai’s powertrain option include both 2WD and 4WD variants, 6-speed manual or new Xtronic CVT transmissions, and pure-electric motor driving courtesy of e-POWER.
1.3 DiG-T PETROL 140PS/158PS 12V ALiS MILD HYBRID
The 12V ALiS (Advanced Lithium-ion battery System) mild hybrid system available on new Qashqai is a more affordable hybrid technology that provides torque assist, extended idle stop, quick restart and coasting stop [CVT only], with improvements to both fuel economy and CO2 output (-4g/km).
The positive impact of the mild hybrid’s energy management on CO2 is competitive and the 1.3-litre engine delivers more power and torque than key competitors, making the petrol engine variant a compelling offer. The ALiS mild hybrid system adds just 22kg to the overall vehicle mass.
The ALiS is mated to the 1.3 DiG-T petrol engine that was introduced to Qashqai in 2018. This engine has been improved further for new Qashqai with 50 newly designed components and Euro6-d Full compliance.
The turbo charger now features an electrically controlled waste gate for quicker response.
The 1.3-petrol 12V ALiS will be offered with two power outputs – 140PS and 158PS – with either a 6-speed manual transmission, or new Xtronic CVT gearbox (158PS only). Max engine power arrives at 5500rpm, with maximum available torque of 270Nm at a convenient 1750rpm on 158PS CVT and high power MT variants.
On manual versions the gearbox has been enhanced for a quicker, more direct and sportier shift feeling.
The 2WD function is available on both 140PS and 158PS versions, whilst 4WD will only be available on 158PS CVT models.
E-POWER
The new Qashqai brings the first deployment of Nissan’s innovative e-POWER drive system to Europe. Exclusive to Nissan and a key component in the company’s Intelligent Mobility strategy, the e-POWER system is a unique approach to electrification.
The new Qashqai’s e-POWER system comprised a high-output battery and powertrain integrated with a category-leading variable compression ratio 157PS petrol engine, power generator, inverter and 140kW electric motor of similar size and power output as found in Nissan’s electric vehicles. It’s a unique solution that combines the enjoyable, seamless linear acceleration which is characteristic of an EV, but without the need for charging.
To meet the typical demands of European consumers and their daily drive, the e-POWER installation has been significantly upgraded for the new Qashqai. Where the application in the Note - Japan’s best-selling car in recent years – is a 1.2 petrol engine charging the battery unit, and a final power output of 108PS. For Europe, it has been upgraded to a 1.5-litre petrol engine, with a final power output of 140kW (190PS).
The unique element of the e-Power is that the petrol engine is used solely to generate electricity, whilst the wheels are completely driven by the electric motor. This means the engine can always run within its optimal range, leading to superior fuel efficiency and lower CO2 emissions compared with a traditional internal combustion engine.
“The e-POWER system offers the best transition technology between ICE and EV, allowing users to enjoy exhilarating EV driving sensations and impressive efficiency at an affordable price point. We’re really looking forward to customers experiencing the thrill of new Qashqai’s superior electrified driving performance – it’s a perfect expression of Nissan Intelligent Mobility,” said David Moss, Region Senior Vice President Research and Development, Africa, Middle East, India, Europe and Oceania.
Thanks to the pure electric motor drive, there’s no delay as with an internal combustion engine or traditional hybrid.
There are three driving modes on e-POWER versions: Standard, Sport and Eco. The new Qashqai with e-POWER not only accelerates quicker than hybrid rivals, but does so with a lower engine RPM. The system operates very quietly, much like a full EV, and is tuned for the best level of quietness and connected feeling when accelerating, thanks to a focus on keeping relationship between engine RPM and road speed connected.
Similar to the LEAF, the new Qashqai e-POWER benefits from an entirely new ‘one pedal’ driving experience called e-Pedal mode. Drivers can start, accelerate and decelerate using only the accelerator pedal, supporting up to 90% of driving scenarios.
Sales of the new Qashqai equipped with e-POWER will begin in 2022.
