Testing the Nissan Qashqai e-POWER technology to the limit, engineers have successfully completed the iconic Land’s End to John O’Groats journey on a single tank, with fuel to spare.
- Nissan Qashqai e-POWER completes iconic Land’s End to John O’Groats journey on a single tank of fuel, achieving a best-in-class 75 MPG (3.76L/100km)
- 1,347km (837-mile) journey completed with 160 km (100 mile) of range left
- Unique e-POWER system, delivering EV-like smoothness, surpasses performance of 2007 diesel test
Nissan Qashqai e-POWER Record-Breaking Efficiency
Nissan engineers have recently tested the company’s third-generation e-POWER technology with a long-distance drive across the UK. As part of the trial, the Qashqai e-POWER completed the Land’s End to John O’Groats journey on a single tank of fuel, and, moreover, it finished with range left over.
During the 837-mile (1,347 km) trip, the vehicle achieved 3.76L/100km (75 MPG)and still had about 160 km (100 miles) of range remaining. This confirms the model’s position as one of the most fuel-efficient in its class.
Revisiting a 2007 Nissan Qashqai e-POWER Benchmark
The drive recalls a challenge completed in 2007, when the first-generation Qashqai 1.5dCi Diesel covered the same route. At that time, it averaged 4.2L/100km (67.35 MPG).
Eighteen years later, the latest Qashqai achieved a stronger result despite using a fuel tank that is 10 litres smaller than the earlier diesel version.
Results from Real-World Testing
The test was carried out by experts from Nissan Technical Centre Europe (NTCE) in Cranfield, Bedfordshire. Over the course of two days, they drove two Qashqai e-POWER vehicles for a total of 18 hours, and as a result, they successfully completed the full 837-mile route on a single fill.
Dean Driver, Vehicle Evaluation Engineer at NTCE, explained:
“Driving the Qashqai from Land’s End to John O’Groats really showcased the strength of the new powertrain. Not only did it deliver a smooth and quiet drive, but we also completed over 800 miles with fuel still in the tank, proving just how far this technology has come in combining range with refinement.”
How the Nissan Qashqai e-POWER System Works
The Qashqai e-POWER differs from a traditional hybrid system. Its petrol engine is not connected to the wheels. Instead, it generates electricity, which powers an electric motor that drives the vehicle. As a result, the car delivers instant torque, smoother acceleration, and a quieter drive, while avoiding the need for external charging.
Advances in Efficiency
David Moss, Senior Vice President of Research & Development in Nissan AMIEO, highlighted the development process:
“The third-generation e-POWER reflects everything we’ve learned from years of development. We’ve taken the best elements from previous systems, listened to what customers value most, and re-engineered the platform to maximise efficiency, reduce emissions, and enhance driving comfort—all while maintaining diesel-like range.”
Technical Highlights
The e-POWER 5-in-1 system combines several components into one unit. Including the electric motor, generator, inverter, increaser, and reducer, alongside a newly designed 1.5-litre turbo engine.
It also uses Nissan’s STARC combustion concept, which stabilises combustion inside the cylinders. This increases thermal efficiency to 42%, allowing the engine to run more quietly and effectively, particularly at lower speeds.
Production and Availability
Production of the Qashqai e-POWER began in July at Nissan’s Sunderland factory in the UK. The model will be introduced to European markets in the coming months.
If you’d like to see our take on the Nissan Qashqai, you can find that here: Nissan QASHQAI Ti e-POWER; everything you need to know
Or if you’d like to purchase one, you can do that here: Nissan QASHQAI E-Power Website
