The first examples of the most advanced Nissan Qashqai yet, featuring the next-generation e-POWER powertrain, have rolled off the assembly line at its flagship manufacturing facility in Sunderland. The launch marks a significant step forward for the best-selling crossover, in line with Nissan’s wider vision for electrified mobility as part of its EV36Zero initiative.
Built on Production Line One, the latest iteration of the Qashqai showcases not only an enhanced version of Nissan’s unique e-POWER system, but also raises the benchmark for efficiency, refinement, and responsiveness in the C-segment crossover market. Boasting best-in-class fuel consumption of just 4.5L/100km (WLTP) and a theoretical driving range of up to 1,200 kilometers, the new Qashqai takes another step toward a fully electric future—without the need to plug in.
A Drive That Feels Electric, Without the Cable
Nissan’s e-POWER system is unlike typical hybrids. While it uses a 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine, the wheels are powered exclusively by an electric motor. The internal combustion engine acts only as a generator to supply electricity to the battery, offering drivers a smooth, EV-like experience—with immediate torque delivery, linear acceleration, and impressive cabin quietness.
In its latest form, e-POWER has undergone substantial upgrades:
- Fuel economy: Improved to 4.5L/100km, with CO₂ emissions cut by 12% to 102g/km
- Performance: Sport Mode now provides an additional 11kW boost for sharper throttle response
- Refinement: Cabin noise reduced by up to 5.6 decibels, enhancing the premium feel
- Range: Up to 1,200km, making it ideal for long-distance, low-stress driving
A Milestone in UK Manufacturing
The production start comes as Sunderland Plant celebrates a major milestone: the 4.5 millionth Qashqai built since the model’s launch in 2006. That equates to one Qashqai produced every 2.5 minutes over the past 19 years—a testament to the vehicle’s enduring popularity and the plant’s manufacturing prowess.
Speaking at the launch, Adam Pennick, Vice President for Manufacturing at Nissan UK, praised the team’s dedication:
“Our world-class manufacturing and engineering team have been building Qashqai with pride since 2006. That’s why we have the perfect blend of experience, skill and technical expertise to manufacture Qashqai with this fantastic new e-POWER drivetrain.”
He added,
“It was an exciting moment to watch the first new e-POWER battery being fitted on the production line. We’re confident that our customers worldwide will love this new, no-compromise electrified powertrain.”
Driving Toward EV36Zero
The Qashqai e-POWER is just the beginning. Nissan’s EV36Zero project aims to transform Sunderland into a global hub for EV manufacturing. The blueprint combines vehicle production, renewable energy, and battery development in a bid to lead the industry into a sustainable future.
Following the Qashqai, the Sunderland team is already gearing up for the next big launches: the all-electric next-generation Nissan LEAF, and in 2026, the fully electric Nissan Juke. Both models will be central to Nissan’s zero-emissions ambitions.
“Building fantastic cars that our customers love is what we do best,” Pennick said. “To see these cutting-edge vehicles driving silently off our lines shows we are pushing forward with our EV36Zero vision for EV manufacturing.”
The first examples of the most advanced Nissan Qashqai yet, featuring the next-generation e-POWER powertrain, have rolled off the assembly line at its flagship manufacturing facility in Sunderland. The launch marks a significant step forward for the best-selling crossover, in line with Nissan’s wider vision for electrified mobility as part of its EV36Zero initiative.
Source: Nissan