Cranfield, UK – Nissan has once again proven that innovation and endurance go hand in hand, with the latest Qashqai e-POWER completing the iconic Land’s End to John O’Groats journey on a single tank of fuel — and still having 100 miles (160km) of range to spare. Covering 837 miles (1,347km) in just 18 hours of driving over two days, the achievement underscores the model’s best-in-class fuel economy of 75 MPG (3.76L/100km).
The feat recalls a similar challenge from 2007, when the original Qashqai 1.5dCi Diesel averaged 67.35 MPG (4.2L/100km) over the same route. Eighteen years later, Nissan has not only surpassed that milestone but has done so with a 10-litre smaller fuel tank — a testament to just how far electrified powertrain technology has evolved.
Electric Drive, No Plug-In Required
Unlike conventional hybrids, the Qashqai e-POWER system uses a petrol engine purely as a generator to create electricity, which then powers a dedicated electric motor that drives the wheels. The result is an EV-like driving experience — instant torque, smooth acceleration, and quiet operation — without the need for plug-in charging.
Dean Driver, Vehicle Evaluation Engineer at Nissan Technical Centre Europe and one of the drivers behind the wheel, reflected on the journey:
“Driving the Qashqai e-POWER 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 throughout the journey, but we completed over 800 miles with fuel still in the tank—proving just how far this technology has come in combining range with refinement.”
Third-Generation e-POWER: The Most Advanced Yet
The latest 5-in-1 e-POWER unit brings together the electric motor, generator, inverter, increaser, and reducer into a compact, highly efficient system paired with a newly redesigned 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine. At the heart of its efficiency is Nissan’s proprietary STARC combustion concept, which has elevated thermal efficiency to 42% — a remarkably high figure — by stabilising in-cylinder combustion for quieter, more effective operation at lower engine speeds.
David Moss, Senior Vice President of Research & Development for Nissan AMIEO, commented:
“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.”
Built in Britain, Designed for the Future
Production of the Qashqai e-POWER began in July at Nissan’s Sunderland plant, one of the most advanced manufacturing facilities in Europe. The model will reach European markets in the coming months, offering drivers a compelling blend of electrified performance, long-distance capability, and everyday usability.
Key performance figures include:
- Power: 140kW (190PS)
- Torque: 310Nm
- Fuel Consumption (WLTP): 4.5L/100km
- Emissions (WLTP): 102g/km
More Than Just Efficiency
Beyond the powertrain, the latest Qashqai benefits from an array of advanced technologies aimed at enhancing the driving experience. Its Google built-in infotainment suite offers seamless access to Google Maps, Assistant, and Play Store, with voice commands, real-time weather updates, and even “Nissan Trip Stories” to capture and share memorable journeys.
Driver assistance also takes a leap forward with enhanced ProPILOT features, improving multi-lane autonomous driving capabilities and providing more intuitive awareness of traffic and surroundings.
For owners, extended service intervals from 15,000km to 20,000km reduce running costs, contributing to a lower total cost of ownership.
A New Chapter in the Qashqai Legacy
From setting diesel benchmarks in 2007 to redefining hybrid performance in 2025, the Qashqai’s journey mirrors Nissan’s commitment to constant innovation. With the third-generation e-POWER, the brand has delivered a vehicle that blends EV refinement with petrol convenience, and in doing so, has set a new standard for long-distance efficiency.
As the Qashqai e-POWER crossed the finish line at John O’Groats, it wasn’t just the end of an 837-mile drive — it was a clear statement that electrification and endurance are no longer mutually exclusive.
