Nissan Australia has confirmed it will expand its e-POWER hybrid-electric vehicle technology to a second model range with the launch of the Qashqai e-Power in early 2024.

The company introduced e-Power at the launch of the fourth-generation X-Trail medium-SUV model range in 2022 and is now looking to expand the technology to the smaller Qashqai SUV range.

The Qashqai’s e-POWER system consists of a high-output battery complemented by a variable compression ratio 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol, a power generator, inverter and 140kW electric motor.

The 116kW petrol engine generates electricity, which can be transmitted via the inverter to the battery pack, the electric motor or both, according to the driving scenario.

What sets e-Power apart from other ICE-assisted systems is that the electric motor delivers power directly to the wheels, providing instant and linear driving response like a full battery electric vehicle.

The engine’s variable compression capability allows it to balance performance and economy, depending on the engine load.

In combination with a system called ‘Linear Tune’ which governs the petrol engine and progressively increases its speed to meet the motor's energy demand, the drivetrain delivers instant torque and avoids the disparity between engine speed and road speed often found in other hybrid electric systems.

Nissan will introduce e-Power on the well-equipped flagship Qashqai Ti grade at manufacturer recommended retail price of $51,990, making this the most expensive variant in the five-variant Qashqai range.

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All other models Qashqai models continue to be powered by a conventional 1.3-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol (110kW/250Nm), with prices starting at $33,890 for the Qashqai ST, and rising to $47,390 for the Qashqai Ti.

The Qashqai e-Power Ti’s combined system outputs of 140kW/330Nm represent a 30kW/80Nm hike over its $4200 less expensive ICE-powered stablemate, but unlike the X-Trail which adds all-wheel drive capability the Qashqai e-Power remains front-drive only.

Standard features of both Ti variants include panoramic glass roof with electric sunshade, premium quilted leather-accented seats, ambient lighting, 10.8-inch head-up display, 12.3-inch TFT advanced drive-assist display, 10-speaker Bose premium audio, hands-free power tailgate, reverse-tilt power mirrors with memory, Divide-N-Hide configurable cargo system, power-adjustable front seats with massage function, intelligent park assist with side parking sensors and an intelligent key system with multiple driver profiles.

Over and above this the Qashqai e-Power Ti e-Power adds several specific features including e-pedal step, regenerative braking, pedestrian warning alert, active noise cancellation, plus a premium front grille and e-POWER badging.

The Qashqai e-POWER will be able to be reserved online at nissan.com.au from November 2nd, 2023, with customers asked to nominate their preferred dealer for delivery.