The Nissan Qashqai has introduced a revolutionary approach to power delivery in the compact SUV segment, particularly with its innovative e-POWER transmission system. This article delves into the lesser-known aspects of the Qashqai’s transmission, revealing how Nissan has redefined the driving experience in this popular crossover.

The e-POWER System: A Unique Approach to Hybrid Technology

The Nissan Qashqai’s e-POWER system is not your typical hybrid setup. Unlike conventional hybrid vehicles, the e-POWER system uses a gasoline engine primarily as a generator, with the wheels being driven solely by an electric motor. This unique configuration sets the Qashqai apart from its competitors and brings several advantages.

Key Points:

• The 1.5-liter, three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine generates electricity rather than directly powering the wheels.
• An electric motor with 187 hp (140 kW) and 330 Nm of torque drives the front wheels.
• The system includes a power generator and an inverter, making it a series hybrid without plug-in capability.

Variable Compression Ratio: Optimizing Efficiency

One of the most intriguing features of the e-POWER system is its use of a variable compression ratio engine. This technology allows the engine to adjust its compression ratio on the fly, optimizing efficiency across various driving conditions.

How it works:

• The engine can alter its compression ratio to balance performance and efficiency.
• In light-throttle scenarios, it can increase compression for better fuel economy.
• During hard acceleration, it can lower compression to boost power output.

This adaptive nature ensures that the engine continuously operates at its most efficient point, regardless of the driving situation.

The Absence of a Traditional Transmission

Perhaps the most surprising aspect of the Qashqai’s e-POWER system is the absence of a conventional transmission. Instead, it utilizes a single-speed reduction gear to transfer power from the electric motor to the wheels.

Implications:

• No gear shifts mean smoother acceleration and deceleration.
• Eliminates the “rubber band” effect often associated with CVTs in hybrid vehicles.
• Provides a more direct and responsive driving feel, akin to a fully electric vehicle.

e-Pedal Step: Redefining One-Pedal Driving

The e-POWER Qashqai introduces Nissan’s “e-Pedal Step” feature, a variation of the one-pedal driving experience found in some electric vehicles. This system allows drivers to accelerate and decelerate using primarily the accelerator pedal, with the brake pedal reserved for more aggressive stopping.

How it differs from full one-pedal driving:

• Unlike some EVs, the e-Pedal Step won’t stop the car completely.
• It provides strong regenerative braking when lifting off the accelerator.
• Offers a balance between conventional driving and full one-pedal EV operation.

Seamless Power Delivery

The e-POWER system’s unique configuration results in a driving experience that’s noticeably different from conventional gasoline-powered vehicles and traditional hybrids.

Characteristics:

• Instant torque delivery from the electric motor provides quick off-the-line acceleration.
• No transmission lag or hunting for gears during acceleration.
• The gasoline engine’s operation is decoupled from vehicle speed, allowing it to run at its most efficient rpm.

Noise Cancellation Technology

To enhance the refined driving experience, Nissan has incorporated Active Noise Cancellation technology in the e-POWER Qashqai. This system helps mitigate any noise from the gasoline engine when operating as a generator.

How it enhances the driving experience:

• Reduces cabin noise, especially during high-load situations when the engine works harder.
• Contributes to the EV-like quietness, even when the gasoline engine is running.
• Works in conjunction with sound insulation to create a premium acoustic environment.

Intelligent Energy Management

The e-POWER system in the Qashqai employs sophisticated energy management strategies to optimize efficiency and performance.

Key features:

• A 2.1 kWh lithium-ion battery located under the front seats stores excess energy.
• The system can run in pure EV mode for short distances (up to about 3 kilometers).
• Intelligent power routing between the engine, battery, and motor based on driving conditions and demand.

Adaptation of Suspension for e-POWER

To accommodate the unique characteristics of the e-POWER system, Nissan has made significant modifications to the Qashqai’s suspension setup.

Changes include:

• Revised dampers, springs, and anti-roll bars to handle the additional weight of the e-POWER components.
• Tuning aimed at maintaining the Qashqai’s handling characteristics despite the weight increase.
• Modifications to bushings to cope with the instant torque delivery of the electric motor.

9. Impact on Maintenance and Ownership

The e-POWER system’s unique configuration has implications for maintenance and ownership that differ from conventional and traditional hybrid vehicles.

Considerations:

• No traditional transmission means fewer moving parts and potentially reduced maintenance.
• The gasoline engine, running at more consistent speeds, may experience different wear patterns than conventional engines.
• Battery longevity is a factor, with Nissan offering an eight-year warranty guaranteeing 70% state of charge.

Driving Modes and Customization

The 2023 Qashqai e-POWER offers various driving modes to tailor the experience to different conditions and preferences.

Available modes:

• Normal: Balances performance and efficiency for everyday driving.
• Sport: Sharpens throttle response and increases power output for a more dynamic feel.
• Eco: Maximizes efficiency by optimizing energy use and reducing power output.

These modes affect not just the power delivery but also the energy management strategy of the e-POWER system.

Regenerative Braking System

The regenerative braking system in the e-POWER Qashqai is more advanced than those found in mild hybrid vehicles.

Key aspects:

• Capable of capturing more kinetic energy during deceleration and braking.
• Seamlessly blends regenerative and friction braking for smooth deceleration.
• Contributes significantly to overall efficiency, especially in urban driving scenarios.

Thermal Management

Efficient thermal management is crucial for the performance and longevity of the e-POWER system.

Notable features:

• Advanced cooling systems for the electric motor, inverter, and battery.
• Optimization of the gasoline engine’s temperature for maximum efficiency when generating electricity.
• Heat pump system (in some markets) for efficient cabin heating without relying solely on the gasoline engine.

Future-Proofing and Upgradability

Nissan has designed the e-POWER system with an eye toward future developments and upgrades.

Potential areas for advancement:

• Software updates could improve efficiency and performance over time.
• The modular nature of the system allows for potential battery upgrades in the future.
• Compatibility with future developments in synthetic fuels for the gasoline engine component.

Nissan Qashqai: The Ultimate SUV

The 2023 Nissan Qashqai’s e-POWER transmission system represents a significant departure from conventional powertrains, offering a unique blend of electric vehicle driving characteristics with the convenience of a gasoline-powered vehicle. By eliminating the traditional transmission and using the gasoline engine primarily as a generator, Nissan has created a driving experience that is smooth, responsive, and efficient.

This innovative approach addresses many concerns associated with fully electric vehicles (such as range anxiety) and traditional hybrids (like the disconnected feel of some CVT transmissions). While it may take some getting used to for drivers accustomed to conventional powertrains, the e-POWER system in the Qashqai offers a glimpse into a possible future where the lines between electric and gasoline-powered vehicles continue to blur.

As automotive technology evolves rapidly, the Qashqai’s e-POWER system stands out as a bold step forward, challenging preconceptions about what a compact SUV powertrain can be. It’s a testament to Nissan’s commitment to innovation and their vision for the future of mobility. Whether this unique approach will become the new standard or remain a fascinating alternative in the automotive landscape remains to be seen. Still, itertainly gives the Nissan Qashqai a distinctive place in the market.