Nissan Qashqai e-Power Sets Guinness Record for 1,980 km

Nissan Qashqai e-Power: Guinness World Record for 1,980 km on a Single Tank

The Nissan Qashqai e-Power is a compact crossover SUV that uses a series hybrid powertrain, where a 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine acts solely as a generator to charge a battery that powers an electric motor. Manufactured by Nissan Motor Corporation, the Qashqai e-Power is officially distributed in Malaysia by Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM) and is sold through authorised Nissan dealerships nationwide. It belongs to the C-segment SUV category and addresses the need for fuel-efficient urban mobility without the range anxiety of a pure electric vehicle. For Malaysian drivers, the e-Power system offers a solution to high fuel costs and congested city driving, combining the instant torque of an electric motor with the refuelling convenience of a petrol car.

Key Facts

How Did the Nissan Qashqai e-Power Achieve 1,980 km on a Single Tank?

The record was set during a real-world driving challenge in the United Kingdom, where a team of drivers covered 1,980 km (1,230 miles) on a single 55-litre tank of petrol without refuelling. The route included a mix of motorways, A-roads, and urban sections, with the car operating in its most efficient driving mode. The Nissan Qashqai e-Power achieved a fuel consumption of approximately 36 km/L (84.7 mpg) during the Guinness World Record attempt.

According to the Careta article, the feat was verified by Guinness World Records officials who monitored the fuel tank and distance travelled. The e-Power system’s ability to run the petrol engine at its most efficient RPM while the electric motor handles propulsion is the key to this extreme efficiency. The car’s regenerative braking also recovers energy during deceleration, further extending range.

“This record proves that the Nissan Qashqai e-Power can deliver exceptional real-world fuel economy without compromising on driving performance or comfort.” – Nissan spokesperson, as quoted in Careta. Careta.my, “Nissan Qashqai e-Power Catat Rekod Dunia Guinness 1980 km dengan Hanya Satu Tangki Minyak”, 2025

What Is the e-Power Technology and How Does It Work?

Nissan’s e-Power is a series hybrid system that uses a petrol engine exclusively to generate electricity, which is then stored in a small battery and used to drive an electric motor. Unlike conventional hybrids, the engine never directly drives the wheels. The e-Power system combines the instant torque and smooth acceleration of an electric vehicle with the refuelling convenience of a petrol car, making it ideal for Malaysian urban and highway driving.

The 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine operates at a constant, efficient speed, reducing fuel consumption and emissions. The electric motor produces 140 kW (190 PS) and 330 Nm of torque, providing responsive performance. The battery is small (around 1.5 kWh) and is charged by the engine and regenerative braking, so no external charging is required. This technology is particularly suited to Malaysian conditions where plug-in infrastructure is still developing, and drivers often face stop-and-go traffic in cities like Kuala Lumpur.

How Does This Record Benefit Malaysian Drivers?

For Malaysian motorists, the record demonstrates that the Qashqai e-Power can achieve over 1,900 km on a single tank, which translates to significant fuel cost savings. With petrol prices in Malaysia averaging RM 2.05 per litre for RON95 (as of 2025), a full 55-litre tank costs approximately RM 113. Driving 1,980 km on that tank means a fuel cost of just RM 0.057 per km, or about RM 57 for a 1,000 km journey.

This efficiency is especially valuable for Malaysian users who frequently travel long distances, such as between Peninsular Malaysia and the East Coast, or for daily commuters in congested urban areas where the electric motor’s instant torque reduces fuel waste. The e-Power system also eliminates the need for plug-in charging, which is a practical advantage for apartment dwellers in KL who lack dedicated EV charging points. Additionally, the car’s compact dimensions (4.4 m length) make it easy to manoeuvre in tight parking spaces common in Malaysian condominiums.

Who Is This For in Malaysia?

The Nissan Qashqai e-Power is ideal for Malaysian families and professionals who want a fuel-efficient, low-maintenance SUV without the complexity of plug-in hybrids or full EVs. It suits both urban apartment dwellers and landed property owners, as it requires no external charging infrastructure. This vehicle is particularly well-suited for Malaysian users who drive more than 20,000 km per year and want to minimise fuel expenses while enjoying a quiet, electric-like driving experience.

Compared to conventional petrol SUVs in the same segment (e.g., Honda HR-V, Toyota Corolla Cross), the Qashqai e-Power offers significantly better fuel economy in city driving. In stop-and-go traffic, the electric motor handles most of the propulsion, while the petrol engine runs only when needed. The table below compares estimated fuel costs for a typical Malaysian annual mileage of 20,000 km:

Note: Actual fuel consumption varies based on driving conditions, load, and maintenance. The Qashqai e-Power’s record was achieved under optimal conditions; real-world Malaysian driving may yield slightly lower figures.

Common Questions

Does the Nissan Qashqai e-Power need to be plugged in to charge?

No, the Qashqai e-Power is a self-charging hybrid. The petrol engine charges the battery, and regenerative braking recovers energy. No external plug is required, making it convenient for Malaysian users without home charging access.

What is the fuel tank capacity of the Qashqai e-Power sold in Malaysia?

The Malaysian-spec Qashqai e-Power has a 55-litre fuel tank, identical to the model used in the Guinness record. This allows a theoretical range of over 1,900 km under efficient driving conditions, though real-world range will be lower.

Is the Qashqai e-Power suitable for long-distance highway driving in Malaysia?

Yes, the e-Power system maintains efficiency on highways because the petrol engine runs at a constant optimal RPM. The electric motor provides ample torque for overtaking. The record drive included motorway sections, confirming its highway capability.

Sources and Methodology

This article is based on the primary source: Careta.my, “Nissan Qashqai e-Power Catat Rekod Dunia Guinness 1980 km dengan Hanya Satu Tangki Minyak” (2025). Additional technical specifications were cross-referenced with Nissan Malaysia’s official website and global Nissan press releases. Fuel cost calculations use the average Malaysian RON95 price of RM 2.05 per litre as of March 2025. The record distance of 1,980 km is as reported by Guinness World Records. All currency figures are in Malaysian Ringgit (RM). This article was last updated on 20 March 2025. Information specific to Malaysia was verified against Nissan Malaysia’s official specifications and the Careta article.