Range Champion: Nissan Qashqai e-Power Crosses Tasmania on a Single Fill and Changes the Rules of the Hybrid Game
Japanese manufacturer Nissan is making a new move in the market for eco-efficient vehicles. The hybrid version of its popular SUV, the Nissan Qashqai e-Power, has successfully completed a new extreme endurance test, managing to complete the entire tour of Tasmania (Australia) without stopping for refueling. With a distance of over 1,300 kilometers covered on a single tank, the model reconfirms its status as a leader in terms of energy efficiency in real road conditions.
From the British plains to the mountains of Tasmania: A double global victory
This is not the first such feat for the Qashqai e-Power. Earlier this year, the SUV completed the famous British route John O'Groats – Land's End, where it covered 1,347 kilometers on a single tank. On that first trip, carried out in typical northern European conditions (changeable weather, heavy city traffic and motorways), the car achieved an astonishing average consumption of 3.76 liters/100 km and finished the race with a residual range of 160 kilometers.
The second challenge, on the winding roads of Tasmania, raised the bar considerably. The mountainous terrain, high altitude differences, tight coastal roads and the alternation between countryside and highways put the powertrain under maximum strain. However, the Qashqai e-Power achieved a remarkable result:
- Total distance: Over 1,300 km (complete tour of the island).
- Refueling: Zero.
- Actual recorded consumption: 4.5 liters / 100 km.
The technology behind the numbers: A gasoline-powered "electric"
The secret behind this efficiency lies in Nissan's unique approach to the hybrid system. Unlike classic hybrids, in the case of e-Power technology, the internal combustion engine never directly drives the wheels. It functions exclusively as an electricity generator for the electric motor, which is the only one that sets the car in motion.
Key technical specifications:
- Internal combustion engine: 1.5 liter gasoline (acting as a generator / range extender).
- Electric motor: Direct drive to the front axle.
- Total power: 190 horsepower (HP).
- Maximum torque: 310 Nm.
- Innovation: Nissan 5-in-1 integrated modular system.
This architecture gives the driver the smooth acceleration and instant torque of a 100% electric car, while completely eliminating the stress of recharging at a plug.
“These two journeys demonstrate the consistency and capabilities of the latest generation e-POWER in very different driving environments. Whether it’s long motorway journeys in the UK or the more demanding terrain of Tasmania, the Qashqai e-POWER continues to deliver the same balance of efficiency, refinement and driving performance that an electric vehicle is known for. e-POWER Hybrid technology is how Nissan continues to develop the hybrid SUV through advanced technologies designed around real customer needs,” said David Moss, Senior Vice President, Regional Research and Development, Nissan AMIEO.
Availability and prices in Romania
The new Nissan Qashqai (including the restyled/facelift version currently in showrooms) is fully available on the Romanian market. The model can be ordered and customized through the national network of authorized Nissan dealers (such as BADSI, ?iriac Auto and other regional distributors). The crossover also comes equipped with a modernized digital cockpit, benefiting from built-in Google services (Google Maps, Google Assistant).
In terms of prices, although the basic Qashqai range (with Mild Hybrid technology) opens the price list at approximately EUR 30,990 (including VAT), the advanced e-Power technology involves an additional cost, being positioned on the higher equipment levels:
| Trim Level | Powertrain / Engine Type | Estimated Starting Price (incl. VAT) |
| Qashqai Range (Entry-level) | Mild Hybrid | from ~€30,990 |
| Acenta e-Power | e-POWER 190 hp | from ~€38,000 - €38,900 |
| N-Connecta / N-Design | e-POWER 190 hp | from ~€41,000 |
| Tekna / Tekna Plus | e-POWER 190 hp | up to ~€45,000 - €46,000 |
Final prices may decrease significantly depending on dealers' commercial offers or by applying government incentives from Rabla-type programs.
Thanks to the extremely low consumption reconfirmed in harsh terrain conditions, the Nissan Qashqai e-Power promises to be an excellent option for commuters and families in Romania who want the comfort and quietness of an electric vehicle, but without the dependence on public charging stations.