Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM) has announced that the Nissan Kicks e-Power is now open for booking. The Nissan Kicks e-Power is a different kind of hybrid as it is essentially an electric vehicle (EV) with a petrol-powered genset.
ETCM says the Nissan e-Power is gaining tremendous traction in key markets and it is a gateway technology allowing more consumers to experience EV ownership. As of October 2024, the cumulative global production of e-Power vehicles has surpassed 1.5 million units and it is expected to increase with the launch of the new Nissan Kicks e-Power in Malaysia.
Nissan Kicks e-Power Malaysia Launch and Pricing
According to ETCM, this 100% electric motor driven SUV will officially launch in Malaysia sometime in December 2024. The Nissan Kicks e-Power is estimated to be priced under RM130,000, which puts it right below the Nissan X-Trail.
Compared to its Japanese hybrid rivals, the Nissan Kicks is cheaper than the Honda HR-V 1.5L e:HEV and the upcoming Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid, which are both priced above RM140,000.
The Nissan Kicks e-Power will be offered with a 5-year vehicle warranty and an additional 8-year warranty on its EV components, similar to their all-electric Nissan Leaf.
Nissan Kicks e-Power variants for Malaysia
The Nissan Kicks e-Power will be offered in two variants in Malaysia – VL (mid-grade) and VLT (high-grade). Both variants will come with 7 airbags, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), Hill Start Assist (HSA), Intelligent Driver Alertness (IDA) and Cruise Control.
Also included as standard are 8″ infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 6-speakers and 3x USB ports.
The VLT variant offers slightly more driver assistance and safety features which include intelligent around view monitor (360-degree camera) with Intelligent Moving Object Detection, Intelligent rear view mirror, intelligent cruise control, blind spot warning and rear cross traffic alert. The higher-spec variant also comes with dual-tone leather Zero Gravity seats and the option for dual-tone exterior body colour.
Nissan Kicks e-Power Malaysia Key Features
The Nissan Kicks e-Power is equipped with a 1.2L 3-cylinder generator petrol engine that provides electricity to the electric motor that pushes 95kW (127hp) and 280Nm, and to charge the 2.06kWh Lithium-Ion battery. This hybrid EV claims to have a 0-100km/h time of 9.5 seconds, and it can go up to a top-speed of 180km/h.
ETCM says the Nissan Kicks e-Power can deliver an impressive fuel efficiency of 21.7km per litre (based on NEDC cycle). It is claimed to offer a driving range of up to 900km from its 41-litre fuel tank.
Compared to other hybrids, the Nissan Kicks e-Power offers the closest driving experience of an EV. Since it is 100% electric motor-driven, the Nissan Kicks e-Power offers instant torque and responsive performance that’s close to an EV. Another standout feature is the convenience of single-pedal driving with e-Pedal. e-Pedal is not only great for traffic jam situations, but it also maximises regenerative braking to reclaim energy back to the battery.
ETCM says the e-Power system offers 20% lower tailpipe emissions and also lower running costs compared to ICE-powered vehicles which is claimed to be an average of RM365 for service interval cost. The Nissan Kicks scored 5 stars in ASEAN NCAP testing.
