What's the difference between a petrol and electric car?

Unlike petrol cars, electric cars are powered by electricity alone, replacing the internal combustion engine with an electric motor. Whilst petrol cars need to be topped up with fuel at a petrol station, electric cars require charging, which can be completed at various locations, including your own home.

Petrol vs electric: which is cheaper in the long run?

Upfront Costs: Electric cars tend to be more expensive to buy than petrol and diesel vehicles because of the new technology and hardware they possess. Running Costs: Servicing and maintenance costs are more expensive for petrol vehicles, as they require services such as oil changes that aren't needed in an electric car. Refuelling/Charging Costs: It's currently much more affordable to charge an electric vehicle than it is to refuel with petrol. Road Tax: Electric vehicles come with no road tax, unlike their petrol counterparts.

Are electric cars better to drive than petrol cars?

Whilst electric cars offer a silent driving experience that's smooth out on the road, some petrol cars are known to be more fun to drive, as they are typically more engaging for enthusiasts. Therefore, it depends on each individual's requirements.

Are electric cars cheaper to insure?

Although it's not the case with all electrified cars, most EVs tend to have higher insurance than their ICE counterparts due to their higher prices and less availability.

Are electric cars better for the environment?

Electric cars are better for the environment as they emit very low to zero exhaust emissions, making them super eco-friendly.

Are electric cars better than petrol cars?

It really depends on an individual's needs, but if you're looking for an eco-friendly car that's cheap to run and smooth to drive, you'll likely prefer an electric car to a petrol vehicle.

What is Nissan e-POWER?

21st Sep 2023

By Ellie Brown

We explore Nissan's e-POWER hybrid technology, including how it works, the benefits, and which cars are available with e-POWER. View Nissan e-POWER Offers

Nissan e-POWER Explained

Many drivers are choosing to make the switch to electric vehicles, and while there are plenty of advantages of going electric, opting for a hybrid car can offer the benefits of both fully-electric and ICE (internal combustion engine) cars.

Nissan is making significant strides with their innovative approach to hybrid vehicles with the introduction of e-POWER technology. This hybrid innovation offers the smooth and enjoyable driving experience of an EV without the hassle of plugging in to charge.

We'll break down how Nissan e-POWER works, the personal and environmental benefits, and which cars are available with e-POWER technology.

How does Nissan e-POWER work?

Nissan e-POWER Badge

Nissan e-POWER's primary component is an electric motor. This motor is responsible for driving the vehicle's wheels and propelling it forward. However, unlike traditional electric vehicles (EVs) that rely solely on batteries for power, e-POWER introduces a small petrol engine into the mix.

The petrol engine in e-POWER doesn't directly drive the wheels. Instead, it serves as a generator. Its sole purpose is to generate electricity to recharge the car's battery pack while driving. This means that e-POWER vehicles are essentially electric cars with an onboard generator, much like the concept of a self-charging hybrid.

The advantage of this setup is that it eliminates the range anxiety often associated with fully electric vehicles. Since e-POWER cars can generate electricity as you drive, there's no need to stop and charge them. You simply fill up with petrol, and the vehicle takes care of the rest, seamlessly switching between electric and petrol power as needed.

Is Nissan e-POWER a hybrid system?

Nissan e-POWER

Nissan e-POWER is a hybrid system, but it's not your typical hybrid. Unlike traditional hybrids that rely on both an electric motor and an internal combustion engine (ICE) to power the wheels, e-POWER takes a unique approach.

In a conventional hybrid, the petrol engine and the electric motor work together to drive the vehicle. However, in Nissan e-POWER, the petrol engine doesn't directly power the wheels. Instead, it functions solely as a generator, producing electricity to charge the car's battery pack while you're driving.

So, while Nissan e-POWER is classified as a hybrid system, it operates more like an electric vehicle with a self-charging feature. This addresses some range limitations often associated with fully electric cars and provides drivers with the convenience of not having to stop and charge regularly, making it an appealing option for those looking to ease into electrified driving.

What are the benefits of Nissan e-POWER?

Nissan Qashqai Rear

Nissan e-POWER offers a range of compelling benefits that make it an attractive choice for drivers looking to strike a balance between traditional petrol vehicles and fully electric cars, including:

Reduced Emissions: One of the most significant benefits of e-POWER is its contribution to reducing emissions. By primarily relying on electricity for propulsion, it produces lower emissions compared to conventional ICE powered vehicles.
Enhanced Fuel Efficiency: The self-charging nature of e-POWER provides excellent fuel efficiency.
Eliminates Range Anxiety: Unlike fully-electric vehicles that may have limited driving ranges and require frequent charging stops, e-POWER eliminates range anxiety.
Smooth and Quiet Ride: Electric motors are known for their silent and smooth operation. With e-POWER, you'll experience a quiet and bump-free ride when driving in electric mode, enhancing overall comfort and reducing noise pollution.

What's it like to drive a car with Nissan e-POWER?

Nissan Qashqai Driving

Driving a Nissan e-POWER vehicle offers a unique experience that's both efficient and convenient. Drivers will appreciate the silent, smooth electric drive with instant responsiveness, providing fast acceleration and excellent manoeuvrability.

The e-POWER system switches between electric and petrol power, extending your range without the need for frequent charging stops whilst regenerative braking enhances efficiency, and the intuitive controls allow you to tailor your driving experience to your needs.

Drivers will appreciate peace of mind while driving, thanks to the system making a positive environmental impact by reducing emissions and contributing to a greener future. Overall, e-POWER provides a driving experience that brings together the best of electric and hybrid technologies for a comfortable, efficient, and eco-friendly ride.

Which cars are available with Nissan e-POWER?

The concept of e-POWER is fairly recent, and Nissan has applied it to a couple of their most popular models, including:

Nissan Qashqai

Nissan's award-winning crossover, now available with efficient electrified technology.
Nissan X-Trail

Combining practicality and family adventures with a smooth hybrid driving experience.

Find your perfect Nissan model with Evans Halshaw

If you're in the market for a new Nissan model with e-POWER technology, we stock a wide range of models to suit your needs. Alternatively, Nissan offers an extensive selection of fully-electric and hybrid models to browse through.

For more buying guides, motoring advice, and insights, simply visit our blog section that's regularly populated with new, up-to-date content.