Nissan Kicks e-Power into gear at global launch in Thailand

MANILA: After announcing the arrival of e-Power in Thailand early May, Nissan wasted no time in launching the all-new Kicks to the world, while also making it their first unit with an electrified powertrain to debut in the Southeast Asian region.

Instead of a full electric powertrain, the Kicks e-Power uses a 1.2L three-cylinder gasoline engine, a power generator, inverter and a 1.57 kWh lithium-ion battery to get the EM57 electric motor to drive the wheels. The Japanese automaker sees this technology as a stop-gap before bringing in the fully electric Leaf.

The façade uses the V-motion grille while the C-pillar comes with a black finish for a ‘floating roof’ effect. All exterior lighting use LEDs including the boomerang-shaped turn signal lights.

Its exterior is based on the Emotional Geometry design language that makes it wide and long for increased cabin space.

Inside is the “Gliding Wing” instrument panel that sports a 7-inch full-color display and to the middle is an 8-inch touchscreen color display audio for the infotainment system powered by Nissan Connect. It has Apple CarPlay, navigation, and Nissan Intelligent Integration.

Similar to other electrified powertrains, Nissan’s e-Power uses an engine and electric motor when the vehicle is on a steep climb or when there’s added pressure on the throttle for faster acceleration. As it slows down, the engine stops running and regenerative power is used to charge the battery.

Powertrain output of 127 HP and 260 Nm of torque can be handled by either of two gearboxes, a 5-speed manual or the marque’s Xtronic CVT (continuously variable transmission). Drives modes are Normal, S (sport), Eco, and EV (electric vehicle).

Safety features include Intelligent Cruise Control, Intelligent Forward Collision Warning, Intelligent Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Intelligent Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection and Intelligent Rear View Mirror, Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Brake Force Distribution System, Brake Assist, and six SRS airbags.

The base model 1.2L S is priced at 889,000 baht, which converts to Php 1.406 million. Now we’re just speculating here because Nissan Ph hasn’t confirmed its arrival, but as an electrified vehicle it will be exempt from excise tax, not import duties. If we are getting it, we’ll most probably be importing from Thailand so factor those in and you’ll at least get an idea of how it will be priced locally.

"The launch of the all-new Nissan Kicks e-POWER in Thailand represents the disruptive and innovative DNA of Nissan that we continue to bring to the region. This is an exciting day for Nissan and Thailand, as a key global production and export hub for Nissan and regional leader driving the company's vision for electrification of mobility. The modern and robust design in the vehicle complements its advanced e-POWER technology, and the powerful combination of style, comfort, standout design and Nissan Intelligent Mobility technologies will inspire customers in Thailand to see how Nissan is embracing new possibilities," said Yutaka Sanada, MC Chairman and regional senior vice president, Nissan Asia & Oceania.

Also read: Nissan Kicks speculated to arrive in the ASEAN market