The Nissan Note e-POWER is a 1,198 cc, inline‑three petrol engine acting solely as a generator within a series hybrid system, produced between 2016 and 2023. It features a high-efficiency Atkinson cycle, variable valve timing, and is mechanically decoupled from the wheels, delivering power exclusively to a 107 kW electric motor. This unique architecture prioritizes urban efficiency and EV-like driving dynamics.
Fitted exclusively to the E13 generation Note e-POWER, the system was engineered for drivers seeking EV refinement without range anxiety. Emissions compliance for its production period was achieved through optimized combustion and regenerative braking, meeting Japanese 2016 and Euro 6 standards for its specific homologation.
One documented concern is reduced fuel economy in sustained highway driving, noted in Nissan Technical Bulletin TB-18-04. This is attributed to the engine operating outside its optimal efficiency range when generating power for high-speed cruising. Nissan addressed user feedback in the 2022 facelift with software updates to optimize engine mapping under these conditions.
Production years 2016–2023 meet Japanese 2016 Emissions Standards and Euro 6 standards for homologated markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9999).
The Nissan Note e-POWER system uses a 1,198 cc inline‑three petrol engine as a generator for an electric drivetrain (2016-2023). It combines Atkinson cycle combustion with a 1.5 kWh lithium-ion battery and 107 kW electric motor to deliver EV-like responsiveness. Designed to meet Japanese 2016 and Euro 6 emissions standards, it prioritizes urban efficiency and low-speed refinement.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,198 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 78.0 mm × 83.6 mm | |
| Power output | 58 kW (79 PS) @ 5,600 rpm (engine only) | |
| Torque | 103 Nm @ 4,000 rpm (engine only) | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection (MPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Japanese 2016 / Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 12.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | API SN or SP (SAE 0W-20) | |
| Dry weight | 85 kg (engine only) |
The Atkinson cycle engine operates only as a generator, providing smooth, quiet power delivery ideal for city driving but less efficient during sustained highway speeds. Strict adherence to 15,000 km oil changes using 0W-20 oil is required to maintain efficiency. The system requires no plug-in charging; the battery is charged via regenerative braking and the engine. Software updates from Nissan (post-2022) optimize engine mapping for highway efficiency. Battery health is monitored by the vehicle's ECU.
Oil Specs: Requires API SN or SP specification, SAE 0W-20 (Nissan Service Manual SM-EC-ePOWER). ACEA C2/C5 is an acceptable modern equivalent.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to homologated export models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9999). Japanese domestic models comply with 2016 Japanese Emissions Standards.
Power Ratings: Engine output measured under JIS D 1001 standards. System output (electric motor) is 107 kW (Nissan PT-2020).
Nissan Technical Information System: Docs TB-16-01, TB-18-04
Nissan Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC): Doc. HR12DE-1111
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9999)
The Nissan Note e-POWER system was used exclusively in the E13 platform with transverse mounting. This powertrain received no platform-specific adaptations beyond its standard specification, as it was a unique, model-specific system. The 2022 facelift introduced updated control software. All technical details are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The Note e-POWER is identified by its “e-POWER” badging on the rear hatch and front fenders, and the absence of a traditional transmission tunnel inside the cabin. The engine itself (HR12DE) is located under the hood but is not connected to the wheels. The 8th VIN digit for e-POWER models is 'E'. Critical differentiation from conventional hybrids: the wheels are driven solely by the electric motor; the petrol engine cannot propel the vehicle directly. Software version can be checked via the diagnostic port; post-2022 models have optimized highway mapping.
The Note e-POWER's primary user-reported concern is higher-than-expected fuel consumption during prolonged highway driving, documented in Nissan Technical Bulletin TB-18-04. While not a mechanical failure, fleet data indicates that software updates introduced in 2022 measurably improved efficiency under these conditions. Understanding the system's operational logic is key to managing expectations.
Analysis derived from Nissan technical bulletins (2016-2023) and owner-reported data (2018-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about NISSAN NOTE-EPOWER.
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