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…
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 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'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.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
Yes, the Note e-POWER system is generally very reliable. The petrol engine has a light workload, operating only as a generator, which reduces mechanical wear. The electric motor and battery pack are also robust. The main considerations are maintaining the 12V battery and keeping the inverter coolant system in good condition. Many examples exceed 150,000 km with minimal issues.
The most common issues are higher fuel consumption on highways (a characteristic, not a fault), 12V auxiliary battery drain if the car is unused, inverter cooling system faults causing power reduction, and drivers being unfamiliar with normal operational noises from the electric drivetrain. These are well-documented in Nissan service literature.
The e-POWER system, as configured for the Note, was used exclusively in the E13 generation Nissan Note (2016-2023) in Japan and select export markets. A different, larger e-POWER system is used in the Nissan Kicks and Qashqai in other regions, but the Note's HR12DE-based system is unique to that model.
No, not in the traditional sense. The system's power output is managed entirely by software for efficiency and component protection. There are no user-accessible methods to increase the output of the electric motor or the engine-generator. The driving experience can be adjusted using the 'S' (Sport) mode, which changes throttle mapping and keeps the engine running more frequently.
Fuel economy is excellent in city and mixed driving. Official figures are around 3.4 L/100km (83 mpg UK) for the Japanese JC08 cycle. Real-world mixed driving typically yields 4.0-5.0 L/100km (70-56 mpg UK). Highway driving at high speeds will see consumption rise to 6.0-7.0 L/100km (47-40 mpg UK) due to the engine-generator's operating characteristics.
No, you never need to plug in the Nissan Note e-POWER. It is not a plug-in hybrid. The small lithium-ion battery is charged automatically by the petrol engine and through regenerative braking when you slow down or go downhill. You simply fill it with petrol like a conventional car.
The HR12DE generator engine requires a 0W-20 viscosity oil meeting API SN or SP specifications. Nissan recommends their own brand or an equivalent high-quality synthetic oil. The extended service interval (15,000 km) is possible due to the engine's light operating duty cycle.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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