BANGKOK – Thai journalists experienced the first full-scale test drive for the all-new Nissan KICKS e-POWER compact SUV, to trial e-POWER, the newest vehicle technology to come to Thailand that benefits without external charging. On the diverse course of more than 450 kilometers from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi, Nissan's award-winning e-POWER technology was tested in a variety of driving conditions.
"The first full-scale Nissan KICKS e-POWER test drive was created to specifically test and showcase the next-level capabilities of e-POWER, to show how something so effortless to use can create such a pleasurable and exciting driving experience," Ramesh Narasimhan, president of Nissan in Thailand.
The 'Powered to Thrill' media road test journeyed across the varied terrain of Bangkok cityscape to the natural, mountainous landscape around Ratchaburi and Kanchanaburi provinces. The route, selected for its popularity with urban residents looking for a city escape, showcased the revolutionary e-POWER electrified powertrain built to deliver outstanding performance in both city conditions and long-distance driving. The terrain encountered on this route was also ideal for showing off KICKS' EV driving performance with its multi driving modes as well as its leading-edge features such as One-Pedal, which add significantly to ease of driving.
The drive confirmed the exemplary performance of the all-new Nissan KICKS that comes with the award-winning e-POWER technology, a full package of best-in-class advanced safety features, proprietary Nissan Intelligent Mobility technologies, as well as out-and-out riding comfort.
Media participants traveled on both four-lane highways and single-lane hilly rural roads, taking in first-hand the impact of the all-new e-POWER system, which delivers an EV driving experience but without the need to externally charge. The fun of driving the vehicle was highlighted with its rapid maximum flat-torque of 260 Nm. The result is greater power, swift and smooth acceleration, quiet rides, and superb fuel efficiency.
Groundbreaking performance provides driving thrills and next-level safety technology
The route allowed media to feel the impact of the all-new and powerful e-POWER system, which delivers an EV-driving experience, with a maximum power of 95 kilowatts (kW) (129 PS) and an instant maximum flat-torque of 260 Nm. This results in the acceleration of 0-100 km/h within 10 seconds, which is outstanding in its class as well as enabling easy passing speed, while enhancing driver confidence in every situation.
Journalists described the Nissan KICKS e-POWER as not only having ample power and being enjoyable to drive, but also as delivering expert handling that helps drivers in and out of small curves or tight spaces easily. They added that the comfort-tuned suspension provides a cushioned ride, and the cabin stays quiet even at the high speeds undertaken on the test ride.
The all-new Nissan KICKS e-POWER has multiple modes to make driving more comfortable and more pleasurable, including Normal, Smart, Eco, and EV mode, the latter which uses stored electric battery power only and gives a quiet and smooth drive in the style of an EV. Along the hilly routes, the winding roads demonstrate how Nissan's exclusive 'One-pedal' helps and enhances driving enjoyment. This noteworthy feature allows drivers to accelerate and decelerate using just one pedal, creating a much more comfortable driving experience, particularly in both heavy city traffic as well as entering the curve.
Along the test drive route, journalists could also interact with the KICKS e-POWER's numerous safety and smart technology features from Nissan Intelligent Mobility, such as Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC), Blind Spot Warning (BSW), as well as Intelligent Forward Collision Warning (IFCW) & Intelligent Emergency Braking (IEB). This wide-ranging suite of innovative features promises enhanced safety and stress-free experience for both driver and passengers.
Innovations not limited to 'what's under the hood'
A unique mark of the all-new Nissan KICKS is the optional two-tone exterior color with the black roof, which customers can match with their style. Another option is the two-tone black and orange interior color scheme, accommodating younger consumers who are trending towards this more eye-catching combination.
On the journey, drivers also experienced the all-new interior design of Nissan KICKS e-POWER. The updated layout accommodates a new instrument panel, infotainment screen, steering wheel, and seats. Designed for comfort, whether on longer trips like this or just a quick drive around town, the deluxe passenger cabin features exemplary craftsmanship and design and retains its reputation for best-in-class roominess and legroom to spare. Also noteworthy is the generous trunk space, of a size that is outstanding in its class.
The interior cabin design of KICKSe-POWER conveys a sleek design and connectivity that provides comfort and utility to both driver and passengers. The highlight is Nissan Connect, which helps drivers access a multi-infotainment system with 8-inch touchscreen Color Display Audio and provides a seamless connection via smartphone (Apple CarPlay for iOS).
Nissan Connect, in particular, demonstrates how Nissan Intelligent Integration operates as a core feature created for the new generation of Thai car buyers who enjoy an active, multi-modal lifestyle and seamless technology. Intelligent Integration brings infotainment, navigation, safety, and security under a single platform while helping customers sync with the world around them.
"With all of these innovations in design, comfort, and driving technology, the features that remain constant are the trusted Nissan e-POWER vehicle warranty and customer-friendly pricing," affirmed Narasimhan.
Narasimhan concludes that "Our latest compact SUV in the Nissan Thailand family is a showcase for Nissan Intelligent Mobility. Nissan KICKS offers the latest Intelligent Power technology via its e-POWER, enhances the confidence of Intelligent Driving via its full suite of advanced safety features, and delivers a smooth and seamless Intelligent Integration with smartphone features that give drivers greater connectivity."
As for maintenance, the all-new Nissan KICKS e-POWER offers the best of both worlds: reduced maintenance due to the electric powertrain, and low upkeep for its small gasoline engine. In fact, during the "Powered to Thrill" drive, journalists didn't even need to stop at gas stations, since the petrol tank easily lasted the full trip. Importantly, every all-new Nissan KICKS e-POWER customer gets peace of mind through its lithium-ion battery warranties of up to 10 years or 200,000 km* that cover longevity, durability, and high-quality performance. The rest of the e-POWER powertrain and electric components also have warranties for up to five years or 100,000 km*, with no need for maintenance or fluid and filter change.
'* conditions applied
For more information on the all-new Nissan KICKS e-POWER, interested consumers can visit their nearest authorized Nissan dealer nationwide, or contact the Nissan Call Center at 02 401 9600, or simply visit the Nissan Motor Thailand website.
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About Nissan Motor (Thailand) Co., Ltd.
Nissan was established in Japan in 1933 with the commitment to create 'Innovation that Excites'. Nissan aims to improve the quality of life for people in society, by pursuing a goal of zero emission vehicles and zero fatalities on the road, supported by "Nissan Intelligent Mobility." Nissan has been present in Thailand since 1952. Currently, the Nissan Group of Companies in Thailand has subsidiaries five companies, including two production bases, and 179 showrooms and service centers nationwide. Vehicle range cover all segments includes 9 models spanning the entry level Eco-Car, SUV, Premium Sedans, Super Sportcar, Pickup Trucks, & Commercialized vehicle.
For more information about Nissan's products, services and commitment to sustainable mobility, visit
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For more information, please contact:
Kamolchanok Charoenjindarat
Nissan Motor (Thailand) Co., Ltd. – Communications Department
Email: kamolchanok.cha@nissan.co.th
Tel +66 (0) 2339 3400 Ext. 4113-4114
Akkaraphol Chommouk
Total Quality PR (Thailand) Co., Ltd.
Email: um@tqpr.com
Tel +66 (0) 2260 5820 Ext. 116
