Nissan Kicks e-POWER to Launch in Europe with UK Production
Nissan is investing £170 million to produce the Kicks e-POWER at its Sunderland plant, marking the tenth model built there and expanding its hybrid lineup in Europe.
Nissan is bringing the Kicks compact crossover to European markets, backed by a £170 million investment in its Sunderland, UK manufacturing facility. This move adds a new electrified model to the plant’s lineup, which already produces the Qashqai, Juke, and LEAF, as the factory marks its 40th anniversary.
The European version of the Kicks will feature Nissan’s e-POWER hybrid technology. Unlike traditional hybrids where the engine drives the wheels, this system uses an electric motor for propulsion while a gasoline engine acts solely as a generator to charge the battery, aiming for an electric-like driving feel with the convenience of refueling.
Hybrid Technology Distinct From Standard Options
According to GN auto tech/ev: electric vehicle reports, the Kicks will utilize Nissan’s third-generation e-POWER system, introduced in 2025. This updated setup is designed to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions while providing a quieter driving experience. The system has been part of Nissan’s strategy since 2016, with over 1.9 million vehicles sold globally using this technology.
The trade-off for consumers is a vehicle that offers instant electric motor response and smooth acceleration without the range anxiety associated with fully electric cars. However, it still requires gasoline, which may not align with the preferences of drivers seeking zero-emission transport. Nissan positions this model between conventional gasoline vehicles and fully electric cars, catering to a middle ground in the market.
Sunderland Plant Reaches Significant Production Milestone
The addition of the Kicks makes it the tenth Nissan model produced at Sunderland since manufacturing began in 1986. The plant has produced 12 million vehicles to date, achieving an average rate of one car every minute and 45 seconds. Production will serve customers in the UK, Europe, and Turkey, leveraging the existing infrastructure that has already built over 200,000 Qashqai e-POWER models.
This announcement is part of a broader strategy where Nissan offers diverse electrified powertrains rather than focusing exclusively on battery-electric vehicles. Earlier this month, the company also announced the PIXO, a new A-segment electric car, highlighting its intent to provide multiple options for different consumer needs and infrastructure constraints.
Expanding Global Presence and Market Reach
The second-generation Kicks is already produced in Japan, Mexico, and Brazil, with sales surpassing 1.8 million units across more than 70 countries. Bringing the model to Europe expands Nissan’s footprint in a region where hybrid adoption is growing. The vehicle’s arrival signals a continued commitment to the UK manufacturing base, reinforcing Sunderland’s role as a key hub for the brand’s European operations.
