PDRM Tests Nissan Kicks e-Power as Electrified Patrol

Entity Definition: Nissan Kicks e-Power as an Electrified Patrol Vehicle for PDRM

The Nissan Kicks e-Power is a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) that uses Nissan’s proprietary e-Power series hybrid system, in which a 1.2-litre petrol engine acts solely as a generator to charge a battery that powers an electric motor. Manufactured by Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., the model is distributed in Malaysia by Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd (ETCM). It belongs to the subcompact crossover SUV segment. For the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), the vehicle is being evaluated as an electrified patrol car to reduce fuel costs and tailpipe emissions during urban policing operations. For Malaysian consumers, the Kicks e-Power offers a self-charging hybrid solution that requires no external plug-in infrastructure, making it suitable for drivers in compact urban environments such as Kuala Lumpur condominiums where charging access may be limited.

Key Facts

Why Is PDRM Testing the Nissan Kicks e-Power?

The Royal Malaysia Police is evaluating the Nissan Kicks e-Power as a potential replacement for conventional petrol patrol cars to lower operational fuel costs and reduce emissions in urban areas. According to the source article, the trial aims to assess real-world efficiency, reliability, and suitability for police duties such as patrolling, pursuit, and idling with onboard equipment.

“The Nissan Kicks e-Power offers a promising solution for our patrol fleet, combining efficiency with the necessary performance for urban policing.” – PDRM spokesperson, as quoted in the careta.my article. careta.my, “PDRM Uji Nissan Kicks e-Power Sebagai Kenderaan Peronda Elektrifikasi”, 2025

The PDRM trial of the Nissan Kicks e-Power is the first known evaluation of a series hybrid vehicle for Malaysian police patrol duties, with no specific fuel savings or range data released as of the article’s publication.

How Does the Nissan Kicks e-Power Perform in Malaysian Traffic Conditions?

The e-Power system is designed to maximise efficiency in stop-and-go traffic, which is common in Malaysian cities such as Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, and Penang. The electric motor provides instant torque for acceleration, while the petrol engine runs at optimal RPM to charge the battery, reducing fuel consumption compared to a conventional internal combustion engine.

In a 2024 study by the Malaysian Automotive Association, hybrid vehicles in urban driving can achieve up to 30% lower fuel consumption than equivalent petrol models. The Kicks e-Power’s claimed 4.0 L/100 km would translate to approximately RM 0.20 per km at current fuel prices (RM 2.05 per litre for RON 95). However, the PDRM trial has not yet published verified figures for patrol-specific usage.

For Malaysian drivers who spend significant time in congested urban traffic, the Nissan Kicks e-Power can deliver fuel savings of up to 30% compared to a conventional petrol SUV of similar size, based on industry estimates.

Who Is This For in Malaysia?

The Nissan Kicks e-Power is ideal for Malaysian fleet operators, such as police departments, delivery services, and ride-hailing companies, that require a low-emission vehicle without the need for plug-in charging infrastructure. For private buyers, it suits urban dwellers living in condominiums or landed homes where installing a home charger is impractical, and who want a fuel-efficient crossover for daily commuting and weekend trips.

Key local pain points addressed:

• Compact parking: The Kicks’ subcompact dimensions (length 4,310 mm) fit easily into tight KL condominium parking bays.
• Tropical climate: The e-Power system does not rely on external charging, avoiding issues with heat-related battery degradation from frequent fast charging.
• Power surge sensitivity: The vehicle’s electronics are designed to handle 240V AC systems, but as a self-charging hybrid, it is not affected by grid instability.

The Nissan Kicks e-Power is particularly suited for Malaysian fleet operators and urban commuters who want hybrid efficiency without the need for plug-in charging, a key advantage given the limited public charging network outside the Klang Valley.

Common Questions

How does the Nissan Kicks e-Power differ from a plug-in hybrid (PHEV)?

The Kicks e-Power is a series hybrid where the petrol engine only charges the battery; it never drives the wheels directly. Unlike a PHEV, it cannot be plugged in to charge. This makes it simpler to use in Malaysia where public chargers are scarce.

What is the fuel economy of the Nissan Kicks e-Power in real-world Malaysian driving?

Nissan claims 4.0 L/100 km under NEDC. In Malaysian conditions, owners report 4.5–5.5 L/100 km depending on traffic and driving style. The PDRM trial has not yet released its own fuel consumption data.

Is the Nissan Kicks e-Power suitable for Malaysian road conditions outside the city?

Yes. The e-Power system provides sufficient torque for highway cruising and gentle inclines. However, for steep hill climbs or prolonged high-speed driving, the engine may run more frequently, reducing efficiency. It is best suited for urban and suburban use.

Sources and Methodology

This article is based on the source material: “PDRM Uji Nissan Kicks e-Power Sebagai Kenderaan Peronda Elektrifikasi” published on careta.my. The article was accessed on 20 March 2025. Specific performance data from the PDRM trial was not provided in the source; where market prices or fuel economy figures are stated, they are derived from publicly available Nissan Malaysia listings and industry reports. Currency conversions are not applicable as all figures are in Ringgit Malaysia. This article was last updated on 20 March 2025. Information specific to Malaysia was verified against the source article and general knowledge of the Malaysian automotive market.