First hybrid PDRM patrol car? Nissan Kicks e-Power begins 2-month real-world trial

Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM) has handed over two units of the Nissan Kicks e-Power to the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) as part of a two-month Proof of Concept (PoC) programme to assess the electrified SUV's suitability for frontline duties.

The evaluation, which carries no purchase obligation, will see the Kicks e-Power deployed in real-world police operations to assess its performance, practicality and overall capability in daily patrol use.

According to ETCM, the programme is intended to provide valuable insights into how Nissan's e-Power technology performs under demanding operational conditions while evaluating its potential for fleet deployment within the police force.

Commissioner of Police Redzuan Abd Hamid, Director of the Logistics and Technology Department at Bukit Aman, said evaluating new technologies under actual operating conditions is essential before they can be considered for frontline use.

He added that the two-month programme will help PDRM assess the Kicks e-Power's performance, practicality and suitability for police duties, with the findings contributing towards future decisions on mobility solutions for the force.

ETCM Executive Vice President Christopher Tan said Nissan developed its e-Power technology to offer an electrified driving experience without requiring owners to rely on external charging infrastructure.

He added that the company hopes the evaluation will demonstrate the potential of the Kicks e-Power for a wide range of fleet applications, including frontline emergency services.

The two-month trial marks another step in evaluating electrified vehicles for public sector fleet use, as government agencies continue exploring technologies that can improve operational efficiency while reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

Unlike a conventional hybrid, the Nissan Kicks e-Power is driven exclusively by its electric motor, with the petrol engine serving solely as a generator to recharge the battery. This allows the vehicle to deliver instant torque and smooth EV-like acceleration while retaining the convenience of refuelling at a petrol station, eliminating concerns over charging availability or driving range.

In Malaysia, the Nissan Kicks e-Power is priced from RM 113,800.