A greater range, additional technology and revised styling to attract a wider customer base are all features of the latest Nissan LEAF electric car.
Images and information of the second-generation LEAF have been revealed ahead of its public debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show on 12th September. Built in Britain, the car is due on sale across Europe from January 2018, succeeding the current LEAF that has become the world’s best-selling electric car with more than 283,000 sold since 2010.
Nissan is quoting an official (New European Driving Cycle) range between charges of the new car of 235 miles. And also planned is a higher-power model which will also boast a longer range – some observers predict that the LEAF will gain a version in Nissan’s NISMO performance sub-brand in order to attract younger buyers.
The powertrain of the new LEAF has had its energy efficiency improved and both power and torque uprated, to 150hp and 320Nm respectively. Maximum speed will be 90mph but the 0-62mph time has not yet been stated.
Driving tech added
New technology in the LEAF includes the ProPilot driver assistance system which makes driving safer and easier on single-lane roads, and the ProPilot Park which will automatically control acceleration, steering and braking to park the car. Also included is an e-Pedal, allowing drivers to start, accelerate, decelerate and stop simply by the way they press the accelerator pedal. When the accelerator is fully released, regenerative and friction brakes are applied automatically, gradually bringing the car to a complete stop.
The car’s exterior styling follows that of the IDS Concept unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show in 2015. The current V-motion grille family design is incorporated, detailed in blue to signify the car is electric. The interior has also been completely redesigned.
Walkaround – the new Nissan LEAF 1 of 5
Keyword: New-look Nissan LEAF to go further