The highly-anticipated third-generation Nissan Leaf EV is set to make its full debut later this month, with a market launch slated for the end of the year. In a recent video released by Nissan, new details and angles of the upcoming electric vehicle were showcased, giving enthusiasts a glimpse of what to expect from this Skoda Elroq rival that will be produced at the Sunderland plant in the near future.
Despite sporting a substantially different shape and positioning, Nissan has emphasized that the development of the new Leaf has been heavily influenced by insights gained from the previous generations of the vehicle. Richard Candler, Nissan’s global product strategy boss, highlighted the significance of the Leaf as an iconic model for the brand, with over 700,000 units sold since its debut in 2010. The real-world feedback gathered from customers who have covered more than 28 billion kilometers has been instrumental in shaping the evolution of the Leaf over the years.
One of the major improvements touted by Nissan is the enhanced aerodynamic efficiency of the new Leaf, boasting a coefficient of just 0.25 in its European trim, a significant improvement from the Mk2 model’s 0.28 coefficient. This improvement is expected to contribute to the Leaf’s impressive claimed maximum range of 372 miles, although specific battery specifications will be confirmed at the official unveiling.
Additionally, Nissan has confirmed the availability of an electrochromic dimming panoramic roof with heat shielding as an option for the new Leaf. This innovative feature eliminates the need for physical blinds, ensuring that headroom in the back is not compromised. The shift in design from a conventional hatchback to a higher-riding vehicle aligns with the current trend in the market and reflects Nissan’s commitment to staying ahead of the curve.
The new Leaf is built on the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance’s CMF-EV platform, which is also utilized in the larger Nissan Ariya EV and will be featured in the upcoming Nissan Juke EV. While specific technical details are yet to be disclosed, European product boss François Bailly emphasized the focus on real-world range and practicality in the development of the Leaf.
Nissan’s global design boss, Alfonso Albaisa, described the new Leaf as a vehicle that “democratizes technology”, featuring a modern, simple, and aesthetically pleasing design. The interior is expected to exude a sense of openness and sophistication, incorporating cutting-edge technology to provide a seamless driving experience for customers.
As the automotive industry continues to embrace electric vehicles, the new Nissan Leaf is poised to make a significant impact with its innovative design, improved aerodynamics, and focus on practicality and real-world range. Stay tuned for the official reveal of the third-generation Nissan Leaf and experience the future of electric mobility firsthand.
