Nissan Leaf Reinvented: Fastback SUV Unveiled with Groundbreaking Efficiency
In a bid to revolutionise the electric vehicle market, Nissan has unveiled a reinvented Leaf, boasting a sleek new design and unparalleled efficiency. According to Autocar, the development team was tasked with a clear brief: “Efficiency, efficiency, efficiency,” as described by chief vehicle engineer Hiroki Isobe.
The new Leaf’s aerodynamic design plays a significant role in achieving this goal, with a host of sleek elements working to reduce the car’s drag coefficient to 0.25, a notable improvement on the previous model’s 0.28. This, combined with a bespoke heat pump for the heating system, enables the vehicle to maximise its range.
When equipped with the largest 75kWh battery pack, the Leaf boasts an official range of 375 miles. However, Nissan has focused on delivering real-world range at speed, claiming the vehicle can cover over 200 miles at an 80mph cruise.
The Leaf’s charging capabilities have also received a significant upgrade, with the ability to charge at up to 150kW via a CCS plug. As Autocar notes, this marks a departure from the Chademo charging system, which has been relegated to the annals of history.
While our experience with the new Leaf has been limited thus far, Autocar has had the opportunity to sample a prototype version under a long embargo at Nissan’s Grandrive test track in Yokohama, and editor Mark Tisshaw recently took the Hill Route at Millbrook Proving Ground for a spin. Both tracks provided hints at the new Leaf’s dynamic prowess, but a comprehensive evaluation will have to wait.
Mechanically, the Leaf features a new ‘three-in-one’ electric motor, combining the inverter, motor, and reducer into a single package. This sends up to 214bhp and 261lb ft of torque to the front wheels, with MacPherson-strut suspension at the front and a multi-link arrangement at the rear. Wheel sizes range from 18in to 19in.
Nissan has prioritised a comfortable ride for the Leaf, aligning with its family car brief. Even on a short drive, the refinement of the vehicle is apparent, with exceptional noise isolation and a remarkably quiet and calm driving experience.
As our driving experience with the new Leaf expands, we will provide further insights into its performance and capabilities. For now, it is clear that Nissan has made significant strides in reinventing the iconic model. As Autocar reports, the new Leaf has the potential to be a game-changer in the electric vehicle market, with its emphasis on efficiency, range, and refinement.
The new Leaf’s interior and exterior design have been revamped to offer a more premium feel, in line with Nissan’s aim to position the vehicle as a high-end family car.
Autocar reports that, with its impressive range, efficiency, and refined driving experience, the new Nissan Leaf is set to shake up the electric vehicle market.
Further updates on the new Nissan Leaf will be provided as more information becomes available.
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