Nissan Leaf

[NeilBlanchard]

A rendering based on these camouflaged cars:



It seems accurate EXCEPT the trailing edge of the roof.

[MetroMPG]

That recent GCR article and comments by readers suggest that many of the hard points in the "new" Leaf appear to be the same as the current one.

EG: evident in side door cuts/openings, A-pillar

I loaded up side-by-side images of both and that seemed to be the case to my eyes.

Makes you wonder if Nissan is cheaping out and continuing to use the platform, but with new sheetmetal where they can.

[freebeard]

Sadly, that's what happens to concept cars.

I was following two late-model CUVs today. I don't know what model, but they were both white. One had more pronounced cabin taper and the rear hatch on that one was maybe 2/3ds the width of the other.

One car with a lot of cabin taper is the Volvo C30:


https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volvo_C30

I like 'em a lot.

[NeilBlanchard]

I agree that it looks like they are reusing the bones of the current platform. The proportions of the nose and passenger compartment look quite similar to the current model, as well. The hatch looks slightly more extended, though that could just be the different lines along the side.

[Fingie]

*sigh* the micra is a barge compared to the original Micra

[rmay635703]

Originally Posted by NeilBlanchard

I agree that it looks like they are reusing the bones of the current platform. The proportions of the nose and passenger compartment look quite similar to the current model, as well. The hatch looks slightly more extended, though that could just be the different lines along the side.

Words have been spoken more than a few times before sources internal and external that gen ii would come with a 35kwhr to 48kwhr option and that the 2nd gen would have around 200miles EPA as an option.

Taken together that means the leaf must gain on aerodynamics.

[NeilBlanchard]

I have heard quotes attributed to Nissan engineers about how important aero drag is for range.

I am pretty sure the largest battery in the new Leaf will be 60kWh. And they have hinted the range would be closer to 300 miles - though those are very possibly wishful guesses.

[NeilBlanchard]

Nissan has released the first teaser image of the new Leaf:

Nissan has Begun Teasing its Next-Gen Leaf » AutoGuide.com News



This image makes me think the camouflaged cars we have been seeing are mules - and the new Leaf will be a total redesign.

[freebeard]

Is there a continuing supply of two year old off-lease Leafs cannibalizing new sales? They could need a complete redesign to overcome that.

[NeilBlanchard]

Well, the new Leaf is likely to have 200+ mile range - and it might even be 250+ miles. So, there's that.