Leaf gets Nismo upgrade

The Nissan Leaf has received an upgrade from the motorsports arm of the brand Nismo at the Tokyo Motor Show. The goal with the Nissan LEAF Nismo Concept is to show that electric vehicles can appeal to the heart just as much as to the head.

"Nissan LEAF has shown that zero emission mobility is no longer a dream but a reality. The Nismo Concept not only proves the hidden potential of Nissan LEAF but also adds even more excitement and energy to LEAF, delivering a guilt-free yet exhilarating driving experience that can be enjoyed by every car enthusiast," said Hideaki Watanabe, Corporate Vice President, Nissan Motor Company and head of the company's electric vehicle business unit.

The Concept built by Nismo has received a stylish body kit, which gives LEAF a purposeful new look. More than style these changes represent a significant aerodynamic role, generating extra downforce at speed to enhance LEAF's handling and grip.

Major features include the front aero bumper, rear under protector, rear diffuser, extended side sills and 18-inch alloy wheels.

Taking advantage of the inexistence of a conventional engine under the hood, Nismo was able to lower the hood line and make it more streamlined. Extended side sills and the deeper bumpers front and rear emphasise LEAF's low centre of gravity.

Nismo hasn’t touched the electric drivetrain of the Leaf. It maintains the the potent 80kW AC motor which instantly get full torque and that can reach a top speed of 145 km/h and accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in less than 7 seconds.

The lithium-ion battery is composed by 48 modules which provide a potential range of 175km (NEDC mode) and can be recharged to full capacity overnight from a domestic electricity supply. It can also be charged to 80 per cent capacity in just 30 minutes, using a Quick Charger.