Nissan has outlined plans to significantly upgrade its Leaf EV to better compete with future competitors, such as the Chevrolet Bolt.
Speaking to North American International Auto Show attendees, Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn suggested a forthcoming “high-output” Leaf will likely offer more than twice the range of the current model.
“We want to be competitive; It may have even more [than 200 miles of] range,” the executive said, as quoted by The Detroit Bureau.
Nissan will utilize better lithium-ion battery technology to help achieve the goal, without bringing a significant increase in the vehicle’s curb weight. Separate reports suggest the target range could be as high as 250 miles, while the Leaf’s exterior design could be tweaked to bring a more traditional appearance.
The company has not yet announced a time-frame for introducing its next-generation EV, though it is expected to arrive in 2017.
Wow, 200 miles? That’s a game-changer for the Leaf! 🚗💨
When can we expect this new Leaf to hit the market? 🤔
Sounds promising, but how much will the price increase?
Just what we need, more range without more weight! Thank you, Nissan! 🎉
Hope they don’t mess up the design. I love the current look!
Is this really going to compete with Tesla’s offerings?
Finally, more range! Wasn’t 100 miles just not enough?
This is great news, but what about charging infrastructure improvements?
Hope it doesn’t take them too long to release it. Can’t wait! ⏳