2018 Nissan Leaf: Spy Shots Reveal Upgraded Design of Next-Gen EV
The 2018 Nissan Leaf isn't slated to arrive until later this year but a prototype of the next-generation all-electric compact hatchback was recently spotted for the first time, giving car enthusiasts a sneak peek at what's to come.
The first-generation Leaf was launched back in 2010 so it is definitely due for an upgrade. In the spy shots, the new iteration of the Japanese automaker's best-selling electric car is still heavily camouflaged. Nevertheless, the images still preview some of the design elements that will be featured in the upcoming vehicle.
According to reports, the 2018 Leaf's design language is inspired by both the IDS Concept, an autonomous vehicle introduced in 2015, and Nissan's supermini, the Micra. The former is seen in the new Leaf's bonnet and headlights while the Micra's influence is seen in the front fascia's V-Motion grille and lower bumper. The photos also show that the second-generation electric vehicle will retain some features of its predecessor.
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Aside from changes in the design, the 2018 Nissan Leaf is also expected to have upgraded batteries to match the range offered by competitors such as the Chevrolet Bolt, Tesla Model 3 and Hyundai Ioniq Electric.
The current Leaf is powered by a 30-kWh battery that translates to 107 miles of electric driving range. This is already considered a bit low compared with the Bolt's 238 miles, the Model 3's 215 miles and the Ioniq's 124 miles.
It is said that Nissan will be offering the 2018 Leaf with 40-kWh and 60-kWh lithium-ion battery options for an EPA-rated range of about 140 and 220 miles, respectively. Utilizing more dense batteries could also lead to a model with a 300-mile range.
Nissan is expected to offer several options to meet the needs and budgets of different types of consumers. Furthermore, the automaker also announced at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) earlier this year that the next-generation Leaf will feature ProPilot autonomous driving technology.
The 2018 Nissan Leaf will debut sometime in September before arriving at dealerships at the end of the year. More details about the upcoming all-electric hatchback are expected to arrive closer to its official launch.
