The Nismo badge has been applied to many different Nissans, including the 370Z and GT-R, and now the all-electric Leaf has been confirmed as the latest addition to the family.
Nissan confirmed the Leaf Nismo Concept’s existence at its third Nissan Futures event in Oslo, Norway, where it casually showed off an image of the sporty version of the car before reverting the main announcement of the 2018 Leaf, upon which the Nismo version will be based.
All we have to go on is the image, which shows the trademark aggressive Nismo bodykit and white paintjob with black and red accents. It is fair to assume more menacing looks will go hand in hand with a more menacing power output.
Given the Renault-Nissan alliance and the existence of the Zoe e-Sport concept, the potential for a 456bhp electric rocket is there. But no one is going to pay big money for a Leaf, no matter how fast it is, making an output closer to the 2018 Leaf’s 148bhp more likely.
Nissan goes on to mention the Leaf Nismo features ‘an enhanced aerodynamic profile and reduced lift’ but without affecting the drag cooefficient as well as a custom-tuned computer, sport-tuned suspension and high performance tyres.
Not only is the exterior of the Nismo flavour, the interior also features a slightly sportier interior with stealthy black surfaces interspersed with red accents.
The official Nissan line on the Leaf Nismo states: ‘The LEAF NISMO Concept combines the environmentally friendly character of an electric car with the exciting driving experience that’s always been a hallmark of the NISMO brand.’ It is unclear if the Leaf Nismo Concept will reach production.
The Nissan Leaf Nismo will be shown off at the 45th Toyko Motor Show, alongside an updated Skyline and 12 other vehicles.
As for the standard 2018 Nissan Leaf, expect a revised exterior and interior, longer range (thanks to a larger capacity battery), autonomous driving elements and similar levels of practicality as its predecessor. You can check out our round-up of the car right here.
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