A modified Nissan Leaf will compete at this week’s Pikes Peak International Hill Climb and while it won’t be contesting for the outright win, it could certainly turn a few heads.
The EV has been brought to life by Japanese racing team Samurai Speed and has undergone a number of important modifications to help it complete the grueling time trial.
Improving the EV’s aerodynamics was Samurai Speed’s priority. With this in mind, the EV has been equipped with a revised front fascia that incorporates a new bumper and a distinctive hood with large air extraction vents. The hatchback also sports a massive splitter and huge canards on either side of the bumper all in a bid to get the front wheels to stick to the pavement.
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Various other changes have been made. These include the fitment of new side skirts and a set of five-spoke black wheels wrapped in sticky tires. The rear end has also been transformed with a fixed rear wing, a unique bumper, and a striking diffuser. You may also notice that the Leaf has been converted into a two-door and has air intakes in place of the rear side windows. Rounding out the alterations is a striking wrap from AV Custom Wraps in California.
Samurai Speed doesn’t appear to have made any modifications to the Leaf’s powertrain. What we do know is that it is based around the flagship Leaf e+ that features a 62 kWh battery pack and an electric motor with 160 kW (214 hp) that drives the front wheels. Having driven the Leaf e+ before, we can confirm it is no slouch in a straight line, although it does often have difficulty in transmitting its power through just the front wheels.
