The third-generation Leaf is expected to draw design inspiration from the coupe-crossover Chill-Out Concept unveiled in 2021
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by Brad Anderson
2 hours ago
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Development of the third-generation Nissan Leaf is well underway, and it’s poised to undergo significant changes compared to the current model. In fact, it will transform into a high-riding crossover when it launches at the end of next year, and it will be manufactured at the same British factory that will also handle the production of the electric Qashqai and electric Juke.
According to a source within the automaker, the next-generation Leaf will have a lower and sleeker profile compared to the Qashqai and Juke. It will draw design inspiration from the Ariya as well as the marque’s Chill-Out Concept, which was unveiled in 2021. Few would describe the first two generations of the Leaf as particularly attractive, but the new model is expected to have a much more appealing appearance.
Read: Nissan To Build New Electric Qashqai And Juke SUVs In The UK
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Auto News has learned that Nissan’s designers have been determined to steer clear of replicating the ‘awkward proportions’ of the first and second-generation Leaf. This goal will be facilitated by the fact that the car will share the same CMF-EV platform as the Ariya and Renault Megane E-Tech, rather than being built upon a combustion car platform like the outgoing model.
Nissan’s Chill-Out Concept was characterized by sleek and flowing body panels with few unnecessary lines, creases, or sharp edges, something which cannot be said about many cars currently on sale. It also has a front end dominated by LED headlights, an LED light bar, and an illuminated Nissan badge. If the new Leaf looks even 50% as sleek as the concept, it will be a dramatic improvement over the current car.
Providing the new Leaf with juice will be state-of-the-art batteries produced by the Chinese battery company, Envision, at a facility being constructed adjacent to Nissan’s Sunderland factory in the UK. These advanced batteries offer a 30% increase in energy density compared to the current model’s batteries, which will significantly boost its driving range.
