Nissan Leaf: As Strong As Ever

The vehicle giant’s Sunderland plant has been building the all-electric Leaf for more than two years now and with a typical automotive model having a lifecycle of seven years, industry sources have begun speculating on what form the Leaf’s successor could take. “We’ve always said it needn’t be one auto”.

Former plant boss Trevor Mann, now Nissan executive vice-president, has suggested there is room to expand the range. We’ve got the NV200 electric, too, now, but obviously we’re still studying other opportunities. Though this doesn’t outright confirm that the next-generation Leaf will have a crossover version, it seems the most likely route given Nissan’s success with its range of people haulers.

Aside from the crossover rumor, there have been several other reports and rumors surrounding the revamped Leaf.

The Leaf and its crossover counterpart will share the same drivetrain, though the crossover might come with a more potent battery pack in order to offset the additional weight. A Leaf on stilts would also draw a new range of buyers into Nissan showrooms.

This is just the latest indication that the next LEAF will boast a dramatically greater range than its predecessor. Instead of its funky hatchback design that stands out in a crow, Nissan will give its EV a conventional look that includes the signature V grille and floating roof.

The Nissan Leaf is still on the top despite Nissan already announcing that a newer model will be arriving soon.