Inside major car brand’s new ‘iconic’ hatchback EV to be built at huge UK factory – as firm raises £5bn to stay afloat
A STRUGGLING car brand has released details of its new electric crossover ahead of a full reveal later this month.
Built at a huge factory in Sunderland, the Nissan Leaf is set to join the market later this year.
Now in its third-generation, the electric crossover is scheduled to begin production over the next few months.
The launch comes amid the company’s financial struggles after they announced £4 billion in losses.
As other manufacturers are slowing production on EVs, Nissan’s Sunderland factory is focusing more on these eco-friendly alternatives.
The company has reduced its production from 17 to 10 factories, with an announcement that 20,000 jobs will be lost.
Its newest model has been announced as part of this focus on EVs.
Global product strategy boss Richard Candler told Autocar that the latest model was informed by customer feedback since the car’s 2010 debut.
He said: “Leaf is an icon for us. It’s one of our core ‘heartbeat’ models.”
First launched in 2010, the Leaf was one of the first mass-market electric cars.
Nissan has sold 700,000 Leafs since 2010, covering over 28 billion kilometres.
Richard added: “We have really substantial, real-world insight about the customer – understanding how their needs have evolved from the early days of Leaf until now.”
The company has substantially changed this version’s shape and positioning, learning from their Mk1 and Mk2 models.
This results in more aerodynamic efficiency, helping to achieve a longer range.
While not being officially announced until the debut later this month, its estimated maximum range is 372 miles.
The new design reflects a wider market shift away from traditional hatchbacks towards higher-riding cars.
It means that the Nissan Leaf could rival cars like the Skoda Elroq.
While few details have been announced so far, European product boss François Bailly said they were emphasising “real-world range.”
This means they have prioritised range and aerodynamics with the design to ensure motorists get the most out of their EV.
Global design boss Alfonso Albaisa added: “It’s very modern, simple and nice.
“We wanted something tailored, handsome, well-proportioned, with a super-tech interior that feels open and cool.”
It will include features like an electrochromic dimming panoramic roof with heat shielding, creating more headspace by removing the need for physical blinds.
Its in-car systems are equipped with their updated Car and Connected Service platform, using a Google-based infotainment system and advanced driver assistance systems to “make your life easier.”
The new model is launching amidst the company’s financial problems.
Over the last few weeks, Nissan has announced plans to cut 20,000 jobs, and reported £4billion in losses leading to an £1 billion government bailout.
To save on costs, they plan on closing down seven of their factories, with its only UK based factory focusing more on electric cars.
During this turbulent period, production on some models has stalled.
The company may need to sell its £500 million Yokohama-based global headquarters to combat its extensive losses.