Nissan's upcoming Leaf successor to transform into an all-electric SUV - study

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【Summary】Nissan's next-generation Leaf electric car will be transformed into an SUV starting in 2026, ending its run as a hatchback. The move is seen as an effort to compete with Chinese and South Korean brands that have surpassed the Leaf in terms of driving range, charging speed, and technology. The new Leaf is expected to offer up to 25% more driving range and may adopt a design similar to the larger Ariya SUV. Nissan plans to introduce two additional electric models before the end of the decade.

FutureCar Staff Aug 31, 2023 4:37 PM PT

Nissan's upcoming Leaf successor to transform into an all-electric SUV - study

The Nissan Leaf, known for being a pioneer in the mass-market electric car segment, is set to undergo a major transformation. According to reports, starting from 2026, the Leaf will no longer feature its familiar hatchback design and will instead become an SUV.

For nearly fifteen years, the Leaf has been a battery-powered hatchback. However, it has faced tough competition from Chinese and South Korean brands in terms of driving range, charging speed, and technology, causing its sales to decline.

Nissan dealers in the US have been informed by the automaker's executives that the next-generation Leaf could adopt a design similar to the larger Ariya SUV, deviating from its traditional hatchback shape. Although no photos have been shared, the 'Chill-Out' concept showcased by Nissan in 2021 might provide a glimpse of what to expect, with its sloping back window and increased ride height aligning with the new direction.

According to sources, the upcoming Nissan Leaf is rumored to offer up to 25 percent more driving range than the current model, which already boasts a claimed range of 270km to 385km, depending on battery capacity.

In 2026, the next-generation Leaf is expected to enter production at Nissan's Sunderland factory, as stated in government documents. Additionally, Nissan dealers have been informed about two more electric models that are anticipated to join the lineup before the end of the decade. One of these models will be a performance sedan, while the other will be another SUV, both utilizing the CMF-EV electric-car platform.

Nissan has an ambitious plan to launch 15 electric cars and eight new hybrid models by 2030. The company also aims to achieve 'price parity' between its electric and traditional engine models by 2030, despite the current significant price difference.

Jordan Mulach, a Canberra/Ngunnawal native currently residing in Brisbane/Turrbal, joined the Drive team in 2022. With a background in automotive journalism, Jordan has worked for various publications and has a passion for motorsports and virtual racing.