Nissan unveils electric LEAF NISMO race car
Nissan has unveiled a new electric race car in Tokyo. The all-new Nissan LEAF NISMO RC offers more than double the maximum power and torque output of its predecessor.
The unveiling took place at Nissan Crossing in the city’s Ginza district. The car, which was developed by Nissan’s racing arm, NISMO will officially debut on Dec. 2 at the annual NISMO Festival at Fuji International Speedway, appearing alongside Nissan’s new Formula E electric race car.
With dual electric motors, all-wheel drive and a restyled body shape, the purpose-built car is equipped with advanced battery technology and drivetrain components from the Nissan LEAF.
Nissan plans to build six all-new LEAF NISMO RC vehicles to deploy around the world, so that fans can experience the power and excitement firsthand.
Powering the all-new Nissan LEAF NISMO RC are two electric motors at opposite ends of the chassis. The motors produce 240 kilowatts combined (120 kW each) and 640 Nm of instant torque to the wheels. That’s more than double the maximum power and the torque output of the previous LEAF NISMO RC, introduced in 2011.
The LEAF NISMO RC features a multitude of lightweight components and a full carbon-fiber racing monocoque structure, allowing it to tip the scales at just 1,220 kilograms. The power-to-weight ratio results in a performance of zero to 100 kph (0-62mph) in just 3.4 seconds – 50% quicker than the previous model.
The car’s three-piece bodywork includes removable front and rear sections, fixed windows, LED headlights and tail lights, and an adjustable rear wing for ideal downforce on the tarmac. The model is slightly longer than its predecessor, with an overall length of 4,546 millimetres and a wheelbase that measures 2,750 millimetres.
The Nissan LEAF NISMO RC sits wide and low to the ground, with its wind-cutting form measuring only 1,212 millimetres from roof to road – more than 300 millimetres less than the production Nissan LEAF.
“The all-new LEAF NISMO RC shows how we’re setting our sights even higher when it comes to raw power and performance – making electric vehicles even more exciting for customers,” said Executive Vice President Daniele Schillaci, Nissan’s global head of marketing, sales and electric vehicles. “It’s our most thrilling expression yet of the philosophy of Nissan Intelligent Mobility.”
