Latest news with #CMF-EV
Straits Times
a day ago
- Automotive
- Straits Times
Fast Lane: New Nissan Leaf preview, Aston Martin Valkyrie as Lego, fastest SUV from Bentley
The third-generation Nissan Leaf will be making its global debut later in June. PHOTO: NISSAN Nissan turns over a new Leaf Ahead of the global unveiling of the third-generation Leaf electric vehicle (EV) at the end of June, Nissan has released the first of a three-part video giving insights into how the new car was created. This includes the target to be able to add 250km of driving range in 14 minutes – the average time a motorist spends to fill up a car with petrol. The latest Leaf uses the CMF-EV platform, which is an architecture shared between Nissan and its alliance partner, Renault. One of the platform's features is how it can be adapted for a crossover, like the Leaf, or a taller sport utility vehicle (SUV). Based on the positive experience with the Nissan Ariya, an electric SUV that uses the CMF-EV, the Leaf may be an EV worth waiting for. Nissan was an early mover in electrification, launching the first-generation Leaf in 2010 and delivering close to 700,000 units globally to date. The replacement cannot come soon enough in Singapore as EV adoption is accelerating. Nissan had six Leaf registrations in 2024, down from 10 units in 2023. Check out the video of the new Leaf at Aston Martin Valkyrie in Lego form The Aston Martin Valkyrie in real life is a 1,140hp hybrid hypercar. PHOTO: ASTON MARTIN The Aston Martin Valkyrie, a hybrid hypercar that was developed with Red Bull Racing Advanced Technologies, lives on as a Lego Technic kit. Consisting of 707 pieces, the finished vehicle measures 29cm long, 13cm wide and 7cm tall. Meant for children aged nine and older, the toy features moving elements like the pistons in its V12 engine, working wheel differential, opening gullwing doors and steerable front wheels. The kit is available at the Lego online store. Production of the actual Valkyrie ended in November 2024 after 275 units. The two-seat, carbon-fibre hypercar uses a Cosworth-developed 6.5-litre V12 engine with hybridisation. This boasts a system output of 1,140hp, enabling the Valkyrie to get from 0-100kmh in 2.5 seconds, something that is not replicated in the Lego model. Motor festival in Modena Italian brands like Ferrari and Maserati will be out in force at the Motor Valley Fest in Modena over the weekend. PHOTO: MASERATI To celebrate illustrious automotive brands such as Ferrari, Maserati and Ducati, Motor Valley Fest 2025 will be held in Modena, Italy, from June 6 to 8 . This is the seventh year that the event is held. The name is a reference to the Emilia-Romagna region in the northern part of Italy, where many evocative motoring brands are based. Ferrari will be exhibiting its F80, a 1,183hp hybrid hypercar, along with other models in the range at the open-air exhibition in the city of Modena. The GT2 Stradale supercar in a unique Powder Nude is the star at the Maserati display, along with the electric GranCrabio Folgore, finished in an Orange Devil hue. Other than the chance to see the exotic cars up close, Motor Valley Fest also features talks and roundtable discussions on automotive industry topics like autonomous driving, automotive supply chain and motorsports. Bentley Bentayga Speed is the carmaker's fastest SUV The Bentley Bentayga Speed with its tuned-up, 4-litre V8 engine is the fastest SUV from the brand. PHOTO: BENTLEY Legend has it that Mr Ettore Bugatti, founder of French supercar brand Bugatti, derided Bentley's entry at the 1930 French Grand Prix as the 'world's fastest lorry' for being heavier than the racers of its day. The Speed, which is the top-of-the-line variant of the Bentley Bentayga range, takes that idea further. The output from the 4-litre, twin-turbo V8 has been cranked up to 641hp, 100hp more than the standard model. This is enough to give the Bentayga a top speed of 310kmh and a 0-100kmh timing of 3.4 seconds. This is an improvement over the previous Bentayga Speed, which had a 6-litre W12 engine that made 626hp and took 3.9 seconds to complete the century sprint. The driving dynamics of the Bentayga are said to have been beefed up to suit its positioning as the performance flagship. For the first time in the model's history, the Speed is equipped with a launch control function and a setting that allows the driver to do 'power drifts' without the safety systems cutting in because it thinks the car is going to crash. In Sport mode, the suspension is 15 per cent stiffer than the standard V8 model's. The Bentley Bentayga Speed is available on indent basis in Singapore with the price on application. The Bentayga V8 is priced at $1.2 million before options and certificate of entitlement. Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
Perth Now
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Perth Now
2026 Nissan Leaf revealed in more detail
Ahead of its launch on June 18, Nissan has revealed some details about the third-generation Leaf, which is adopting an SUV-like design. The company revealed the new Leaf's front profile at the end of March, showing off the car's rounder shape, taller ride height, and aerodynamic front end. According to Nobutaka Tase, the Leaf program's design director, the new model is 'most aero efficient car we've ever made' thanks to its fastback-style body, active grille shutters, flat underbody, flush-fitting door handles, and 'optimised' wheel design. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Supplied Credit: CarExpert There's also an e-dimming panoramic glass roof, which Tase-san claims allowed the team to lower 'critical air detachment points by 12mm'. In the US and Japan the most efficient Leaf variants will have a coefficient of drag of 0.26, while European models bring that number down to 0.25 as they have unique wing mirror and alloy wheel designs . Richard Candler, vice president in charge of global product strategy, says the Leaf is 'icon for us' and is 'one of our core heartbeat models'. Supplied Credit: CarExpert In order for the new Leaf to be a 'credible alternative to combustion engine vehicles' it will be able to do '300 to 500km between stops'. According to Mr Candler the 'average refuelling stop is around 14 minutes, and in that time [the new Leaf] can add over 250km of charge with seamless plug and charge capability'. Under the skin, the new Leaf employs the CMF-EV architecture that underpins the Ariya electric crossover. The platform, rebranded as AmpR Medium, also serves as the basis of the Renault Megane E-Tech and Scenic E-Tech. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert The Ariya is available with 65kWh and 90kWh battery packs, and a selection of drivetrains, starting with a 160kW/300Nm front-wheel drive setup and topping out with a 290kW/600Nm all-wheel drive dual-motor system. Depending on the drivetrain and battery pack combo, the Ariya's WLTP driving range is between 360km and 500km. By way of comparison, the second-generation Leaf has a 110kW/320Nm motor paired to a 39kWh battery in its base trim, offering a WLTP driving range of 270km. The e+ variant has a beefier 160kW/340Nm electric motor, larger 62kWh battery, and a WLTP range of 385km. Since the original Leaf's launch back in 2010 around 700,000 have been sold worldwide. At one stage it was the world's best selling EV ever, but it has since been overtaken by the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y. Collectively all of the world's Leaf models have covered an estimated 28 billion kilometres. The new Leaf will go on sale in Australia in 2026. Local models will likely be sourced from Nissan's factory in Sunderland, UK. MORE: Everything Nissan Leaf
Yahoo
01-04-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Nissan's Big Bet: Can a Wave of New Models Save the Troubled Automaker?
Nissan has seen better days. The Japanese automaker has been struggling with plummeting sales, a tumultuous leadership transition, and failed merger talks with Honda. But rather than retreating, Nissan is betting big on a future filled with fresh models. Over the next two years, the company plans to launch over 14 new and refreshed vehicles, spanning combustion, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric powertrains. This product overhaul attempts to revive the brand's global appeal, with new models planned for North America, Europe, Latin America, and beyond. Here's a closer look at what's coming and what it means for Nissan's future. One of the biggest transformations in Nissan's lineup is the reinvention of the Leaf. Once a compact hatchback that helped pioneer the EV movement, the new Leaf is taking on a completely different form — a crossover SUV. Built on the same CMF-EV platform as the Nissan Ariya, this new Leaf promises a sleeker design, bigger wheels, and a panoramic moonroof. It's also expected to have a significantly improved range compared to its predecessor and will be the first Nissan model equipped with the North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, making it compatible with Tesla's Supercharger network. The new Leaf will be a truly global model, launching not just in North America but also in Europe, Japan, and Australia. By shifting to the crossover segment, Nissan is looking to capitalize on the market's growing preference for SUVs over traditional sedans and hatchbacks. Nissan's popular Rogue SUV is also getting an upgrade. The 2026 model will offer gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid powertrains, with the e-Power hybrid system making a return. This setup uses a small gas engine as a generator to power an electric motor, delivering improved efficiency. Notably, the Rogue plug-in hybrid will essentially be a rebadged Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, leveraging Nissan's alliance with Renault and Mitsubishi. Meanwhile, the larger Pathfinder will receive a mid-cycle facelift, including a redesigned front end that aligns with Nissan's evolving design language. These updates aim to keep Nissan's SUVs competitive in an increasingly crowded market. Sedan enthusiasts will see a redesigned Nissan Sentra, featuring sharper styling and potentially a more refined interior. While compact sedans are losing favor in the U.S., Nissan remains committed to the segment with a freshened offering. Data suggest that American car buyers are looking to downsize in response to inflated vehicle prices, so a refreshed Sentra could hit the mark. Looking further ahead, Nissan has teased an all-new electric adventure SUV, set to be built in Canton, Mississippi. Expected to launch in 2027, this rugged, boxy EV appears to be positioned below the Rogue and Pathfinder, with a futuristic LED design. While details remain scarce, this new model could serve as Nissan's entry into the growing market for off-road-capable electric SUVs. Over in Europe, Nissan is launching two new EVs that cater to different segments. The long-awaited all-electric Micra will finally enter production after being teased for years. Based on the Renault 5 E-Tech, this small and stylish EV aims to attract urban drivers looking for an efficient, compact option. Another major debut will be the fully electric Nissan Juke, inspired by the Hyper Punk concept. The Juke has long been known for its quirky design, and the EV version is expected to push that even further while offering zero-emission performance. The European-market Nissan Qashqai will also receive the latest version of Nissan's e-Power hybrid system, which enhances fuel efficiency and reduces emissions. In Latin America, Nissan will introduce a new version of the Navara (known as the Frontier in some markets). This rugged midsize pickup is expected to feature an upgraded design, improved infotainment, and enhanced driver-assistance technologies. However, this specific version will be exclusive to the Latin American market. For Australia, Nissan will take a different approach, developing an all-new pickup truck built on Mitsubishi Triton underpinnings. Described as a 'one-ton pickup,' this vehicle will launch by early 2027, further strengthening Nissan's commercial vehicle offerings. Nissan is set to introduce two new models in India, both manufactured at its Chennai facility for domestic and export markets. The first is a budget-friendly minivan with crossover-inspired styling, slated for a 2025 debut. In 2026, Nissan will launch a five-seater SUV, its own take on the Dacia/Renault Duster, featuring a redesigned front end. The company has also announced a separate five-seater SUV for select African markets, though it remains unclear whether it will share design elements with the India-bound model. Meanwhile, in Japan, Nissan plans to roll out a refreshed kei car in 2025, followed by a next-generation large minivan equipped with the latest hybrid powertrain in 2026. Nissan's aggressive product rollout signals a clear strategy: lean into SUVs and EVs while leveraging alliances with Renault and Mitsubishi to streamline costs. However, whether this is enough to revive the struggling automaker remains to be seen. Despite a refreshed lineup, Nissan still faces significant challenges. The company's financial health remains fragile, and its brand image has suffered in recent years. Additionally, it must navigate an increasingly competitive EV landscape, where brands like Tesla, Hyundai, and Ford continue to innovate rapidly. Nissan's ability to execute this product plan successfully will determine whether it can regain its footing in the industry. If these new models resonate with consumers, the automaker could stage a much-needed comeback. If not, Nissan's future may remain as uncertain as its recent past. Only time will tell if this wave of new vehicles can reverse Nissan's fortunes. But one thing is clear — the company isn't going down without a fight.
Yahoo
29-03-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
New Nissan Leaf revealed as crossover with over 372 miles of range
New Leaf borrows design cues from the larger Ariya; has been developed with focus on aerodynamics The third-generation Nissan Leaf has been shown in production form for the first time ahead of a full launch later this year, confirming its transformation into a crossover. The Leaf was launched in 2010 as one of the first mass-market electric cars and in its first two generations took a conventional hatchback form, but it has now undergone a major shift to cash in on the trend for higher-riding cars. It sits on the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance's CMF-EV platform, which is currently used by the larger Nissan Ariya, and will be closely twinned with the forthcoming Nissan Juke EV. European versions of the Leaf and the Europe-only Juke EV will be produced at Nissan's Sunderland factory, which is currently undergoing a major expansion. The new Leaf is marginally shorter than the previous model but has a larger presence, due to its higher stance. It borrows styling cues from the Ariya and has been developed with a focus on aerodynamics – it has a 0.25 drag coefficient – to boost efficiency and range. While Nissan has yet to give any technical details, European product boss François Bailly said the Leaf would have a range of more than 372 miles, hinting the focus is on 'real-world range.' He added: 'How long you can drive on a highway is key for us, which is why you see the beautiful shape with the aerodynamics. For us, it's about practicality: how long will it take to drive 800km [497 miles], including the time to charge?' Nissan's global design boss, Alfonso Albaisa, said the new Leaf is 'about democratising technology. It's very modern, simple and nice. We wanted something tailored, handsome, well-proportioned, with a super-tech interior that feels open and cool.' Bailly added that the Leaf will get Nissan's latest in-car systems, enabled by its updated Car and Connected Service (CCS) platform, which features a Google-based infotainment system and advanced driver assistance systems. He said: 'It's all the things that make your life easier. 'We are confident we have something that is unique, and we're really happy with this car.' ]]>
Yahoo
26-03-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
2026 Nissan Leaf Leads a Major Brand Overhaul
The 2026 Nissan Leaf will ride on the brand's CMF-EV platform when it makes its debut this year. Nissan is planning on launching 10 new or updated products across its Nissan and Infiniti brands from fiscal year 2025 through 2027. Alongside the next-gen Leaf, Nissan is planning a refreshed Pathfinder, an Infiniti QX65, a next-generation Rogue, and more. Following a collapsed would-be merger with Honda, and a new CEO, Nissan is saying that it plans on doubling down on product. Nissan says that over the next two years, the company is preparing to launch more than 10 new or updated products across both Infiniti and Nissan, including important, high-volume pieces like the Nissan Rogue. Kicking off this onslaught of new products is a next-generation Nissan Leaf. The '26 Nissan Leaf will ride on the same CMF-EV platform as the company's Aryia. While the company hasn't revealed any of the expected performance figures, it has noted that the next Leaf will ride on 19-inch wheels from the factory, featuring the NACS charging port, and a new, more upright, silhouette. Following the Leaf, Nissan is readying the next-gen Rogue for 2026. Possibly the most important product for Nissan, the next Rogue will introduce US customers to the company's e-Power hybrid powertrain. The e-Power system uses a 1.5-liter range extender with an electric powertrain. There's also going to be a traditional internal-combustion and PHEV powertrain available, giving customers nearly every option under the hood. Down the line, Nissan also promises an Infiniti QX65, a refreshed QX60, and a new Sport package for the QX80. A refreshed Nissan Pathfinder, a next-generation Sentra, and a to-be-named EV are coming, too. It seems like the next few years could spell good news for Nissan dealers, and Nissan execs. There are also reports of rekindled talks with Honda, which could make for even more products hitting showrooms. Still, with a new CEO, Ivan Espinosa, at the reins, it will be interesting to see where Nissan is going. Do you think this product push will help Nissan? Tell us your thoughts below.
